Punaluu Beach or Black Sand Beach

1600x1200   1024x768   200x150

Punaluu Beach or Black Sand Beach

 

The Punaluu Beach, also known as the Black Sand Beach, is located between Naalehu and Pahala in Hawaii. The sand on the beach is made black by basalt which is created by lave flowing into the sea. As the hot molten rocks hit the ocean, an explosion occurs before the lava cools. This geologic and volcanic activity is in Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park.

Large amounts of fresh water flow from underground streams to the ocean. The water from these underground systems are very cold, and as it mixes with the ocean, it looks similar to gasoline mixing

with water. According to Hawaiian legends, people from the early times used to dive to these underground channels to get fresh water.

The black sand beach is often visited by Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles. The turtles often

bask on the beach, and people are supposed to remain at a distance of fifteen feet from the turtles.

It is also prohibited to take volcanic rocks and black sand from the Punaluu Beach. Legends say that those who take away rocks or sand from the beach will be cursed by Pele, the volcano goddess.

Swimming can be very dangerous at Punaluu Beach because it is very rocky.