Puna–The Red Road Scenic Byway

The Red Road in the Puna District of the Big Island was aptly named for its unique red cinder pavement. Today, only the northern stretch of the road has not been resurfaced by black asphalt, but none-the-less the name has remained. This route is a narrow (8 ft wide), winding road traveling along the ocean and over small hills and through lave fields and abundant flora and fauna. Slow down and take your time as you navigate the many blind hills and curves and enjoy the fantastic views, coconut groves, old plantations, and tropical rainforests. Save time for stops at Ahalanui Pond (volcanically heated pond where you can take a dip), MacKenzie State Park, Kehana Beach (a remote black sand beach and an unofficial nude beach), and the Kaimu Beach Echo-Path (easy trail across a lava field leading to a black sand beach.)