Black Sand Beach/Punalu'u, Big Island of Hawaii

Located between the tiny towns of Pahala and Na'alehu is this treasure of a beach area.  The beach really does have black sand.   If you want to see sea turtles, this beach is a really good bet.  


On one side, you have the ocean.  (I wouldn't recommend swimming there unless you are an expert swimmer.  It is quite rough, but you can paddle around in the shallow areas and play in the surf.  The bottom is very rocky.)  On the other side is a charming pond.  If you position yourself in the shady palm trees in between the two, the views are absolutely great.  There is a very small snack shop, but I'd bring a picnic.  There are bathrooms and a covered picnic area, too.  


After relaxing for a few hours, we hit the road and went to the Punalu'u Bake Shop for eclairs and lilikoi cheesecake.  


Don't forget your sunscreen!