The Complete Guide to Visiting 49 Black Sand Beach for Beginners

49 black sand beach is located on a volcanic bay near Mauna Lani Resort. This is the only black sand beach on the Kohala Coast and it’s quite easy to accessible. If you aim to spend the day or more at this beach, you will be surprised to do multiple things and activities.

Whether you are looking for activities on black sand beaches or want to know how to get to 49 sand beach black, this blog post is for you.

This detailed guided not only help you know about unique beach experiences but also give idea about popular black sand beach attractions. Keep reading!

What is a 49 Black Sand Beach?

49 black sand beach Hawaii is one of the most unique coastal locations on the Big Island with beautiful sea cliffs and crystal-clear waters. For beach lovers, this place is truly a paradise as this beach often less-crowded with unique beach ambiance.

Black sand beaches are normally formed by eruptions (volcanic) that produce basalt rock. With time, the basalt undergoes erosion and weathering that finally breaks down into smaller particles. Thus, the black sand is created by the constant motion of ocean and wind shows the breakdown of volcanic materials.

There are chances that some of the black sand beaches contain volcanic ash or glass, contributing to darker color. This type of beaches comes with unique itinerary experience that is difficult to find in elsewhere beach areas.

Let’s get into details of best time to visit 49 black sand beach, activities on black sand beaches and how to get there in detail!

How to Get to 49 Black Sand Beach?

To reach 49 sand beach on Hawaii’s big island, follow useful tips and directions for easy accessibility.

Go to Hawaii’s Big Island

Start your journey by flying into one of the two main airports named as:

Kona International Airport: If you are looking for closest airport to Kohala Coast, Kona international Airport is best option. This is one of the best tips for visiting volcanic beaches.

Hilo International Airport: This airport is located on the eastern side of the Big Island and quite far away from Kohala Coast, so it’s less convenient as compared to Kona International Airport.

Rent a Car

If you want to explore big island, you can rent car on your own. Public transportation is limited and with car rental, you can explore comfortably.

Driving Directions

These driving directions are starting from Kona International Airport.

• Move north on Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway (HI-19).
• Along the coast, drive almost 32 km north by passing through famous towns like Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa.
• When the HI-19 highway ends, follow the signboard signs that go to Hapuna Beach State Park.
• When you reach the Hapuna Beach area, the road may begin to wind a little more as you move toward island’s northern part.
• Continue going to Kohala Coast until your car will reach at intersection of 49 sand beach.

Once you reach at the beach, you will find 49 black sand beach parking lot near the shoreline. The parking area is small so during weekends, it is recommended to arrive early to book your spot.

Unique Features of Black Sand Beach

Here are some of the unique features of this best black sand beach destinations.

Black Sand: The beach is characterized by its black sand that is formed from basalt and lava rock fragments that is broken and cooled down with time.

Contrast with Ocean and Cliffs: The deep and dark sand contrasts with crystal clear waters of the cliffs. The beach is framed by rugged volcanic cliffs and rock formations, making it’s more beautiful.

Wildlife: This unique beach is home to Hawaiian green sea turtles. Apart from wildlife, this beach is also home to native plants like coastal grasses and shrubs with wildlife sightings at beaches.

Geological Features: Within beach area, you will find lava tubes and rock formations which shows an amazing geological formations on beaches.

Seclusion and Tranquility: Due to having remote location on Kohala Coast, this beach offer visitors’ peaceful experiences. Also, it is less-crowded.

Activities on 49 Black Sand Beaches

Traveling to black sand beaches like 49 sand beach comes with things to do at 49 black sand beach or famous activities. Here are some of the famous activities that you can enjoy at this beach.

These activities are:

1. Beachcombing and Relaxing

At beach areas or destinations, you can stroll along the beach area to explore black sand and admire natural views. Black sand beach near Kona is not only best in beachcombing but also provide luxurious yet comfortable experiences to all types of visitors.

2. Wildlife Watching

As we earlier stated that Wildlife sightings at Hidden beaches with black sand are common. The Hawaiian green sea turtles are often spotted on the beach. You can see these turtles from a safer disturbance without safety concerns.

3. Snorkeling and Swimming

The crystal-clear waters around beach offer great opportunities to visitors like snorkeling and swimming, especially in the relaxing hours. You may spot colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life while seeing the underwater world.

4. Photography

The beautiful black sand, crystal clear blue water and beautiful volcanic formations comes with beautiful beach photography ideas. Black sand beach is one of the best beaches for nature lovers because of beautiful natural beauty and views.

5. Lava Tubes and Rock Formations

Have you explored lava tubes and rock formations before? If no, head towards to 49 sand beache for this unique experience. Hiking near black sand beaches will be best experience for those who is interested to explore volcanic history and geological wonders.

Best Time to Visit 49 Black Sand Beach

Maybe you are thinking which time is best time to visit Black sand beach near me, it all depends on weather, crowd levels, and the type of experience you want to see. There is no specified 49 Black Sand Beach hours as you can visit any time of the day.

Early Morning

It is best in these cases:

• You want peace and quiet
• Fewer tourists
• Sunrise photography
• Wildlife

Late Afternoon

• Beautiful sunset views
• Mild temperature
• Less-crowded conditions

In terms of months, the best time to visit this beach is between April to October when weather is drier. If rain is not an issue for you, you can visit between November to March. No matter in which season you want to go, it is recommended to prepare yourself earlier.

Travel Tips for Visiting Beach for the First Time

If you are going to visit this beach for the first time, it is recommended to follow these tips for visiting volcanic beaches, sustainable travel tips for beaches & black sand beach safety tips.

• Bring and pack all essentials that you should need during your trip. These could be sunscreen, camera, good footwear, etc.
• Respect your surroundings by following principle “Leave No Trace”. Pack out all your trash and dispose off in any dustbin.
• Stay on established trails and pathways when walking to and from the beach. It is recommended not to walk on or disturbing sand dunes.
• Respect wildlife by keeping a safer distance from green turtles and other wildlife.
• The warm weather of beach can lead to dehydration issues so it is good to stay hydrated. Bring your own water bottle.

In a Nutshell!

49 black sand beach is one of the best family-friendly beaches with volcanic sand, beach activities and photography opportunities. This beach is ranked among popular black sand beach attractions because of geological formations, lava tubes, black sand, unique experiences and wildlife sightings.

Eco-tourism and black sand beaches relate with other to a greater extent. So, by visiting this beach, you not only enjoy fun-filled activities but also promote eco-tourism or sustainable practices. Plan your visit as soon as possible and do not forget to share your experiences with us!

Frequently Asked Questions