Punaluʻu Beach is the Big Island’s most famous black sand beach - and one of the easiest to visit. A wide crescent of jet-black sand stretches between rugged lava rock formations and a beautiful line of tall coconut palms, creating a dramatic (and very photogenic) shoreline. It’s a great spot to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and experience one of Hawai‘i’s most unique beach landscapes.
Plan on spending a few hours here. Bring a towel or blanket for the warm sand, relax in the shade of the palms, and watch the waves roll in against the dark shoreline. Many visitors also enjoy snorkeling when conditions are calm, or simply wandering along the beach to take photos of the lava rocks, palm grove, and changing ocean colors.
Punaluʻu Beach is also known for frequent visits from Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), who often rest on the sand to warm up. They’re amazing to observe - just remember to keep a respectful distance, avoid blocking their path, and never touch or feed them. Giving wildlife space helps protect both the animals and their habitat.
Located along Highway 11 on the island’s south shore, Punaluʻu is easy to access and has a paved parking lot and nearby facilities. If you’re building out your itinerary, you can also explore more Big Island activities and browse popular Hawaii snorkeling experiences across the islands.