Richardsons is a spot located in Hilo, known for its welcoming vibe and consistent surf scene. It's popular among the local wave-riding community, providing a place where surfers can learn and improve. The area features a unique mix of black sand and rock, creating a picturesque setting for both beginners and those looking to catch mellow waves. While it's frequented by crowds, there's enough space for everyone to enjoy the water.
The surf here works best with east swells, but can handle north and east waves as well. You can expect swell sizes ranging from 2ft (about 0.6 meters) and upwards. This spot features uneven reef breaks that create scattered peaks, giving surfers the chance to ride both left and right waves. For the best conditions, aim for low to mid to high tide, while southwest winds help keep the waves cleaner. However, it's not uncommon to see it being surfed in light side or onshore conditions.
If you're still learning, Richardsons is a great spot since it caters mainly to beginners. You'll find a friendly crowd that’s usually willing to help out or share advice. Just remember that the consistency of the waves draws in many surfers, so you might want to arrive early to snag a good spot in the water. There's also the occasional right break off the eastern point during bigger northeast swells, and don’t miss out on checking the fast, rocky rights in the next bay between Carlsmith and Kealoha Beach Parks.
