Nakalele Point

Nakalele Point is the northernmost point on the island of Maui in the state of Hawaiʻi. It is famous for a blowhole with powerful geyser-like water spouts with the waves and tides. Water spewed can rise as high as 100 feet in the air.

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  Nakalele Point in north western Maui, Hawaii

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  Nakalele blowhole Watch a movie of the blowhole "erupting".

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  Closeup of Nakalele Blowhole

On July 9, 2011, David Potts, a 44-year-old general contractor from San Anselmo, Northern California, was killed while standing dangerously close to the "Nakalele" blowhole. While Mr. Potts was standing near the blowhole with his back to the surf, a large wave swept him into the mouth of the blowhole. A nearby witness states that Potts resurfaced for a moment, but disappeared as another large wave crashed over the blowhole. He was never seen again. Liability issues were raised, however, the county denied responsibility.

His young son and girlfriend of 15 years were not nearby when it happened, and despite the efforts of others present, he was not found.