off Highway 137
East Hawaii

Built in 1934, this 125-foot tall light tower marks the easternmost point of the Hawaiian Islands. North-east tradewinds bring air here that has not been over land for many weeks. Hence, the air here is considered "virgin" in its purity. Scientists around the world collect samples to use as their benchmark for "clean air".

In 1960, a lava flow threatened to destroy the lighthouse. Legend states that Pele, the volcano goddess, spared the lighthouse because the light-keeper had been kind to her.Just as the lava reached the concrete pad of the tower, the lava parted and flowed around the tower. The flow of 'a'a lava can easily be seen all around the lighthouse.