Tired of the same old gold, white, or black sand beach? Then how about a green sand beach? You'll need good hiking shoes to get to this greenish black crescent, one of the most unusual beaches on the island. It lies at the base of Pu'u o Mahana, at Mahana Bay, where a cinder cone formed during an early eruption of Mauna Loa. The greenish tint is caused by an accumulation of olivine crystals that form in volcanic eruptions. The dry barren landscape is totally surreal. The surf is often rough and swimming is hazardous due to strong currents, so caution is advised. Take the road toward the left at the end of the paved road to Ka Lae (South Point) about 12 mi off Highway 11. Park at the end of the road. (Anyone trying to charge you for parking is running a scam.) Hikers can follow the 2-mi coastal trail, which will end in a steep and dangerous descent down the cliff side on an unimproved trail. Note: While hikers can cross the private Hawaiian Home Lands without a permit to get to the beach, those wanting to take a 4WD vehicle along the rugged coast trail must first contact the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands in Hilo (808/974-4250). There is no guarantee of open access to 4WD vehicles, and sometimes the trail is completely closed to all vehicle and foot traffic. So check first.