49 Black Sand Beach (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is 49 Black Sand Beach?
What makes it 76% Solo-Friendly: Secluded beach gives solos calm snorkeling, tide-pool walks and striking photos; basic restrooms exist but no lifeguard, food or shade, so self-sufficient, competent swimmers enjoy it most.
Positives:
- Minimal Crowds: Most days have under a dozen visitors before midday.
- Free Entry: Parking and beach access are free with a guard shack pass.
Challenges:
- No Lifeguard: Swimming is at your own risk; watch for slippery lava rocks.
- Limited Shade: There are few shaded spots; bring sun protection.
What is 49 Black Sand Beach?
- A volcanic black sand beach on the Kohala Coast of Hawaiʻi Island, formed by rapidly cooled lava fragments from historic eruptions
- A shoreline composed of iron-rich mafic minerals such as magnetite and gabbro, ground into fine black sand by wave action
- Known locally as Honokaʻope Bay, presenting a stark contrast of dark sand against the Pacific Ocean and rugged lava rock outcrops
What is so special about 49 Black Sand Beach for solo trip?
- Peaceful snorkeling before crowds
- Unique volcanic black-sand landscape
- Close-up tide-pool wildlife viewing
- Coastal trail for panoramic bay views
- Free access with easy guard shack pass
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for snorkeling, tide-pool exploration, and a short coastal hike without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in 49 Black Sand Beach
Early-Morning Snorkeling:
Swim in calm, clear waters before crowds arrive.
Tip: Bring your own snorkel set and wear a flotation vest if needed. Stay close to shore.
Tide-Pool Exploration:
Inspect small fish, crabs, and sea urchins at low tide.
Tip: Bring a waterproof flashlight and wear sturdy water shoes.
Photography and Bird Watching:
Capture volcanic cliffs, black sand, and native shorebirds in solitude.
Tip: Use a zoom lens to spot plovers and turnstones from the rocky edges.
Fishermen’s Trail Hike:
Hike the short coastal trail for panoramic views of Honokaʻōpe Bay.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and a hat, and return before steep drop-offs.
When is the best time to visit 49 Black Sand Beach (Hawaii, United States)?
Water is calmest and clearest before 10 AM year-round. Summer brings gentler surf; winter can have larger swells. Check tide tables for the best low-tide window in spring.
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Reviews of 49 Black Sand Beach (Hawaii)
Cherisse Patnode
Beautiful beach, bring your snorkel gear too!
Janina
Small but beautiful black/gray sand beach in private area with limited parking. Very few places with shade, which is why we moved to another beach. The partially rocky constellation seems to be great for snorchling and it's not windy, so an umbrella will hold.
Will C
The entrance is gated with an attendant in a booth. The attendant hands you a parking pass with a guest number on it. Parking is limited, so if you plan to visit, it's best to go early in the day. Once the small parking lot is full, I believe the attendant restricts visitors from entering. The beach is fairly small but beautiful. The water was pretty choppy during our visit so we didn't do much sw...
Kyle Mouallem
Small beach, but very few people (probably because it's rather difficult to get to). The black sand is beautiful and there's even a nice shaded area by the cliff side. If you're on this side of the island and are looking for a peaceful black sand beach I would highly recommend this one.
Esther Haine
A peaceful, private black sand beach to relax and swim for a couple of hours or half a day. Recommend bringing parasol (as it gets super hot), chairs and drinks to hydrate yourself 🏝
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking pass | USD 0 |
| Optional snorkel gear rental (per day) | USD 35 |
| Water and snacks | USD 10 |
| Total Estimated | USD 45 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to 49 Black Sand Beach
- Arrive Early: Get the parking pass at opening to secure a spot and enjoy calm waters.
- Pack Light Gear: Bring your own snorkel set, water, and snacks to avoid off-site rentals.
- Check Tide Times: Use a tide app to time your visit around low tide for better pool exploration.
Map of 49 Black Sand Beach
Address: 49 Black Sand Beach, Waikoloa Beach Resort, HI 96738, USA
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