Mention Hawaii and Waikiki Beach is one of the automatic mental pop-ups for most people. Undoubtedly, the Hawaiian archipelago is home to a good number of beautiful sandy beaches and boasts of one of the most perfect sea conditions in the world. No wonder this place is a favorite destination among tourists and vacationers.

The sandy beaches of Hawaii may all share the vibrant sun-kissed characteristic that make each of them a tropical paradise but they vary notably in, of all things, the color of the sand. The most popular sandy beaches in the islands are the ones with white sand. Soft, fine, and perfect for a postcard, the white sand are perfect for barefoot walks and lying around all day sunbathing. The white sandy beaches are a bummer for scuba divers and snorkeling enthusiasts though since the white send tend to cover the reef.

Gray sandy beaches are also numerous in Hawaii and provide better settings for scuba diving for snorkeling. However, the sand is coarser and prickly so beach slippers are in order. This type of sandy beaches are not also ideal for body surfing and boogie boarding since there are a lot of rocks and reef jutting out.

A rare spot in Hawaii are the black sandy beaches. Made from the erosion of volcanic rock or sudden cooling of molten lava, black sandy beaches are certainly a sight to explore. The most secluded of all is the green sand beach located east of South Point. With olive green sand on the shore and beautiful rock formations, this beach is definitely one of a kind.

A reminder though: tempted as you may, don't bring sand back home. It's bad for the beach and bad for you. Locals say anyone who takes sand from a Hawaiian beach will arouse the anger of the spirits of the island. So beware.