Papakōlea Beach, also known as Green Sand Beach, is not like a normal beach. It is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and is one of only four green-sand beaches in the world. It is also the only green sand beach in the U.S. The other green sand beaches are in Norway, Guam, and the Galapagos Islands.
This beach is near South Point (Ka Lae) in the Kaʻū district, the southernmost part of the island. Instead of white or black sand, the sand here looks green, which makes the beach very special.
The green color does not come from plants or algae. It comes from a mineral called olivine, also known as the “Hawaiian diamond.” Olivine comes from volcanic rocks and is heavy, so it stays on the shore while lighter sand washes away.
Papakōlea Beach sits inside an old volcanic crater called Puʻu Mahana, formed by a Mauna Loa eruption around 49,000 years ago. Over time, the volcano broke down, and olivine crystals gathered on the beach. That’s why you can still see green shades in the sand today.
Getting to the beach takes some effort. From Kailua-Kona, it’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive south on Highway 11. At mile marker 69, turn onto South Point Road and drive about 8 more miles to the parking area.
From there, you must hike about 2.5 miles on a rough and windy trail to reach the beach. Wear strong shoes, use reef-safe sunscreen, and carry plenty of water. The path down to the beach is steep, and remember—you’ll need to hike back too.
You can take photos, but do not take sand. It is illegal to remove sand from Hawaiian beaches. Leave the area clean so others can enjoy this rare and beautiful place too.