Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Punalu'u is one of the most visually striking beaches in Hawaii, where jet-black basaltic sand meets turquoise water against a backdrop of lush green palms and dramatic volcanic cliffs. The contrast between the dark sand and the bright surf gives you a natural composition that works beautifully in almost any light, but golden hour is when the beach truly comes alive, with warm tones reflecting off the wet sand and the ocean glowing behind you. Keep your eyes on the shoreline for endangered green and hawksbill sea turtles, which frequently haul out to bask, offering rare close-up wildlife opportunities. Shoot wide to capture the full sweep of the beach, or get low and close to the sand's texture with a foreground element. A polarizing filter helps cut glare off the water. The beach is accessible off Highway 11 with a paved parking area nearby. (Pahala, Hawaii, United States)