Black Sand Beach & Green Sand Beach On Big Island of Hawaii

Be Amazed By These Beaches

If we talk about beaches, surely white sand and blue sea surrounded by palm trees will come to your mind. Nevertheless, on Big Island of Hawaii you will find more than that. How about if we can tell you that the most beautiful and amazing beaches on this island are black and green sand beaches. They are surrounded by unusual natural beauty. Join us to discover the best and different beaches that will blow your mind, and your hair! 

Green sand beach (Papakōlea)

Did you know that there are only 4 green sand beaches in the entire world? The reason is because it takes a special, rare type of volcanic lava eruption to bring the green olivine crystals up to the surface. As a result of this type of eruption, the olivine crystals interact with the cold ocean water and shatters into tiny pieces we call sand, thus forming this extraordinary sight. In addition to being surrounded by beautiful landscape, you will find turquoise, warm water.

You could walk along exploring the scenic coastline from the parking lot for one hour before you reach this beach. We believe the hike is totally worth it because you will discover amazing landscapes along the coastline and feel the ocean breeze blowing your hair as you hike along. If you prefer to skip the hike, at the parking lot, there’re people with 4-wheel drive trucks who will take you directly to the Green Sand Beach for a fee. The road from the parking lot to the beach is rough so you will need a 4×4 in order to get there by car.

This beach is located about one hour from our resort by car. Take the road to ‘South Point’ between mile markers 69 and 70 on highway 11, and drive to the small harbor at the end. On the left hand side there is a parking lot where you can park your car and start your adventure.

If you want to discover more about this beach we invite you to read: All you need to know about Green Sand Beach.

Punaluu Black Sand Beach

Located about 35 minutes driving from our resort. Punaluu Beach is one of the most visited beaches and admired by tourists because of its uniqueness. The sand is black as a result of lava runoff. Can you imagine lying on this beach, or making sand castles of this color?

Another reason for the popularity of this beach is that you can often spot sea turtles basking in the sun on the beach.

To get to Punalu’u from Volcano Village, take Hwy 11 south towards Kona, and turn Makai (towards to ocean) between mile marker 56 and 57 on Alanui Road.

If you want to discover more about this beach we invite you to read: All you need to know about Punalu’u Black Sand Beach.