Ever played 'The Floor is Lava'?

If you took a walk anywhere in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, you’d probably lose – and maybe without realizing it! Lava, even when it’s not scorching hot or flowing, is still… lava! Lava is a fascinating, ever-changing force, and its two main types, ‘a‘ā and pāhoehoe, are as different as night and day.

A wild Pepper, standing in a lava field in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

‘A‘ā Lava

‘A‘ā (pronounced ah-ah) is the rough, clinkery kind of lava that flows quickly and cools rapidly, creating jagged, sharp surfaces that can shred hiking boots – and skin – if you’re unlucky enough to slip. This type of lava typically erupts at higher temperatures and has a lower gas content, making it thicker and more viscous as it cools. 

The word ‘a‘ā comes from the Hawaiian language, describing the rough, broken nature of this lava, which shatters into sharp, angular chunks as it cools and hardens.

It’s not actually named for the sound you’d make walking on it barefoot, despite what some overconfident flip-flop wearers might tell you.

A wild Pepper, holding some ‘a‘ā lava.

Pāhoehoe Lava

In contrast, pāhoehoe (pronounced pah-hoh-ey-hoh-ey) is the smoother, more fluid counterpart to ‘a‘ā. It flows more slowly, forming smooth, billowy, or ropy surfaces as it cools. This texture is a result of the lava’s lower viscosity, which allows its surface to stretch and wrinkle without breaking apart. Pāhoehoe tends to form at slightly lower temperatures than ‘a‘ā and often emerges from smaller vents or slower-moving lava streams.

If ‘a‘ā is the jagged boulder field of the lava world, pāhoehoe is the luxurious, natural carpet – much easier on the feet, if you’re the barefoot type.

A wild Pepper, touching some pahoehoe lava to highlight the rope-like texture.

Cultural Significance- Pele

Lava isn’t just a geological phenomenon in Hawai‘i – it’s a deeply respected and culturally significant force. In Hawaiian moʻolelo (stories), both ‘a‘ā lava and pāhoehoe lava are considered physical manifestations of Pele, the goddess of fire, volcanoes, and transformation. Pele is said to have traveled from the distant lands of Kahiki, making her home in Hawai‘i, where she continues to shape the islands with her fiery temper and creative power.

Pele’s spirit is said to live within the lava,

with ‘a‘ā lava representing her fierce, destructive side and pāhoehoe lava reflecting her creative, life-giving energy. According to legend, when Pele’s wrath is provoked, she unleashes ‘a‘ā lava tearing through the landscape with violent, jagged force. But when her mood softens, pāhoehoe lava flows smoothly, creating new land and allowing life to take root. Hawaiians have long honored Pele with chants, hula, and offerings, acknowledging her role in both destruction and creation.

Final Thoughts / Disclaimer

Lava is more than just molten rock – it’s a force that shapes the world, a cultural symbol, and a reminder of nature’s power and unpredictability.

I’m a visitor to Hawaiʻi and not of Native Hawaiian descent. I share this information as a curious traveler with a desire to better understand the land that I visit. I have a deep respect for the land, its people, and the traditions that have been here long before me.

I have a real love for the diversity of life on Hawai'i. Not just the science, but the stories, survival knowledge, and cultural values that come with it. I’ve done my best to honor those layers here, and if I’ve gotten anything wrong, I welcome corrections from those with deeper roots and knowledge. Mahalo!

For the visual learners: a video on lava lava lava!

HAPPY STEPPIN'! 

(I lava you!)
-PEPPER 👣