Punalu'u Beach

While snorkeling at the beach, we stumbled upon a few rocks on our way in and out of the water. The wind was blowing strong and the waves were quite intense, which made it difficult to navigate the shallow rocky area. Additionally, the sand was scorching hot, which made it uncomfortable to walk on. Despite these challenges, the black sand beach was truly remarkable, with lava rocks scattered throughout and a designated area for turtles to lay their eggs. I even spotted one while swimming in the water, but unfortunately, some children rushed over and attempted to ride it. It would have been nice if the parents were more attentive and aware of the strong tide. Fortunately, there was a shop nearby selling clothing and jewelry, and a lifeguard on duty to ensure everyone's safety. There were also bathrooms on the west side of the beach, complete with a clean sand-off area. Overall, this beach was still a great destination, despite some minor setbacks.

Managing your expectations is key when visiting this beach. While it boasts distinctive black sands and the opportunity to observe turtles, its size may leave you wanting more. The beach's main attraction is its gift shop, conveniently located near the car park.

This beach is a unique and uncommon find with its black sand. While it may not be suitable for swimming, it's perfect for soaking up the sun and taking in the breathtaking views. There are restrooms and a souvenir stand, but be warned that the facilities are not well-maintained. One of the highlights of this beach is the chance to see green sea turtles, but remember to keep a respectful distance as they are protected by law. If you're visiting the Big Island Hawaii, this beach is a must-see destination.

This stunning beach has a unique feature - its black sand. Visitors can also enjoy the company of a turtle family, which adds to the charm of the place. The beach is guarded, ensuring visitors' safety. For refreshments, there is a vending machine, but be sure to bring banknotes as it is the only accepted currency. Those looking for souvenirs can visit the gift shop, and there is also a bus station nearby. Parking is ample and conveniently located just 100 meters away.

On the Big Island, there are numerous black sand beaches, and this one is no exception. Though it was quite crowded, I couldn't resist taking some photos of the stunning scenery. During my visit, I was lucky enough to spot two turtles. If you have time, be sure to visit the charming memorial chapel just across the road and up the hill. Additionally, there is a spacious pavilion complete with picnic tables, a BBQ grill, outdoor showers, and clean and well-maintained restrooms.