Kaimu Black Sand Beach Trail

Kaimu Black Sand Beach is a young black sand beach that is worth visiting mostly for its representation of the volcanic cycles of land on the island.

Formed when the lava flow from the 1990 eruption of Kilauea buried many of the structures in the towns of Kaimu and Kalapana and moved the shoreline about a half mile further than where it had previously been, today Kaimu Beach is mostly a ledge of black rock lining the coastline with a couple small sandy beach areas. It should be said that those looking for a beach to sit or lay out at and relax on should probably look elsewhere. The sandy sections here are very small and depending on the season may be hit by rough swells.

The trail can be reached via a walk along a crushed gravel path, an easy that begins at the far end of the Farmer's Market grounds and heads past a small garden and collection of makeshift interpretive signage and artwork created by locals. Nearer the water, the path forks, with most visitors following the most direct route to the water's edge. There is little shade here, and the surface is hard lava rock. It's interesting to take in the views of the waves lapping on the black rock cliffs. However to get the full experience of the area, visitors should opt to continue down the further fork and explore the beach area more. Further exploration reveals just how immense the sea of lava was at one point, and offers access to several other small black sand coves and monuments built on the site. 

Visitors can return the way they came, heading back to the trailhead. Consider visiting one of the bars, restaurants or markets near the trailhead or consider timing your visit to coincide with the Kaimu Farmers Market.

Street parking is available near the point where the road ends. Visitors can proceed past the ropes and follow the paved path to the farmers market site, at the far side of which the crushed gravel route is clearly visible.