Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach sits on the southern coast of the Big Island, along Route 11 between Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Nāʻālehu. Its deep black sand is made of volcanic rock, and it stands out against the blue Pacific. The beach is known for green sea turtles that rest on the sand, and in calm water you can see them swimming nearby. Coconut palms and low dunes line the shore, and a county-run park provides restrooms and a picnic area. Come in the morning, when the beach is quieter and the turtles are easier to watch from a distance.
Black sand made from volcanic rock
The sand here is made of tiny pieces of lava rock. It is dark and fine, and it catches the sunlight so that the beach seems to sparkle. In the midday sun it can get hot, so check it with your hand or your feet before you walk barefoot.
The beach is backed by low dunes, brackish ponds and tall coconut palms. The shoreline is jagged and rocky, with reef close to the water. Fishponds lie just inland, and the beach sits between Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Nāʻālehu, so it fits naturally into a day on the southern part of the island.
Green sea turtles on the sand
Hawaiian green sea turtles are endangered, and they nest in the black sand here. On many days, large groups of them rest on the beach, which makes this one of the best places on the island to see them up close. Hawksbill turtles are also reported at the beach.
When the water is calm enough, you can snorkel and see green sea turtles swimming in the shallows. Watching them is a good reason to visit slowly. Stay back from any turtle on the sand and let it rest undisturbed.
The heiau at the north end
At the northern end of the beach, near the boat ramp, are the ruins of a heiau, a traditional Hawaiian place of worship. A flat sacrificial stone is also found there. The area is part of the site's history, so visitors should treat it with care and keep their distance from the stones.
The beach is a county-run park with restrooms, a picnic area and, usually, a lifeguard on duty. Food trucks sometimes operate in the park, but you should not count on them for a meal.
Planning a visit
Arrive early in the morning, when the beach is quieter and the light is good for photos. Many visitors find that mornings give them the most space to walk the shoreline and watch the turtles.
Check the surf before you enter the water. When the waves are rough, the beach is better for walking, photos and watching the sea than for swimming. The black sand can be hot in the afternoon, so bring footwear for walking to the water.
FAQ
Are there sea turtles at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach?
Yes. Green sea turtles often rest on the sand here, and in calm water you can see them swimming. Keep a respectful distance from any turtle you see.
Is it safe to swim at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach?
Swimming depends on the surf. When the waves are rough, it is better to avoid the water and enjoy the shoreline instead.
Are there restrooms and a lifeguard at the beach?
The beach is a county-run park with restrooms and a picnic area. A lifeguard is usually on duty.
Where is Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach located?
It is on the southern coast of the Big Island, along Route 11 between Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Nāʻālehu.
