Punalu’u Beach
by M0B1US
Punalu’u means "diving spring" and there is small freshwater lagoon behind the beach, which is popular with ducks, to authenticate this name. The black sand is a product of the constant wave action against an old lava flow that went into the sea at this point. The beach is lined with palm trees and is extremely popular with Green Sea Turtles.
You are almost guaranteed to see at least one turtle on your visit here as they enjoy basking on the hot black sand as well as the fact that the beach is a perfect breeding ground for them, which means that camping on the beach is not allowed under any circumstances.
There is a small souvenir and refreshments trailer just by the entrance to the beach.
The Sea Mountain hotel is here and also has a small golf course you can play on, though it is a bit threadbare. A derelict Polynesian style complex that was abandoned after the 2000 ‘Millenium’ flood that swept through this region is just behind the lagoon and serves testament to the power of the sudden floods that can sweep through this area.
The nearest settlement to the beach is Pahala just off the highway towards the Kilauea National Park, which is an interesting small old plantation town. Perhaps one of the most unlikely attractions in the area is the Buddhist temple and retreat center in Wood Valley which was dedicated by the Dalai Lama in 1980.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
by leafmcgowan
One of the most famous beaches on Big Island is the Punalu'u Black Sand Beach. It is the most expansive and accessible stretch of black sand beach on the island. Tourists from all over come here to see the sand, the sea turtles, and to snorkel/dive. Located right off Hwy 11, Ninole loop road off the entrance to Sea Mountain Resort, in the Puna district south of Hilo, between Pahala and na'alehu. Most famous for the Hawaiian Green Sea turtles that frequent the beach as much as the tourists. Endangered species - they are protected as much as the sand that is made of basalt and created by lava flowing into the ocean that explodes when it reaches the ocean and cools. Don't touch or disturb the turtles and take no sand. The waters are protected by the small cove embracing the beach. There is a large paved parking lot with full facilities. Swimming area is very rocky, best to be careful as it is dangerous grounds. Beach has alot of underground fresh water flowing into it which is very cold. Legends have it that the early inhabitants would dive underwater with a jug to get fresh water. Other local legends warn of taking the sand or the rocks from the beach - for if one does, they will be cursed by the Goddess Pele until it is returned. (Myth may have been generated by 30 year Park Service veteran Russ Apple who was restoring Hawaiian cultural resources in the parks) Evidence of shifts of the use of the beach area by indigenous peoples vary through time. Monumental architecture in forms of large heiau complexes (ritual centers) speak to the powers of na ali'i (chiefs) and the social stratification of the ancient Ka'u district. Camping is permitted at the Beach Park.
Forum Posts
Sea Mountain Resort
by miscnow
We are coming to Sea Mt. in Sept. and wondered where the best place is to buy groceries and if any are available close by.
Re: Sea Mountain Resort
by BlueCollar
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but that resort (if you can stretch the definition to fit) is not close to any full-service grocery store. We have driven to Punalu'u to visit the blacksand beach there so I know well where this place is located. For more info, look here:
http://www.wizardpub.com/bigisland/bigresort.html
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