Located on the Big Island’s southern coast, Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is one of Hawaii’s most fascinating natural wonders and one of the most fascinating beaches in the world.

This unique beach has been captivating visitors for centuries with its striking black sand.

How to get to the Punaluʻu Black Sand

Punaluʻu Beach is located between the Volcanoes National Park and the small town of Naalehu, on the Big Island of Hawaii. It took us roughly 45 minutes from the Volcanoes National Park to get to the beach. The drive for the most parts is pretty peaceful with not much scenery. However, that changes closer to Punaluʻu.

The Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is open year-round, making it an ideal spot for tourists and locals alike.

Tip for parking

If you’re approaching the beach from the Volcanoes National Park, I’d recommend taking a turn to the beach before the main car parking. Keep an eye out for the signs, the narrower road is a few hundred metres before the main exit. It gets you off right at the beach, next to the turtles’ resting area.

Click here to open the location in Google Maps.

The Magic of the Black Sand

So, how does a regular white-sand beach turn into a stunning black-sand haven? The answer lies in volcanic activity!

The beach is a black sand beach that has been made of basalt and created by lava flowing into the ocean which cools almost instantly as it touches the water.

Over time, these rock particles get crushed and polished, creating the signature dark hue.

In other words, the beach is literally made up of tiny pieces of lava.

Turtles Basking at Punaluʻu Beach

Sleeping honus

If the black sand wasn’t already an attraction, add giant green sea turtles (known as “honu” in Hawaiian) to that list. The turtles in the area come to the beach every day to eat (seaweed) and enjoy their sleep, basking in the sun.

Keep in mind the green turtles are a protected species, and under no circumstances are you suppose to touch them, or get too close to them. Usually, volunteers build a boundary of rocks around the turtles to keep people away.

Volunteers build a rock wall to keep people away from the turtles

Cultural Significance

The black sand at Punaluʻu Beach holds spiritual significance for Native Hawaiians. According to legend, the area is home to a sacred healing spring. Visitors are asked to be respectful of this cultural heritage and refrain from removing any rocks or sand as souvenirs.

Punaluʻu Beach — Made of Tiny Pieces Of Lava

Punaluʻu Beach is a MUST-see attraction for anyone planning to visit the Big Island in Hawaii. In fact, this is one of those unique beaches in the world that you have to put on your bucket list!

While there, understand its natural history, respect local regulations, and embrace cultural significance of the area and wildlife. Be sure to appreciate this beach’s beauty without harming it.

Thanks to all the volcanic activity on Big Island, there is another unique beach. A green sand beach. Definitely check that out too!