In Hawaii the beaches can have white, green or black sand, thanks to the constant and recent volcanic activity on the islands.

If you would like to discover how it feels to walk on black sand, head to Punaluu Beach on the southeastern Kau coast of Hawaii Island. Snuggled between Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the town of Naalehu, this beach is fringed by stately coconut palms and the hot sand attracts giant Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Both the turtles and the black sand are protected, so do not disturb the turtles and do not take any sand. Swimming on the beach is not perfect but possible while the wide space and the shade of palm trees make it ideal for picnics.

While there are other black sand beaches in Hawaii, Punaluu Beach is considered one of the most beautiful.

Ninole Loop Rd, Naalehu, Big Island, HI 96772 , Punaluu Beach Video

The drive from Kona took us about 2.5 hours. The road is very scenic with beautiful ocean views:


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