From Dexerto · Joe Pring · · 1m
Hōlei Sea Arch Collapses
Hawaii's 550-year-old sea arch vanishes into ocean after centuries of erosion.
In brief
Hawaii's 550-year-old sea arch vanishes into ocean after centuries of erosion. Hawaii's 550-year-old Hōlei Sea Arch collapsed into the Pacific Ocean due to wave erosion. Originally reported by Dexerto.
Hōlei Sea Arch Collapse
Hawaii's 550-year-old Hōlei Sea Arch collapsed into the Pacific Ocean after centuries of wave erosion.
Arch's Location and Age
The 90-foot arch stood along Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park's coastline, carved from lava flow around 550 years ago.
Collapse Timeline
The National Park Service confirmed the arch was standing on September 23 but disappeared by September 27, 2026.
Erosion Process
Waves gradually eroded the arch through differential erosion, with the US Geological Survey warning it would disappear daily over a decade.
Recent Instability
Earthquakes during Kīlauea's 2018 eruption damaged nearby cliffs, forcing park closures in January 2020.
Current Warning
Park officials warn visitors not to approach the site after photos showed people entering the closed area where Hōlei once stood.
The bottom line
Hawaii's 550-year-old Hōlei Sea Arch collapsed into the Pacific Ocean due to wave erosion.
