Free for the Frugally Focused on Hawaii Holiday

Description:

Snorkelers and divers flock to this bay, which is a designated marine preserve and home to hundreds of varieties of tropical fish, sea turtles and even some dolphins. Kayakers also enjoy the calm, warm waters. History buffs will be more interested in the monument to Captain James Cook, the first British sailor to venture to Hawai'i. Cook was at first revered by the Hawaiians, who believed him to be the god Lono, but eventually they killed him in a skirmish upon his return to the island.

Description:

This white sand beach is the stuff of movies, photo shoots and imagination. They stretch as far as the eye can see. The sand is sugar-fine, warm and clean. The waves are deep blue in the distance, foamy when they hit the shore. Among the Big Island's white sand spots, this one stands out and is regularly ranked among the top beaches in the world. The half-mile strip also has great facilities like a paved walkway leading from the parking lot, which is a rarity in Hawaii!

Description:

Punalu'u Beach Park is best known for it's black sand beach. The park lies on the southeastern coast of the Big Island and is exposed to open ocean and rough seas. Swimming should be attempted only on very calm days. A strong rip current flows offshore. Swimming is least treacherous at the northern end of the beach. Snorkeling can be attempted from the same area of the beach, but be cautious. This is a good site for fishing.

The park encompasses the black sand beach and a grassy area slightly higher than the beach. Camping is permitted in this grassy area. The coast immediately fronting the camping area is rocky with a few palm trees creating a bit of shade.

Follow Highway 11 southward then eastward past Honuapo to the beach park (approximately 67 miles).