Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Punaluʻu Beach known as The Black Sand Beach is near Nāʻālehu on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. It is located off the Volcano Hwy from Hawaii Volcano National Park going toward Kona. The beach was created by lava flowing into the ocean, exploding, and cooling to create the sands. This beach is known for the Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles as well as tidal pools. It is possible to swim with the turtles but the surf can be dangerous and a distance 15 feet from the turtles is required. This scenic area has picnic tables, public restrooms, and a snack bar.