When one thinks of a typical sandy beach, white or golden hues usually come to mind. But along the scenic coastline of Big Sur, California lies a shoreline that stands out from the rest – its sands a vivid shade of purple.
Pfeiffer Beach is the only known beach in the world with purple sand. Located within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, its striking lilac-colored grains draw visitors from around the globe who are curious to witness this natural anomaly.
The source of the beach’s unusual coloring remains somewhat of a geological mystery. Scientists speculate that it stems from high concentrations of manganese garnet particles that have eroded from the surrounding rocky cliffs and hills over time. These dark purple and black minerals within the quartz sand grains are what gives the entire shore a lavender tint.
Standing on Pfeiffer Beach, the psychedelic landscape is truly a sight to behold. Large boulders pepper the sand, their crevices packed with colorful sediments. Long breakers roll ashore, their foamy crests concealing the beach’s secret hue momentarily before retreating to reveal more purple expanses.
The beach offers beautiful views of the Big Sur coastline framed by dense redwood forests. Its unique sand makes it a must-see for any nature lovers or geology enthusiasts visiting the area. While the exact cause remains mysterious, Pfeiffer Beach is undoubtedly one of Earth’s most bizarre – and beautifully intriguing – natural phenomena.
