Kumukahi Lighthouse

Built in 1934, the Kumukahi Lighthouse stands about 125 feet tall at the easternmost point of the Hawaiian Islands. Thanks to steady northeast trade winds, the air here is often described as exceptionally “clean” and is used for scientific benchmark sampling. In 1960, a lava flow threatened the lighthouse, but (as the story goes) the lava split and moved around the tower—legend credits Pele’s protection, sparing the lighthouse because of a kindhearted light-keeper. Even today, you can see older ‘a‘a lava flows in the surrounding landscape.

Directions: Take Highway 132 past Lava Tree State Park until it ends at Highway 137. Cross the road to the dirt access road and follow it about 1.7 miles to Cape Kumukahi, where the lighthouse stands near the ocean.

Good to know: This area is remote—plan ahead with a Big Island rental car or consider local Big Island transportation. For more nearby adventures, explore Big Island sightseeing tours, Big Island nature tours, or browse more Big Island activities.