Located on the south side of Pahoa in the Puna district on the Big Island, Kaimu Beach Park - has three alternative names including Kaimu Black Sand Beach, The New Kaimu Beach, and Kalapana Black Sand Beach - is a long and narrow black sand beach. Kaimu Beach Park is situated on the shores of Kaimu Bay. In 1990, a river of lava flowed from the Kūpaʻianahā vent of Kīlauea Volcano, reaching the shoreline and burying the original Kaimu Beach under 50–70 feet of lava that obliterated the whole community of Kalapana and surrounding neighborhoods. After more than 20 years, a stretch of sand is finally taking shape as the new land slowly shapes itself into the playground it once was. The original beach had jet-black sand and towering coconut trees. Committed locals have planted hundreds of coconut trees in order to bring Kaimu Beach back to its former splendor. The name "Kaimu" means "a gathering by the sea" in the Hawaiian language. Kaimu Beach Park does not have lifeguards or any other amenities, so plan your trip accordingly. In addition, there is an Uncle Robert’s Awa Bar and Farmer Market near the parking area, that holds a farmer’s market and a party night with a local band on Wednesdays.
