Punalu’u Black Sand Beach Park

According to local legend, ancient Hawaiians dove underwater with a jug to obtain freshwater during times or drought, as oddly enough this beach has a large amount of cold freshwater flowing from underground. If you take the time to wander near the boat ramp at the north end of the beach you will see the ruins of a heiau(shrine) and a flat sacrificial stone. Inland you will also see a memorial for Henry ‘Opukaha’ia at his birthplace, he entered the Foreign Mission School at age 17 with the vision of bringing Christianity to Hawai’i, but sadly he died of typhoid fever in 1818, but his dream would be fullfilled in 1820 with the arrival of the first Protestant missionaries.

**Just past the parking area with a protected area surrounded by a rock wall you will find ancient  petroglyphs(ancient carvings)

**Nearby is Ninole Cove, a small beach with a grassy area and lagoon good for swimming

** Restrooms, picnic tables and camping (by permit)  are also available

Located on Hwy 11, 27 miles south of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

For more information or to book your vacation to Hawaii Island :

Contact:Linda Dancer Email: [email protected]  Direct Line 931-337-0770

Toll Free 1-888-811-1888 ext 331