49 Black Sand Beach, also known as Honokaope Beach, stands as the only black sand beach along the Kohala Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii, nestled within the exclusive Mauna Lani Resort area. The beach earned its unusual name from its location on Honokaope Place, with the number 49 appearing in its address rather than reflecting any measurement or count. Formed from volcanic lava meeting the ocean and fragmenting into fine black particles over time, this intimate cove offers a striking contrast to the white sand beaches that dominate the Kohala coastline. The warm black sand provides an ideal basking spot for Hawaiian green sea turtles, which frequently sun themselves on the shore between feeding in the surrounding waters. Despite being surrounded by luxury resorts, this beach maintains a secluded atmosphere with limited daily access, making it feel like a hidden gem accessible only to those willing to arrive early and navigate the security checkpoint.
Swimming conditions at 49 Black Sand Beach are generally excellent due to protection from the surrounding lava rock formations that create a sheltered bay with calm waters ideal for families. The west coast location contributes to tamer wave conditions compared to east-facing beaches, though strong winds and high swells can occasionally make swimming inadvisable. Snorkeling is the primary attraction here, with crystal-clear waters on calm days revealing spectacular underwater scenery near the rocks on either side of the beach and toward the center of the bay. The volcanic substrate supports vibrant multi-colored coral reefs in hues not commonly seen at other Big Island snorkeling sites, along with abundant tropical fish, eels, and octopi hiding among the beautiful underwater rock formations. Early morning typically provides the best visibility and calmest conditions for snorkeling. No lifeguards are stationed at this beach, so swimmers and snorkelers must assess conditions independently and exercise appropriate caution, particularly regarding the protected sea turtles that should never be approached or disturbed.
Access to 49 Black Sand Beach requires driving through the Mauna Lani Resort security checkpoint where visitors must stop at the guard shack to request a free beach pass. From Queen Kaahumanu Highway, take the Mauna Lani Resort exit, follow the third exit in the roundabout toward the Beach Club, and continue for half a mile until the beach entrance appears on the left. Only about 20 parking spots are available and passes are limited, making early arrival essential - those not at the gate by 9 AM or earlier risk being turned away when capacity is reached. The beach is officially open from sunrise to sunset, though some sources indicate 8 AM to 5 PM operating hours. Facilities include public restrooms next to the parking lot and a shower near the trailhead, located just a one-minute walk from the beach itself. The black sand becomes extremely hot under the intense Hawaiian sun, so water shoes or sandals are strongly recommended along with reef-safe sunscreen, snorkel gear, and plenty of drinking water. The beach rarely hosts more than a dozen visitors at once due to the restricted access.
Dining options near 49 Black Sand Beach benefit from the proximity to Mauna Lani Resort, where CanoeHouse offers oceanfront Japanese-inspired cuisine in a historic building that once served as Duke Kahanamoku's canoe storage site, featuring seasonal dishes from Executive Chef Rhoda Magbitang and spectacular sunset views. HaLani provides al fresco Coastal Mediterranean cuisine with tropical Hawaiian touches beneath swaying palms overlooking the Pacific Ocean. At the nearby Fairmont Orchid, Brown's Beach House serves fresh seafood and island-inspired dishes with oceanfront seating. The Mauna Lani shops, visible at the roundabout, include Foodland for quick meals and snacks. The cultural significance of 49 Black Sand Beach extends beyond its geological uniqueness - the Hawaiian name Honokaope Bay connects to the area's long history of coastal settlement and fishing, while the presence of basking sea turtles represents the ongoing recovery of these endangered creatures under protection. This beach offers a rare combination of exclusive resort amenities, exceptional snorkeling, and intimate scale that rewards early-rising visitors with an uncrowded volcanic shoreline experience unavailable elsewhere on the developed Kohala Coast.
