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Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach

Suitable for:
Everyone, nature enthusiasts
Insider tip or tourist spot?
Well known, but not overcrowded
TouriSpot
Insider Tip
Time needed:
1 hours
Optimal arrival time:
09:00 o' clock
Cost:
Free
Suitable for:
Everyone, nature enthusiasts
Insider tip or tourist spot?
Well known, but not overcrowded
TouriSpot
Insider Tip
Time needed:
1 hours
Optimal arrival time:
09:00 o' clock
Cost:
Free

Details of the beach

Facilities at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
(Available: Toilets, Lifeguard)
The beach is popular for:
Picnics, )
Beach material
Coarse sand
Sand colour:
Black
Area
13000 sqm
Entry into the sea
Mixed
Sight in the sea
Normal, clear

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach - Description

Big Island is especially known for its black lava beaches, which are created and changed again and again by years of volcanic eruptions. Especially the south and southeast can boast a number of beautiful black sand beaches, of which Punaluu Black Sand Beach Park is probably the most famous. A visit is recommended if you are traveling from Hilo to Kona (or the other way around). Especially in the mornings and evenings you can marvel at the unique contrasts of black fine sand, countless coconut trees and masses of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. During the day and on weekends it can get crowded because masses of tourist buses stop there or locals with their large families spend the day picnicking on the beach.

Nestled between the towns of Pahala and Naalehu in the Kau region, the pitch-black shore offers an unforgettable sight. Although tempting, you should resist the temptation to touch the turtles. This is because the turtle, which Hawaiians call "honu," is considered a sacred animal and is a protected species.

The beach is not really suitable for swimming, if at all, you should wear water sandals, in the shallow water there are many sharp-edged lava stones. If you still want to go into the water, you should do so via the small jetty on the left side.
If you want to snorkel, you will find Ninole Cove 10 minutes away from the parking lot of Black Sand Beach. This protected cove is home to many colorful fish and the odd turtle. Otherwise, the beach is perfect for picnics, photography or watching rare animals and birds. You can also try your hand at cracking one of the many fallen coconuts. With a knife or on a lava boulder. But it is hard and tedious work....

What we say

Florian
If you have only little time on the island and only visit the Hilo or Kona side, a trip "only" because of the beach is too much effort. But if you drive from the east to the west anyway, you should definitely make a stop here. I drive by the beach every time because the atmosphere and contrasts are unique. The fewer people there are, the more beautiful the scenery. You have to be very unlucky not to find any turtles taking a midday nap in the sand.
Our checklist & tips:
  • Sooner or later visit to escape crowds.
  • Relax in the fine black sand under the palm trees and enjoy the tranquility.
  • Visit on the way through to avoid unnecessarily long driving distances
  • Possibly wear bathing shoes

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Map and contact data

Ninole Loop Road
Longitude: -155.50474171344104
Latitude: 19.135722157740066

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