Pele's Chair (Kapaliokamoa)

Oahu Ancient Site Guide

Pele's Chair (Kapaliokamoa)

Pele's Chair, also called Kapaliokamoa, is a lava rock formation near Makapuu tied to Pele legends, coastal views and Oahu's young volcanic landscape.

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.

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Location, Parking and Directions

Pele's Chair is located near Makapuu on Oahu's southeast coast, close to Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline and Kalanianaole Highway. It can be viewed from the Makapuu area and reached by walking from established access points when conditions are safe. The map marker identifies the Pele's Chair / Kapaliokamoa formation near the shoreline.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Pele's Chair?

Pele's Chair is on Oahu's southeast coast near Makapuu, within the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline area.

What is the traditional name of Pele's Chair?

The old page identifies the traditional name as Kapaliokamoa, meaning the cliff of the chicken, because the formation can look like a crouching bird from certain angles.

Why is it called Pele's Chair?

From a distance, the lava formation can look like a giant stone chair. Local legend connects it with Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess.

Can visitors hike to Pele's Chair?

Yes, some visitors reach the area from the Makapuu side, but the route is exposed and can be hot, dry and uneven. Check current access and stay on established routes.

What else is nearby?

Nearby places include Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, Makapuu Lookout, Makapuu Beach Park, Rabbit Island, Koko Head Crater and Kalanianaole Highway.

What should visitors know before going?

Bring water, sun protection and sturdy footwear. Avoid cliff edges, respect cultural meaning, and check current Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline hours before visiting.