10 Black Sand Beaches That Are Way Too Beautiful

Black sand beaches are exactly what they sound like…they have black sand! Usually they form in volcanic regions so some of the best black sand beaches can be found in Hawaii and Iceland. In this list, however, we’re going to go all the way from California to Italy in search of the 10 Best Black Sand Beaches You’ll Want To Visit!

* Vik Beach, Iceland

Known as Reynisfjara in the local language, this beach is dotted with imposing cliffs and incredible caves!

* Perissa Beach, Greece

The black pebbles on this beach provide a sharp contrast to the bleached white houses of Santorini.

* Karekare Beach, New Zealand

Although it can require a bit of a plane journey, Karekare Beach is well known for its cliffs and its seals. Seriously, seal watching is a popular thing to do here.

* Black Sand Beach, Hawaii

Found on the island of Maui in Waiʻanapanapa State Park, what its name lacks in creativity, its sand makes up for in beauty. Don’t miss one of America’s most incredible beaches.

* Playa Negrita, Puerto Rico

This is probably the only beach on our list that comes with horses!

* Miho no Matsubara, Japan

Renowned for its view of Mount Fuji, this shoreline was once also known for its white sands. Today, however, due to nearby construction, it’s sands are now almost uniformly black.

* Black Sands Beach, California

Spread out along the northern California coastline, this beach turned black over time due to erosion from the surrounding cliffs.

* Kehena Beach, Hawaii

You’d never guess why this hidden spot on the Big Island is also called Dolphin Beach…that’s right! Because there are dolphins!

* El Tunco, El Salvador

This quiet little village has become one of the most visited sites in El Salvador. Even if you’re not into surfing, the sunset here is legendary.

* Sao Miguel, Portugal

Found in the Azores, this island is also known as the “Green Island.” It’s lushness provides the perfect backdrop for some incredible black sand.