Black Sand Beach - Punaluu

Contrast in Beauty: Palm Trees, Sea Turtles, and Soft Black Sands!

Hours: 24 hours a day
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vZveDMsCETphCeHD7
Surf: https://www.surfline.com/surf-report/black-sand-beach/655d1ee22eaca84b38d918e6
Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.133/-155.503?2024091221,18.987,-155.504,10,m:edRaPd

Beach Amenities:

  • Picnic table
  • ADA Accessible
  • BBQ Pits/Grills
  • Camping
  • Pavilion
  • Restrooms

Activities:

  • Beach Going
  • Sea Turtle Watching

Beach Weddings:

  • Permitted with DLNR Permit

Punaluu Black Sand Beach, located between Pahala and Naalehu on the southeastern Kau coast of the Big Island, is renowned for its jet-black sand, unique geology, protected wildlife, and rich Hawaiian history. The name “Punaluu” means “spring diver,” a nod to the freshwater springs once used by Native Hawaiians. The black sand is basalt formed when hot lava meets the ocean and shatters into tiny fragments.

Swimming and snorkeling are possible—especially at the more sheltered northeastern end—but conditions vary, and the nearshore is rocky. Water shoes are recommended. A shallow freshwater tidepool offers an easy place to wade.

Punaluu is habitat for Hawaiian green sea turtles and endangered hawksbill turtles, which sometimes bask on the warm sand. Please observe from a distance (at least 10 feet / 3 meters), never touch or feed wildlife, and follow posted guidelines to help protect these treasured species.

 
Angy CheslerComment