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CRAMP Study Sites: Laupāhoehoe, Island of Hawai‘i

Kawaihae -- Laupāhoehoe -- Leleiwi Point -- Ka‘apuna -- La‘aloa -- Nenue Point

Geographic Name: Laupāhoehoe

CRAMP Site Code: HaLau

Geographic Location: 

19° 59.392’ N; 155° 14.056’ W

19° 59.461’ N; 155° 14.027’ W

Chart showing Laupāhoehoe Point. Red arrow shows the transect locations. (Click image for larger view.)

Management Status: Open Access

Area Description:

This north Hilo site is lined by steep coastal cliffs and a rugged basalt shoreline. Its northern exposure creates a high wave impact environment.

Physiography:

The Laupāhoehoe peninsula was formed by a lava flow from Mauna Kea. It derives its name from the ropy, smooth surface of the pāhoehoe lava that extended to the ocean in a leaf or lau shape.

Photo of the Laupāhoehoe coast.  (Click image for larger view.)

NOAA aerial photo of the Laupāhoehoe penisula.  (Click image for larger view.)

Reef Structure, Habitat Classification:

Volcanic rock and boulder habitat with thin coral veneer. High wave action limits the coral morphologies to mainly encrusting forms.

Oceanographic and Meteorological Conditions:

This exposed coastline creates dangerous conditions throughout much of the year. High surf continually pounds the unprotected rocky shore.

Adjacent Land Use and Influence:

Upslope watershed with conservation and agriculture land (sugarcane being replaced by diversified agriculture and forestry). Limited residential development.

Management Concerns:

Effects of wave energy on coral development under investigation. Previous regional tsunami and flooding impacts. Potential agricultural runoff likely subdued due to movement away from sugarcane.

Human Use Patterns:

Rough conditions occur much of the year preventing swimming in the area except at the small paved boat ramp. Fishermen, campers and occasional surfers utilize this site.

Cultural Importance:

Historically, Laupāhoehoe harbored an extensive village on the low-lying flat stretch of land at the bottom of a deep gulch. Taro patches or lo‘i were abundant. This area served as an important safe landing site for canoes. It was also a popular stop over point on long journeys around the island. Even King Kamehameha visited this area on occasion.

The most significant event in the history of Laupāhoehoe occurred on April 1st, 1946 when a catastrophic tsunami claimed 32 lives. Waves measured at over 30 feet inundated a small schoolhouse, taking the lives of many students and teachers. Rescue attempts found a few survivors floating among the wreckage. A memorial commemorating the event is situated at the former site of the school.

Study Site Summary of Results

Last Update: 04/21/2008

By: Erin Naughton

Hawai‘i  Coral Reef Assessment & Monitoring Program

Hawai‘i  Institute of Marine Biology

P.O. Box 1346

Kāne‘ohe, HI 96744

808-236-7440 phone

808-236-7443 fax

email: jokiel@hawaii.edu