Wednesday, December 11, 2013

The Green Sand Beach, Papakōlea Beach, on the island of Hawaiʻi

The Green Sand Beach, known as Papakōlea Beach  is a green colored sand beach located near South Point on the island of Hawaii.  It is accessed by hiking or 4 wheeling 3 miles east of South Point.  It is a rugged hike over uneven lava and soft sand.  The day I went there was a steady 25mph trade wind with 35 mph gusts blowing fine red sand into my face.  It took about 1 1/2 hours to get there, but it was worth it. The sand is green due to the mineral olivine washing down from the lava hill face. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes.
Wick Hunt