Punaluʻu Beach (Black Sand Beach)
Punaluʻu Beach (also called Black Sand Beach) is a beach between Pāhala and Nāʻālehu in Ka’u district. The beach has black sand made of basalt and created by lava flowing into the ocean which explodes as it reaches the ocean and cools. This volcanic activity is in the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Punaluʻu is frequented by endangered hawksbill and green turtles, which can often be seen basking on the black sand.Please do not touch or disturb these protected animals. Sometimes scientists will rope off areas to observe these gentle creatures.
Ancient Hawaiians used Punaluu for more than just a lovely playground. Freshwater springs spout cold, fresh water just offshore. They would swim out to the springs with empty dried out gourds to capture the drinking water. The presence of fresh spring water gives Punaluu waters a nice chill.