Ever stepped onto a beach that looks like it belongs in a dream?
Imagine standing on a shore where the sand is not golden or white, but black. Not dirty-black, but deep, rich, and striking against the blue waves. These beaches are not just pretty to look at, they tell stories of Hawaii’s volcanic roots and wild beauty.
If you are thinking of visiting Hawaii or if you simply enjoy reading about locations that appear as if they are out of a film, then this one is for you. Let us take a look at seven black sand beaches in Hawaii that are worth every second of your time.
1. What Makes Black Sand Beaches So Special?
Let’s get one thing straight first: black sand isn’t simple sand colored black. It’s formed when volcanoes’ hot lava erupts into the ocean and rapidly cools down. This makes the lava shatter into small black pieces. The ocean eventually polishes these pieces into what we refer to as black sand beaches in Hawaii.
This is the reason that most of the Hawaii black sand beaches are located in areas with volcanic activity, and Hawaii with its volcanic past has some of the best black sand beaches in Hawaii.
2. Tips Before You Visit a Black Sand Beach
Before we get to the list, here are a few things to know before visiting black sand beaches:
- The sand can be hot: The black sand retains more heat, particularly in the afternoon. So wear sandals or water shoes.
- Some beaches have powerful waves: Always observe the water and heed the warning signs.
- Be respectful of the land: Hawaiian beaches are not only tourist destinations — they also carry cultural and spiritual significance. Don’t remove sand or rocks to take home. Leave the beach in the same condition that you found it.
- Check if it is accessible: Some beaches are isolated or involve a short walk. Plan accordingly if you’re going with children or elderly individuals.
3. 7 Must-See Black Sand Beaches in Hawaii
And now for the best part. Every one of these stunning black sand beaches in Hawaii is special, some calm, some untamed, some swim-friendly, and others just for basking in the scenery.
a. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach – Big Island
One of the most well-known black sand beaches in Hawaii. Easy to get to and a postcard-perfect shot.
What makes Punaluʻu extra special? Sea turtles. Yes, you’ll often find Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the sand here. Please don’t go too close, admire them from a distance.
The beach is wide, has picnic areas, and is perfect for a relaxed afternoon. The waves can be strong, so it’s not ideal for swimming, but it’s perfect for photos and peaceful walks. This is one of the most iconic black sand beaches Big Island Hawaii offers.
b. Waianapanapa State Park – Maui
If you’re on the Road to Hana driving, you’ll go through Waianapanapa, and you need to stop here. The black sand beach Maui is striking against the emerald green cliffs and blue sea. It looks like something out of a fantasy movie.
There’s a small cave, lava tubes, and coastal paths in the area. You can camp here too if you make prior arrangements.
This is a smaller beach, but one that has a visual impact. Get there early, as it fills up later in the day. Truly one of the top black sand beaches to visit in Hawaii.
c. Kehena Beach – Big Island
Looking for something quirky and adventurous? Kehena Beach could be your place. This black sand beach Hawaii is hidden beneath a cliff and has a free, untouched feel.
The waves are powerful, and the current will drag you in, so just experienced swimmers can venture into the water. Everybody else comes here to see dolphins, meditate, or experience raw beauty.
Heads up: Kehena is also referred to as a clothing-optional beach. So if that isn’t your scene, just be aware of that.
d. Kaimu Beach – Big Island
Kaimu Beach is not a typical place to swim, you can’t swim here at all. But it is worth a visit for another reason.
This beach used to be obliterated by lava from a 1990 eruption. Today, what you have is a new black sand beach Hawaii forming slowly over the old beach. It’s a reminder of nature’s strength.
There is a brief hike to reach here, and once you arrive, you will see an amalgamation of rough lava rocks and newly black sand. Don’t forget your camera. This spot has a story to tell. It’s also a great example of how black sand beaches Big Island Hawaii continue to evolve.
e. Pololu Valley Beach – Big Island
Need a little hike with your beach experience? Pololu Valley has just that.
To get to this secluded black sand beach Hawaii, you’ll have to climb down a steep path. It’s 20-30 minutes of hiking and it’s worth it.
When you get there, you’ll be in a serene valley with big cliffs, untamed waves, and black sand between your toes. It’s serene, pristine, and ideal for sitting back and doing nothing. You cannot swim here safely, but it’s a great spot to simply exist.
f. Oneuli Beach – Maui
Oneuli Beach is a tourist-off-the-beaten-path favorite that remains a peaceful gem. It’s situated close to Makena in South Maui and is ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.
This black sand beach Maui differs from other Hawaii black sand beaches in that its sand is dark, almost red-black, and made up of ground-up lava. The water tends to be peaceful, and the sea life is plentiful. You may see turtles, tropical fish, and even manta rays if you get lucky.
Bring your equipment and get there early. It’s not well marked, so you could have the entire area all to yourself.
g. Pohoiki (Isaac Hale Beach Park) – Big Island
This beach is among the newest black sand beaches in Hawaii. It was formed following the 2018 volcanic eruption when lava poured into the ocean and created entirely new coastline.
It’s surreal to be walking on sand that wasn’t there a couple of years ago.
Pohoiki is a combination of hot springs, black sand, and rocky surf. It’s widely visited by locals, and food trucks and small vendors are available nearby on certain days.
It’s suitable for walking, unwinding, and connecting with the raw energy of the earth. Another strong contender among the top black sand beaches to visit in Hawaii.
Final Thoughts
Black sand beaches in Hawaii aren’t merely attractive or Instagram-worthy. They’re steeped in history, geology, and a sort of subtle magic. Each is a different story — one of eruptions, rebirth, and beauty.
If you’re in Hawaii, try to see at least one or two of these Hawaii black sand beaches. You’ll be taking away memories that feel other than a typical beach day. The sand is different. The pictures are like something out of a movie. And the tales, they linger with you.
Whether you hike, photograph, or just sit and watch the waves, there’s something about black sand beaches in Hawaii that gets to the soul.
So the next time someone tells you, “All beaches are alike,” simply present them with this list. Now you know exactly where to find black sand beaches in Hawaii.
Let the adventure start.
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