Top 5 Black Sand Beaches In The World

Top black sand beaches for your next vacation inspiration. Let these beaches guide you to the perfect tropical getaway destination.

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The beach is calling, but today it is quite an unusual type of beach! Black sand beaches tend to form near active (or formerly active) volcanoes than have had volcanic rock erode away into sand. They are found all over the world from the tropics to the poles. Today we are going to explore the top 5 tropical black sand beaches of the world! A unique addition to any itinerary, a black sand beach is a gorgeous backdrop for an Insta-worthy shot!

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5. Saint-Pierre Beach: Saint-Pierre, Martinique

Our first beach takes us to the idyllic Caribbean region where temps average 79 F/ 26 C year round! With sweeping mountain views and beautiful blue waters, Martinique is an island dream! The black sands on this island comes from the infamous Mount Pelée volcano which is still active today! Paradise with a side of danger? Absolutely! This beach is a short trip from the main resort area of Fort-de-France. Creole Bay Suites and Spa is a perfect example of the gorgeous spots with sweeping views where you can stay! Take walks along the sand and marvel at the beautiful turquoise waters!

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4. Ficogrande: Stromboli, Italy

Certainly a more remote beach in Italy, this black sand beach can be found on the Aeolian Island, Stromboli. This island is actually the tip of an active volcano that erupts regularly. Don't worry, these eruptions aren't as dangerous as Mount Pelée and you can actually take a hike up to see it happen! Because of this, much of the sand on the island is black from the volcanic rock. There is a tiny town on this island where you can stay in cute little bungalows like this one, B&B Casa Frank! You can also easily hop on a quick boat ride from Sicily to see this one!

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3. Papenoo Beach: Tahiti, French Polynesia

Next up is a place many would immediately think of when thinking of volcanic tropical islands! French Polynesia is an island nation in the South Pacific categorized by beautiful blue waters, gorgeous atolls and lush jungle mountains. Many imagine Bora Bora's picturesque mountain peak first, BUT Tahiti truly is just as beautiful and full of hidden treasures. . . like black sand beaches! One of the most picture worthy spots on the list, this beach is on the north side of the island and filled with local surfers catching a wave and palm trees blowing over head. If you are staying in the main resort area of Papeete, you can easily take a quick drive or taxi to this beach. Or you can stay at The Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts which sits directly on the black sands so you can literally wake up and take a stroll!

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2. Kamari Beach: Santorini, Greece

Our next beach also happens to be in one of the most romantic places in the world! Santorini is the Greek isle of love, and you are going to love this beach! Ideal for those that prefer amenities like sun beds and water sports available on their beach day. Located on the southeast side of the island, you can either day trip from anywhere in Santorini or stay in the gorgeous resort area of Kamari! With one of the best promenades in the Greek isles, this is a wonderful spot to stay! Idyllic whitewashed lux suites like Blue Waves Suites leave you just steps from this famous beach.

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1. Wai'anapanapa Beach: Maui, Hawaii

Our top spot for this list is one of the most visually striking places in the world! Dark black sand, bright green jungle vegetation and cerulean waters all come together in a place of paradise. This beach is found on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The beach is within the Wai'anapanapa State Park. This park is one of the few that allow camping, but a permit is required. If you'd not for roughing it, stay at Hana Maui Resort where you are surrounded by the lush Hawaiian landscape with a wide range of fun amenities and activities.

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