In general we all have the typical image of the idyllic beach with golden sand and turquoise waters. But the truth is that there is much more variety in terms of beaches. Another day we will focus on the most peculiar beaches, as there are those with pink sand or round stones that seem sculpted on purpose. Today we will deal with most spectacular black sand beaches that you can visit.
The vast majority of people prefer light sand, because it is true that black sand is much rarer and more peculiar, since it is usually seen especially in soils of volcanic origin. However, once you see these incredible beaches, you may change your concept of beach paradise and decide to look for those dark colored sandy beaches.
Ajuy in Fuerteventura
We start with the closest beaches, the ones we have in the Canary Islands, which are of volcanic origin, and that is why many of its beaches have that dark sand. This is not one of those beaches where tourists go, but it is usually occupied by people from the island. It is found in a quaint little town where we can taste the gastronomy while we discover a more familiar and calm atmosphere than that of other beaches. This is also where some of the oldest rocks in the Canary Islands are found and it is a Protected Natural Area. Not to be missed are the impressive caves carved into the rocks by the water, accessed from the beach.
Green Lake in Lanzarote
This peculiar beach has in the background a amazing green colored lake. It is an old volcanic crater that has been filled with water from the nearby sea and that tone comes from algae. It must be said that the lake is a protected area, so it is forbidden to bathe or touch it and get close to it. Its real name is the 'Laguna de los Ciclos' and it is in El Golfo. Another of the peculiarities that we find in the area is the 'olivine', a semi-precious stone that is formed in this place and that some artisans use to make original jewelry that they sell to tourists.
Jökulsarlon in Iceland
This almost unpronounceable beach is located in Iceland, so the weather will not accompany you to sunbathe. The name is due to Iceland's largest glacial lake, where this peculiar beach is located. If you visit the glacier, seeing this beach is also a must, since it is a beautiful spectacle, with the gray sea in the background and the pieces of ice that come from the glacier and end up in the sand.
VÃk in Iceland
This is another black sand beach in Iceland, although it is not always covered in ice. It is located in the south of the country, near the capital and is one of the rainiest areas. The weather will not accompany either, but it forms another spectacular landscape, with its high cliffs of dark rock and the peculiar rock formations that according to mythology are three trolls turned to stone with the arrival of daylight.
Muriwai in Auckland, New Zealand
This dark sand beach is located in New Zealand, a place that does not usually disappoint with its landscapes. This area has more than 60 kilometers of coastline, and the landscapes with rock formations and a natural background full of green spaces are surprising. This beach is a famous place for many surfers, being a perfect place to practice this sport.
Lost Coast in California
Lost Coast is not a beach per se, but a impressive coastal area of ​​129 kilometers, with natural landscapes that take your breath away. Not for nothing is it one of the favorite places for surfers and camping lovers. The point is that there are some beautiful beaches, but you have to be willing to walk along trails, since some of them are far away, although tranquility is guaranteed.
Punaluu in Hawaii
This is another beach that is formed by the runoff of volcanic lava. It is between the town of Naalehu and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The palm trees reach the middle of the beach, offering a nice contrast with the black sand, and on the other hand, it has the peculiarity that the turtles will spawn on the beach, but the area in which they do so is protected and not it should be touched for the sake of these animals.
Waianapanapa on Maui
This beach is located in full State Park, so it is a natural and protected place of great beauty. We have again the incredible spectacle of a place formed by centuries of volcanic eruptions, with very black sand and equally dark cliffs. All this contrasts with the green tropical vegetation of the area. Quite a show.