One Of The World's Only Green Beaches Offers A Totally Unique Experience In America

Paradise is often equated with white sands and crystal-clear waters, and there is no shortage of these archetypal palm-covered oases in the world. But if you're a beach connoisseur, you may be in search of something a bit more unusual. From the black-sand beaches of Tahiti to the pink-sand beaches of the Bahamas, nature really does offer a wealth of variety for those adventurous enough to go in search of colorful beaches.

It may seem difficult to believe that some of these awe-inspiring coasts can be found in the United States. You may not actually have to travel that far to discover a radiant and off-kilter shoreline. So if you're one of those travelers who thinks they've seen it all, get ready for Papakolea Beach in Hawaii, with gorgeous turquoise waters and rare green sands that are almost olive in color. It's one of only four green beaches in the world.

Just a boat ride from the southernmost point of the U.S., Papakolea Beach is one of the best beaches on Hawaii's Big Island. Formed within a 49,000-year-old cinder cone that is part of the Mauna Loa Volcano, the beach gets its green-colored sands from the crystals that have naturally evolved from the volcano. The sand is closer to tiny gemstones than to actual sand, and therefore has a strange consistency and feel to it. The spectacular green sand at Papakolea is made up of crystalline particles called olivine, which form when magma begins to cool. Olivine's density makes it harder for the ocean to carry the sand crystals out to sea, allowing them to settle and form a beach.

Papakolea is named after the kolea bird often seen here. It is one of many native Hawaiian species that populate the island. This unique biodiversity and the rare emerald-color sand that collects on the shoreline have made Papakolea a popular destination for wildlife photographers and international beachgoers. Despite strong currents, it's possible to swim at Papakolea, but you are advised to do so with caution. The best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is less temperamental. There is no cover on the beach, so consider bringing your own hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen during the warmer months.

About an hour away from Papakolea is Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park and spiritual refuge, where you'll find one of Hawaii's most sacred grounds. From here, the road to Papakolea is paved with other ancestral sites worth looking out for. Please note that due to the cultural significance of these places, driving a car to the green sand beach is prohibited, as it scars the landscape. While traveling in Hawaii, it is always important to respect the sacred grounds and fragile ecosystems you are visiting. The road to Papakolea begins at the small harbor at the end of 'South Point' between markers 69 and 70 on Highway 11. You should park your car here and then trek around 2.5 miles along the ocean road to get to the green sand beach.

Aside from the incredible views Papakolea has to offer, there are various activities to partake in to make your beach visit truly unforgettable. Book an ATV ride through a rugged trail that leads you through Kiawe forests, across grassy cliffs, and onto the spectacular beach. There is also the opportunity to do a sunrise swim with endangered hawksbill sea turtles, which are active on nearby beaches early in the day. Despite being somewhat difficult to reach, the emerald-sanded Papakolea Beach is more than worth the effort and will guarantee some of the best beach selfie backdrops around the world, leaving your friends green with envy.