Papakōlea Beach, often called the Green Sand Beach, is one of the most unique shorelines on Hawaiʻi Island. Its sand has a dark olive-green tint, created by tiny grains of olivine (a mineral concentrated near a collapsed cinder cone) mixed with black sand from weathered lava rock. Adults and kids alike are fascinated by the color, and it’s a big part of what makes Papakōlea such a memorable place to visit.
Getting to Papakōlea is a journey, and it can be challenging. The beach sits in a small cove carved into a rugged coastline with tall cliffs. Most visitors reach it by hiking: the trail is about 2.5 miles each way (around 5 miles round trip). To start, take South Point Road off Highway 11 and drive roughly 12 miles until the pavement ends. From there, you’ll continue on foot toward the shoreline (only high-clearance 4WD vehicles should attempt the rough trail beyond the pavement).
Near the end of the route, you’ll descend down the cliffside to the beach below. The cove is framed by lava rock walls, with an opening where the water pours out into the deep blue Pacific. Surf can be rough here, so if you wade in, stay close to shore and avoid deeper water where currents can be strong and unforgiving.
Please help protect Papakōlea’s rare green sand: pack out all trash and leave everything as you found it (including the sand). Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat - the hike is exposed and the sun can be intense. If you’re building a full South Kona / Kaʻū day, consider pairing your visit with Big Island activities or a guided Big Island sightseeing tour for easier logistics and extra stops along the way.