This article appeared in the January/February 2022 issue of Discover magazine as "The Tip of the Volcano." Become a subscriber for unlimited access to our archive.
The World's Largest Volcano is Hidden Beneath the Ocean
Pūhāhonu is barely visible above the water. Recent seafloor mapping has revealed it’s actually the planet’s largest volcano.
Dec 15, 2021 8:00 AMDec 15, 2021 8:01 AM
These pointed rocks, also known as the Gardner Pinnacles, are all that’s visible of what many experts now consider the world’s largest volcano. (Credit: Noaa)
Newsletter
Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month
Stay Curious
Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.
View our Privacy Policy
Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!
Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription
More From Discover
Stay Curious
Subscribe
To The Magazine
Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.
Copyright © 2025 LabX Media Group