KOKO HEAD

cape and landmark, Honolulu County, on the southeastern coast of Oahu Island, Hawaii, U.S., across from Diamond Head 9 mi (14 km) east on Maunalua Bay. Formed by secondary volcanic eruptions of the Koolau Range more than 10,000 years ago, the cape (whose place-name means blood or red earth) is pocked by numerous tuff craters, relics of the island's last volcanic activity. These include Koko Head Crater, at an elevation of 645 ft (197 m) near Kawaihoa Point, and Koko Crater (1,204 ft), lying 2 mi northeast, once a temporary residence of the fire goddess Pele and site of a botanical garden. The cape's eastern section constitutes Koko Head Natural Park (1,319 ac ). Attractions on the coast include Hanauma Bay, an eroded crater, and the Blow Hole, a natural saltwater geyser north of the bay at Halona Point. The ancient Kuapa Fishpond, on the west coast of Koko Head and enclosed by beach parks and a marina crossed by Kalanianaole Highway, is fed by mountain streams from the north and tidal water from Maunalua Bay. To the west of Koko Head is Hawaii Kai, a residential area.