“Papakolea” Green Sand Beach, Full Guide on the Big Island!
Visiting the Green Sand Beach (Papakōlea) on the Big Island of Hawaii is one of those bucket-list experiences that sounds almost mythical, a remote cove with shimmering olive-green crystals that make the shoreline look unlike anywhere else in the world.
If it’s your first time heading there, you’re probably wondering exactly how to reach this hidden gem. Papakōlea isn’t your typical Hawaiian beach with easy parking and a quick walk. It’s located at the southern tip of the island, accessible only after a rugged hike and first-time visitors often get caught off guard by the time, effort, and preparation required.
So, in this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about getting to Green Sand Beach, including hiking details, difficulty, facilities, what to bring, and tips to make the trip more enjoyable.
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How to Get to “Papakolea” Green Sand Beach!
“Papakolea,” or Green Sand Beach Hawaii, is located in the southern part of the Big Island (please see location Map HERE). It will take about 1.5 hours to drive here from Kona and the directions are as follows:
- Take Highway 11 from Kona heading South
- Turn right into South Point Road between markers 69 and 70. This is about 7 miles before you get to the small town of Na’alehu.
- You will drive along South Point Road until the road splits (both ways are South Point Road). Moving to the right is the way to go to South Point Cliffs, and Green Sand beach will be to the left.
- Drive another 2 minutes more, and you’ll come to a dirt surface area to park your car. You might be gone for a while, so better if you find a tree to park under.
- From the car park, It’s roughly 3 miles or 4.5 km to hike to Green Sand Beach and will take just less than an hour one way ( 2 hours return).
Planning Your visit?
Keep in mind that there are no tours or public transport directly to Green Sand Beach. This means you’ll need to hire a car to reach the trailhead at South Point.
➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE
While the road to the car park is suitable for a standard two-wheel drive vehicle, the actual stretch from the car park down to the beach is not, it’s rugged, deeply rutted, and only accessible with a proper 4WD.
For most visitors, this means you’ll either hike or arrange alternative transport with locals who sometimes offer rides for a fee.
The hike from the car park to the beach takes about 1.5–2 hours each way, so you’ll want to allow around 3–4 hours return just for the walk. If you’re visiting from Kona, factor in a full 6–7 hours round trip, including driving time.
With this in mind, it’s best to start early in the day, bring plenty of water, sun protection, and snacks, as the trail is fully exposed with little shade.
Despite the effort, standing on one of only four green sand beaches in the world is unforgettable. The contrast of olive-green sand, deep blue ocean, and dramatic cliffs makes it one of the most unique natural attractions on the Big Island.
Note: This beach is known by many names, including Papakolea Beach and Mahana Beach, but more common as Green Sand Beach.
Is it difficult to hike?
The hike to Green Sand Beach isn’t overly difficult in terms of terrain, but it does come with a few challenges. The biggest factor is Sun exposure, you’ll be out in the open the entire way with no shade whatsoever.
The sun can be relentless, and the heat reflecting off the rocks and dry earth makes it feel even hotter. Add in the strong coastal winds, and dehydration can creep up faster than you expect.
The path itself is a dirt road with plenty of potholes, uneven sections, and soft sand, and you’ll also need to be mindful of passing 4WD vehicles that use the same track.
If you plan to walk, come prepared!
Bring more water than you think you’ll need, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sturdy walking shoes, and sunscreen, and pack enough snacks or supplies to comfortably get you through several hours.
This isn’t a spot where you want to cut corners, and there are no shops or facilities along the way.
Once you finally reach the coast, the adventure isn’t quite over. To actually access the beach, you’ll need to descend a steep volcanic rock face. There is a worn footpath that most visitors follow, but it’s uneven and can be slippery, so take your time and watch your footing.
The payoff, however, is incredible as you’ll step onto one of the world’s rarest beaches, with its shimmering green olivine sand contrasting against the bright blue waters.
It’s worth keeping in mind that there are no facilities, no shade, and no food or drink options at the beach itself. If you want to spend some time enjoying the experience (and you should!), make sure you’ve brought everything with you.
Can you drive to Green Sand Beach?
Sorry, but NO – You cannot drive yourself to Green Sand Beach. But, If you want to avoid walking, you could have another options.
However, It comes with warnings and is not guaranteed!
Can I start off by saying, that driving to Green Sand Beach will require a 4 Wheel Drive and will NOT be allowed by any hire vehicle. Secondly, driving any vehicle along this track is ILLEGAL, affects the landscape, and destroys the road.
That being said, almost every day, you’ll find Big Island locals offering 4-wheel-drive rides to the Beach in exchange for money. But, of course, the price is negotiated and not always the same for everyone (about $15US to $20US per person return).
Depending on the car and other visitors, you might be inside the cabin or sitting in the tray back and hanging onto the side of the vehicle. Either way, it will take about 20 minutes on a very slow and bumpy track.
Know, this is not an official business! Prices could change depending on the season and popularity, and this option won’t always be available. Also, wait times to return are also not guaranteed.
Note: Since it is illegal, if you accept a lift from the locals, you do so at your own risk and bear the costs associated with it.
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Best Time to visit?
The best time of the day to visit will be early or late afternoon, mainly for two reasons. Firstly to get there with a limited amount of tourists around.
And, lastly, for the heat, exposed to the elements and hot sand and rock (especially if you’re walking).
FAQ’s – Common Questions?
What makes the Sand Green?
The Green sand is due to something called green olivine crystals!
It all starts with the surrounding volcanic cone eroding into fine sand. Over time, the olivine crystals are crushed and then deposited on the nearby coast, combined with white quartz grains.
It’s almost like walking on real jewels and can be very coarse and somewhat hurt the bottom of your feet.
Coloured beaches are very rare, and in total, there are only four green sand beaches in the World. This includes Talofofo Beach in Guam, Punta Cormorant in Ecuador, and Hornindalsvatnet in Norway.
Note: Please do not remove any sand from the beach, it’s unlawful, and you can be fined.
Can you swim?
Yes, you can definitely swim at Green Sand Beach, just make sure to be careful, as the waves and current can be dangerous, and there isn’t a lifeguard watching out for you.
On my visit, there was a considerable undertow that lifts your feet up and makes you lose your balance. As a result, I saw only a couple of people swimming, more so just around to enjoy the beach or the beachside shallows.
Are there Bathrooms?
There are no bathroom facilities or changerooms available. So instead, you have to be smart, plan ahead, and either hike wearing your swimming costume or don’t go swimming at all.
Further preparation includes water, snacks, a towel, a hat, sunscreen, or anything else you need for the day!
Other Things to do Nearby?
From this area you are very close to the most Southern point of the USA?
It’s called the Ka Lae, which is Hawaiian for “The Point,” or also known as South Point. The cliff-face views are stunning, and depending on the weather, locals and tourists are known for jumping off the cliffs into the water below.
Note: There is a ladder to climb back up if you make the jump, but it can be dangerous.
If you like this beach, then you also have the visit Black Sand beach. While it’s not in the same location, I would schedule a look on another day. Plus, it’s much easier to get to!
Where to Stay?
I stayed at Kona during my trip to the Big Island, as I wanted to experience the night-time Manta Ray swimming.
Overall, it was a great place to centre my Kona Itinerary full of activities, hire my car, and be able to drive around the entire Island.
➡ Find Kona accommodation HERE with Booking.com
If you need help choosing accommodation, here are some options for you:
- Kona Seaside Resort – 75-5652 Likana Ln (This is where we stayed and loved it)
- Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort – 75-5961 Ali‘i Dr.
- Aston Kona by the Sea – 75-6106 Ali‘i Dr.
- Kona Reef Resort – 75-5888 Ali‘i Dr.
- Royal Kona Resort – 75-5852 Ali‘i Dr.
Your other option would be to stay at Hilo and the northern side of the Big Island. This is closer to the Volcanos National Park, with impressive waterfalls, and more prone to rain!
However, there is only 1.5 hours distance between them, and easy enough drive from either on a day trip.
Wrap up & Read More!
Thanks for reading this blog post today on How to get to “Papakolea” Green Sand Beach on the Big Island in Hawaii. I hope you found the information you were looking for, but please feel free to read up on my other USA articles and start ticking more off your bucket list.
