Black Sand Beach or Punalu'u

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, located on the southeastern Kaʻū coast, is one of the most famous black sand beaches in Hawaiʻi. The beach's jet black shores are an unforgettable sight, with coconut palms fringing the upper edge of the sand. The beach is home to large honu, or Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, which can be seen basking on the beach. However, it's essential to keep a safe distance from these protected turtles and not touch them. The beach also features a picnic area and restroom facilities, making it a great spot to have lunch while experiencing the unique feeling of black sand between your toes. Additionally, the beach is a nesting site for the endangered Hawksbill Turtle and is home to other rare and endangered native animals, such as the Hawaiian monk seal and the Hawaiian hawk. The beach's black sand is formed from the rapid cooling of basaltic lava hitting the ocean water, creating a beautiful, jewel-like, shimmering beach