Black, Green, and White Sand Beaches on The Big Island
The Island of Hawai'i, also known as the Big Island, is home to some of the most captivating and unique beaches in Hawaii.
As this young Hawaiian Island continues to evolve and take shape, its multi-hued shoreline is unlike any of the white, pristine sandy beaches that you may find on the 'older' Hawaiian Islands. From black sand beaches to crystal green sand to newly formed lava rocks, it is no surprise that visitors from all over the world come to experience these beautiful and unique natural wonders.
Most of the familiar white-sand beaches can be found on the western side of the island, near Kona and on the Kohala Coast. The black and green sandy beaches are found primarily closer to the volcano, located on the rugged southern flank of the Big Island.
We suggest taking at least a day to travel from your vacation rental or resort to visit one or two of the beaches. Down on the South Shore of the Big Island are two of the iconic beaches known as the green (Papakolea) and black sand beaches (Punalu'u).
Papakolea Green Sand Beach
Papakolea Green Sand Beach
Papakolea is one of the only two green sand beaches in the United States. This unique beach is difficult to reach, yet one you don't want to miss.
Carved out of a 49,000-year-old cinder cone of the Mauna Loa volcano, green olivine crystals mixed with white and black crystals create the green hue that gives this beach its name.
Papakolea is great for hiking along the coast, sightseeing, and exploring ancient temples ("Heiau" is Hawaiian for ancient temples or sacred sites).
Papakolea Green Sand Beach
Tip: While swimming may be possible, it is best to take caution as the surf can be rough. There are no lifeguards or facilities at Papakolea, so beware of conditions before getting in the water; we also suggest bringing enough food and water and being sure to pack essentials, such as sunblock, a beach umbrella, or a hat, as coverage from the sun may be limited.
Getting to this beach involves driving to the southernmost tip of the island and hiking 2.5 miles. Avoid weekends and start out early if you would like to beat the heat or avoid the large crowd. We promise it's worth the trip!
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
Punalu'u is the most famous black sand beach on the Big Island. The sand is made up of small black fragments of old lava rocks. Punalu'u Black Sand Beach is located between the towns of Kona and Hilo on the Kaʻū Coast and is easily accessible from Volcano Village near Hawaii's Volcano National Park.
This rare beach is great for swimming, snorkeling, turtle sightings (be respectful and give them their space), camping (with a permit), picnics, and hiking along the coast. While swimming is possible, it is best to always enter cautiously and avoid turning your back on the waves, as the currents can be strong at times. Check out our article on Big Island Black Sand Beaches and Where to Find Them for detailed info.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
One of the reasons that the Big Island is so interesting to visit is its climate diversity: the Kohala Coast on the Kona side is dry and sunny, making it ideal for visitors seeking balmy Hawaiian holiday; upcountry is Paniolo country, marked by rolling grass hills and cattle farms; the rocky peak of Mauna Kea turns white with snow in winter; and the eastern coast is lush and green.
The Big Island's eastern side, comprised of the areas of Puna, Hilo, and Hamakua, may not be famous for its beaches. However, it is known to have one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline and scenery on the island. Receiving nearly 85 inches of rainfall per year, the eastern side of the island is heady with lush tropical rainforests, fabulous waterfalls, and serene green valleys.
Located towards the south/east side of Hilo, you will find the best and easiest beaches for you to visit.
Richardson's Beach and Ocean Park Tide Pools
Richardson Ocean Park is the closest to Hilo, not to mention the best choice for snorkeling and picnics. The water here is a mix of ocean and spring water, forming ponds near the beach. This beach is great for families traveling with children, as the water is calm, and tide pools will keep the kids entertained with its spectacular marine life.
Although there will be a lifeguard on duty between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., it is best to keep an eye on your children at all times. Richardson Ocean Park tends to get very busy on weekends, so we recommend starting early to find parking to avoid the crowd.
Big Island's Kiholo Bay
CLose-up of the Big Island's Kiholo Bay
The gorgeous West Coast of the Big Island is blessed with sunshine and warm weather. There are 14 beaches on the western side of the Big Island, and Kiholo Bay is one of our favorites! Kiholo Bay is perfect for snorkeling, exploring tide pools, relaxing by the ocean, and soaking up the sun. For beach access, visitors must use the public beach path until you reach the tide pools.
With its few black sand beaches surrounded by 1000+ foot high cliffs and lush green forests covering every hillside, this side of the Big Island is a beach lover's favorite.
The beautiful and historic Waipi'o Valley is gorgeous, and its setting and Black Sand Beach should not be missed. The Valley is home to some 50 native Hawaiians and holds a special place in the history of the Hawaiian people, having been the home of early Hawaiian kings.
Waipi'o Valley & Black Sand Beach
This beach is known for its rip currents and high surf, so swimming is not recommended. While it is difficult to access, it is a great place to relax after a long hike into the valley and rewards trekkers with incredible views.
If you're lucky enough to visit after a heavy day of rainfall, you may see Kaluahine Falls on your right-hand side once you've reached the beach.
If you are not up for the hike, the Waipi'o Valley can be reached in several ways. The best way to access this valley and black sand beach is to take a fully organized tour, shuttle ride, horseback ride, or mule-drawn wagon. It will certainly be a memorable experience on your visit to Hawaii and worth the investment.
At Exotic Estates, you have a wide variety of Big Island luxury vacation rentals to choose from. Whether you are looking for a resort-style villa with top-notch amenities or a large private estate to accommodate the entire family, our Exotic Estates Hawaii-based Villa Specialists can help you find the perfect home for your Big Island visit. Start planning your Hawaiian getaway today!
