Green Sand Beach

Also known as Papakolea Beach, Green Sand Beach is a magical cove far off the beaten path in South Point. Located between Kau and Kailua-Kona, the beach is accessible only by four wheel drive, yet it's an easy drive out. The beach's sand is made up of olivine, a green semiprecious stone created in volcano eruptions. It has a green tinge and varies in brightness, but is not solid green. There are no facilities here, and swimming can be dangerous depending on wave size so use caution. However, it's a beautiful and unique place to visit so don't forget the camera. Use the trail down the hill to access the beach. Turn off of Highway 11 on to South Point Road between mile markers 69 and 70. Drive to the end of the road where it turns to dirt, and you'll likely see cars parked there. Take a four wheel drive in or walk, but walking takes a while. The