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White sand beaches consisting of crushed shells and corals are mainly located on the north end of the island. |
Black sand beaches, which evolve from ground lava, are located mostly on the southeast part of the island which is the most volcanically active part of the island. |
Green sand beaches, made from olivine crystals, are rare. The only green sand beach on the Big Island is located at the southern most tip, Ka u. |
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On Honokohau beach, one may swim in the Pacific Ocean, relax to the sounds of wild birds, watch ducks on the pond, and relish the scenery of Hualualai Mountain. There is no lifeguard. To get there, take route 19 north from Kailua-Kona for three miles and turn left on the access road to Honokohau Harbor. Then take the first right turn which should take you around to the dry dock area. Next continue to the end of the pavement and park anywhere along there. Look for the signs of a path between the large lava boulders. Once over the boulders continue on the path until you see the ocean. Then follow the shore to the right to get to the beach area. |
Punaluu
is a good swimming beach, but watch for the current just outside the bay
because it can be dangerous. There is a small curio shop there which sells
post cards, shell leis, and other tourist goodies. The soothing massaging feeling of the lava granules under foot is an experience everyone should enjoy. |
Puu Mahana, Green Sand Beach, is located in the Kau' district. It is primarily located on the slopes of Mauna Loa, the world's largest and most massive active volcano on the southwestern part of the island. To get to this beach, one must either use a four wheel drive or hike six miles from South Point, Ka Lae, the southern most tip of the United States. Wear sensible shoes and bring plenty of water. |
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| Kamoamoa is now history. A few years ago it was covered with a new lava flow. It was located in the most popular spot on the island, the Volcano National Park. The black lava granules, which covered the beach when caught by the sunlight, looked iridescent. | ||
