Black sand beaches are rare. The Big Island of Hawaii has seven black sand beaches. But one stands above the rest as the largest, most accessible, and, dare I say, most beautiful. The Punalu’u Black Sand Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii is arguably the best black sand beach to visit in Hawaii. Here’s everything you should know before visiting this incredible, beautiful black sand beach in the Big Island of Hawaii.
History of the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach in Big Island of Hawaii
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach in the Big Island of Hawaii is very close to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where two active volcanoes —Kīlauea and Mauna Loa — reside. The Kīlauea volcano is where the Hawaiian volcano deity Pele dwells, and Mauna Loa is the largest active volcano on earth, rising more than 30,000 feet from the bottom of the sea, according to the National Park Service.
Together, these volcanoes have erupted dozens of times within just the last century.
During an eruption, the hot lava flows into the ocean through vents, where it eventually cools and turns into lava rock. Sometimes the lava rock simply adds onto the island, extending it.
The rough waves at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach further turn the lava rock into small particles that look like sand.
There are only around two dozen black sand beaches in the world (sources are mixed on the exact number), and many of them are rocky. But Punalu’u is unique in that the jet-black sand is small and soft.
What Does Punalu’u Mean?
In the Hawaiian language, puna luʻu means “spring [water] dived for.”
The beach is named Punalu’u because underground fresh water flows into this beach, mixing with the salty ocean water. In some parts you can see the separation of the different types of waters, one cool, one warm, like how oil separates from water.
Ancient Hawaiians once dove for the freshwater in times of drought, scooping it up in gourds.
Additionally, Punalu’u Beach was where ancient royal Hawaiians — from every Hawaiian island — once vacationed. It is still a popular and sacred place.
How to Get to the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach in Big Island of Hawaii
The Punalu’u Black Sand Beach in Big Island, Hawaii is easily accessible — no hiking required! You can simply pull into the black sand beach’s large parking lot, off of Mamalahoa Highway 11 (Hawaii Belt Road), using Ninole Loop Road / Punalu’u Road.
Distances from Nearby Cities:
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is about an hour‘s drive from Hilo, HI and Captain Cook, HI.
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is about a half-hour‘s drive from Volcano, HI.
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it might be a good idea to fit this beach into your itinerary for the day.
Want to try sweet bread? While you’re here, I’d suggest heading into the nearby town of Na’alehu and stopping for Hawaiian sweet bread at Punalu’u Bake Shop. It’s the southernmost bakery in the U.S. They offer samples as well as the opportunity to peek inside their kitchen and production shop.
Why Visit the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach in Big Island Hawaii?
The Punalu’u Black Sand Beach in Big Island of Hawaii is well worth a visit — for its beauty and its rarity. Additionally, the large beach gives you ample space to walk around enjoy the sights without feeling crammed. If you visit in the morning, like we did, it will seem as if you have the beach all to yourself.
Opening Times and Prices
While the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is open all day, every day, a lifeguard is on duty daily during daylight hours, typically from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
It’s free to enter and park.
Facilities Available at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
The Punalu’u Black Sand Beach has restrooms, showers, water fountains, picnic tables, grills, and a campground.
On the outside wall of the enclosed picnic area, it says “ALOHA” in large orange and yellow wooden letters. Underneath that are cute wooden sea turtles and palm trees with the words “PUNALUU BEACH.” A great photo opportunity!
Things to Do at the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach in Big Island Hawaii
1. Walk Along the Beach and the Rocks
The first thing you must do while at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is walk the length of the palm-tree lined shore, taking it all in. The black sand is truly incredible. Being that it once was lava, the black sand can get hot, especially in the sun. I’d suggest wearing sandals or water shoes.
Don’t Take Home Any Black Sand
The black sand is precious and rare and can’t be reproduced (until the next eruption). Some black sand beaches in the world are expected to disappear entirely for this reason. Additionally, Hawaiian custom says that taking home lava rocks or black sand would anger Pele, the goddess of volcano.
2. Look for Sea Turtles
Sea turtles flock to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, seeking the warmth of the sand. A colony of endangered green sea turtles regularly come up on the sand to bask and sunbathe. You can expect to find sea turtles on Punalu’u Black Sand Beach in the afternoon until they leave around dusk, anywhere from about 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Did you know this sunbathing habit is unique to Hawaiian green sea turtles? Most sea turtles don’t come up on the sand to sunbathe, but the ones in Hawaii do, giving us a rare chance to see them in the wild.
As with seeing any wild animal, please keep your distance. Sea turtles are protected under Hawaiian state and federal laws. Don’t get within 20 feet, and never touch or feed the turtles. Just admire the beautiful creatures from a distance if you’re lucky enough to spot one.
3. Swim or Snorkel, if the Water Is Calm
The waves tend to be rough at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, so it may not be ideal conditions for swimming or snorkeling.
However, if the water is uncommonly calm, bring along your snorkel gear and see if you can spot any sea turtles or fish underwater. There are a lot of different types of tropical fish who frequent these waters, but the visibility in the water can be moderate at best.
Ninole Cove is a short walk from the main beach and offers a bay and tide pools that you can also explore.
Don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen!
4. Picnic
Pack a lunch with you and make a day out of your trip to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. There are lots of picnic tables scattered around the beach for you to make use of. Be sure to clean up all of your trash before you go.
If you didn’t bring any food with you, consider driving to the nearest town, Na’alehu, and purchasing food items from the convenience store or local coffee shop. You can always come back to the beach to eat with a view.
5. Go Camping
There is a campground at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach if you’d like to stay the night in this beautiful area.
To do so, you’ll need to reserve your spot with Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation.
The permit fees vary depending on age and residence — up to $21 for adult non-residents.
The campgrounds have restrooms, showers, picnic tables, potable water, and grills. There isn’t much privacy, but the year-round warm weather and beautiful location make it a great place to camp. Some may prefer camping at Punalu’u to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is at a higher and colder, 3,000-ft elevation.
6. Take Pictures
It’s kind of a given that you’ll take pictures at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, I mean, how could you not? It’s gorgeous and so photogenic. Whether you’re a hobbyist photographer or a professional, you are sure to be inspired at this beach. Definitely take some time to photograph Punalu’u Black Sand Beach — capturing everything from the black rocks and the ocean waters to the palm trees and sea turtles.
7. Go Hiking
For those interested in hiking, there’s a 5.5-mile, out-and-back trail to Kāwā Bay from Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. Kāwā Bay is under development to become an official park, but it is still open for the public to visit in the meantime.
Kāwā Bay has several ancient sites and extensive burial grounds that are being surveyed for historical preservation. Its waters are popular with local surfers and fishermen. Be sure not to disturb any rocks as you explore the area, and leave no trace.
8. Go Fishing
Fishing in Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is popular with local fishermen as the fish are abundant in the waters. Nighttime is often the best time to fish here, so you’ll find the beach quite active around the clock. If that’s something you’re interested in, consider camping for the night so you can fish as well. Be sure to consult with local resources, online or in person, to understand the regulations and rules regarding fishing in this area.
FAQs about the Black Sand Beaches in Hawaii
Does Hawaii have black sand beaches?
Yes, Hawaii has several black sand beaches, mainly on the Big Island and Maui. Both the Big Island and Maui have active and dormant volcanoes, which created the black sand beaches.
How many black sand beaches are in Hawaii?
There are 7 black sand beaches on the Big Island, and there is one black sand beach in Maui.
On the Big Island, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach and Richardson Ocean Park are the easiest to access as they don’t require hiking or a treacherous drive to reach them.
The one black sand beach in Maui is along the Road to Hana, and requires a minimum two-hour drive on a windy road to reach it from the Kahului Airport.
List of black sand beaches on the Big Island, Hawaii:
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
- Richardson Ocean Park
- Pohoiki Black Sand Beach
- Kaimu Black Sand Beach
- Kehena Black Sand Beach
- Pololū Beach in Pololū Valley
- Waipi’o Black Sand Beach
List of black sand beaches in Maui:
- Waianapanapa State Park
Why are there black sand beaches in Hawaii?
Black sand beaches are formed near volcanoes. The black sand is made up of particles from cooled lava. During an eruption, the hot lava flows into the ocean through vents, where it explodes, eventually cools, and then turns into lava rock. The rough waves can further turn the lava rock into small particles that look like sand.
There are only around two dozen black sand beaches in the world (sources are mixed on the exact number), and Hawaii has eight due to its active volcanoes.
Can I take home the black sand?
You can’t take any black sand home with you. It’s precious and rare and can’t be reproduced (until the next eruption). Some black sand beaches in the world are expected to disappear entirely for this reason. Additionally, Hawaiian custom says that taking home lava rocks or black sand would anger Pele, the goddess of volcano.
What is the best black sand beach in Hawaii?
It is in my humble opinion that Punalu’u Beach is the best black sand beach in Hawaii. It is accessible, large, gorgeous, and even has sea turtles. I hope I’ve convinced you, too.
Other Posts to Help You Plan Your Trip to Hawaii
7-Day Big Island Itinerary: How to Spend a Week on the Big Island of Hawaii
17 Best Things to Do on Big Island of Hawaii
Day Trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Itinerary
Ultimate 2 Weeks in Hawaii Itinerary: Visit Multiple Islands
12 Things to Do in Haleakalā National Park