Mahana Beach Hawaii: Papakolea Green Sand Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii (2024)

Ever dreamed of stepping onto a beach so unique it almost feels otherworldly? Welcome to Mahana Beach—also known as Papakōlea Beach—one of the planet’s rare green sand beaches!

Hey, it’s Bryan Murphy, the voice behind the podcast Hawaii’s Best. Nestled at the southernmost tip of Hawaii’s Big Island, this stunning locale is famed for its vibrant olivine sand, a glittering result of volcanic wonders from nearby Mauna Loa.

Ready for an adventure? Trekking to Mahana is a journey through rugged trails and raw beauty, offering more than just sunbathing—a glimpse into earth’s vibrant past. Discover the enchantment of Mahana Beach and why it’s a gem hidden away in Hawaii’s vast beauty.

I’m the creator behind Hawaii’s Best and a certified Hawaii destination expert through the Hawaii Visitors Bureau. My background in local culture and sustainability shapes my approach, highlighted in my top-30 US podcast, Hawaii’s Best Travel. In this guide, I’ll take you to Mahana Beach, selected for its stunning natural beauty and geological significance. Visiting Mahana Beach immerses you in the rare experience of green sand made from olivine crystals, a feature shared by only a handful of beaches worldwide.

What to Know Before Visiting Mahana Beach

Mahana Beach, also known as Papakōlea Beach, is a unique spot at the southern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii. Famous for its rare green sand made from olivine crystals, it is one of only four green sand beaches in the world.

Getting there is an adventure, requiring a 2.5-mile hike or a drive on rough terrain. The beach offers activities like swimming, hiking to ancient sites, and picnicking with stunning ocean views, but visitors must bring all necessities and pack out their trash due to no facilities on site.

Conservation is key, with efforts to protect the beach’s natural and cultural resources. Planning a visit means preparing for a journey with high SPF sunscreen, plenty of water, and sturdy shoes to enjoy one of Hawaii’s most unique and secluded beaches.

Where to Find Mahana Beach (Map Overview)

Unique Features of Mahana Beach

Mahana Beach stands out with its striking green sand, a rare sight caused by olivine crystals from the nearby cinder cone.

This secluded spot at the Big Island’s southern tip offers a unique escape unlike any other.

Green Sand Due to Olivine Crystals

The green sand at Papakolea Beach stands out because it comes from olivine crystals. These tiny gems come from the Pu’u Mahana cinder cone, part of a volcano. Think of these crystals as pieces of Hawaiian Diamond scattered across the beach.

This unique color is rare; only three other beaches in the world have it.

Papakolea Beach, near South Point on the Big Island, is about 49,000 years old. Its green sand sparkles thanks to volcanic activity from Mauna Loa long ago.

Olivine, or Peridot as some call it, doesn’t just make the beach look pretty. It tells a story of earth’s power to create beauty after eruption and time.

Located at the Southern Tip of the Big Island

Mahana Beach awaits you at the southern tip of the Big Island. This place is not just any beach—it’s a gem hidden away in Hawai’i’s Ka‘ū district, close to South Point (Ka Lae).

It’s about 3 miles from where the land meets the ocean at Hawaii’s most southern point. Think of it as an adventure spot that’s tucked away, far from the usual crowd.

This special location is part of a volcanic cinder cone that is slowly wearing away. Captain Cook first noted this area on January 5, 1779. That makes Mahana Beach more than just a place for sunbathing and swimming; it’s a piece of history sitting quietly at the bottom of Mauna Loa volcano, waiting to be explored.

With its unique green sand made from olivine crystals and its remote setting, getting there feels like discovering an untouched world—though keep in mind you’ll need to hike or drive carefully due to its remoteness and rough terrain around Naalehu and South Point Road.

Your Trip to Mahana Beach: Detailed Access Instructions

Getting to Mahana Beach takes some planning. If you are coming from Waikoloa Village, plan for a little over two hours on the road. From downtown Kona, it’s just under two hours away.

And if your trip starts in Hilo, expect about three hours of travel time. The journey involves taking Highway 11 and then turning onto South Point Road all the way until you reach the ocean.

From there, follow signs to Kaulana Boat Launch.

Before leaving, make sure your backpack has high SPF sunscreen, plenty of water, and shoes that can handle rough trails.

Keep in mind that reaching this green sand beach isn’t easy; you’ll either hike 2.5 miles each way or need a four-wheel drive vehicle due to tough terrain and no parking area close by.

So pack smart and wear comfortable clothes for an adventure at one of Hawaii’s most unique beaches!

Detailed Access Instructions for Mahana Beach

• Starting Point: Begin your journey to Mahana Beach (also known as Papakōlea or Green Sand Beach) from either Kona or Hilo.
• Driving Directions:
  • Take Hwy 11 south towards the southernmost tip of the Big Island.
  • Look for mile markers 69 and 70; turn onto South Point Road (also referred to as Ka Lae Road).
  • Drive approximately 8 miles to the end of South Point Road, where you will find a parking area near the Kaulana Boat Ramp.
• Parking:
  • Park your vehicle in the designated parking area at the end of South Point Road. Note that parking can be competitive, so arriving early is advisable.
• Hiking to Mahana Beach:
  • From the parking lot, begin your hike towards Mahana Beach, which is about 2.5 miles (one way).
  • Follow the path leading east along the coastline, keeping the ocean on your right.
  • The trail is generally flat but can be hot and windy, so bring plenty of water and sun protection.
• Descent to the Beach:
  • Upon reaching the cliffs above Mahana Beach, you will need to carefully descend down a steep, sandy slope to reach the beach.
  • Use caution as the descent can be slippery, and there may be a rickety ladder involved.
• Important Considerations:
  • No Vehicle Access: Driving to the beach is illegal and prohibited by rental car companies. The area is fragile and culturally significant.
  • Safety: Swimming can be dangerous due to strong currents; exercise caution and consider your swimming ability.
  • Amenities: Mahana Beach is relatively undeveloped, so bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and sun protection. There are no restrooms or shops nearby.
• Unique Features:
  • Mahana Beach is one of only four green sand beaches in the world, with its unique color derived from the mineral olivine.
  • The beach is surrounded by steep cliffs and offers stunning views, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation.
• Return Trip: After enjoying the beach, retrace your steps back to the parking area, ensuring you take all your belongings with you.

Safety and Etiquette Tips for Mahana Beach

Swimming Safety: (we do not recommend swimming at Mahana Beach)

• • No Lifeguards: Mahana Beach does not have lifeguards on duty, so visitors should exercise caution when swimming.
  • Assess Water Conditions: Before entering the water, check for any warning signs regarding surf and current conditions.
  • Rip Currents: Be aware of rip currents. If caught in one, swim parallel to the shore until free of the current, then head back to the beach at an angle.
  • Swim with a Buddy: Always swim with someone else for added safety.

Environmental Etiquette:

• • Leave No Trace: Carry out all trash and belongings. Avoid littering to preserve the natural beauty of the beach.
  • Do Not Take Sand: Removing sand from Mahana Beach is illegal and harmful to the ecosystem. Enjoy the beach but leave it as you found it.
  • Respect Wildlife: Do not disturb local wildlife, including marine life. Avoid touching or approaching unfamiliar sea creatures.

Personal Safety:

• • Hydration: Bring plenty of water, as there are no facilities at the beach. It’s recommended to carry at least one liter for the hike.
  • Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen frequently, as there is little shade, and be aware of the risk of windburn in addition to sunburn.
  • Wear Appropriate Footwear: Use sturdy shoes with good grip for the hike; avoid sandals or flip-flops due to the rugged terrain.

Hiking Considerations:

• • Hike Responsibly: The trail to Mahana Beach is about 2.5 miles long and can be hot and windy. Start early in the day to avoid the heat.
  • Use a Backpack: A backpack is preferable for carrying supplies, as it keeps your hands free for navigating the trail.

General Awareness:

• • Check Local Conditions: Always check local conditions and regulations before your visit, as they can change.

Recommended Big Island Tours

Activities to Enjoy at Mahana Beach

At Mahana Beach, each day is an adventure waiting to happen. You can swim in the jewel-like waters or explore trails leading to ancient landmarks.

Swimming at Mahana Beach

Swimming in the emerald waters of Mahana Beach, or Papakolea Green Sand Beach, is a unique experience. The water looks inviting, but it’s important you know where to swim. Some spots have strong currents and big waves.

Always pick places that are safe for swimming. There’s no one watching over swimmers here. No lifeguards!

We do not recommend swimming here. Too much risk and too many variables.

Always wear high SPF sunscreen since there isn’t much shade. This will protect your skin from the sun while you enjoy the beach day at one of Hawaii’s rare green sand beaches on the Big Island.

Hiking to Nearby Historical Sites

Hiking at Mahana Beach takes you more than just to the water. You walk on a path with history under your feet.

This beach is near where Captain Cook first saw Hawaii in 1779. Imagine stepping where he stood! As you hike, look for signs of an old Hawaiian village.

The trail is 2.5 miles one way, so you’ll hike a total of 5 miles to get there and back. It goes up by 275 feet, so wear good shoes and bring lots of water. While walking, keep an eye out for ancient sites like burial caves and a temple (heiau).

These places are special to the local culture, telling stories of the past.

Picnicking with Scenic Views

Having a picnic at Mahana Beach offers you breathtaking views of the ocean. Given the lack of restrooms or trash bins, carefully prepare your picnic. Ensure to bring all you require and intend to carry your trash back home.

The location has minimal shade, so it’s essential to carry water to stay hydrated beneath the sun.

Optimal times for a picnic are early hours of the day or weekdays. This way, you evade large crowds and relish serene views. Confirm that you have sun protection as well, as the beach often gets sunny and warm.

Relishing your meal while gazing at the emerald waters offers a unique experience that makes a visit to Green Sand Beach memorable.

Conservation Efforts at Mahana Beach

Protecting Mahana Beach is key. People work hard to keep its green sand and wildlife safe. They clean the beach and teach visitors how to take care of nature. This helps everyone enjoy Mahana without hurting it.

Preserving the Natural and Cultural Heritage

At Mahana Beach, keeping its beauty and history alive is key. You’ll see efforts to guard the natural landscape. The rule “Leave No Trace” means just that—don’t take sand or rocks home.

This keeps the beach as you found it for others to enjoy too.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands watches over this place. They make sure cars for hire can’t drive here, helping protect nature and quiet spots behind the beach where old Hawaiian settlements were found.

By following these simple rules, you help save a piece of Hawaii’s past and future.

FAQs for Visiting Mahana Beach

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