6 black sand beaches you must see across the world

Driving to Reynisfjara from Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, takes about two and a half hours. Take a day trip from the Reykjavik, where numerous tours stop at the famous beach. Be sure to take pictures while on the Ring Road, which is on a hill and a popular spot for sightseeing along the South coast. Reynisfjara, one of the most accessible black sand beaches locations in Iceland, is best known for the columnar basalt. While at it, you will immediately notice the rocky sea stacks off the shoreline. These were once trolls pulling ships from the waters at night but later turned into solid stone.

If you have been looking for black beaches in Tenerife to take your family, your search should end at Playa Del Duque. It offers plenty of space for playing, and the calm shallow waters are suitable for swimming. Take a relaxing stroll to soak up the backdrop of a wide promenade lined with palm trees, running the full length of the sand. If hunger strikes, check in at the cafés, restaurants, bars, and other family-friendly facilities around. If you plan a full black beach day, consider renting a parasol. Water sports equipment and sun lounger are also available for hire.

Also known as the Black Sand Beach, Punalu'u has an expansive shore that is easy to access and suitable for sunbathing, picnics, and coastal hikes. Like in most dark beaches, tourists come here to sunbathe, swim, snorkel, and watch the Green and Hawksbill turtles basking in the sun. The best snorkelling spot is Ninole Cove, located a short distance from Punalu'u and offers a sheltered bay of sand channels. If you want to enjoy the best dip, get into a small boat ramp facing the waters but watch out for high surf.

It is one of the longest volcanic beaches in Santorini and a proudly Blue Flag destination. Gaze at the impressive scenery formed by black lava sand and a sandy sea bottom with crystal clear waters. The cosmopolitan beach is fully organized with comfy lounge chairs, parasols, showers, playgrounds, and lifeguards. If you have a passion for diving, there is an excellent site in Perissa beach where you can also windsurf, jet ski, canoe, or ride banana boats. Rock your family vacation experience at a nearby waterpark with three slides and a pool appropriate for children and adults. The black sand coastline becomes lively at night, with beach bars and clubs accommodating young and old alike.

Of all the black sand beaches, Keramas beach is the best for surfing. A shimmery black sand shoreline is dotted with shacks where they serve traditional dishes. Since it is a very remote location, you will not come across anything like a street lined with shops or restaurants. It is practically deserted, hence an excellent destination to stay away from crowds. On one side are rice fields and farmyards, and coastal villages on the other side. Keramas beach is mainly covered with rocks and pebbles, but there is an area full of powdery, shimmery black sand. There are plenty of homestays and villas around for a quiet vacation.

Piha, a surf beach on West Auckland's rugged coast, is a perfect place to escape it all. Take a stroll along the walkways through a forest in the neighbouring hills. Off the scenic drive is the unmissable Lion Rock, where you can pull over to take pictures. The surrounding village is best known for kiwis, particularly in summer in summer. If you are not taking surfing lessons, try abseiling down a canyon, visit the surf club to taste delicacies, or bring a picnic. If you feel adventurous, take some bush walks along Kitekite track that leads to a famous waterfall. Remember to carry your sunscreen because there's plenty of space to soak up the sun.