Pros & cons
PROS
- Frequent spinner dolphin sightings from shore when conditions allow
- Vivid black sand framed by palms and ironwood for striking photos
- Sunday drum circle gives the cove a uniquely local vibe
CONS
- Steep, slick lava scramble with exposure near the waterline
- No lifeguard and hazardous shorebreak make swimming a poor idea
- No facilities on site; roadside parking with theft risk if you leave valuables
Roadside shoulder pullouts along the Red Road near the Kehena viewpoint; no fees or facilities. Do not leave valuables.
Short but steep cliff descent on sharp, slick lava; final step often at the waterline. Strong currents and shorebreak with no lifeguard; not suitable for young children. No facilities; pack out all trash.
Overview
A dramatic slice of the Puna coast, Kehena is a narrow black‑sand beach tucked beneath low sea cliffs along the Red Road. The cove’s sand was born of lava and the beach itself is relatively young, with the current shoreline shaped by a 1955 flow. About two decades ago an earthquake dropped the beach a few feet and wiped out the old stairs, which is why the way in now feels more like a scramble than a stroll. Kehena is unofficially clothing‑optional and, when the ocean is calm, spinner dolphins sometimes swing close to the cove.
Route and terrain
This is a very short, very steep out‑and‑back descent from roadside pullouts down to the beach. Expect rough lava rock, dirt, and a narrow zigzag path cut into the cliff. The hike down takes roughly 10 minutes; shoes with real grip make a big difference, and small kids or anyone unsteady on their feet may find it sketchy. The last move often drops you near the waterline—time your step if surf is up. Total hiking length is about 0.4 miles round trip.
What you’ll see
The beach is a long but slim ribbon of jet‑black sand shaded by coconut palms and ironwood. On Sundays the cove can turn lively with drum circles and dancing; other days it can feel quietly wild. Keep your eyes offshore for spinner dolphins cruising past.
Safety
Treat the ocean here with caution. Strong currents and pounding shorebreak are common, and there’s no lifeguard—this is not a good casual‑swim spot. Rocks can be slick when wet and the lava is sharp; watch footing and waves at all times.
Facilities and parking
There are no facilities at Kehena. Park in roadside shoulder pullouts along the Red Road; don’t leave valuables. Restrooms are available at MacKenzie State Recreation Area and at Isaac Hale Beach Park (Pohoiki). There are no fees. The Red Road itself is narrow and winding—drive slowly and expect tight sightlines. Pack out everything, and don’t remove sand or rocks.
Best time to go
Daylight and dry weather are your friends. If you’re after the social scene, aim for Sunday; if you want it quieter, avoid Sunday. Many visitors pair Kehena with the scenic Red Road drive, often turning around near Isaac Hale due to lava‑altered road sections from 2018.
Where it starts
19.3943, -154.9299Wildlife on this trail
Near Kehena Beach Trail
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awayKehena Black Sand BeachSmall black sand cove with dolphins and a Sunday drum circleParking · Scenic Viewpoint
2 mi awayPalm Tree Grove Overlooking the OceanCoconut grove pullout with wide‑open ocean and surf viewsPullout · Scenic Viewpoint
2.7 mi awayStar of the Sea Painted ChurchTiny lava-saved church with hand-painted murals and quiet alohaParking · Restroom
3.5 mi awayUncle Robert's Night MarketLively Wednesday market of music, food, and community at road’s endFood · Restroom
3.6 mi awayKaimu–Kalapana New Beach TrailShort lava-field walk to a fickle, newborn black-sand shoreline.Easy · 0.5 mi · 30 min
5.1 mi awayMacKenzie State Park Coastal TrailShort, rugged sea‑cliff ramble on the old King’s Highway.Moderate · 3.5 mi · 2.5 hr
5.1 mi awayOld Puna TrailFlat, muddy walk to secluded Hā‘ena (Shipman) Beach via old roadEasy · 5 mi · 3 hr
7.2 mi awayPohoiki Black Sand Beach TrailShort stroll over new lava to a raw, wave-battered black sand shoreEasy · 1.1 mi · 30 min
