Kohala

Kohala is a shield volcano on the northeastern part of Hawaii Island with broad, gently sloping sides and extensive lava flows. It rises to around 1,670 meters above sea level.

This volcano began forming roughly one million years ago, with its last eruption occurring around 120,000 years ago. This makes it the oldest of the volcanoes that make up Hawaii Island.

North Kohala is the birthplace of King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian islands in the late 18th century. This connection shapes how locals view the landscape as a place of important heritage.

The slopes can be explored via several hiking trails, and visitors should bring water and wear sturdy footwear. Weather conditions change quickly and vary depending on elevation.

Marine fossils found on the volcano's slopes hint at a massive tsunami that struck around 120,000 years ago. These traces show how ancient natural forces reshaped the volcanic structure.

Location: Hawaii County

Elevation above the sea: 1,670 m

Made from material: trachyte

GPS coordinates: 20.08611,-155.71722

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:05