Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

Very wonderful and beautiful experience. We hiked one way (about 1h) and rode back the other. I think it’s the best way to do this, the hike is definitely amazing, yes it’s HOT with no shade but if you have a hat and water, you will be fine. It’s definitely wayyy more rewarding to get in that water after a nice hike. We also had 2 turtles that swam with us and they were beautiful. The water is beautiful, and it’s all sand, no rocks. I loved it and would go back.

Absolutely amazing place and experience!! It truly felt amazing to finally get to this treasure, a rare stunning beach! It is not that easy to get to it. This beauty is so far away from all the public areas!! It will sure take you a few hours to hike to this actual beach. Highly recommend taking the ride offered by the local folks there, they take you in their crazy pickup trucks, that ride itself is like 20mins (even the ride is very bumpy). They take cash only like $25 per person (You won't be allowed or able to drive your vehicle, even if yours is a 4x4) . Make sure to have plenty of water and some food if you plan to be there for over an hour. No amenities what so ever. For sure plenty of water, also sun protection, a good sturdy shoe if you are hiking, plan for a very very challenging hike with absolutely no shaded areas. Think of being and experiencing a very very isolated place. Have fun!!

If you have a 4WD, definitely take it for an off-roading adventure to Green Sand Beach — it’s much more fun driving yourself than clinging on while the locals speed through the rough trails! The drive is bumpy but totally worth it for the stunning views and unique green sands at the end.One helpful tip: switch your Google Maps to terrain/satellite mode before you start the drive. Locals have carved out multiple crisscrossing paths that can be confusing, and terrain view makes it easier to follow the right track. (Locals will scare you about driving on your own,its important you trust your journey).We got stuck a few times before realizing this trick!Since there’s no cell service in the area, make sure to download offline maps before heading out. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and patience ,the trip is rough but the beach and the experience are unforgettable.

There are two ways to get to Papakolea Beach: You can hike 2+miles or you can get in the back of one of the beat up pickup trucks that ferry tourists back and forth. The trucks don't appear to be officially sanctioned, but no one seems to mind. We hiked in, but we heard the truck price is $20 per person (or per group--not sure). There is a steep final walk down to the beach. Most people seemed ok handling the terrain, but be forewarned. Anyway, the beach is amazing. The green sand is gorgeous and looks very glittery. The sheer cliff walls were also really cool, and you can see the green crystals that formed the sand in some of the rocks as you hike along. We'll worth the effort to get there.