Kaimu
Buried by Pele
State: Hawaii
County: Hawaii County
Founded: Ancient
Abandoned: 1990 (lava flow)
Peak Population: Small community
Kaimu was famous for its stunning black sand beach lined with coconut palms. In 1990, the eruption of Kilauea's Kūpaianaha vent sent slow-moving lava flows into the town, completely burying the beach and the community under 50 to 70 feet of rock.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy (hike on hardened lava)
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- Buried by 1990 eruption
- Famous Black Sand Beach lost
- New beach is slowly forming
Location
Address: Kaimu-Chain of Craters Rd, Pahoa, HI
Coordinates: 19.3667, -154.9833