Hawaii's Iconic Hōlei Sea Arch Collapses After 500 Years

Hawaii's famed Hōlei Sea Arch has collapsed into the Pacific Ocean after standing for approximately 500 years. The National Park Service confirmed the 90-foot natural rock formation, a popular attraction on the Big Island, disappeared sometime between September 23 and September 27.

Park authorities believe the arch likely crumbled into the ocean during the three days Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was temporarily closed due to Tropical Storm Nolo. Tourists had taken photos of the arch just days before its collapse.

Park officials have warned the public to avoid the area around the former Hōlei Sea Arch site due to the unstable ocean cliffs, which are susceptible to sudden collapses. Despite these warnings, social media has shown instances of people trespassing in restricted areas near the former landmark.

The Hōlei Sea Arch was formed around 550 years ago through wave action that sculpted an ancient lava flow, according to the National Park Service. Years of erosion from turbulent surf, earthquake vibrations, and growing cracks contributed to its inevitable downfall.

The arch had sustained significant damage during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption and summit collapse, which led Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to close its viewing platform in January 2020 due to safety concerns. The site reopened two months later. In that same year, strong waves from Tropical Storm Darby broke off a section near the base of the arch.