Punaluu Black Sand Beach

The sand is black because it is basalt: lava entering the ocean shatters into fragments on contact and the surf grinds them down, so the beach is made of volcanic glass and rock rather than coral or quartz. That also means it is not being replenished - no lava enters the sea here now, so the sand is a finite deposit, which is why removing it is prohibited and why signs say so repeatedly. Green sea turtles, honu, haul out on the sand to bask, and hawksbills are occasionally seen; both are protected and approaching within about three metres is illegal. Freshwater springs enter the bay, making the water noticeably colder in places. Swimming is possible but currents and rocky entry make it unsuitable for many.

What you actually see

• Black basalt sand - lava shattered on contact with the sea.
• Basking green sea turtles - protected, with a legal approach distance.
• A finite sand deposit - no longer replenished by lava.
• Cold freshwater springs - entering the bay.

When to go

Year round. Two hours.

Honest expectations

Taking sand is illegal and enforced. Turtles must not be approached or touched - the legal distance is enforced. Swimming is affected by currents and rocky entry. The car park fills with coach traffic midday.

Nearby

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is north-east; South Point is west.