Punalu`u Beach Park, near Pahala, Hawaii, is a fantastic spot for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the unique beauty of a black sand beach. With grassy areas for camping right next to the shore, you can fall asleep to the soothing sound of waves crashing nearby.

This campground is popular for its snorkeling opportunities, where you might spot sea turtles and colorful fish in the clear waters. Visitors rave about the nearby cliff for jumping and the stunning sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant colors. As one camper put it, “We had some of the best snorkeling we have ever had, here.”

Amenities include picnic tables, showers, and drinking water, making it a comfortable place to set up camp. Just a short drive away, you’ll find local eateries serving delicious food, including a fish and chips spot that’s a hit with families. The area also offers hiking trails with breathtaking views, so you can easily fill your days with adventure.

While it can get busy, the friendly vibe and natural beauty make Punalu`u Beach Park a memorable destination for anyone looking to experience the charm of Hawaii. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, this park has plenty to offer.

Nightly rates:

 Adult: $5 for residents, $20 for non-residents.
 Junior: $2 for residents, $20 for non-residents.
 Child: $1 for residents, $20 for non-residents.

Punalu`u Beach Park

On the Big Island, you can experience some of the best camping adventures near Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. The park is the home of two active volcanoes, along with several lava tubes. Hikers can explore a few of them, including the Thurston Lava Tube. Take a car or your RV and drive up Crater Rim Drive to see the Jaggar Museum’s volcano exhibit. There’s also a lookout point with a stunning view of the Halaema’uma’u Crater. Some campgrounds put campers close to extinct lava fields, while other campsites offer cabins and yurts. You can also take advantage of the nearby lagoon.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Best Camping Near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

If you are like me, you want to see the black sand beaches when visiting Hawaii. This is one of the nicest, biggest parks of black sand. There are tide pools and swimming so it is a popular park for daytime beach going. 

The campground is NOT in the sand - you are on a grassy area next to the beach so you can sleep to the sound of the crashing waves without the hassle of sand. 

Camping by a Black Sand Beach

We stayed here for two nights and greatly enjoyed quiet and near solitude of the beach park. We arrived in the dark to several locals who call the park home. We were hesitant about the situation, but after chatting with some of them, we discovered that they were very friendly and down to earth. After waking up and exploring the park, we found some sea turtles on the beach and continued walking around the various trails. We felt very comfortable here and will gladly return when we come visit Hawaii again!

Wonderful Introduction to Hawaiin Camping

Beautiful black sand beach, awesome sunsets and rises. Strong undertow, swim at your own risk. Sea turtles, mongoose, centipedes, and lots of birds!

Bring bug spray if you want to hang outside past sunset.

Walk up the beach to the rocks and see more

Popular, can be busy

My family and I loved this part of Hawai’i and coming to this beach. We had some of the best snorkeling we have ever had, here. We saw turtles, tons of fish, and 1 shark!! The water was super clear and pretty warm. There was also a really cool cliff to jump off of. This beach Park is close to the town, which makes it nice for food. There was a really great fish and chips place down the road. Reminded me of “Ivars” in Washington that we love! We also stopped by a snow cone place that served some of the biggest cones we’ve ever had. They also put ice cream in there’s which was awesome!!! In the morning before we did some hiking nearby, we stopped by a juice place. Wasn’t Sam good as the Kauai Juice Co. but it was still really good! The hiking was great! Great views of the beach and ocean. Super hot though, so I’m glad we started early in the morning. Loved this place and will definitely be back next year!!

Great snorkeling 

Easily accessible and fun to camp here. There are spots for grilling, showers, tables, and drinking water. A good place to go snorkeling too.

Photos of Punalu`u Beach Park

Real photos from real campers