Is South Point, Hawaii Worth Visiting? A Look at Things to Do at the Southernmost Point in the US
Looking at visiting South Point, Hawaii, the southernmost point in the US and wondering if it’s worth it?
There are two main attractions visitors come here to see:
Both are on the adventurous side but definitely sets itself apart from other areas on Hawaii Island.
I used to live just up the road from South Point and took the opportunity to visit it frequently. So let me show why I think you should add it to your itinerary!
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Visiting South Point Summary
If you don’t have time to read the whole article, here are the highlights of things to do when visiting South Point:
- Papakolea Green Sand Beach – I tell you how to get to the only green sand beach on the island
- South Point Cliff Diving – I recount the harrowing time I actually jumped from the cliffs at South Point
- Ancient Ruins – I show you where to find some ancient Hawaiian ruins that are often looked over by visitors
- Nearby Attractions – I tell you some of my favorite things to do in nearby Naalehu to make the trip more worth it like visiting coffee farms, eating the best malasadas on the Big Island, and hiking an extension of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Papakolea Green Sand Beach
There are only 4 green sand beaches in the world. Papakolea at South Point is one them. You do have to earn your view though as it is a 5-mile roundtrip hike, but it’s a beautiful view the whole way.
💁♀️ Tab’s Trip Tip: Avoid the heat of the midday sun by getting an early start. Seriously, like sunrise early. The other added bonus of starting at the buttcrack of dawn is you’ll probably have the beach to yourself.
To get to Green Sand Beach take South Point Rd all the way to the end, about 11 miles from Hwy 11. The road can get narrow and deceptively steep, so be careful and don’t be afraid to take it slow with on-coming vehicles.
The road ends at a dirt parking lot with a sketch portable toilet.
There might be people selling snacks and drinks from a tent at the trailhead. You’ll probably need cash to pay.
You’ll also find people with pickup trucks offering rides for about $20 per person, cash also. You can either take advantage of a roundtrip ride or hike to the beach and ride back as you catch them from the beach end. The ride is extremely bumpy, so some will stand up in the truck bed to absorb the shocks.
There is a lot of controversy surrounding these truck lifts. Some are concerned with the impact it is having on the terrain while others are concerned about taking away the livelihood of the locals.
If you decide to to hike, the trail starts ambiguously with a gravel road that leads to a boat launch bay. When you hit the bay turn left. You’ll see a propeller memorial dedicated to fishermen lost at sea.
From here the trail weaves with various dusty and sandy paths created by trucks over the years. Some sections have carved the earth so low it’s 6 or more feet deep.
There is no shade on this mostly flat trail but it’s a beautiful coastal walk with rolling grassy hills to the left and crashing turquoise waves to the right.
In about an hour you’ll reach the emerald beach. Your first view will be along the bay with the cinder cone cliffs rising from the ocean with the green beach nestled below it.
Getting down to the beach is not for the faint of heart and the steepest part of the hike. You’ll shimmy between sand walls and climb down a short step ladder. But once you do you’ll be in a rather small cove with green sand beneath you and towering cliffs above you.
What makes the sand yellowy green and glittery is the fine olivine crystals that come from the basalt of certain lava. But honestly, I was surprised by how not green it is; more of a dull gold.
The sand is actually nice and soft, something not often found on the island. Usually it’s either rough, course sand or debris is mixed into the sand.
If you stay a while, be sure you pack enough food and water for sustenance to get back. This is a fantastic bay to spend the day beaching if you feel inclined, however, there are no restrooms out here.
To get back to the car parking lot just head back the way you came or as mentioned before, hitch a ride with a truck.
Cliff Dive South Point Landing
Once you’ve returned from the hike you’ll probably be feeling a bit sweaty and want a dip in the cooling ocean. If you have the courage of a lemming you can make the 40-foot plunge off the rocky cliff at South Point Landing.
To get there, go back up South Point Rd the way you came and take the first street you see on your left (also South Point Rd). At the end of this road there will be cars pulled off on the shoulders. Join them, this is where you’ll park.
The cliffs are just a few steps away and the view is breathtaking. The ocean expanse is massive and peaking over the edge of the cliff will give anyone vertigo.
Early mornings you’ll find locals with fishing poles mounted to the cliffs and fishing lines going hundreds of feet out into the ocean.
And now the big question: To Jump or Not to Jump?!
Watching other brave souls leap off the edge is great free entertainment. Locals who do it often make it look so easy and fool you into thinking it will be a breeze! Most, however, are newbies who take their time analyzing the situation, pumping themselves up or psyching themselves out.
A special kind of comradery is gained with fellow jumpers or wanna-be jumpers as everyone encourages each other to leap. It’s comforting to realize that almost everyone else is equally as nervous to face potential, imminent demise.
Jumping was on my bucket list so I HAD to do it. Plus I had an audience of family and didn’t want to disappoint.
Watch me do the scariest thing I’ve ever done:
The secret to jumping, I found, is spending as little time possible dwelling on it. The longer you stare at that sharp cliff edge, the more your body refuses to cooperate. You just have to make your peace with life, accept possible death, then leap!
I’d like to say that I faced my fears and would be able to do it again without being scared. Nope! One time was good enough for me and I would be no less afraid haha.
While most people who jump come out unscathed, I unfortunately had a bruised tailbone for three weeks, even having landed in the water as straight as possible. I still encourage all to jump, but know there are still risks involved.
If you do jump, take a moment to enjoy swimming in the beautiful clear blue water and the craggy, cave-y cliffs before making your way to the ladder.
The rusty ladder to climb back up is kinda sketch and a lot taller than you realize. Climbing it was almost scarier than jumping for me.
However, you can swim around the corner to the climbable stepping rocks, just scout the area before jumping so you know where you are going.
Ancient Ruins at South Point, Hawaii
South Point is believed to have been the arrival point of Hawaii’s first settlers and is one of the earliest habitations in the Hawaiian Islands.
You can explore the historical section of South Point by heading south from the cliffs where you’ll come to a dusty path. This will lead you to the “technical” most southern tip in the US. There is no marker but if you follow the ancient lava rock wall to the ocean, that’s about correct spot.
💁♀️ Tab’s Trip Tip: as you walk the dusty path, keep your eyes peeled for sparkly sand. This is green sand. So if you didn’t make the hike to Papakolea beach, you still can still claim to have seen seen green sand.
Across from the long rock wall you’ll find the ancient Kalalea heiau ruin, which sits next to the white “lighthouse” pole. It is 42ft long by 38ft wide with the wall height ranging from 4ft-6ft tall.
Along the rocks by the water you might find round, drilled holes used for mooring that ancient Hawaiians used for fishing.
Keep following the coast line east and you’ll come across a roped off area marked as ancient burial grounds.
In 1956, archaeologists from the Bishop Museum made a significant discovery here, Pu’u Ali’i (Hill of Chiefs), unearthing one of the oldest known Hawaiian settlements. Among the findings were the remnants of a dwelling, a hearth, and an astonishing collection of over 14,000 artifacts.
Besides these historical sites, another reason to come to this section of South Point is to check out the waves.
Sometimes the waves over here can be some of the biggest you’ll see on the island and they seem so close as they crash within arms reach along the rocky shoreline. Take a seat on a slab of lava rock and watch the awe-inspiring show!
Nearby Attractions to South Point Hawaii
After seeing all there is to see around South Point area there are plenty of other activities nearby to make the trek into a full daytrip.
Punalu’u Bake Shop
Get the best malasadas on the island from the southernmost bakery in the US at Punalu’u Bake Shop.
Malasadas are Portuguese donuts that have become a Hawaiian staple. They are sweet and fluffy yet have some density.
Punalu’u’s malasadas flavor varieties are to die for: traditional, lilikoi (my favorite!), mango, taro…so many flavors! Make sure to grab a couple of different flavors to try.
Eat them on property under one of their garden gazebos, maybe being serenaded by live music, or take them for the road!
💁♀️ Tab’s Trip Tip: get there before 10:30am and you won’t have a to wait in a long line as the tour buses haven’t arrived yet.
Honua’s Coffee House
Get your caffeine fix at Honua’s Coffee House, my go-to place to get an iced latte.
Kona coffee is so passé and not served in this region. You’re in Ka’u coffee land now, a less acidic bean grown on this southern part of the island.
Honua’s is a friendly coffee house with lots of drink options. Besides any brewed concoction you’d want, they also have smoothies, teas, milkshakes, and fresh limeade.
They have plenty of indoor seating with some table games and a small toy area for kids. There’s a map with pins where people have visited from all over the world (check to see if you can pin your own home!). And the giant octopus mural is beautiful and impressive, perfect for an Insta-pic.
They even have a small gift shop with locally handmade items.
Mark Twain’s Monkeypod Tree
On the way in or out of Naalehu, stop by and say a quick “Hi” to Naalehu’s random piece of history, the Mark Twain Monkeypod Tree.
The original tree was planted by the famous classical author in 1866 but was tragically struck by lightning years later. However, a sapling sprung from the original trunk and has matured into a fine-looking arbor.
This really is just a pull-into-the-parking-lot-snap-a-quick-photo kinda stop.
Paradise Meadows
Back up on South Point Road make a stop at Paradise Meadows for Hawaii’s Local Buzz.
Don’t be fooled by the small gift shop shack. I challenge you to find more FREE samples at any other farm.
You’ll try an endless array of:
- Ka’u coffee
- Dehydrated (not roasted) macadamia nuts
- Chocolates
- Cookies
- Honey
Take a laminated map and wander the farm, checking out the hydroponics setup, various fruit trees, and introducing yourself to one of their colorful parrots. There’s even a small art gallery to shop or just admire.
For an in-depth tour about the farm and its history, book their Behind the Scenes tour.
Miranda’s Farms
If you haven’t been over-caffeinated yet or just wanna sample different roasts of local Ka’u coffee, stop at the award-winning Miranda’s Farms.
Friendly staff will greet you and answer any questions you have. Adam, the giant dog, may also come give you a greeting.
Sample their unique beans like Yellow Caturra (my favorite!) and Red Catuai. Then order a carefully made cup of coffee to enjoy on the back porch among the coffee trees or to-go.
Call or email ahead of time to set up a coffee farm tour around the property with a coffee sampling and refreshments!
OKK Farmers Market
If you are in the area on Wednesday or Saturday, visit the O’Kau Kakou (OKK) Market farmer’s market in Naalehu.
You will find local farmers with their crop of the week, handcrafted arts like jewelry and pottery, freshly baked goods, Ka’u coffee, fresh fish, a chiropractor, and more with live music playing while you shop.
Grab lunch too, there is often an eclectic selection of Thai, Mexican, or Italian.
Kahuku Unit
One of my favorite places to hike in this region is at the Kahuku Unit. There are many different trails to choose from for all hiking skill levels.
The terrain varies so much from Hobbiton-type cinder cones, red volcanic dirt quarry, remnants of a WWII radio tower, lava fields, a koa forest, and a pit crater.
It’s technically part of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park even though they are over 40 miles away from each other. And the best part is that it’s free entry.
Kula Kai Caverns
In nearby Ocean View you can take a guided tour through lava tubes at Kula Kai Caverns. Learn about the geology and the ancient history of lava tubes and about artifacts that were found here.
They have different tours to choose from ranging from family-friendly lighted tours to crawling into the abyss with headlamps and kneepads.
I really enjoyed my easy lighted tour and learned a lot on the tour.
This isn’t a very well-known activity so groups are small.
You must call for reservations.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Depending on your itinerary this might be a good time to go visit the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. Less than 20 miles east of South Point is the black sand beach famous for its palm tree lined shore and green sea turtle sightings.
Black sand is made from lava rock that has been pulverized by the crashing ocean and then getting washed on shore.
I don’t like walking barefoot here because the sand is pretty course and super hot since black absorbs light. I have to wear my flip flops if I’m walking the beach.
Punalu’u is also renowned for its resident population of Hawaiian green sea turtles, known as “honu.” You are almost guaranteed a sighting of these magnificent creatures as they often come ashore to bask in the sun.
It is illegal to touch the sea turtles or come within 20ft of them, but you can still admire from a distance.
If you have time, check out the chapel and 800-year-old Kane’ele’ele Heiau, the largest heiau on the Big Island measuring 700 by 500 feet.
South Point Hawaii FAQs
Where is South Point Hawaii?
South Point, also known as Ka Lae, is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, USA. It’s not only the southernmost point of the Hawaiian Islands, situated near the town of Naalehu, but also the southernmost point in the entire United States.
How to get to South Point?
Whether you are coming from Kona or Hilo, take Hwy 11 south. When you get close to Naalehu, turn south onto South Point Rd. Follow the road until it ends and you’re at South Point.
Can you drive to South Point Hawaii?
Yes, you can drive to South Point. You can drive to cliffs where people like to jump off.
You can also drive to the parking lot for the trailhead for Green Sand Beach. It is not recommended to drive to the beach, even if you have a Jeep or 4WD, as it is expensive to tow out if you break down/get stuck and locals might give you the stink eye.
Is South Point Hawaii further south than Key West?
Yes. While Key West stakes claim as the southernmost point in the continental US at 24.5465° N, South Point Hawaii wins as the southernmost point in all of the US by being at 18.9136° N.
Is there a marker at South Point Hawaii?
Unfortunately, there is no Insta-worthy marker to take a selfie with at South Point marking the southernmost point in the US.
There is a historical marker on the corner where you either continue on towards Green Sands or turn for the cliffs. A pullout allows you to park and read the plaque if you wish.
But if you want to know where the actual southernmost point is, follow the lava rock wall towards the ocean (the white lighthouse tower will be on your right). Once you hit water, you’re basically at the exact spot.
How many South Point deaths are there?
South Point deaths have not been accurately reported, at least publicly. Surprisingly, for as many people jump off the cliffs every day, there have only been four deaths since 2018.
What is South Point weather like?
As South Point is on the tip of the island, often it is extremely windy with hardly any shelter available.
Weather can vary dramatically throughout the day or even compared to Naalehu just up the hill. If it’s raining in town, it could very easily be clear and sunny at South Point.
The temperature also stays pretty moderate (high 70s/low 80s), though of course it can get colder or hotter at times.
Is there fishing at South Point?
During the mornings, before crowds of tourists arrive, you might find locals fishing from the cliffs.
Fishing rods are bolted to the ground while the lines trail out hundreds of feet out to sea. They go so far out that they will tie plastic bags to the lines to be able to keep track of them.
You do not need a license to fish in Hawaii…yet.
For more Big Island Hawaii itineraries check out:
Sunset to Sunrise: Things to do on the Big Island at Night
Day Trip to Pearl Harbor from Kona
How to Spend a Day in Kona
So, Is Visiting South Point Hawaii Worth It?
Visiting South Point on the Big Island is totally worth it!
You can take a well-rounded day to South Point with plenty of things to do to make the drive worthwhile. If you’re like me, you’ll enjoy bragging you’ve been to the southernmost point in the United States.
You can also incorporate South Point as a stop along the way from Kona to Hilo or to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
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YES — It’s totally safe to drive on the Big Island. And unless you plan to chill by the resort pool the entire time, renting a car is pretty much a necessity on the Big Island! Jeep rentals are popular. I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental, as they have some of the best prices around.
📞 Will my phone work on the Big Island?
PROBABLY — Most, if not all, cell providers work on the Big Island. However, be prepared for some dead spots in the more remote parts of the island. For example, I always lose service driving through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
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For Big Island hotels, Booking.com is amazing because you can often reserve your room with no money down. If you are looking for an Airbnb condo with a kitchen and more space, don’t forget to check VRBO for potentially better prices and options.
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I recommend looking at Skyscanner for finding cheap flights. Pro Tip: check if flying into Hilo is cheaper than flying into Kona.
🛂 Do I need a passport to visit Hawaii?
NO — If you are a US citizen, you do not need a passport as Hawaii is part of the United States. If you are from out of the country, the same passport and visa requirements are the same as entering anywhere in the United States from your country.
🧳What should I pack to the Big Island?
Pack for tropical weather but also prepare for colder than expected nights and early mornings, so a light sweatshirt is recommended. Check out this list of 5 Things Not to Forget to Pack.
