Hawaii's Iconic Hōlei Sea Arch Collapses Into the Pacific After 550 Years

A lava rock that had stood for centuries in the Pacific Ocean was no match for Hurricane Nolo. Read on for the details of why an ancient sea rock collapsed into the ocean recently.

Hurricane Nolo Brings Down Ancient Sea Arch

The Hōlei Sea Arch towered 90 feet high as it stretched into the Pacific Ocean from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Despite standing in place for 550 years, the arch finally met its demise when Hurricane Nolo skirted past the Hawaiian Islands at the end of September.

The iconic lava rock arch was standing firm on Wednesday, September 23, according to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park officials. The park then closed for a few days to prepare for Hurricane Nolo as the storm inched closer to the Big Island. By the time that the park reopened on Sunday, September 23, the arch had collapsed into the water.

The Hōlei Sea Arch was formed about 550 years ago from ancient lava flows. Visitors to the Hawaiian Islands flocked to the park and the viewing area of the famous arch. However, now the viewing zone just looks out into the waters of the Pacific.