See a Rare Gem: Papakolea Green Sand Beach For the adventurous beachgoer and avid hiker, a trek to Papakolea Green Sand Beach is a major bucket list item to check off during your Big Island adventure. Papakolea Beach has the rare distinction of being one of only four green sand beaches in the entire world, the others are located in Norway, the Galapagos Islands, and Guam. Approximately 3 miles from Kau district’s South Point (Ka Lae) area, Papakolea (meaning “plover flats”) is also known as Green Sand Beach. Located in Mahana Bay, it’s green sands are encircled by Puu Mahana, a cinder cone formed over 49,000 years ago associated with the southwest rift eruption of Mauna Loa. Why is the Sand at Papakolea Green? Papakolea’s distinctive coloring is from olivine, a soft green sand produced from the breaking down of the surrounding cinder cone. Olivine is a common mineral that crystallizes from magma that is rich in magnesium and low in silica during the cooling process. Containing iron and magnesium, Olivine is also known as Peridot when translucent and of precious gem quality. Heralded as “Hawaiian Diamond” Olivine is markedly found in Oahu’s famous Diamond Head landmark as well. Hike to the Green Sand Beach The beach is surrounded by pasturelands and is only accessible by foot. Papakolea Green Sand Beach requires a 5.5-mile round-trip hike with an elevation gain of only 275 feet, so it’s not a difficult trek, but the terrain is uneven, so hiking shoes are recommended. You will also want to bring along plenty of water and snacks as there are no amenities in the area. Park at the trailhead and head northeast to hike the 2.8 mile coastal trail to the beach. The beach area is very steep so use the existing trail to make your way down. Traversing the hot, windy topography requires a bit of work, however, the incredible views and unique destination more than makes up for the effort.
Papakolea Green Sand Beach
