Pele's Chair
Pele's Chair, also known by its traditional name Kapaliokamoa, is a striking lava rock formation on O'ahu's southeastern coast. Resembling a giant stone seat, this sacred site is steeped in Hawaiian legend as the place where Pele, goddess of fire and volcanoes, rested before journeying to other islands. Visible from the Makapu'u area, this culturally important landmark offers scenic ocean views and a connection to ancient mythology.
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 of Pele's Chair
- Sacred lava rock formation: Resembles a giant chair and is associated with Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire.
- Legendary resting place: According to Hawaiian mythology, this is where Pele sat before departing O'ahu for other islands.
- Dual name origin: Traditionally called Kapaliokamoa (“cliff of the chicken”) due to its shape resembling a crouched bird.
- Visible from highway and hikes: Can be viewed from Kalaniana'ole Highway and from the Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail.
- Located in youngest volcanic region: Situated in one of O'ahu's most geologically recent formations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Pele in Hawaiian mythology?
Pele is the Hawaiian goddess of fire, volcanoes, and creation. She is credited with forming the Hawaiian Islands through her volcanic activity.
What does Pele's Chair look like?
It appears as a large lava rock formation that from a distance looks like a giant stone chair or a squatting bird, depending on the angle.
Where is Pele's Chair located?
It's located near Makapu'u on O'ahu's southeast coast. You can see it from the highway or reach it by hiking from the Makapu'u Lighthouse parking lot.
Is Pele's Chair tied to volcanic history?
Yes. The area surrounding Pele's Chair is part of the youngest volcanic region on O'ahu, linking it symbolically to Pele's role as a creator goddess.
Why is it also called Kapaliokamoa?
Kapaliokamoa means “cliff of the chicken,” inspired by the formation's shape resembling a squatting chicken from certain angles.