Information
Landmark: Green Sand Beach (Papakolea)City: Kailua Kona
Country: USA Hawaii
Continent: North America
Green Sand Beach (Papakolea), Kailua Kona, USA Hawaii, North America
Overview
Papakōlea Beach-better known as Green Sand Beach-sits near South Point, the windswept southernmost tip of Hawaii’s grand Island, in turn only four green sand beaches exist on the entire planet, and this is one of them-a rare stretch where the shore gleams with olive-colored grains.What makes Green Sand Beach stand out, what’s more at Papakōlea, the shore glimmers with olive-green grains-tiny olivine crystals born from ancient volcanic eruptions.The crystals tint the shoreline a striking olive green, turning it into a geological marvel that adventurous travelers can’t resist, while main features-like the quick-start button that clicks softly-stand out.The striking green sand comes from Pu‘u Mahana, a nearby cinder cone formed from volcanic tuff about 49,000 years ago, its slopes still flecked with olive-colored crystals, also over the years, ocean waves wore away the lava, freeing tiny green olivine crystals and scattering them across the shore; only a handful of beaches worldwide share this rare trait, like those in Norway, Guam, and the Galápagos.Papakōlea sits in a crescent-shaped bay ringed by steep volcanic cliffs, where emerald sand meets deep-blue water in striking contrast, while its remote location and tough approach keep the beach quiet and untouched, making it feel like a hidden piece of the world, loosely As you can see, Your trip to Green Sand Beach kicks off at a dusty parking lot near South Point, the southernmost tip of the United States, then follows a 2.5‑mile trail that’s rough, sun‑baked, and completely without shade, on top of that you’ll stroll sandy, rocky trails with the wind sometimes kicking up dust, and the hike takes about an hour to an hour and a half each way; local drivers in four-wheel drives will, for around $10–$20 per guest, offer unofficial rides over the rough, jostling road to the beach.Stroll along the shore to behold the rare green sand glinting in the sunlight, then take a swim or snorkel if you’re up for it-but be ready for rough water, strong currents, and crashing waves, as well as only confident, capable swimmers should head into the water.Though snorkeling isn’t the main draw, you might spot a flash of silver as fish dart near the shore, as well as photographers will love the striking mix of green sand, turquoise waves, and gloomy volcanic cliffs, not entirely The hike in treats you to sweeping views of the rugged coastline and the wide, open ocean, consequently wear sturdy shoes-the trail’s rocky and uneven-and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat for shade.Pack light, as the trek can be tiring, and leave the sand where it belongs to protect the fragile ecosystem, then check the weather before you go; rain turns the path to mud, and strong winds can snatch loose gear.Start early to beat the midday heat and make it back before dusk, what’s more don’t expect restrooms, food, or water along the way-there aren’t any.You’ll find restrooms and picnic tables at the South Point parking lot, but only a few parking spots near the trailhead-just enough for a handful of cars, on top of that nearby attractions await.South Point, or Ka Lae, marks the southernmost tip of the U, in turn s, where sheer cliffs drop into turquoise water and ancient fishing spots cling to the edge, moderately About 40 miles northeast, Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach shimmers with jet‑black sand and sometimes hosts sleepy green sea turtles basking in the sun, and sixty miles farther, Volcanoes National Park spreads across the slopes of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, under certain circumstances And Papakōlea, the Green Sand Beach, mixes raw beauty, rare geology, and a sense of adventure you won’t forget, and tucked far from the crowds, with sand the color of crushed jade, it’s the kind of Hawaiian spot every traveler dreams of finding, kind of Hike the winding trail, pause to admire the glint of green crystals in the sun, or stretch out on the quiet shore-Green Sand Beach shows just how wildly varied the immense Island can be.
Author: Tourist Landmarks
Date: 2025-09-10
