HawaiiWeb.com

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.

Useful Information:

DO NOT climb the fence to the light tower

Air samples are taken from the top of the tower weekly for use by countries and organizations around the world

No facilities or fresh water at this site

DIRECTIONS:

Take Highway 132 past Lava Tree State Park to the end at Highway 137. Across the road is a dirt road, follow this road 1.7 miles to Cape Kumukahi where the lighthouse stands near the ocean.