The Hōlei Sea Arch, a prominent lava rock formation located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, has collapsed. The natural feature, which stood for an estimated 550 years, crumbled into the ocean at some point during the final weekend of September 2026.
Site context
The arch was situated along the rocky cliffs within the park, serving as a well-known geological landmark for visitors. The structure was formed by coastal erosion and historic volcanic activity characteristic of the region’s landscape.
Geological impact
National Park Service officials confirmed the loss of the formation following the event. The collapse is part of the ongoing natural erosion processes that reshape the volcanic coastline of Hawaii.
Park authorities have not announced plans to recover the remains of the arch, as the event is considered a natural occurrence within the park's dynamic geological environment.