Stunning Black Sand Beach in the United States

Did you know you could visit a black sand beach in the United States?!  Actually, there are several black sand beaches in the US. The Island of Hawaii has the most because of volcanic activity. In the continental United States, there are only three though. Two in California (Black Sands Beach in Sausalito & Black Sands Beach in Shelter Cove) and one in Minnesota (Onyx Beach in Silver Bay).

The two in California are beautiful, but getting near the water or swimming is not possible because of dangerous rocks and treacherous waves. But the beach in Minnesota… is perfect! 

The crescent broad beach is bordered by tree covered jagged cliffs and colorful rock formations. The water is shallow and warm, making the perfect for swimming.

Black Beach (Onyx Beach) is located along the North Shore of Lake Superior in the small Minnesota town of Silver Bay, just over 50 miles north of Duluth on Highway 61.

 The black coloration of the sand is the result of taconite tailings that were dumped into the lake by local miners years ago. Taconite is an iron-ore that is refined, baked, and made into pellets for easy transport.

This charcoal-colored shoreline is just one of the beautiful sites that made our trip along the North Shore of Lake Superior unforgettable! 

 

Address:

Water Plant Rd, Silver Bay, MN 55614

*Watch for a sign on the main road.

Happy Travels!