Have you ever seen a beach with black sand? These sand on these rare beaches are made of volcanic rock, which results in sands that are black. While we do not have to travel far to experience clarity thru solitude, an experience to a new unique place can do wonders for soul searching.
Miho-no-Matsubara
Shizuoka, Japan
This four mile stretch of black sand is lined with palm tress and shaded board walks. It is one of the easiest beaches to get to and offers a completely unobstructed view of Mount Fuji.
Perissa Beach
Santorini, Greece
The black sand of Perissa Beach offers a striking contrast to the famous white and blue houses that line the island’s perimeter. From here, you can relax on the reclining chairs along the shoreline and enjoy refreshments. You will be able to see distant yet beautiful views of Mount Mésa Vounó.
Papenoo Beach
Tahiti
While this beach is missing cafes and restrooms, it results in less tourists. So if you prefer a quieter black beach experience, plan ahead so you can avoid needing a restroom break during your visit. Surfers frequent the beach due to the waves being known as some of the best in the world. If you’re a surfer, this is the place to be.
Lovina Beach
Bali
The lava from nearby Mount Agung forms the black sands of Bali’s Lovina Beach. It is surrounded by several small fishing villages and visitors can snorkel and watch dolphins.
Black Sands Beach
Shelter Cove, California
This beach is also known as California’s Lost Coast and is located in Humboldt County. Swimming is not recommended at Black Sands Beach due to the dangerous and powerful waves that crash into the shore. However, you can still take some time to enjoy watching the water crash into the shore and check out the sea lions. It’s in a remote location, and mostly free of development.
Number One Beach
Dominica, Carribean Islands
To get to Number One Beach, you have to make a short 15-minute hike thru a muddy jungle. It is well worth it, where you will find yourself surrounded with volcanic sand surrounded by palm trees and dramatic cliffs.
Black Bay
Grenada
Black Bay is a hidden gem of Grenada which can be found by following an unmarked path and also taking a quick hike thru a jungle. Once you make it thru the jungle, you will find an empty, exotic beach with a cave to explore on the southern edge.
Anse Ceron
Martinique
This is an amazing alternate spot to swim in the Caribbean when the popular white sand beaches get packed. The quiet shoreline is backed by dense foliage.
Playa Negra
Vieques, Puerto Rico
Literally translates to “Beach Black,” Playa Negra is one on the list that offers horseback riding. The contrast between the super fine black grains, white sea foam, and surrounding golden dunes creates a dramatic effect.
Punalu’u Beach
Big Island, Hawaii
The main island of Hawaii is home to Punalu’u Beach, where the shores are lined with lush coconut trees all around. Here, visitors can swim, hike, snorkel, and even camp (with permit). If the sand gets cool enough, endangered hawksbill turtles can be found to swim up to the shoreline to back in the sun.
Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach
Maui, Hawaii
Here, visitors can explore freshwater caves, ancient burial grounds, beautiful sea arches, and temples. Legend has it that a heartbroken queen took refuge here, making it a truly sacred place for locals and tourists.
Karekare Beach
New Zealand
This beach was featured in the movie The Piano (1993). This is one of the most famous black sand beaches in the entire world. It is bordered by looming cliffs and shrouded in a hazy mist. The beach feels like another world. It offers visitors opportunities to walk, picnic, and surf.
Reynisfjara Beach
Iceland
This must-see beach is located on the southern coast of Iceland. Here you will find basalt columns, lava formations, caves, and cliffs. It is ranked as one of the most beautiful nontropical beaches in the world.
Stokksnes Beach
Iceland
If you’re looking for a majestic sunset, check out the rocky shores of Stokksnes Beach. The Vestrahorn mountain is breathtaking. In addition, you can double up on “bucket list” items if you plan the right time of the year to visit for the aurora borealis.
Black Sand Beach
Prince William Sound, Alaska
A popular place to explore by kayaking, you will find plenty of glaciers and rock formations. You will also get amazing views of otters and sea lions.
Playa Jardín
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Beach Garden, as it translates to English, was designed in the 1990s by Canadian artist César Manrique. Relaxation was the basis for inspiration in the design of the resort for its guests. The beach is lined with colorful gardens, stone walls and waterfalls, and plenty of palm trees. The experience is nothing short of calming and relaxing, while the scenery is picturesque.
Black Sand Beach Guide
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