Not far and yes but they are about 45-60 minutes away by car. Kaimu has one you can hike to but it's no good for swimming, although it does have a bar and food and if you go Wednesday nights there is a big market and live music. If you want to hang out on a beach and swim, Kehena is a large beach great for swimming but I do recommend swim shoes of some sort and you may see some naked hippies. Both beaches are in the same area Kaimu is right by Kalapana and Kehena is along the ocean heading to Seaview from Kaimu. Aloha!

Folks bring their own without any hastle. Pick one up at the nearby Walmart. I did not notice any public barbie stuff.

I agree with the first two answers above. You don't need to worry about a tour bus, the local bus does run there, but not on Sundays. Just look up the bus schedule online. Or when you get to Hilo you can call the bus company directly, or if you are staying in Hilo to speak with someone at your hotel's front desk.