In a remote area of the island's south-east coast, you can enjoy a beach with sand as black as lava.

After all, the lava is why it's so black. The sand is quite fine and together with the tropical palm trees it creates the ideal picture of true exoticism.

Swimming is possible, but beware of sharp rocks and strong currents. Here, the beach is more about enjoying and not about swimming. The beautiful water lily pond also attracts attention.

Find hotel rates on the Big Island

The beach's original name is Punalu'u Beach, but the more common name Black Sand Beach has taken hold because of its appearance. In addition to the exotic black sand, the beach is also a popular spot for turtle watching.

Swimming and beach facilities

Swimming in the waters of the Pacific Ocean is recommended here, especially for more experienced swimmers. The seas are often rough and the waves can be quite strong, although they may not look like it at first. However, the northern part of the beach in particular is more sheltered and swimming here is more relaxed.

Ideally wear water shoes, the lava rocks here are pretty sharp and take great care, the rocks can be large and very hard to see due to the foamy water.

Swimming in water of different temperatures is an interesting experience. In fact, near the beach, underground springs spring up into the sea, whose water is much colder than the ocean water.

On the beach you can use the free toilet and fresh water showers, as well as a small stand with drinks and snacks.

Turtles at Punalu'u Beach

Turtles are a very frequent visitor to this beach and you have the chance to see them all year round and all day long. However, they are still wild animals, so you can't expect to be 100% sure that they will be sunning themselves on the beach.

Either way, there are few places on Hawai'i Island where the chances of seeing turtles are greater than here.

The sunbathing on the beach is mainly by giant sea turtles, but in the shallow waters off the shore you may also encounter the much rarer right whales!

Do not touch the turtles under any circumstances and certainly do not attempt to feed them. You could fatally injure them. The recommended distance from the turtles is at least 3 metres. Not so they don't hurt you, but so you don't hurt them. This is their natural habitat, always remember that.

Water lily pond

An entire central part of the beach with palm trees providing pleasant shade separates the ocean from the pond with ever-blooming water lilies, which is a wonderful calming place. It adds to the relaxing atmosphere of Black Sand Beach, where you can spend a whole day in peace.

Accommodation

If you're looking for a quiet place to stay and you're sightseeing around the island, 1-night accommodation at Black Sand Beach is right up your alley. Just about 500 metres from the beach, you'll find two superbly rated aparthotels with prices that are very reasonable for Hawaii:

• Sea Mountain - A 3* aparthotel with a pool and prices from 161 eur per night in a room for 4
• Mauna Kai'iki - studio apartments with prices from 110 eur per night in a room for 4

How to get there

Black Sand Beach can only be reached by car. The beach is about 1.5 km from the main ring road number 11 between Hilo and Ocean View on the west coast.

It is clearly signposted from the main road and there is free parking right next to the beach.

The city of Hilo is 92 km away, while Kona is 107 km away.

What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Big Island.