Stay tuned for information about our annual luau.
Kawohilani
Home of the Annual Jim Dahlberg Luau
About Punalu'u
Punalu'u (pronounced: 'poo-nah-loo-oo')
Bay is known for its beautiful black sand beach located on the Big Island of Hawaii. Punalu'u got its name from the fresh water springs in the bay where Hawaiians dove with gourds to the ocean floor to tap the springs.
Home of the Honu
Rare and endangered green sea turtles frequent the beach and may even swim side by side with you as you play in the clear waters. The sea turtles attract visitors each day from around the island, and around the world!
Gorgeous Black Sand Beach
Beachcomb the sparkling black sands for rare olivine crystals and shells, or simply enjoy the warm tropical sunshine while working on your tan.
Ancient Sites
There are ancient Hawai'ian Heiau (Stone Temples) at each end of the Bay, and numerous hiking trails and opportunities for discovery.
Things to Do
Fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving in the crystal clear waters of the Bay. Whether your passion is the ocean, the mountains or the green forests, all are within easy reach of Punalu'u.
Nearby Activities
Sea mountain Golf Resort, with its 18 hole golf course, lies across the road. Punalu'u Park, a county park, is a short walk nearby.
Driving south you will reach Southpoint, a popular attraction where Hawaii's only green sand beach is found. It is thought that the first Polynesian settlers of the island landed near the boat ramp.
Twenty minutes to the northeast is the small town of Na'alehu,"The Southernmost Town in the USA", where the famous Punalu'u Sweetbread Bakery is located. Their breads and rolls, plus ice cream, pastries and sandwiches are served in their gift shop, along with Kona coffee of course! The charming little Hana Hou Restaurant, especially noted for their homemade pies, is in Na'alehu as well.
Thirty minutes to the north is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with its fascinating museum, great art center, walking trails, and historic hotel - and live Kilauea volcano! There are lava flows visible nearly always, though a hike may be in order to get to them. Check at the Visitor's Center for current activity.
Punalu'u Bay is equidistant from both Hilo (the largest city on the Big Island and the seat of the County government) and Kailua-Kona (the main resort town on the west side of the island). From ancient times this area has been called the "Playground of the Ali'i" ("ah-lee-ee" = Hawaiian Royalty). Come find out what the Hawai'ians have always known...
How to get here:
Directions from Kona International Airport
Kona International Airport
- 73-200 Kupipi St, Kalaoa, HI 96740 Head west on Keahole Airport Rd toward Kupipi St1 min (495 ft)
- Take HI-11 to Ninole Loop Rd1 h 49 min (73.3 mi)
- Follow Ninole Loop Rd to your destination 3 min (1.3 mi)
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
Ninole Loop Rd, Naalehu, HI 96772
Link to Google Maps Route: https://goo.gl/maps/7TFr836AdyZxrNeeA
Hilo International Airport 2450 Kekuanaoa St, Hilo, HI 96720
- Head northwest on Airport Rd/Kekuanaoa St toward Ailolo St 1.4 mi
- Turn left onto HI-11/Hawaii Belt Rd/Kanoelehua Ave
- Continue to follow HI-11/Hawaii Belt Rd. 55.1 mi
- Turn left onto Punalu'u Rd 0.6 mi
- Continue onto Ninole Loop Rd 0.3 mi
- Turn left 249 ft
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
Ninole Loop Rd, Naalehu, HI 96772
Google Map Link:
https://goo.gl/maps/JAQz3VEtaKmUC2Qr5