The Kuroaze Coast
Millions of years of erosion and the rise and fall of coral reefs formed the unusual geological formations on this rugged coastline. The outcrop rising up from the ocean is made of masses of hard granite, limestone, and mélange deposits—fragments of rocks of all varieties, shapes, and sizes. It is riddled with large potholes—vertical cylindrical holes created when a circular current of water carrying small rocks cuts a depression in the rock surface over a long period of time. The largest are about 50 centimeters wide, and there are many sections of pothole-riddled rocks that have collapsed, and now lie on their sides. The outcrop is a town-designated cultural property and a natural monument.
The foliage here includes cycad, fragrant screw pine, Chinese wormwood (an endangered species), and naupaka. There are numerous tidal pools teeming with sea life, such as hermit crabs and tropical fish. To your right (when facing the sea) are a series of caves full of stalagmites and stalactites, with walls colored by the minerals in the water. Bats roost in some of the crevices.
Please be careful. The rock and coral surface can be uneven and very sharp in places. Be aware of the tidal schedule, as certain areas can become inaccessible during high tides. Take a light when exploring any of the caves, and remember to take all of your trash with you when you leave.
