When I think about the Big Island of Hawaii, black sand beaches always come to mind.
Volcanic activity forms these beaches and gives them their unique dark color.
If you’re looking for a special beach experience, the Big Island’s black sand beaches are some of the most beautiful and unusual places you can visit.
These beaches offer something different from the typical white sand, and they are a must-see for anyone visiting the island.
Kehena Black Sand Beach
When I got to Kehena Black Sand Beach, I immediately noticed the deep black color of the sand.
It felt soft and warm under my feet and looked amazing next to the blue water and green palm trees.
Tall palm trees line a narrow strip of sand between the ocean and the land.
Old lava flows met the sea and created the black sand.
Kehena feels wild and natural, and I rarely see crowds here.
Swimming can be tricky because strong waves often hit the shore.
I chose to watch the ocean and enjoy the view from the sand.
The spot feels peaceful, and I saw dolphins playing not far from shore.
Kehena doesn’t have many facilities, so I brought everything I needed.
The beach is easy to find if you follow the trail down from the road, but the path can be steep and rocky.
It’s a special place if you want something different from the usual beaches.
Rating: 4.7 (672 reviews)
Location: Hawaii 96778
Punaluu Black Sand Beach
When I walked onto Punaluu Black Sand Beach, I immediately noticed the unique black sand under my feet.
Volcanic activity created this sand, and it feels different compared to other beaches.
The sand was warm, and tall coconut palms surrounded the area.
I spotted sea turtles resting on the shore.
Seeing them up close amazed me, but I made sure to keep my distance as the signs instructed.
Palm trees provided shade when I needed a break from the sun.
Picnic tables and BBQ grills let me enjoy lunch right by the beach.
Restrooms made it easy to stay for a while.
If I wanted to camp, I saw places for tents and a pavilion available too.
This spot was both beautiful and relaxing.
The black sand, local wildlife, and laid-back vibe made my visit memorable.
Rating: 4.7 (7438 reviews)
Location: Ninole Loop Rd, Pahala, HI 96777
Contact: (808) 961-8311
Website: Visit Website
Pohoiki Black Sand Beach
When I arrived at Pohoiki Black Sand Beach, I saw deep black sand stretching along the coastline.
Volcanic activity in 2018 created this beach, so the sand feels a little different under my feet compared to older beaches.
The area around Pohoiki is quiet and feels remote.
I found a mix of smooth and rough patches, with large lava rocks near the shoreline.
Swimming can be tricky because the waves are strong and rocks fill the water.
I watched families explore the small pools that form near the edge of the lava.
The warm ponds nearby felt refreshing and unique.
I liked how natural and untouched everything looked.
No big hotels or shops line the area, just nature and ocean.
Rating: 4.8 (146 reviews)
Location: Kalapana Kapoho Beach Rd, Pāhoa, HI 96778
Contact: (808) 961-8311
Kaimu Black Sand Beach
When I got to Kaimu Black Sand Beach, I noticed how new and raw the landscape felt.
The Kilauea volcanic eruption in 1990 buried the old village and beach under thick lava.
Now, waves have broken lava rocks down over the years to create soft, dark black sand.
The walk from the parking lot to the beach is about a third of a mile.
The trail goes over rough and uneven black lava rocks, so I had to be careful not to trip.
Young coconut trees line the path and it ends at the shoreline, where black sand meets crashing waves.
Swimming looked tempting, but warning signs and the wild surf made it clear that it was too dangerous.
The waves and strong currents are not safe.
I enjoyed the views of the bay, listened to the sound of the ocean, and watched other visitors walking the shore.
At the entrance, a small hut displays photos of the old village, showing how much the landscape has changed.
I grabbed a cool drink at Uncle’s Awa Bar nearby and browsed snacks at a little store across the parking lot.
The area feels peaceful but also lively, especially during the weekly Night Farmers Market with food and music.
Rating: 4.7 (98 reviews)
Location: Kaimu Black Sand Beach
Website: Visit Website
The Unique Beauty of Black Sand Beaches
Black sand beaches on the Big Island look striking and have a fascinating story.
These beaches stand out because of how volcanic activity creates them and the special way their sand feels and looks.
How Black Sand Beaches Form
Volcanic activity forms most black sand beaches.
When hot lava from volcanoes flows into the ocean, it cools quickly.
This sudden cooling shatters the lava into tiny pieces, which become black sand.
On many parts of the Big Island, I see new land forming after eruptions.
Volcanic glass and basalt rock break down into fine grains, and waves wash them up onto the shore.
Over time, this process creates the deep black beaches that make Hawaii famous.
Not every island has black sand beaches.
Active or recent volcanic eruptions are needed to create black sand.
That’s why the Big Island, with its active volcanoes, has more black sand beaches than other Hawaiian islands.
Some beaches still grow and change as more lava flows reach the sea.
If you’re curious where to find them, there are several black sand beaches on the Big Island.
What Makes Black Sand Different
Black sand stands out because of its look, texture, and temperature.
The sand is much darker than regular white or golden sand.
It’s a true jet black, making these beaches very photogenic.
The sand often feels coarser under my feet compared to the fine, powdery sand at other beaches.
Black sand absorbs more sunlight, so it usually feels much warmer than pale sand.
Walking barefoot can be uncomfortable, so I always pack sandals or water shoes.
Most black sand beaches contain small pieces of volcanic glass and minerals, which can make the beach sparkle in the sunlight.
Some beaches reflect a dark, shiny look, while others have a matte finish.
At places like Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, the contrast with green palm trees and blue water creates a beautiful scene.
Visiting Black Sand Beaches on the Big Island
Visiting black sand beaches on the Big Island always brings new sights and experiences.
Knowing how to keep safe and protect the delicate beaches helps make every trip memorable.
Tips for a Safe Visit
When I go to black sand beaches like Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, I always check the weather first.
Ocean conditions can change quickly, and some beaches have strong currents or rocky areas that can be dangerous.
I bring sturdy sandals because the sand can get hot and sometimes sharp from lava rocks.
It’s smart to pack sunscreen, water, and a hat since there is often little shade.
Swimming can be fun, but I pay attention to posted signs.
Some beaches aren’t the best for swimming due to rocks, big waves, or currents.
I always swim with a buddy and never turn my back on the ocean.
In my bag, I keep a basic first aid kit for minor cuts or scrapes.
Sometimes I see turtles resting onshore, and I keep my distance because it’s the law and keeps them safe.
Ecological Considerations and Respectful Tourism
Every visit leaves a small impact, so I do my part to keep black sand beaches clean and beautiful. I use trash bags to carry my garbage, and I never leave food scraps behind.
I walk only on marked trails to help prevent erosion. Some beaches, like Kehena Beach, have delicate plants that can be trampled easily.
Sea turtles and monk seals sometimes rest on the sand. I never touch or feed them.
I stay at least 10 feet away to help wildlife stay healthy. I don’t take sand, rocks, or shells because removing them is harmful and sometimes illegal.
I take photos to remember these special places without harming nature.
