Holei Sea Arch Hawaii
A majestic 90-foot basalt arch carved by the relentless Pacific, showcasing the power of lava meeting the sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and wind
Holei Sea Arch Hawaii
Best Time
Beat the heat and wind
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 90-foot basalt arch carved by the relentless Pacific, showcasing the power of lava meeting the sea.
"The drive down was scenic and beautiful, absolutely worth it to see where the ocean meets the lava flows."
🚗 Scenic Drive is Key
The drive down Chain of Craters Road is as stunning as the destination. Allow ample time!
💨 Brace for Strong Winds
It's consistently windy here. Hold onto your hat and be mindful of loose items!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Holei Sea Arch
End of Chain of Craters Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
A majestic 90-foot basalt arch carved by the relentless Pacific, showcasing the power of lava meeting the sea.
Chain of Craters Road Drive
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
A scenic route through dramatic lava fields and past ancient craters, leading to the coast.
Coastal Lava Cliffs
Near Holei Sea Arch
Witness the raw beauty of cliffs formed by recent lava flows meeting the ocean's edge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Drive, Prepare for Wind
Respect the Environment and Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Drive is Key
The drive down Chain of Craters Road is as stunning as the destination. Allow ample time!
💨 Brace for Strong Winds
It's consistently windy here. Hold onto your hat and be mindful of loose items!
💧 Stay Hydrated
The area can be hot and exposed. Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to walk around.
⚠️ Respect Safety Barriers
Dangerous cliffs and unpredictable waves. Always stay behind the barricades for your safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive is Key
The drive down Chain of Craters Road is as stunning as the destination. Allow ample time!
💨 Brace for Strong Winds
It's consistently windy here. Hold onto your hat and be mindful of loose items!
💧 Stay Hydrated
The area can be hot and exposed. Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to walk around.
⚠️ Respect Safety Barriers
Dangerous cliffs and unpredictable waves. Always stay behind the barricades for your safety.
📸 Capture the Lava Meets Sea
The dramatic meeting of volcanic rock and ocean is a photographer's dream. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Holei Sea Arch to be a worthwhile destination, particularly for the scenic drive along Chain of Craters Road. While the arch itself is described as somewhat small, the dramatic coastal scenery and the geological formations are highly praised. The intense wind and the need for safety precautions are common mentions.
"It's cool.But if you stop about a quarter mile before you get to the parking lot for the sea arch, there are some really amazing sea caves. You have to walk out and look over the edge And the water splashes in it looks absolutely amazing. Just look for the pool off and rock wall at the edge"
T Davis
"The arch itself is pretty small and hard to see but the drive down was scenic and beautiful. I recommend going early so you’re not racing against the clock/sun light. It was extremely windy. There was plenty of parking but again, went pretty late"
Barb P
"Worth the ~40 min drive from the park entrance and 10 min walk from the parking lot. Parking was easy (Friday around noon), bathrooms were available, but be prepared for the walk to be very windy."
Christina Levendosky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Holei Sea Arch is located at the end of Chain of Craters Road within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. The drive itself is about 40 minutes from the park entrance and offers spectacular views of lava fields and the coastline. +1
Chain of Craters Road is generally open year-round, but it's always a good idea to check the official Hawaii Volcanoes National Park website for any closures due to volcanic activity or weather conditions.
The drive along Chain of Craters Road is a journey in itself, featuring numerous pull-offs to view lava flows, craters, and coastal erosion. Notable stops include the Pu'u Loa Petroglyphs and various viewpoints of the dramatic coastline. +1
You can drive to the parking area at the end of Chain of Craters Road, which is very close to the Holei Sea Arch. From the parking lot, there's a short walk to the viewing area.
The drive to the arch is paved, and there is a parking lot. However, the walk from the parking area to the viewing point involves uneven terrain and can be windy. Accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges may vary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Holei Sea Arch is located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which requires an entrance fee. You can purchase passes at the park entrance stations or online in advance.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, visitor centers and facilities have specific operating hours. The Holei Sea Arch viewing area is accessible whenever the park is open.
Entrance fees vary depending on the pass type (e.g., 7-day private vehicle pass, annual pass). Check the official National Park Service website for the most current pricing information.
No, Holei Sea Arch is located within the boundaries of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and an entrance fee is required for all visitors.
No special permits are required to visit Holei Sea Arch beyond the standard park entrance fee.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. However, the dramatic landscape is impressive at any time.
No, it is not safe to get close to the arch. Visitors must stay behind the safety barricades due to dangerous cliffs and powerful waves. The viewing areas offer excellent perspectives for photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the arch and the surrounding coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. A polarizing filter can help manage glare from the ocean.
Drone usage is restricted in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You must follow all FAA regulations and park rules regarding drone operation. Check the park's official website for current drone policies.
The main viewing area provides the classic view of the arch. Look for opportunities to capture the arch with the dramatic coastline and crashing waves in the foreground.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food services directly at Holei Sea Arch. You'll need to pack your own food and drinks or dine at the Volcano House restaurant or other eateries within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or in the nearby town of Volcano.
Picnicking is permitted in designated areas within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. While there aren't specific picnic tables right at the arch, you can enjoy a packed meal at pull-offs along Chain of Craters Road.
It's highly recommended to bring plenty of water and snacks, as services are limited. Consider packing sandwiches, fruit, and energy bars for your visit.
The nearest significant food options are at the Kīlauea Visitor Center area within the park or in the town of Volcano, which is about a 40-minute drive back from the arch.
Typically, there are no food trucks or vendors operating directly at Holei Sea Arch or along the latter parts of Chain of Craters Road.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The drive to Holei Sea Arch takes about 40 minutes each way from the park entrance. Allow at least 1-2 hours for the round trip drive and time to stop at viewpoints, plus about 30-60 minutes at the arch itself to take in the views and explore the immediate area.
From the parking area at the end of Chain of Craters Road, there is a short walk to the viewing area for Holei Sea Arch. The terrain can be uneven and exposed to the elements.
There are basic, outhouse-style restrooms located near the parking area at Holei Sea Arch. They are functional but basic.
Children can visit Holei Sea Arch, but adult supervision is crucial due to the dangerous cliffs and the strong winds. The drive itself can be engaging for kids interested in geology and dramatic landscapes.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing as the weather can change, and a hat that can be secured against the wind. Sunscreen is also essential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While the arch itself is impressive, ensure children understand the importance of staying behind safety barriers due to the dangerous cliffs and strong winds. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The open space at the viewing area can be fun for kids to explore, but always under close supervision.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
+1Plan for the drive to take a significant portion of your day, as you'll want to stop and soak in the views. The destination, Holei Sea Arch, is the dramatic conclusion to this scenic route, providing a powerful natural spectacle. It’s a perfect addition to any Big Island road trip itinerary.
📸 Photographers
+1Be prepared for strong winds, which can add a dynamic element to your shots but also require stable equipment. Remember to respect safety barriers and capture the grandeur from designated viewing areas. The drive along Chain of Craters Road also presents numerous opportunities for landscape photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Holei Sea Arch
+1The entire coastline surrounding the arch is a dramatic display of solidified lava flows meeting the sea. This area provides a unique opportunity to witness the ongoing process of land formation and erosion. The sheer scale of the cliffs, sculpted by both volcanic activity and oceanic forces, is awe-inspiring. It’s a vivid reminder of the raw power of nature and the ever-changing landscape of the Big Island.
+1Visitors can observe how the lava flows, once molten rivers, have cooled and hardened into rugged cliffs. The contrast between the dark, porous basalt and the vibrant blue of the Pacific Ocean creates a visually striking scene. The arch itself stands as a natural monument, a symbol of resilience against the elements, and a popular subject for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
+1Experiencing Chain of Craters Road
+1This scenic route is not just a means to an end; it's an exploration of geological history. You'll see evidence of past lava flows, some relatively recent, that have reshaped the island. The road itself was built over these flows, and at certain points, you can see where the lava once reached the sea. The journey offers a profound sense of the island's volcanic power and its continuous transformation.
+1Along the way, consider stopping at points of interest like the Pu'u Loa Petroglyphs, ancient Hawaiian rock carvings, and various viewpoints that showcase the rugged beauty of the coast. The drive culminates at the Holei Sea Arch, but the entire journey is filled with captivating sights and a sense of remote, wild beauty.
+1
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