Hawaii is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the country — and perhaps even the world. With approximately 750 miles of coastline, the Hawaiian Islands are home to countless incredible beaches in a variety of captivating colors — including black. Stark black sand contrasting with the crystalline waters of the Pacific Ocean make this Hawaii Island beach a must-visit. But that’s not the only thing that makes this stretch of sand so remarkable — it’s also a known dolphin hangout.
Located along the coast in Hawaii Island’s Puna District, Kehena Beach is absolutely jaw-dropping.
Zoli Juhasz/Flickr Backed by plenty of shady coconut palms and ironwood trees, this narrow stretch of stark back sand contrasts beautifully with the crystalline waves lapping against the shore.
Draped with ferns, full of contrast, and featuring remnants of Hawaii’s volcanic past, visiting Kehena Beach is like entering another world.
Matt Anderson Photography/Getty Images
Formed in 1955 when lava flowed down the sea cliffs and into the ocean, you can still see the tip of the lava flow at the eastern end of the beach.
N. Vivienne Shen Photography/Getty Images Carved out of the side of rugged, lava rock cliffs by pounding waves over the last several decades, this spot is truly remarkable.
Also called Dolphin Beach thanks to the frequent appearances of spinner dolphins in this area, Kehena Beach is a dream.
Jon Evans/Flickr While dolphins frequent the waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands, there are few places where you can see them from shore, and Kehana is one of them.
Combine soft, pitch-black sand and the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean — as well as the allure of dolphin spotting — and it’s easy to see why nature lovers and photographers alike are drawn to Kehena Beach.
Glowimages/Getty Images
Unlike many of Hawaii Island’s younger black sand beaches, the sand found at Kehena is incredibly soft and comfortable to walk and lay on, making it one of the best black sand beaches in the state.
Hawaiian Sea/Flickr
Swimming at Kehena is possible, but only when the waters are calm since the beach is exposed to the open ocean.
Mark/Flickr When the surf is high, strong rip currents and undertows can occur, so beachcombing and picnics are recommended. It is also important to note that this is one of a few unofficial nude beaches found across the islands.
So, what are you waiting for? Ethereal natural beauty awaits.
Gawain Jones Photo/Flickr In order to reach this natural oasis, you’ll be required to head off-road and maneuver your way down a steep, narrow pathway that zigzags from the cliffs above to the beach below. We think it’s worth the effort, though.
Address: HI-50, Kekaha, HI 96752
Zoli Juhasz/Flickr
Backed by plenty of shady coconut palms and ironwood trees, this narrow stretch of stark back sand contrasts beautifully with the crystalline waves lapping against the shore.
Matt Anderson Photography/Getty Images
N. Vivienne Shen Photography/Getty Images
Carved out of the side of rugged, lava rock cliffs by pounding waves over the last several decades, this spot is truly remarkable.
Jon Evans/Flickr
While dolphins frequent the waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands, there are few places where you can see them from shore, and Kehana is one of them.
Glowimages/Getty Images
Hawaiian Sea/Flickr
Mark/Flickr
When the surf is high, strong rip currents and undertows can occur, so beachcombing and picnics are recommended. It is also important to note that this is one of a few unofficial nude beaches found across the islands.
Gawain Jones Photo/Flickr
In order to reach this natural oasis, you’ll be required to head off-road and maneuver your way down a steep, narrow pathway that zigzags from the cliffs above to the beach below. We think it’s worth the effort, though.
Have you ever sunbathed on this stunning black sand beach along Hawaii Island’s coast? Share your experiences and opinions with our readers in the comments below.
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