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United States/Things to Do in Hawaii, with kids

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Papakōlea Green Sand Beach?

48%Kids-Friendly
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What makes it 48% Kids-Friendly: Tweens able to walk 5 miles may enjoy digging in green sand and spotting turtles. Parents must handle no shade, no toilets on beach and strong currents, so constant supervision, water and sun gear are essential.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 2,081 reviews)
Green Sand Beach | The Wild Drive & Stunning Shores | Big Island Hawaii
5 min
Start from:
0:00
Green Sand Beach | The Wild Drive & Stunning Shores | Big Island Hawaii
5.3K views • 2 years ago
Discovering the Green Sand Beach | A Hidden Gem in Big Island, Hawaii
10 min
Start from:
0:00
Discovering the Green Sand Beach | A Hidden Gem in Big Island, Hawaii
1.2K views • 12 months ago

Positives:

  • Unique geology: One of only four green sand beaches worldwide offers a rare hands-on experience.
  • Private beach: The remote location means fewer crowds and a sense of discovery.

Challenges:

  • Long hike for young kids: The 5 mile round-trip is steep and dusty. Younger children may tire quickly.
  • No facilities: There are no restrooms, shade, or water sources on the trail or beach.
  • Safety in water: Strong currents and no lifeguards make swimming risky for kids.
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🏖️ Explore Papakōlea Green Sand Beach with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Papakōlea Green Sand Beach. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Papakōlea Green Sand Beach?

  • One of only four green sand beaches in the world, located near the southern tip of Hawaii’s Big Island
  • Composed of olive-green olivine crystals eroded from the volcanic cinder cone Puʻu Mahana
  • Shaped as a crescent bay beneath steep volcanic cliffs, exemplifying rare coastal volcanic geology

What is so special about Papakōlea Green Sand Beach for with kids?

  1. Hike 2.5 miles to a rare green sand beach
  2. Kids can dig and play in unique olivine crystals
  3. Remote location offers privacy and wildlife sightings
  4. Family picnic with ocean views on untouched sand
  5. Optional 4×4 shuttle eases the adventure for young children

Note: Papakōlea Green Sand Beach is 48% Kids-Friendly. You may want to consider other Kids-Friendly Things to Do in Hawaii for a more suitable experience.

Recommended visit duration: 4-5 hours

Why 4-5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the 5 mile round-trip, breaks, and beach play without rushing.

(View Papakōlea Green Sand Beach on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

Hike the coastal trail:

Walk the 2.5 mile one-way trail with ocean and cliff views.

Tip: Start before 9 AM and wear closed-toe shoes.

Dig in the green sand:

Explore the rare olivine crystals that give the beach its color.

Tip: Bring a small brush or scoops for sand play.

Family picnic on the beach:

Enjoy snacks on the untouched green sand under open sky.

Tip: Pack water, dry snacks, and a pop-up shade tent.

Spot seabirds and marine life:

Look for sea turtles on nearby shores and gulls overhead.

Tip: Keep a safe distance and use binoculars for better views.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

  1. Use shuttle selectively: Take a local 4WD shuttle one way to cut the hike in half for tired legs.
  2. Pack sun protection: Bring hats, UV shirts, and a pop-up shelter to avoid sunburn.
  3. Stay fueled: Carry extra water and high-energy snacks to keep children hydrated.
🏖️ Tour Papakōlea Green Sand Beach like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Papakōlea Green Sand Beach. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

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Trisha Skenandore

Trisha Skenandore

Sep 2025

We walked but if you are not a hiker this is not a stroll on the beach be prepared with plenty of water and good shoes. This is not a flip flop kind of footwear hike you will regret that decision. The sun and wind exposure are real, had a pretty good headwind on the way there. You can take a ride from the locals not sure of any details on that option. They portable toilets but bring your own pape...

Paola Cuellar

Paola Cuellar

Sep 2025

Amazing experience! I rented a Jeep but I’m glad I had the local lady to drive us there and back. Very knowledgeable and down to earth. You can walk 2.8 miles but definitely not for the weak. Very steep getting down to the actual beach. Cool down with some shaved ice after, roughly a mile drive leaving heading back out.

Jeffrey Viviani

Jeffrey Viviani

Jul 2025

My most memorable experience on the island! It is not only the fact that the sand is green that makes it neat— the entire surrounding landscape is drop-dead gorgeous. There is a calming presence, especially high up on the cliff overlooking that cove that contains the beach— the type of place seems and prophets would go. Be careful if you go up there— keep children away. The parking lot is far awa...

Wendy Jiang

Wendy Jiang

Jun 2025

I visited **Green Sand Beach** on the Big Island, and the scenery was absolutely breathtaking. The weather was perfect, offering an **unbeatable ocean view**—a place where you could easily spend the whole day just admiring the beauty. The sand was an **amazing blend of green and gold**, creating an indescribably stunning landscape. The ocean itself displayed **three distinct shades of blue**, addi...

Alex Pan

Alex Pan

Apr 2025

Such a unique and beautiful spot—one of only four green sand beaches in the world! The sand, though olive-green, sparkles. Seemingly small, it is peaceful and incredibly picturesque once you arrive. Either way you get there, it is definitely an adventure. The hike is long, hot, windy, and rough—definitely not beginner-friendly. There's zero shade, no signs, and no bathrooms, so if you're hiking, ...

When is the best time to visit Papakōlea Green Sand Beach (Hawaii, United States)?

In winter (Dec–May), you may see whales offshore. Avoid rainy days (Nov–Mar) when the trail gets muddy. Early morning trips beat the heat year-round.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Hawaii on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
ParkingUSD 0
Water & snacksUSD 20
Unofficial 4×4 shuttle (round-trip)USD 80
Total EstimatedUSD 100

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

Address: Papakōlea Green Sand Beach, Naalehu, HI 96772, USA

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Papakōlea Green Sand Beach (Hawaii)?

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About Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

Opening Hours

Monday:Open 24 hours
Tuesday:Open 24 hours
Wednesday:Open 24 hours
Thursday:Open 24 hours
Friday:Open 24 hours
Saturday:Open 24 hours
Sunday:Open 24 hours

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

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