Along the coast of Big Sur in central California lies one of the most stunning and unique beaches in the world — Pfeiffer Beach, where nature has shown off its creative side by coloring the sand in vibrant shades of purple.

This remarkable phenomenon is due to the surrounding cliffs, which are rich in a variety of garnet called spessartine. Over time, rain and ocean waves erode the cliffs, washing the colorful mineral down onto the beach. As the spessartine mixes with the sand, it creates breathtaking patterns in pink, lavender, maroon, and deep purple hues. The farther north you walk along the shoreline, the more intense and vivid the colors become.😍 😍