Kehena Beach
Kehena Beach is a dramatic black-sand beach on the Big Island’s Puna coast, known for its rugged beauty, dolphin sightings, and unofficial clothing-optional status. Surrounded by lava cliffs and shaded by palms, it offers a secluded and memorable experience for those who brave the steep trail and occasional rough surf.
Kehena Beach, Big Island
Located in the Big Island's Puna district, Kehena Beach is one of the few unofficial "clothing optional" beaches in Hawaii. It is a long, but narrow black-sand beach, which local residents also call Dolphin Beach because of the frequent appearances of spinner dolphins in this area.
The beach was formed in 1955 when lava flowed down the sea cliffs and into the ocean here. At the eastern end of the beach, one can still see the tip of the lava flow (which is now a rocky point of land) that created the sand.
In 1979, when a strong earthquake shook the Puna district, Kehena Beach dropped almost 3 feet (91 cm). The concrete stairs that led to the beach broke off and now hang more than 10 feet (3 m) above sea level.
The beach is well-shaded by coconut palms and ironwood trees, which make up the backshore. Swimming is possible here when the ocean is calm only because the beach is exposed to the open ocean and during times of high surf, strong rip currents and undertows can occur. That's why there have been quite a few near-drownings at Kehena in the past.
Also, since this beach has many pebbles on the ocean bottom, they can easily get stirred up in the shorebreak during times of heavy surf, which can cause painful skin abrasions to people entering the water.
So when the surf is up, it is best to stay out of the water and maybe have a picnic on the beach, which is accessible from the Kehena lookout.
Key Features of Kehena Beach
- Black-sand shoreline: Formed by a 1955 lava flow, the beach features striking volcanic sand and dramatic scenery.
- Dolphin sightings: Spinner dolphins are frequently spotted close to shore, earning it the nickname “Dolphin Beach.”
- Clothing-optional tradition: Kehena is one of the few Hawaii beaches known for its unofficial nude sunbathing culture.
- Steep access trail: A rocky and narrow footpath leads from the roadside parking area to the beach below.
- Limited facilities: No restrooms, showers, or lifeguards—visitors should come prepared and exercise caution.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kehena Beach located?
Kehena Beach is on the east coast of the Big Island in the Puna District, just off Highway 137 near Mile Marker 19.
Can you see dolphins at Kehena Beach?
Yes, spinner dolphins are frequently seen swimming near the shore, which is why some call it “Dolphin Beach.”
Is nudity allowed at Kehena Beach?
While not officially sanctioned, Kehena Beach is widely known as a clothing-optional beach and attracts nude sunbathers.
Is it safe to swim at Kehena Beach?
Only when the ocean is calm. The beach is exposed to the open ocean and can have dangerous rip currents and strong shorebreak.
Are there facilities or lifeguards at the beach?
No, there are no restrooms, showers, or lifeguards. The beach is remote and visitors should come prepared.