Punaluʻu Beach, Black sand beach in Hawaii County, United States.

Punaluʻu Beach is a black sand beach in the district of Kaʻū, on the southeastern coast of the island of Hawaiʻi, formed where lava flowed into the ocean and shattered into sand. A pond behind the beach holds brackish water, and coconut palms line the shore.

The location served as a gathering place where Hawaiian royalty accessed underground freshwater springs during dry periods before Western contact. These water sources were vital for survival and attracted settlements that relied on them as seasonal refuges.

Punaluʻu means "spring water" in Hawaiian, referring to the freshwater springs that seep through the black sand into the cove. The beach lies within the larger ahupuaʻa land division of Punaluʻu, and the surrounding ponds once supplied drinking water to travellers crossing the Kaʻū coast. Today the name is still used for the beach and the nearby village.

The beach provides parking, restrooms, picnic tables, and camping spots for visitors planning longer stays. Swimming requires caution because of strong currents and rocky conditions, so watching water movements before entering is sensible.

Green sea turtles and endangered hawksbill turtles regularly haul out on the black sand to rest throughout the day. Hawaiian monk seals occasionally arrive at the shore, creating unexpected wildlife moments that remind visitors they share the space with protected animals.