Kalapana, Hawaii, Hawaii County is a mesmerizing example of nature’s power to reclaim land. Once a thriving community, Kalapana lies beneath a sea of lava from the Kilauea volcano. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Hawaii County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 19.3697° N, 154.9672° W
Elevation: Approximately 30 feet (9 meters)
Time Zone: Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HAST)
Established: Not available
Disestablished: 1990
Comments: Kalapana was a charming fishing village known for its picturesque black sand beaches, particularly Kaimū Beach. The area was deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and tradition, attracting locals and tourists. Unfortunately, in 1990, a lava flow from the Kilauea Volcano engulfed much of the village, drastically altering its landscape.
Remains: The original town is mostly buried under volcanic rock, with only a few structures and remnants visible today. Visitors can still see the new coastline formed by the lava, and some locals have rebuilt modest homes on the hardened lava fields.
Current Status: Kalapana is considered a ghost town with a dramatically altered environment. However, it remains a point of interest for visitors keen to witness the raw power of volcanic activity and its impact on human habitation.
Remarks: Despite its destruction, Kalapana continues to symbolize resilience and adaptability. The area offers a unique opportunity to observe how communities and natural environments evolve in response to natural disasters.
While much of the original town is gone, the spirit of Kalapana lives on through its people and the new landscapes created by the lava flows.
