The Green Sand Beach is one of the most fascinating beaches we’ve visited. There are only about four green sand beaches in the world and two are located in the United States. The first one is on the Big Island, Hawaii and the other is on the Pacific island of Guam.
Papakōlea Beach or the Green Sand beach is located about 2.5 miles off South Point, another notable stopover. It is the southernmost point of the United States. The trailhead parking lot is on the left side, about 8 miles past South Point road by Highway 11, between mile markers 69 (nice!) and 70. There is no parking fee.
Like with most tourist destinations, it is best to go there early.
How we got to the beach:
- Hiking – it’s 2.5 miles (one way).
- 4WD – we didn’t know this at the time but it’s illegal to drive over to the beach. It’s to protect cultural sites from degradation. It hasn’t stopped people from offering rides to the beach though so please say no. Hiking is much better for you anyway!
The trail is obvious, for the most part. Head northeast and keep the ocean to your right and you’ll be fine.
After a couple “Are there yet?!”, this should be the view that will greet you. It’s not hard to miss.
The view was spectacular!
On the west side, you’ll find a rickety steel ladder that will take you to the bottom of the cliff where the beach is. Watch your step and be careful!
It’s also known to the locals as Mahana Bay based on the name of the cinder cone Pu’u Mahana.
The green sand comes from the crushed mineral called olivine. They call it the “Hawaiian Diamond”. It comes from the old cinder cone being eroded by the ocean.
Swimming is allowed but keep in mind: Waves can be rough and there are no lifeguards at the beach.
Note:
On the day that we were there, a couple of locals were offering rides back to the parking lot. This was in 2015 and we had no idea they’re not allowed to do that so we took them up on it. I also made the stupid assumption that it was a 2.5-mile hike roundtrip to the beach, so I thought I’ll just wear flip-flops! Big mistake. So yes, the ride back was a welcome respite. Still, we apologize and we promise to be mindful of the laws of the land when traveling.
Stuff to bring:
- Hiking shoes
- Food
- Water
- Sunscreen
- Hat (it’s a wide-open terrain)
- Trash bag (No facilities in the area. Leave no trace!)
- Common sense
We did a video on the hike so make sure to check it out!
Full video:
Next destination: South Point