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Papakōlea Green Sand Beach, Naalehu

4.1
#1 of 9 in Things to do in Naalehu
Beach Nature / Park Must See
Thought to be where Polynesians first arrived in the Hawaiian Islands Papakōlea Green Sand Beach marks the southernmost point within the 50 states of the United States. A National Historical Landmark District, the area houses the ruins of an ancient Hawaiian heiau (temple), a fishing shrine, and other cultural relics. You access Ka Lae via a 19 km (12 mi) narrow paved narrow road. When the road forks near its end, you can go south to the point or east to Papakolea Beach, known for its green sand, which comes from the mineral olivineis. The beach boasts waters rich with red snapper and ulua, making it a popular fishing spot. Swimming in not advised due to dangerous currents and powerful winds. Make Papakōlea Green Sand Beach a centerpiece of your Naalehu vacation itinerary, and find what else is worth visiting using our Naalehu online journey planner.
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Tours To Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

The Sunset Experience Helicopter Tour from Kona - Private Tour BOOK WITH VIATOR FROM $3,834
4.5
4 reviews
Duration: 2 hours
Buy tours from $3,834
Big Island Tour Bundle: Get 5 Big Island Audio Tours BOOK WITH VIATOR FROM $21
4.0
2 reviews
Duration: 5 days
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Aloha ATV Tour BOOK WITH VIATOR FROM $250
Duration: 4 hours
Buy tours from $250

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating 4.5
2,105 reviews
TripAdvisor
  • By AlexMaps
    Whenever you will travel to Hawaii do not miss to visit the Green Sand Beach. You'll stop your car in a parking area from where you can either walk or take a suv shuttle operated by some locals to...  more »
  • By Z3862GEashleyt
    The Green Sand Beach near the South Point on the Big Island of Hawaii is a 3 mile walk from the parking lot and worth every step! Just don’t do what I did and forget to take a water bottle with you...  more »
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Plans to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach by other users

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