Kehena Black Sand Beach (Dolphin Beach)

A thin sliver of black sand on the eastern coast of Big Island in Puna, Kehena Black Sand Beach is best accessed by following the path leading from the left of the car park. Because of its isolation, it is often used by nude sunbathers, although this is illegal on Hawaii and those who strip off may face a fine from local law enforcement officials.

Sometimes also called Dolphin Beach because of a population of Spinner dolphins that live offshore, the beach is edged by lava rock and trees. It was also non-existent until 1955, when lava flowed from the cliffs above to form it.

Because the beach is open to the ocean it can be too rough to swim here, with dangerous rip currents and undersea pebbles being tossed about. However, on calmer days it is possible to swim in between seeking shade from the coconut palms.

On the boundary of a residential area, there are no specific beach facilities.