Also known as Green Sand Beach or even Pu'u o Mahana, Papakolea Beach, is well deserving of its name. The olive-like color of the sand comes from the presence of a greenish, semi-precious stone named, appropriately enough, olivine. The erosive force of the ocean washing into the base of Pu'u o Mahana cinder cone has extracted olivines out of the cinder. These are deposited on the sand, giving the sand a green tint....

When you get back to Highway 137 in Puna take a left and head south toward our next stop, Ahalanui Park. The road begins to narrow after mile marker 10, so be prepared to scoot over a bit to let others by. Also, it is considered good form to allow other drivers who are in more of a hurry to pass you. Ahalanui and its thermally heated waters is makai between the 10 and 11 mile markers. The 1.3-acre park is sublimely peaceful with its giant swaying palm trees and ocean views. It was opened by the county in 1993 and features a large thermal pond with a sandy bottom which has been outfitted with cement walls and access ladders. A small inlet allows ocean water to flow in and out with the tides while keeping the temperature around 90 degrees. There are picnic tables, barbecue pits and portable toilets available. The parking lot is open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m....

Kehena Black Sand Beach is at mile marker 19 on highway 132 in Puna. In the past Kehena used to be very popular because of its two black sand beaches and easy access. However, in 1975 a large earthquake sent the stairs crumbling and dropped the beach three feet....

Continuing north on Highway 19 just before the 69 mile marker, take a left onto Hapuna Beach Road and follow the signs for parking. This is an extremely popular beach for both locals and visitors. Conde Nast Traveler magazine has often ranked it as one of the top beaches in the US. It is hard to argue with this half mile stretch of pristine golden sand and crystal blue water. Even tour buses bring visitors here....

Just about a mile down the road from Ahalanui at the junction of Highway 137 and Pohoiki Road in Puna is one of the most popular beaches in the area. This is proven by the large amount of cars and trucks parked along side the road. Isaac Hale is right on Pohoiki Bay which is the only place on the Puna coast to launch a boat. Since it is such a popular location, visitors are not usually welcomed with open arms. The surfing is excellent but only for the experts....