Black sand beaches

Black sand beaches are much rarer than their gold and white counterparts. This rarity along with their contrasting and otherworldly aesthetic have made them popular as tourist attractions.

Geologically, there are two types of black sand beaches:

• Volcanic basalt beaches - these are found near a volcano which were formed by fragments of basalt lava
• Non-volcanic mineral beaches - these are created by other dark minerals that have eroded near the coast, such as magnetite and ilmenite

Black sand beaches are often surrounded by dramatic and rugged landscapes. As such, rather than swimming or surfing, the most popular activity at black sand beaches is usually photography.

• 63.404938-19.0640091 Reynisfjara, near Vík í Mýrdal (190 km (120 mi) southeast of Reykjavik, Iceland). Arguably the most recognizable and Instagrammable black sand beach in the world, The beach is juxtaposed with towering basalt sea stacks. However, the beach is far from the safest. In February 2026, a severe storm cause a portion of the basalt column to collapse and part of the beach was eroded. Since then, the beach has partially recovered. Watch out for sneaker waves, which can appear unexpectedly.  (updated Aug 2026)
• 28.4135-16.558972 Playa Jardín, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain. A black sand beach in the city surrounded by well kept gardens.  (updated Aug 2026)

• 19.136-155.5043 Punaluʻu Beach, Ka'u, Hawaii. This beach is also a basking sport for sea turtles, both the Hawaiian green sea turtles and the endangered hawksbill turtles. Compared to most other black sand beaches, it is fairly accessible.  (updated Aug 2026)

• -43.417169.8214 Gillespies Beach, Fox Glacier, West Coast, New Zealand. A black sand beach near one of New Zealand's most famous glaciers.  (updated Aug 2026)

Black sand heats up quickly. Under a scorching sun, it can become hot enough to burn your feet. Wear footwear if you are allowed to or otherwise avoid visiting when it is very warm.