The Green Sand Beach

Papakōlea Beach is a rare and remarkable place with green crystal sands on the southeastern tip of Hawaii Island. The beach is a bit far from parking but worth it. I followed the rocky coastline with some amazing cliff views for few miles before reaching this beach. The sand is made of green olivine crystals and magma that spewed from rock formations and cooled into small bits. Olivine, known as Hawaiian diamond or peridot, has been weathering from surrounding formations and washing onto the beach for over 49,000 years. The sand looks like it glows in the sunlight. The crystal sand's smooth texture and unique color creates a stunning backdrop for photo shoots. The beach was not crowded when I arrived, which made it easier to stroll around and take beautiful photos. The waves here are strong and not safe for swimming, but watching surfers ride them was quite entertaining. The local Mauna Iki villagers consider this beach sacred due to their belief that the nearby cinder cone Pu'u Mahana was a person who became a god and whose spirit inhabits the land, including Papakōlea Beach. The villagers ask that visitors respect the land, take out all that they bring, and refrain from climbing on the dunes or cliffs. I found some helpful signs posted on the way to the beach that offered guidance on what not to do. Overall, its unique geological features combined with Hawaiian spirituality make this place special. I would compare Papakōlea Beach to Waipi'o Valley or Waimanalo Beach in terms of coastal views and tranquility.