Kaoiki
Steep slopes west of the highway are part of the Kaoiki fault system.
These faults are on the flank of Mauna Loa volcano. In 1984, a magnitude
6.6 earthquake on this fault system caused more than $6 million in
damage. An earthquake of similar magnitude is overdue on this fault
system. The 270-year-old Keamoku flow, which originated on Mauna Loa's
northeast rift zone, is in the foreground of this photo.
A few miles south of the park the highway crosses back onto Mauna Loa
volcano.
A side trip down South Point Road leads to the Green Sand Beach. This
trip requires about one hour of driving and at least two hours of
walking. Follow South Point Road to about one mile above South Point.
At the junction, follow the road that leads west to the boat launch.
Park there and follow the 4-wheel drive road north along the coast. It
is a one hour walk each way, usually in strong winds and hot sun.
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