I had read about Hawaii’s otherworldly black sand beaches before—but nothing prepares you for that first moment. Stepping barefoot onto shimmering volcanic sand, with the Pacific crashing beside you, feels like walking into a dream. During my road trip around the Big Island, I made it a point to stop at every black sand beach I could find—some wild and remote, others popular and full of life.
Here’s a guide to my favorite black sand beaches on the Big Island, what stood out about each one, and tips you won’t find on the travel brochures.
🌴 1. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach (Turtle Haven)
If you only visit one black sand beach, make it Punaluʻu. This was the first one I saw, and wow—it truly delivers. The black sand sparkles in the sunlight, and it’s incredibly soft underfoot (wear water shoes if you have sensitive feet). What made it extra special? I saw not one but three green sea turtles basking right on the shore.
- Facilities: Restrooms, picnic tables, parking
- Good for: Families, turtle sightings, photography
- Tip: Come early in the morning for peaceful views and turtle sightings without the crowd.
🖤 2. Pololu Valley Beach (Wild and Untamed)
Reaching this beach felt like an adventure in itself. You hike down a lush, steep trail into Pololū Valley, and suddenly you’re at a beach where everything feels raw and elemental. There are no lifeguards, no facilities—just crashing waves, dark cliffs, and wind in your hair.
- Hike difficulty: Moderate (about 20–30 mins down)
- Good for: Adventurous travelers, hikers, solitude
- Tip: Bring good shoes for the descent and plenty of water.
🌊 3. Waipiʻo Valley Black Sand Beach (Accessible by Hike or Tour)
Waipiʻo is iconic—and a little harder to reach. The road down is extremely steep and currently closed to most vehicles, so I joined a local tour that included access. Once down, the black sand stretches wide between the cliffs. It’s one of the most dramatic landscapes I’ve ever seen.
- Access: Hike (steep) or tour only
- Good for: Photographers, cultural travelers, surfers
- Tip: Don’t attempt to drive down unless you have a permitted 4×4—stick with a guided tour.
🌺 4. Richardson Ocean Park (Hilo’s Local Gem)
Just a short drive from downtown Hilo, this beach felt less wild and more laid-back. The black sand here is mixed with green flecks of olivine, and the tide pools nearby were full of colorful fish. Locals were out enjoying the water with their kids, and it felt like a real slice of Hawaiian everyday life.
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, lifeguards
- Good for: Families, snorkeling, swimming
- Tip: If you’re based in Hilo, this is your go-to black sand beach.
🌋 5. Kaimū Beach (New Earth Forming)
Kaimū is more symbolic than swimmable—it was formed after a lava flow covered the original beach in the 1990s. What’s wild is that you walk across a lava field to get here, and the sand feels fresh and still forming. I felt tiny in the best way possible.
- Good for: Lava lovers, landscape photography
- Tip: Combine this stop with a visit to the Kalapana lava fields or Uncle Robert’s night market.
🐚 6. Kehena Black Sand Beach (Offbeat and Clothing Optional)
This one was…unexpected. Kehena Beach is tucked away along the Puna coast and reached by a short hike down lava rocks. It’s beautiful, quiet—and a bit bohemian. I learned (quickly) that it’s clothing optional, so just a heads-up if you’re coming with family.
- Access: Unmarked trail
- Good for: Free spirits, secluded vibes
- Tip: Sunday drum circles happen here sometimes and can be a unique cultural experience.
🧳 What to Pack for Black Sand Beaches
- Water shoes or sandals with grip
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Travel towel (black sand sticks more than white!)
- GoPro or waterproof camera
- Reusable water bottle
❤️ My Personal Favorite?
It’s a toss-up between Punaluʻu (for the turtles and convenience) and Pololū Valley (for the sheer drama of the landscape). If you have time, try to visit both—each gives you a completely different experience of the Big Island’s volcanic beauty.
FAQs About Big Island Black Sand Beaches
What causes black sand beaches on the Big Island?
They’re formed from lava fragments—mostly basalt—that erode into fine black grains after a volcanic eruption meets the ocean.
Can you swim at black sand beaches?
Yes, but check local signs. Some, like Punaluʻu and Richardson, are safer for swimming. Others have rough currents.
Do turtles always show up at Punaluʻu?
Not always, but it’s one of the most reliable spots on the island to see them.
Is there an entrance fee for these beaches?
All the black sand beaches I visited were free to access.
Which black sand beach is best near Hilo?
Richardson Ocean Park is the best option near Hilo, especially for families and snorkeling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about standing on black sand and realizing you’re walking on brand-new earth, born from fire and ocean. Each of these beaches gave me a different perspective on the island—and I hope this list helps you choose the ones that match your vibe. Let me know which one you end up loving most.