Black sand beach on the Big Island

Big Island Beaches

Black sand, green sand & swimming spots

The Big Island's beaches are unlike anywhere else in the world. From jet-black volcanic sand to rare green olivine beaches, you'll find diverse shorelines within easy reach of Island Goodes. Here are our favorites for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring.

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach Black Sand
✗ Not for swimming
1.5 hours from Island Goodes

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Hawaii's most famous black sand beach with jet-black basalt sand. Green and endangered Hawksbill turtles regularly bask on the warm sand - best viewing 11am-6pm.

Sea turtles (daily!)Coconut palmsDramatic black sandLifeguard 8:30am-5pm
Local Tip: Stay 10+ feet from turtles - fines range from $1,000-$10,500. Never touch or feed them!
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Snorkeling
✓ Swimmable
5 miles from Island Goodes

Richardson Ocean Park

Hilo's best-protected snorkeling spot with a calm cove. Mix of black and green sand (from olivine minerals). Sea turtles are very common here!

Sea turtles (common)Calm watersTide poolsEastern sunrise views
Local Tip: Go early morning before winds pick up around noon. Left side has the best snorkeling.
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Family Beach
✓ Swimmable
4 miles from Island Goodes

Carlsmith Beach Park (Four Mile)

Multiple volcanic rock pools create magical swimming spots. Outer reef protection makes it calm even when other beaches are rough. Sea turtles frequently visit!

Protected lagoonMultiple poolsSea turtlesFamily-friendly
Local Tip: Best at low tide. The water is spring-fed - refreshingly cool on hot days.
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Family Beach
✓ Swimmable
2 miles from Island Goodes

Onekahakaha Beach Park

Safest swimming on the Hilo coast! Man-made breakwater creates a shallow pool perfect for children. Lifeguards on weekends/holidays 9:30am-4:45pm.

Protected coveLifeguardsShallow for kidsRestrooms & picnic areas
Local Tip: Perfect for young children. Sandy area is on the left side of the park.
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Black Sand
⚠ Experienced only
45 minutes from Island Goodes

Kehena Beach

Softest black sand on the island. Wild dolphins often swim close to shore in the mornings. Note: This is a clothing-optional beach popular with locals.

Wild dolphinsSoft black sandLocal vibeSunrise views
Local Tip: Strong currents - experienced swimmers only. Steep trail down requires fitness.
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Surfing
✗ Not for swimming
2 miles from Island Goodes

Honoli'i Beach Park

Hilo's premier surfing beach. Watch skilled local surfers catch waves. Calm area at river/ocean junction can be good for kids when conditions are right.

Great surfingLocal surfersScenic black sandRiver mouth
Local Tip: Not for swimming due to currents. Perfect spot to watch surfers and take photos!
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Green Sand
⚠ Dangerous currents
2+ hours from Island Goodes

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

One of only FOUR green sand beaches in the entire world! Green color from olivine crystals in the volcanic cinder cone. 5.5-mile round trip hike.

World-rare green sandStunning sceneryAdventure hike (2-2.5 hrs)
Local Tip: Bring LOTS of water - no shade on trail. Local shuttles ($20-30) available but hiking is the legal option.
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Black Sand
✗ Not for swimming
1.5 hours from Island Goodes

Pololu Valley Beach

Dramatic black sand beach at the end of the Kohala coast. Breathtaking valley views with 2,000-foot cliffs. 25-minute steep hike down.

Dramatic cliffsLush valleyPhotography paradiseAdventure hike
Local Tip: The lookout alone is worth the drive! Beach is for photos, not swimming (dangerous currents).
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White Sand
✓ Swimmable
1.5 hours from Island Goodes

Kua Bay (Manini'owali)

Stunning white sand beach on the Kona side. Crystal-clear turquoise water - like a postcard! Worth the drive for a proper sandy beach day.

White sandClear turquoise waterGreat snorkelingSunset views
Local Tip: Crowded on weekends. Arrive early for parking. No vendors - bring everything you need.
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Sea Turtle Viewing Guidelines

The Big Island is home to green sea turtles (honu) and endangered Hawksbill turtles. Here's how to enjoy them responsibly:

  • Stay at least 10 feet away - it's the law
  • Never touch, chase, harass, or feed sea turtles
  • Best viewing times: Noon-5pm when turtles bask in the sun
  • Most active season: May-October (mating/nesting)
  • Fines for harassment: $1,000-$10,500
Best Turtle Viewing Spots Near Hilo: Richardson Ocean Park • Carlsmith Beach • Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Beach Safety Tips

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Check Conditions

Ocean conditions change quickly. When in doubt, don't go out.

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Respect Wildlife

Keep 10+ feet from sea turtles and seals. Never touch or feed them.

☀️

Sun Protection

Use reef-safe sunscreen. The Hawaiian sun is intense!

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No Lifeguards

Many beaches have no lifeguards. Swim with a buddy.

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