Within the dunes are jagged spires and caves, through which the adventurous can wander.Īnd it is here that you truly notice what is so special about the beach: the dreamy panoramic views enjoyed when looking out to sea. If you walk past the initial opening to the beach, you will visit the highest sand dunes found anywhere on the south shore, which has been shaped by the constant thrashing of the waves and adds to the rugged natural beauty of the area. On arrival, it doesn’t look overly special, often strewn with natural debris and only having a small section of sand that is comfortable to relax upon. One of the Mahaulepu beaches that form the southern shore of Kauai, Haula beach is a well-kept secret and is often passed up by the vast swathes of tourists that visit Hawaii every year. The dried lava formations on Kaimu Beach Park The currents and waves that batter the shore here make it unsafe for swimming, so it’s best just to enjoy a walk across the black sand and keep your swimming costume dry for one of the other beaches. Instead of swimwear and sandals, make sure you’re wearing decent shoes and are covered from the sun.

It’s a sobering reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature on a volcanic island such as Hawaii. For those with an active imagination, it’s easy to think of the lava that once flowed here, melting everything in its path. To get to the black sand beach, you can park in the designated lot and walk for ten minutes across the solidified lava that takes you down to the water’s edge. After an eruption in 1990, the once golden beach lined with palm trees was covered with molten lava, and the infrastructure in the surrounding areas was destroyed.

Visitors to the beach are able to witness firsthand the destructive power of the nearby Kilauea Volcano. Located on the Big Island, Kaimu Beach Park is a nascent black sand beach in Puna District, and in spite of its unsuitability for swimming and snorkeling, it is one of the most intriguing beaches found anywhere in Hawaii.

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