The Black Sand Beach Trail is one of the most beautiful and unique hiking trails in Hawaii. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, the trail takes you through a lush tropical rainforest and down to a secluded black sand beach. In this blog post, we will explore what to expect when hiking the Black Sand Beach Trail and why it’s a must-do for any hiker visiting Hawaii.
The Trailhead
The trailhead is located in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, just off the Chain of Craters Road. The trail is approximately 2.5 miles round trip and is rated as moderate, with some steep sections and rocky terrain.
The Hike
The hike begins in a lush tropical rainforest, with a canopy of trees providing shade from the sun. The trail is well-maintained and marked, with clear signs pointing the way. As you hike deeper into the forest, you’ll notice the air getting cooler and the sounds of nature getting louder.
About halfway through the hike, you’ll come to a fork in the trail. To the right is the Mauna Ulu Trail, which takes you to a volcanic crater. To the left is the Black Sand Beach Trail, which takes you down to the beach. Follow the signs for the trail and continue your descent.
The Beach
After a steep descent, you’ll emerge onto a beautiful black sand beach. The contrast between the black sand and the blue ocean is stunning and makes for a perfect photo opportunity. The beach is secluded and often uncrowded, making it a great spot to relax and take in the scenery.
The beach is also home to a variety of sea life, including sea turtles and monk seals. It’s important to respect their space and not disturb them. If you’re lucky, you may even see some humpback whales breaching in the distance during the winter months.
Tips for Hiking the Black Sand Beach Trail
- Wear Proper Hiking. Shoes The trail is rocky and steep in some sections, so be sure to wear proper hiking shoes with good grip.
- Bring Sun Protection. The hike is mostly shaded, but the beach is exposed to the sun. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks. The hike can be strenuous, so be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you energized.
- Respect the Environment. The Black Sand Beach is a fragile ecosystem, so be sure to stay on the designated trails and not disturb any wildlife.
- Check the Weather Forecast. The trail can be slippery when wet, so check the weather forecast before embarking on your hike.
- Check for Trail Closures. The trail may be closed due to volcanic activity or other hazards. Check with the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park before starting your hike.
The Black Sand Beach Trail is a must-do for any hiker visiting Hawaii. The trail takes you through a beautiful tropical rainforest and down to a secluded black sand beach. It’s important to respect the environment and follow the tips listed above to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike. So put on your hiking shoes, grab your water bottle, and experience the beauty of the trail for yourself.