This string of palm-fringed black-lava tide pools fed by freshwater springs and rippled by gentle waves is a photographer’s delight—and the perfect place to take a plunge. In winter, big waves can splash these ponds, but the shallow pools are generally free of currents and ideal for families with children, especially in the protected inlets at the center of the park. Leleiwi often attracts endangered sea turtles, making this one of Hawaii’s most popular snorkeling spots. Open 7am to 7pm, the beach park is 4 miles east of town on Kalanianaole Avenue. Facilities include a lifeguard station, picnic tables, pavilions, and parking. A second section of the park, known as Richardson’s Ocean Park, includes showers, restrooms, and the marine life exhibits of Richardson Ocean Center. Tip: If the area is crowded, check out the tide pools and/or small sandy coves in the five other beach parks along Kalanianaole Avenue between Banyan Drive and Leleiwi, especially the protected white sand lagoon of Carlsmith Beach Park, just 2 minutes’ drive west, which also has a lifeguard.

On Kalanianaole Ave.