Punaluu Black Sand Beach & Akaka Falls

About

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach and Akaka Falls represent two of Hawaii's Big Island treasures, each offering a completely different but equally unforgettable experience.

At Punalu'u, jet-black sand made from volcanic basite stretches along the southern Ka'u coast. The beach is one of the most photographed spots in Hawaii, and for good reason. Sea turtles (honu) regularly haul themselves onto the warm dark sand to rest, and visitors can watch them from a respectful distance. Coconut palms line the shore, and the contrast of black sand against turquoise water is something you won't find on any mainland beach. A county park surrounds the beach with picnic pavilions, restrooms, and parking. Swimming here can be tricky due to rocky entry points and currents, but wading and watching the waves roll in is reward enough.

About two hours north along the Hamakua Coast, Akaka Falls State Park is home to one of Hawaii's tallest and most dramatic waterfalls. The 442-foot cascade plunges into a gorge surrounded by dense tropical vegetation, including giant philodendrons, bamboo groves, and wild orchids. A paved loop trail of roughly 0.4 miles winds through the rainforest, crossing a bridge and offering views of the smaller Kahuna Falls along the way. The air here is cool and heavy with moisture, a welcome change from the coast.

Together, these two sites make for a full day of exploring the Big Island's diversity. You can start your morning at Punalu'u watching turtles on the black sand, then drive the scenic route north through Hilo and up the Hamakua Coast to reach Akaka Falls by afternoon. Pack layers, because the weather shifts dramatically between the sunny southern coast and the misty northern rainforest. Both sites are free to enter, though Akaka Falls State Park charges a small vehicle parking fee. Food options are limited near both locations, so bring snacks and water.

Accessibility

Accessibility varies significantly between these two sites, so planning ahead is important.

At Punalu'u Black Sand Beach Park, the parking area, restrooms, and picnic pavilions are accessible. Paved pathways allow wheelchair users and those with mobility aids to reach viewing areas where they can enjoy the scenery and watch sea turtles from a comfortable distance. However, independent access onto the sand itself and down to the shoreline is not currently possible for wheelchair users, as the terrain transitions from pavement to loose volcanic sand without a boardwalk or mat system.

At Akaka Falls State Park, the loop trail is paved and has been improved for accessibility in recent years. The path includes some steep sections and stairs along portions of the original route, but an accessible viewing area is available near the main falls overlook. The trail can be slippery when wet, which is frequent given the rainforest setting, so visitors should use caution and appropriate footwear.

Parking at both locations includes designated accessible spaces. Restrooms at Punalu'u are ADA-accessible. The terrain at both sites presents natural challenges that limit full independent access for some visitors.

For visitors with sensory considerations, both locations offer rich natural soundscapes. The crashing waves at Punalu'u and the roaring waterfall at Akaka Falls can be loud. The rainforest trail is shaded and cool, which may be more comfortable for heat-sensitive visitors.

Contact Hawaii County Parks and Recreation for current accessibility details at Punalu'u, and the Hawaii Division of State Parks for the latest trail conditions and accessibility features at Akaka Falls.

More accessible places in Hawaii

• Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (Hilo)
• Queen Liliuokalani Park & Gardens (Hilo)
• Maunakea Summit (snow/fire contrast) (Hilo)
• Kona Brewing Co. Pub & Brewery (Hilo)
• Maui Ocean Center (Wailuku)
• Bishop Museum (Honolulu)