Discover Punalu'u Black Sand Beach in Hawaii

Experience the rare beauty of Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, where you can relax on dark volcanic sands and watch endangered sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Last updated: May 2024

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Free admission
More than 500 Miles from you
State Gem: Exceptional experiences within your state that are bucket list-worthy
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Description

Unwind at the stunning Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, known for its unique volcanic sand, sea turtle sightings, and serene Pacific views. Experience the rare beauty of Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, where you can relax on dark volcanic sands and watch endangered sea turtles in their natural habitat. Begin your visit to Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, a gem on Hawaii's Big Island, famous for its striking black volcanic sand and frequent visits by Hawaiian green sea turtles. This beach not only offers a unique beach experience with its rare sand color but also provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly the endangered turtles that often bask on the beach. The nearby waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sometimes seeing the turtles in their natural aquatic environment. The beach also features facilities like picnic areas and restrooms, making it perfect for a day trip with family or friends.

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Itinerary

Arrive early to enjoy the beach with fewer crowds.
Set up a picnic spot by the beachside.
Enjoy swimming or snorkeling.
Keep an eye out for sea turtles on the sand or in the water.
Capture memorable photos of the scenic beach and wildlife.

Location

Ninole Loop Rd, Naalehu, HI 96777

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Packing List

Sunscreen
Beach towels
Snorkeling gear (optional)
Camera for wildlife photos
Water and snacks

4.7 ● Google reviews

It was an amazing and beautiful experience visiting the black sand beach, especially because there was a giant sea turtle nesting ground there, and several turtles were lounging up on the sandy shore. The area was condoned off so no one could get close to these protected creatures. Also, the black sand with the striking green foliage and deep blue sea was a stunning contrast.

Amazing - it's so cool to sit on the black sands under the palm trees and swim in the warm ocean. Fair warning, the waves are BIG -bit that's just more fun right? There's a drinks vending machine, and a few souvenir shops as well. There are lifeguards here too. But perhaps the coolest bit is that there are Green Sea Turtles chilling right on the beach (remember to keep your distance). Great afternoon out, highly recommended.

What an amazing little beach! The black sand is a really cool thing to experience and you can see turtles there sometimes. There are changing rooms/bathrooms available, but be aware that they are not clean. There are a lot of big rocks on the shore and it's not the friendliest for swimming, but you can definitely still play in the waves and in the sand.

Two entrances, the first one is directly leading you to the beach with a few parking spots. The second is where the bathrooms, showers and more parking are available. Was able to swim and relax here. We saw turtles swimming around, which it is required you give them a lot of space per local laws.

It’s an amazing black sand beach. You can easily spend a half day on the beach swimming or just relaxing. They have parking close to the beach and also 2minutes away from the beach. They have restrooms near the actual entry of the beach park. Bring a picnic and have fun swimming. There’s also a coconut stand.

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