49th Black Sand Beach, also known as Honokaʻope Beach, offers a quieter and more distinctive beach experience along the Kohala Coast. Tucked within the Mauna Lani Resort area, this peaceful volcanic bay is loved for its striking black lava sand, clear water, and calm atmosphere. For Hale Mele guests looking to experience a different side of the island’s natural beauty, it’s a beautiful place to slow down, snorkel, and enjoy the contrast between dark lava shoreline and bright blue ocean.
Located just a short drive from Hale Mele within the Mauna Lani Resort community, 49th Black Sand Beach feels tucked away from the busier resort beaches nearby. Unlike many of the Big Island’s white-sand beaches formed by coral, the shoreline here is made from fine black lava sand created through volcanic activity over time.
The bay itself is scenic and peaceful, framed by lava rock and tropical greenery, with calm clear water that can offer excellent snorkeling conditions when the ocean is gentle. Many guests enjoy floating in the protected bay, exploring along the shoreline, or simply relaxing while listening to the sound of the ocean against the lava rocks.
Because access is limited, the beach often feels quieter and less crowded than other nearby beach areas, especially earlier in the day.
Entry is free, but guests must stop at the security guard shack on Honokaʻope Place to request a parking pass before entering. Parking is extremely limited, with only a small number of designated spaces available. Once the lot is full, additional visitors may be turned away.
One of the special things about staying at Hale Mele is having easy access to places that feel calm, local, and connected to the island’s natural landscape. 49th Black Sand Beach is a lovely choice for guests wanting a quieter beach day surrounded by lava rock, clear water, and the peaceful rhythm of the Kohala Coast — the kind of simple island experience that often becomes a favorite memory of the trip.
