Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
Witness the striking beauty of volcanic black sand and encounter protected sea turtles at this iconic Big Island beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for turtles & parking
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
Best Time
Best chance for turtles & parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the striking beauty of volcanic black sand and encounter protected sea turtles at this iconic Big Island beach.
"The views were amazing. The turtle siting incredible. The sand almost sparkles."
🐢 Respect the Honu
Keep a minimum of 10 feet away from sea turtles. They are protected!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up, especially during peak times. Beat the crowds!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Black Sand
Walk on unique jet-black sand formed by volcanic activity, contrasting beautifully with the blue ocean.
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Green Sea Turtle Encounters
Witness Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu) basking on the shore or swimming nearby. Remember to keep your distance!
Dramatic Coastal Scenery
Enjoy the striking beauty of the coastline, framed by coconut palms and powerful Pacific waves.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Turtle Etiquette is Key
Timing is Everything for Turtles
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 Respect the Honu
Keep a minimum of 10 feet away from sea turtles. They are protected!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up, especially during peak times. Beat the crowds!
🌊 Waves Can Be Intense
The ocean here is beautiful but can have strong currents. Swim with caution.
🥥 Grab a Coconut
Enjoy fresh coconut water from a vendor for a true island treat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐢 Respect the Honu
Keep a minimum of 10 feet away from sea turtles. They are protected!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up, especially during peak times. Beat the crowds!
🌊 Waves Can Be Intense
The ocean here is beautiful but can have strong currents. Swim with caution.
🥥 Grab a Coconut
Enjoy fresh coconut water from a vendor for a true island treat.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The contrast of black sand, blue water, and green turtles is a photographer's dream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique black sand and the incredible opportunity to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles up close. The dramatic scenery is a major draw, though some caution that the ocean waves can be intense. While parking has a fee and food options are limited, the overall experience is considered a must-see on the Big Island.
"We stayed in Oahu but took a day trip to the big island just to see the black sand beaches and it was 100% worth it! The views were amazing. The turtle siting incredible. The sand almost sparkles. The water was intense and wavy. I wouldn't go out there but other people did. There were restrooms, t-shirts, and a food truck. Which was nice. Great beach. If you drive here from Hilo Airport its a boring drive but the pay off is well worth it."
Ashley
"Just loved it. Beautiful black sand and the gorgeous sea turtles enjoying the sun. Get there early and hope the tour 🚌 come later. While swimming we enjoyed the cool waters of the Pacific Ocean I brushed up against a sea turtle by accident and thought it was a submerged smooth rock until it wasn’t. Hangout and just soak up the memories of the Big Island…..As always,post wherever u end up, it’s all good times and sometimes not."
Eddie B
"I been here my second time. Always good vibe and great weather. Pay for parking and no need reservations. This time the water a little bid cold. I been on sep can’t see the green turtles."
Kristina T.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The scenic drive from Kona to Punalu'u Black Sand Beach takes about 2.5 hours. You can take Highway 11 South. While some find the drive 'boring,' the payoff at the beach is well worth it.
Yes, Punalu'u Beach is conveniently located off the main Highway 11 on the Big Island, between Pāhala and Nāʻālehu.
From Hilo Airport, take Highway 11 South towards Volcano and Nāʻālehu. The drive is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
While possible, it's a very long day trip. Many visitors opt to stay on the Big Island to fully experience its attractions, including Punalu'u.
Yes, many tours of the Big Island, especially those focusing on Volcanoes National Park, include a stop at Punalu'u Black Sand Beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Parking is available and typically requires a fee. No reservations are usually needed for parking.
No, there is no entrance fee to access Punalu'u Black Sand Beach itself. You only pay for parking.
The beach is a public area and generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no official closing times.
Tickets are not required for entry, and advance booking is not necessary. Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis.
The main restriction is respecting the protected sea turtles. Visitors are asked not to disturb them and to maintain a safe distance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk on the unique black sand, observe sea turtles, enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery, and take photos. Swimming is possible but be cautious of the waves.
The waves can be strong and the water intense, even for experienced swimmers. Caution is advised, and it's best to assess conditions before entering.
Sightings are common, but not guaranteed on every visit. Some visitors see many turtles, while others may need a second visit. Arriving early or late can increase your chances.
Yes, there are restrooms available, and sometimes food trucks or vendors selling items like t-shirts and coconuts.
Generally, pets are not allowed on Hawaii's beaches to protect wildlife and maintain cleanliness. It's best to leave your pets at your accommodation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining options directly at the beach. Food trucks sometimes operate here, offering local snacks like malasadas. For more options, you'll need to drive to nearby towns like Pāhala or Nāʻālehu.
If food trucks are present, you might find local favorites like malasadas (Portuguese donuts) or other Hawaiian snacks.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. There are often shaded areas under the coconut trees, and the beach is a beautiful spot to enjoy your meal.
Vendors sometimes sell fresh coconut water, which is a refreshing choice on a warm day.
Beyond malasadas, try poke, kalua pig, and fresh island fruits. Many visitors enjoy exploring local eateries in Hilo or Kona.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting, but the stark contrast of the black sand against the blue ocean is stunning throughout the day. Midday can be harsh but still offers unique shots.
The unique black sand, the vibrant green sea turtles, the lush palm trees, and the powerful ocean waves create a visually striking and diverse photographic subject.
The shoreline with the turtles, the palm-lined edge of the beach, and the powerful waves crashing on the black sand are all popular subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing turtles from a distance. Protect your gear from sand and saltwater spray.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially if there are protected wildlife present. Always check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to emphasize the importance of respecting the turtles and keeping a safe distance. The beach has restrooms, which are always a plus with kids. While swimming can be risky due to strong waves, the shallow areas near the shore can be fun for supervised splashing. Pack snacks and drinks, as food options are limited. 📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Capturing the sea turtles in their natural habitat is a must-do. Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Wide-angle lenses are great for landscapes, while telephoto lenses are useful for wildlife shots. Be prepared for the elements – sand and saltwater can be harsh on equipment. 🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Black Sand
This phenomenon is a powerful reminder of the dynamic geological forces that shaped the Hawaiian Islands. The contrast between the dark sand, the turquoise ocean, and the lush green vegetation creates a visually dramatic landscape that is unique to volcanic coastlines. It's a tangible connection to the fiery origins of the islands.
Encountering the Honu (Green Sea Turtles)
+1It's important to remember that these turtles are wild animals. Signs are posted to remind visitors of the regulations, and lifeguards are often present to ensure the turtles' safety. While some visitors have incredible luck and see many turtles, others might only spot one or two, or even none on a particular visit. Patience and a bit of luck are key, but the chance to witness these ancient mariners in their natural habitat is well worth the effort.
When swimming, be aware that turtles may be in the water. Accidental brushes against them can happen, but it's crucial not to intentionally approach or touch them. Their presence is a testament to the health of the marine ecosystem and a highlight for many visitors to Punalu'u.
Navigating the Waves and Waters
Even if you don't plan to swim, the beach offers a fantastic place to relax, soak in the sun (with plenty of shade from the palm trees), and enjoy the dramatic coastal views. If you do decide to enter the water, be extremely cautious, assess the conditions carefully, and be aware of the strong currents. Lifeguards are sometimes present, but it's always wise to err on the side of caution.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit