Archive · 3 Oct 2026
Hawaii’s Famous Hōlei Sea Arch Collapses Into Pacific Ocean
Hōlei Sea Arch was a famous rock formation in Hawaii.
Over many years, erosion wore it down until it collapsed into the ocean.
The cliffs nearby are now unstable and can be very dangerous.
Park officials say people should stay out of the closed area.
Some visitors have gone in anyway, which could put them and rescuers at risk.
The ocean there can be rough, so someone could fall or drown.
The viewpoint is still open to visitors.
Some people say the scenery and drive are still worth seeing, even though the arch is gone.
Hōlei Sea Arch in Hawaii collapsed into the Pacific Ocean after years of erosion.
The collapse has left nearby cliff edges unstable and dangerous.
Park officials have urged visitors to stay away from the closed area near the former arch.
Social media photos show some people entering the restricted area, risking falls or drowning in rough water.
The viewpoint remains open, and some visitors say the trip is still worthwhile without the arch.
- Who
- Hōlei Sea Arch and visitors to the nearby viewpoint.
- What
- The sea arch collapsed into the Pacific Ocean, and officials warned visitors to avoid the unstable, closed area.
- When
- After years of erosion; no specific date is provided.
- Where
- Hawaii, at Hōlei Sea Arch on the Pacific coast.
- Why
- The arch collapsed after years of erosion.
Visitor safety
Visitor experience
Access near the collapsed arch
Visitor safety
Park officials urge people to stay away because unstable cliffs and rough water pose risks of falling or drowning, including for rescue crews.
Visitor experience
Some visitors have entered the closed area, while others say the open viewpoint and surrounding trip remain worthwhile even without the arch.
- Landmark
- Hōlei Sea Arch
- Event
- Collapsed into the Pacific Ocean
- Cause
- Years of erosion
- Safety concern
- Nearby cliff edges are unstable and drop into the ocean
- Official guidance
- Stay out of the closed area near where the arch stood
- Viewpoint status
- Still open