One of South Point's most famous scenic spots is Mahana Beach, also called Green Sands Beach because it has a distinctive golden green color. "The grains of green sand are olivine (larger pieces are called peridot), a common mineral in much of the Hawaiian basalt, and as the basalt undergoes weathering the olivine becomes concentrated on this beach due partly to its high specific gravity." (They are apparent as green flecks in the raw lava stones used to build the columns and walls of the Jagger Museum at Kilauea’s Volcano Nat. Park.) As lava reached the coast, erosional forces, and the specific gravity of the stones, most likely are responsible for such a large quantity of the granules that produced the green sand beach. It is particularly good for healing the healers.  A Visionary stone, it brings understanding of destiny and purpose. Releases negative vibrations, and promotes clarity and well being. Caution* Heavy tide pulls and under currents, so be very aware of the water. Also make sure you respect the island, do not take what is not given to you. Remember this island is protected by the Hawaiian Goddess of fire, Pele.	Aloha nui, We welcome those whom respect the sacredness of the islands. The thoughts of off the grid meant a remote earthen house to me, which was fine but not practical for lava and blue rock. I now understand why a lot of Hawaiian homes are build post and pier although not wanting to cause my old three legged dog grief climbing stairs, we opted to build on a foundation. The Kau district/Hawaiian Ocean View Estates is so diverse with a'a & pahoehoe (see meanings below) lava, beautiful ocean views, cool breezes and a wonderful variety of rural locals we fit right in. The houses are as diverse as the terrain, from tents to what I would see in magazines but to me that adds even more beauty. If you want to see more of H.O.V.E. copy this http://www.konaweb.com/video/index.shtml paste it into the web address window, once the page loads click on the introduction to H.O.V.E. Enjoy! A`a (pronounced "ah-ah") is a Hawaiian term for lava flows that have a rough rubbly surface composed of broken lava blocks called clinkers (think pumic). Pahoehoe is a Hawaiian term for basaltic lava that has a smooth, hummocky, or ropy surface (think of liquid silver). Upon talking story and getting to know the wonderful people of the islands, we run across great spiritual places to visit and enjoy. Here is one of them... This is a retreat cottage located near Kailua Kona Hawaii with nearby Buddhist Soto Zen meditation hall and found within a native Hawaiian forest. Future Forest Retreat Cottage
South Point, Hawaii (Ka Lae) is the southern tip of the  Island of Hawaii It is also the most southern point in the United States, and is located at 18°54'38" North, 155°40'41" West. The area is designated as a National Historic Lankmark District. Easy to spot by the Kamaoa and Pakini Nui Wind Mill Farms. A 20-mile tarmac road South Point Road leads to South Point from Highway-11, the turn off being about 7-miles West of the village of Naalehu. From the end of the tarmac road, a series of dirt-tracks cross the area, leading most notably to the Green Sands Beach. The vertical cliffs dropping into the ocean at south point make a popular fishing location. Also notable are large holes drilled vertically into the lava rock - these are ancient canoe moorings. Up the coast from HOVE is main hub of activity in the area, Naalehu, and heading towards Volcanoes National Park you will pass by Punalu'u black sand beach and later a sign marking a road to Pahala. The short drive to Pahala is worth it. This a community that is now supported by macadamia nut farming and small family owned coffee farms. Many of the homes in the village date back to the early 20th century including the two story plantation manager’s home which is now a museum and is open to the public for viewing. Pahala is a great place to gain perspective into what life was like on a sugar plantation a hundred years ago. Take time to drive into the lush tropical Wood Valley to the Buddhist temple  located near Pahala (nice Temple bring a donation so you my go in). Ask for specific directions at the local general supermarket, there is only one.	What is around Hawaiian Ocean View Estates We are growing, although we have retained the Hawaiian country feeling. 5 minutes in Ocean View ~ Ace Hardware., pizza & sandwiches, gas, a sweet little bakery, post office, Saturday open flea market, a grocery store, laundry mat, video store & a nice little park with basket ball, baseball & picnic tables. 15 minutes to Naalehu ~ groceries, gas, small library, Punaluu Bake Shop (the best bread), post office, gift shop and Hana Hou (a great local restaurant). 20 minutes to a beautiful & quiet little lava beach called Whittington Beach (bathrooms, picnic tables, trees & the coolest ancester tree. 30 minutes to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach ~ swimming, snorkeling, fishing...(little windy but the honu nap there) 45 minutes to Volcanoes Nat’l Park and Golf Course ~ Restaurants, Winery, & Art Gallery 60 minutes to the West ~ Kailua-Kona ~ Hotels, restaurants, Costco, gas, library, shopping, music, tours, harbor, airport, etc... 90 minutes to the East ~ Hilo Airport ~ Great open market for fresh fish & veggies, Rainbow Falls, restaurants, shopping, etc... 120 minutes to the Hamakua coast line ~ Waipio Valley and Akaka falls
Black Sands Beach, the place of the moi honu, sleeping turtles. It is the law to NOT disturb them!   Please respect our aina (land)!