First Landing State Park
- 2500 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/first-landing
- (757) 412-2300, +1 757-412-2300
- Virginia Beach, VA 23451
About This Beach
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, located on the southeast coast of the Big Island, is one of Hawaii’s most iconic and fascinating natural wonders. Famous for its jet-black volcanic sand, created by lava flowing into the ocean and shattering into tiny fragments, this beach offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Beyond its striking color, Punaluʻu is also renowned for its Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), which frequently rest on the warm black sand. The beach is set against a backdrop of coconut palms, rugged lava rock, and turquoise Pacific waves — a photographer’s dream and a symbol of the island’s raw volcanic beauty.
While Punaluʻu’s waters are swimmable on calm days, strong currents are common, so it’s best known for sightseeing, picnicking, wildlife watching, and photography rather than swimming.
📜 History & Unique Features
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Volcanic Origins: The black sand formed as molten lava from Mauna Loa cooled rapidly when it met the ocean.
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Cultural Significance: The area around Punaluʻu has ancient Hawaiian temples (heiau) and was once an important fishing village.
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Endangered Sea Turtles: Green sea turtles (honu) and the rarer hawksbill turtles (honu‘ea) can often be seen basking on the beach.
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Living Geology: The beach continues to evolve, shaped by volcanic activity and ocean currents.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Morning: Cooler temperatures, better lighting for photography, and higher chance of spotting turtles.
Afternoon: Warm black sand and vibrant ocean colors — great for sightseeing.
Year-Round: Always open, but avoid swimming during high surf or strong current conditions.
Whale Season (Dec – Apr): Possible humpback whale sightings offshore.
Afternoon: Warm black sand and vibrant ocean colors — great for sightseeing.
Year-Round: Always open, but avoid swimming during high surf or strong current conditions.
Whale Season (Dec – Apr): Possible humpback whale sightings offshore.
Things To Do
Popular Activities
- Wildlife Watching: Spot Hawaiian green sea turtles resting on the black sand (from a respectful distance).
- Photography: Capture dramatic contrast between black sand, blue water, and green palms — especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Picnicking: Shaded picnic areas make this a great stop on your drive between Kona and Volcanoes National Park.
- Exploring Tide Pools: Look for small fish, crabs, and marine life in the lava rock pools.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit nearby Punaluʻu Harbor and Ka‘u District, known for its historical Hawaiian significance.
- Swimming (Caution): Possible on calm days, but currents can be strong — swim only in designated areas.
- Relaxation: Simply enjoy the serene and otherworldly beauty of the black sand and coastal views.
Amenities
Nearby Amenities
- Lifeguards on duty (limited hours)
- Restrooms and outdoor showers
- Picnic tables and shaded pavilions
- Ample parking area near the beach
- Small food vendors and rest stop nearby
- No rentals on-site — bring your own beach gear
Beach Hours
Beach Hours
Open Now
Open 24/7
Hours/Lifeguards
Hours/Lifeguards
Lifeguards on duty (limited hours)
Restrooms and outdoor showers
Picnic tables and shaded pavilions
Ample parking area near the beach
Small food vendors and rest stop nearby
No rentals on-site — bring your own beach gear
Restrooms and outdoor showers
Picnic tables and shaded pavilions
Ample parking area near the beach
Small food vendors and rest stop nearby
No rentals on-site — bring your own beach gear
Pricing
Pricing
Beach Access: Free
Parking: Free
No Rentals: Bring your own gear, food, and water
Parking: Free
No Rentals: Bring your own gear, food, and water
Food & Drinks
Food & Drinks
Punaluʻu Bake Shop: Just 10 minutes away in Naʻālehu — the southernmost bakery in the U.S., famous for Hawaiian sweetbread.
Local Food Trucks: Occasionally found near the entrance or along Highway 11.
Bring a Picnic: Picnic tables and shade available near the beach.
Local Food Trucks: Occasionally found near the entrance or along Highway 11.
Bring a Picnic: Picnic tables and shade available near the beach.
Events & Festivals
Events & Festivals
Turtle Awareness Programs: Local volunteers educate visitors on turtle protection.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Just a 30-minute drive away — ideal for combining both attractions in one day.
Ka‘u Coffee Festival (May): Nearby Naʻālehu hosts annual events celebrating local coffee culture.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Just a 30-minute drive away — ideal for combining both attractions in one day.
Ka‘u Coffee Festival (May): Nearby Naʻālehu hosts annual events celebrating local coffee culture.
Contact Information
Primary Phone
Location
Beach Address
Ninole Loop Rd, Naalehu, HI 96772, USA
Access Points
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
Ninole Loop Rd, Naalehu, HI 96772, USA
Located between Pāhala and Naʻālehu, about 67 miles from Kailua-Kona and 55 miles from Hilo
Access via Highway 11 and Ninole Loop Road (clearly marked signs)
Free public parking next to the beach park
Easy 2–3 minute walk from parking lot to the sand
Ninole Loop Rd, Naalehu, HI 96772, USA
Located between Pāhala and Naʻālehu, about 67 miles from Kailua-Kona and 55 miles from Hilo
Access via Highway 11 and Ninole Loop Road (clearly marked signs)
Free public parking next to the beach park
Easy 2–3 minute walk from parking lot to the sand
Ninole Loop Rd, Naalehu, HI 96772, USA
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