Green sand beaches are among the rarest coastal formations in the world, with only a few known to exist. Their striking green coloration comes from olivine, a mineral found in volcanic rock that is more resistant to weathering than other components of lava. As the surrounding rock erodes, olivine crystals accumulate in the sand, giving these beaches their unique appearance.
Papakōlea Green Sand Beach, Hawai‘i
Papakōlea, located near South Point on the Big Island of Hawai‘i, is the most famous and accessible green sand beach. The olivine-rich cinder cone of Puʻu Mahana, formed by volcanic activity over 49,000 years ago, continuously supplies the beach with the green mineral, creating its vibrant hue. The remote location requires a challenging hike or permitted four-wheel-drive access.
Talofofo Beach, Guam
Talofofo Beach in Guam has green-tinged sand due to its olivine content, though the color is less pronounced than at Papakōlea. The beach is more affected by a mix of other sediments, which dilutes the green shade.
Punta Cormorant, Ecuador
Located on Floreana Island in the Galápagos, Punta Cormorant features sand with a greenish tint due to its olivine deposits. The beach is protected as part of a conservation area, and access is restricted to preserve its delicate ecosystem.
Hornindalsvatnet, Norway
Though not a traditional ocean beach, this site near the glacial lake of Hornindalsvatnet contains greenish-hued sand from mineral-rich deposits in the surrounding mountains. Its unique composition makes it one of the few places in the world where naturally occurring green sand can be found.
Purchasing a home near Papakōlea Green Sand Beach presents some unique opportunities and many challenges as well.
The beach itself is located within a remote, rugged coastal region near South Point on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. Due to its geological and environmental significance, the land immediately surrounding Papakōlea is primarily state-owned or designated as protected land, making direct ownership near the beach itself virtually impossible.
However, nearby areas such as Na‘ālehu, Waiohinu, and portions of the Ka‘ū District offer viable options for purchasing residential homes and land as well as presenting some unique offerings for Hawaiian property investors and real estate developers.
The Ka‘ū District, which includes Na‘ālehu and Waiohinu, is one of the most affordable regions for real estate on the Big Island.
Compared to other parts of Hawai‘i, land prices remain relatively low, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking rural living, off-grid sustainability, or long-term investment potential. The area offers large parcels of land, many of which are suited for farming, ranching, or eco-friendly development.
For those considering Hawaiian properties and real estate as an investment, short-term vacation rentals are a popular growing market segment, particularly for travelers seeking unique, off-the-grid experiences. However, due to the remote nature of the region, potential investors should research county regulations on short-term rentals and ensure that properties have the necessary infrastructure, including water catchment systems, solar power, and road access.
To reach the green sand beach at Papakōlea, travelers must first drive to South Point, the southernmost point in the United States. From the town of Naalehu, take South Point Road, which branches off from Highway 11. The road extends toward Ka Lae and eventually splits, with one route leading to the Green Sand Beach trailhead and the other leading to the cliffs and ocean access at South Point. The road to the Green Sand Beach trailhead is unpaved, but there is a parking area where visitors can begin their journey.
From the parking area, there is a roughly 2.5-mile hike to the beach along a rugged coastal path. The trail consists of sandy, rocky terrain with little shade, so visitors should bring water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear. While some local drivers offer rides to the beach in four-wheel-drive vehicles for a fee, these unofficial services are not regulated, and driving on the fragile coastal environment contributes to erosion. Walking is the recommended and most environmentally responsible way to reach the beach.