Hawaii's Iconic Hōlei Sea Arch Collapses Into the Ocean

Hawaii’s iconic Hōlei Sea Arch, a natural landmark that had stood for approximately 500 years, has collapsed into the Pacific Ocean. The 90-foot arch, located at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, was last seen standing on Wednesday, Sept. 23, and was confirmed gone by Sunday night, Sept. 27.

National Park Service officials suspect the arch may have fallen during a three-day closure of the park attributed to Tropical Storm Nolo. The storm brought significant rainfall and strong winds to the Big Island, resulting in flash flooding and road closures.

The Hōlei Sea Arch formed roughly 550 years ago when waves carved through an ancient lava flow. Its collapse follows years of damage from earthquakes and the relentless pounding of surf. In 2018, the cliffs surrounding the arch were impacted by earthquakes related to the Kīlauea eruption and summit collapse. By January 2020, new cracks and observed instability led the park to close the original viewing area. A safer viewing area, situated further from the cliff edge, was opened in March 2020.

Later in 2020, Tropical Storm Darby's large surf dislodged a section of rock from the lower part of the arch. Despite warnings to stay away from the cliff area, which drops directly into the ocean and is prone to sudden collapses, some visitors were observed entering closed areas near the arch's former location shortly before its disappearance. Visitors have shared memories of the arch on social media, noting its gradual erosion over time and expressing sadness at its loss.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a popular tourist destination, known for its volcanic landscapes and active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.