Pele's Chair (Kapaliokamoa)

Pele's Chair, also called Kapaliokamoa, is a lava rock formation near Makapuu, known for Pele legends, ocean views and Oahu's young volcanic shoreline.

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Pele's Chair (Kapaliokamoa)

Pele's Chair (Kapaliokamoa), Oahu

Pele is Hawaii's volcano goddess. Located on Oahu's south shore is an interesting lava rock formation that overlooks the ocean. In the old Hawaii, this rock was called Kapaliokamoa, meaning “the cliff of the chicken.” When looking closely at this rock from a certain perspective, it looks a bit like a squatting chicken, hence this name. However, from another perspective it more looks like a chair and today it is commonly known as Pele's chair.

Pele created Oahu and the other Hawaiian islands by her volcanic activity, and it is believed that she was here right before she left Oahu to continue her work on the other islands. After she was finished on Oahu, she left her chair to head to Molokai and Lanai to continue there. The area where Pele's chair is located is indeed the youngest on Oahu.

The lava formation can be seen from the road to Makapuu or from the Hawaii Kai Golf Club. From afar it looks like a giant chair, but as one gets closer to it, it loses this appearance.

Key Features

Lava rock formation near Makapuu on Oahu's southeast shore
Traditional name Kapaliokamoa, often translated as the cliff of the chicken
Associated with Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess
Open coastal setting near Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline
Views toward Rabbit Island, the ocean and dry volcanic slopes
Part of one of Oahu's younger volcanic shoreline areas
Short exposed walk with hot, dry conditions common
Stay on established paths and keep away from cliff edges
Respect the site as a cultural and natural landmark

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Kapaliokamoa mean?

Kapaliokamoa is often translated as the cliff of the chicken, a name connected with the formation's bird-like shape from certain angles.

Why is it called Pele's Chair?

From a distance, the lava formation can resemble a large stone chair. Local stories connect the landmark with Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess.

Why is this part of Oahu considered geologically young?

The Makapuu and Kaiwi area belongs to Oahu's younger volcanic landscape, where later eruptions shaped coastal features after the main island formed.

What makes Pele's Chair different from a beach overlook?

It is a named lava formation with cultural stories and a dry volcanic setting, not just a viewpoint above the water.

When does Pele's Chair photograph best?

Morning and late afternoon light usually show the shape, dry slopes and ocean backdrop with stronger contrast than midday light.