Taking a Leap at Pele’s Chair Tidepools

Near the south-eastern tip of Oahu sits Pele’s Chair, a massive rock formation overlooking the ocean and tide pools calm enough for swimming and snorkeling.  An old telephone pole juts out over a cove to create a diving platform.  I was a little hesitant the first time I took a leap off the pole, especially since I was wearing a small bikini.

I remember cautiously walking to the end and gazing out towards the ocean.  The roaring waves crashing on the other side of the rocks, as if they were angry because they could not reach me.  The water was shimmering blue beneath me.  I took a deep breath and jumped.  My body slid through the cool water and my toes lightly grazed the sandy floor.  I dolphin kicked back up to the surface and grinned from ear to ear.  I was hooked!  I felt like a kid again and wanted to go back for more.

Josh did a few flips into the water which were much more graceful than my jumps.

Pele’s Chair is a few minutes hike above the tide pools.  The views from above are spectacular.  To the west is Koko Crater.  Its lava flow looks like it was frozen in time.

This was one of my favorite spots to relax while living in Hawaii.  One way to get there is by parking at the Makapu`u Lighthouse trail.  Then follow a path that veers right and down from the main paved trail.  It’s a quick walk to the tide pools.