Slow Down and Feel the Magic and Impermanence of Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
There is something magical about visiting a black-sand beach. It may be because of the moodiness of the weather in Iceland (my first black-sand beach) and Hawaii or because it's extremely rare—there are only about 20 or so black-sand beaches in the world.
Or maybe it's because they are the perfect example of impermanence; If bad storms or strong currents pull the sand out into deep water, it won't be replenished until another volcanic eruption occurs. This beach is perfect for slowing down and enjoying the moment.
When I discovered a black-sand beach near Volcano National Park on the way to a green-sand beach, I was excited to stop and check out my second black-sand beach.
To be honest, I did not slow down to enjoy this beach the way I should have. Yes, I spent some time there, but I wasn’t really present as I should have been. I wanted to get my headstand in, look for turtles, and then head out since I knew I had a long day ahead of me.
As I wrote this post, it really hit me that I jammed a lot into one day of traveling. It made me realize that I do not take enough time in places to really feel their magic. Nothing lasts forever, and I need to remember not to rush through it.
So I hope this post helps you plan your trip to this stunning beach but also makes you slow down. Thankfully, when I saw the turtles along the shoreline, it helped me slow down and really feel how magical this experience was.
Punalu'u Beach
Punalu'u Beach is about 45 minutes from Volcano National Park, 1.25 hours from Hilo, and 40 minutes from Green Sand Beach. This was the perfect day trip. I left the National Park area and headed for a pit stop before going to Green Sand Beach. Yes, you can hit two of the world’s rare beaches in under an hour!
So, what makes this black-sand beach unique? If you are lucky, you can see both hawksbill and green turtles hanging out on the beach, enjoying the sun, and swimming around. Sadly, the green turtles were not on the beach when I was there.
Did you know that sea turtles rarely hang out on the beaches, but Hawaii's green turtles are the leading animal attraction on the island?
But I liked seeing some turtles flirting with the tourists close to the shoreline, allowing us to see them from the water as they popped up for air. I can't confirm for sure, but they could have been the rare hawksbill turtle, which is critically endangered. If not, then they were green turtles. Either way, it was cool to see them play!
What do you do if you see the turtles?
Hawaii has strict rules if you encounter one of these stunning animals. If you follow the rules below, you and the turtles will have the best experience together.
Never, never try to touch a turtle.
Do not try to feed the turtles.
Stay at least 10 feet (3 meters) from all sea turtles; this will protect them and yourself.
If maintaining a 10-foot distance isn't possible because you are snorkeling, keep safety in mind and move away from the animal as carefully as possible.
Enjoy seeing these stunning creatures in their home!
Can you swim at Punaluʻu?
When I arrived, I was all set to swim, but I wasn't sure if I could. Seeing the waves hitting the sand on one part of the beach, I decided not to chance it. But as I wandered around, I did see people on the other side of the beach swimming in this small pool of water.
So yes, you can swim! But be careful if you do. This beach is known for its strong currents. Also, bring water shoes because there are huge rocks along the shore. Also, because the sand is black, it will be hot if you walk barefoot. Thankfully, the sky was moody, so the sand wasn't too hot when I was there.
You can also snorkel here. But again, strong currents may be present, and I highly recommend going when there is calmer weather. If the conditions are right and you follow the rules above, you will have the best experience hanging out with the turtles here!
A lifeguard is on duty every day from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. just in case anything happens!
Amenities
There are bathroom and shower facilities on the beach. However, my favorite way to remove sand is using baby powder. I swear by this, and it is super easy! Take a handful of baby power in your hand and rub it up and down your legs. That helps remove dry sand much better than washing it off.
If you are looking to buy some drinks and maybe some stickers or sweatshirts to mark your trip, there is a stand where you can purchase gear. Also, there are places you can sit and enjoy some food as you watch the blue waves hitting the black-sand beach.
Recap
When you visit Punaluʻu Beach, I hope you take the chance to enjoy it and soak up every minute of its beauty and sea life. As I mentioned above, being on this rare beach gives you a profound sense of impermanence; nothing lasts forever. So slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy this place!
