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Punalu'u Black Sand Beach RV & Campground Guide

Hawaii

The island of Hawaii is often referred to as "The Big Island," and it offers a host of activities and campgrounds to satisfy any RV traveler. Hawaii does have active volcanoes, so be sure to check on local reports of lava activity. Punalu'u Black Sand Beach is the most renowned black sand beach on the island of Hawaii, and even if you don't camp here, it is well worth a visit. You'll find it on the Ka'u coast between the towns of Pahala and Naalehu. The picturesque setting is home to a number of endangered species, including the green sea turtle and hawksbill turtle. 

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Weather
Spring 65-79 F
Summer 68-82 F
Fall 66-80 F
Winter 63-75 F
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RV Resorts & Campsites in Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Because of the often narrow and winding roads, the most common RVs you'll find on Hawaii are either campervans or converted VW busses. Because of the beautiful year-round weather, you can easily rent an RV from RVshare to take in all the amazing sites that Hawaii has to offer.

Punalu'u Beach Park

Camping is allowed at Punalu'u Beach Park. Amenities include outdoor showers in the beach area, restrooms, and potable water. You must obtain a county camping permit prior to arrival. The nightly non-resident camping fee is $21.

Whittington Beach Park

Perhaps the most remote park on the island, Whittington Beach Park campground is located just south of Punalu'u Black Sand Beach. It offers outdoor showers, picnic tables, and restrooms. The park has a golf course and a bakeshop. Be sure to bring your own drinking water. You must obtain a county camping permit prior to arrival. The camping fee for non-residents is $21 per adult or children ages 13 and up per night. The entry is off Highway 11, past the 60-mile marker.

Namakanipaio Campground

Located in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Namakanipaio Campground is at an elevation of 4,000 feet. The campground is in a grassy area with eucalyptus trees. Amenities include restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, and barbeque pits for a campfire. Large RVs are not allowed. The cost is $15 per night.

Miloli'i Beach Park

Miloli'i Beach Park is at the site of an ancient fishing village. You can enjoy fishing at this secluded location. There are bathrooms, but there is no water, so make sure to bring plenty of your own. The camping area is at the edge of the parking lot. The park is five miles off Highway 11 on a narrow and very windy road. You must obtain a county camping permit prior to arrival. The camping fee for non-residents is $21 per adult or children ages 13 and up per night.

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What to Do at
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Inside Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

The stunning view of the black sand beach is something to behold, and several endangered species frequent this beach. While tempting, do not touch any turtles that may be sunning themselves, and it's best to keep 10-15 feet away. In addition to the green sea turtle and hawksbill turtle, other endangered species you might spot are the Hawaiian monk seal and the Hawaiian hawk. Although this side of the island is prone to strong ocean currents, on calm days, you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling off the rocky shore. Swimming and cooling off in the freshwater tide pools is an alternative to swimming in the bay, and you can also take advantage of the boat ramp for marine adventures, including fishing.

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How to Get to
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach is on the southeast side of Hawaii. The entry road is off Highway 11 past the 55-mile marker.

Entering Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

The park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach Parking fee : $0.0

The best way to take in the full splendor of the island of Hawaii is with an RV. Rentals are easy at RVshare, and an RV allows you to stay as long or as little as you like at each of the spectacular parks on the island. Be sure to tag RVshare in your social media postings about your journey, or email your pics and memories to [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions About Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

What is the best time of year to visit Punalu'u Black Sand Beach?

The best time of year to visit Punaluu Black Sand Beach is any time of the year. The unique black sand, the beautiful sunrises, and the turtles make the area a popular place to visit.

What is the climate of Punalu'u Black Sand Beach?

The climate at the beach is windy, muggy, and warm, and the days are mostly clear. The temperature does not drop below 64 degrees Fahrenheit and does not go above 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

What kind of wildlife can be found in Punalu'u Black Sand Beach?

Punaluu Black Sand Beach is known for its turtles. Visitors will encounter green turtles lying out in the sun. Endangered Hawksbill turtles can be spotted out in the water. Other endangered species include the Hawaiian monk seal and the Hawaiian hawk.

Are there designated RV camping spots in Punalu'u Black Sand Beach?

The park has 22 undesignated camping spots. Camping permits and reservations are required. Campers have access to showers, a pavilion, drinking water, and restrooms. Campsites come with a picnic table.

Do you have to reserve a camping spot at Punalu'u Black Sand Beach and what is the cost?

Yes, reservations are required at Punaluu Black Sand Beach. Besides the camping permit fees, there is an additional $1 processing fee per adult and children ages 13-17 per night.