1981 Map of Manuka Bay

About this map

The southwest coast of the Island of Hawaii at the boundary of the South Kona District and Kau District is defined by recent volcanic activity and a stark, rocky shoreline. In the early 1980s, the landscape was dominated by extensive Lava Flow deposits and geological features such as Lava Tubes and a coastal Cave. Amidst the solidified flows are several kipukas—islands of older land surrounded by newer lava—including Kipuka Kaulanamauna, Kipuka Malua, and Kipuka Kaupuaa. These pockets represent preserved sections of the older landscape. Human presence is marked by cultural landmarks such as a Heiau near Manuka Bay and the Coast Guard Reservation at Kauna Pt. While formal settlements are sparse, the presence of Ruins and named locations like Hanakauumoe and Ahuloa suggest a history of habitation along this challenging terrain where the slopes of Manuka meet the Pacific Ocean.