Landmark· Hawaii (Big Island)· Hawaii
Laupahoehoe Point
19° 59.6′ N · 155° 14.5′ W
A low, flat lava peninsula jutting from a deep gulch on the Hamakua coast, where the April 1, 1946 tsunami killed 24 people at the school - a memorial now stands among the ironwoods of the beach park.
Practical
Coordinate from to-hawaii's map of Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park. Laupahoehoe Point Light (Fl W 2.5s, 19-59-37.4N 155-14-26.1W) stands on the point. The outer end is a mass of black lava broken into ledges that extend 250 yards seaward; seas usually break over them with force (Coast Pilot). Too rough for swimming; tide pools only in calm conditions. Hurricane Lala's heaviest rain in August 2026 - 43.42 inches - fell at Laupahoehoe.
Best for
Hamakua history and a dramatic surf point