10 Forgotten Lava Tubes To Explore In Hawaii

Hawaii’s volcanic landscape hides a secret world beneath its surface: ancient lava tubes carved by rivers of molten rock.

These underground caves offer adventurers a chance to witness geological wonders that most tourists never see.

While some are easy to access, others require serious preparation and respect for the land’s cultural history. Ready to explore Hawaii’s hidden underground?

1. Kazumura Cave (Big Island – Puna)

Stretching over 40 miles beneath the Big Island, Kazumura holds the title as the world’s longest and deepest lava tube system.

Most people have never heard of its full extent, even though sections are absolutely breathtaking.

You can’t just wander in on your own; this cave sits on private property. Licensed guides from Kazumura Cave Tours will lead you through sections featuring frozen lava falls and delicate mineral formations that look like something from another planet. Reservations are required, so plan ahead for this bucket-list experience.

2. Kula Kai Caverns (Big Island – Ka?? District)

Part of the second-longest lava tube network, Kula Kai feels wonderfully wild and untamed. Ancient Hawaiian artifacts rest within many sections, making large portions off-limits to protect cultural treasures.

Guided tours on private land offer different adventure levels; from easy walks along lighted paths to intense archaeological expeditions.

The harder routes demand scrambling, crawling, and a real sense of adventure. Expect to get dirty and feel the raw power of volcanic history surrounding you on all sides.

3. Kaumana Caves (Big Island – Hilo)

Born from Mauna Loa’s 1881 eruption, Kaumana sits in a suburban Hilo ravine, offering the most accessible free cave experience.

But don’t let “accessible” fool you; inside is pitch black, rugged, and completely raw.

No guides, no lights, no paved paths here.

Bring your brightest headlamp and wear tough clothes because the ground is sharp and uneven.

This self-guided adventure rewards the prepared with an authentic underground experience. Just remember: nature doesn’t provide handrails or warning signs in this ancient volcanic tunnel.

4. Wai??napanapa State Park Cave (Maui – Hana)

Unlike typical lava tubes, this striking sea cave formed where ancient flows met the ocean. Most visitors rush past it toward the famous black sand beach, missing something truly special.

A short walk down reveals the cave entrance near crashing waves. Inside, a freshwater pool holds a haunting legend; locals say it turns red from the blood of a Hawaiian princess murdered by her jealous husband.

Whether myth or mineral deposits cause the color change, the atmosphere feels magical and mysterious, connecting you to Hawaii’s ancient stories.

5. Pua Po’o Lava Tube (Big Island – Hawai?i Volcanoes Area)

While nearby Thurston Lava Tube attracts crowds, Pua Po’o remains wonderfully overlooked. Getting inside means climbing down a 15-foot ladder into darkness; already more adventure than most tourists want.

Once you’re in, expect to scramble over rough volcanic rock, often crouching or crawling through tight sections. This truly feels like a proper expedition, not a casual stroll.

Guided tours are strongly recommended because navigation gets tricky and safety matters underground. For serious cavers seeking challenge over comfort, this delivers exactly that experience.

6. Kaneana Cave (O?ahu – Waianae Coast)

Hawaiian legends claim this massive coastal cavern once housed Nanaue, the fearsome shark-man god. Standing at its enormous mouth, you can almost believe those ancient stories.

Located on Oahu’s remote western side, far from Waikiki’s tourist crowds, Kaneana sees fewer visitors despite easy access. The large entrance makes exploring the initial sections simple and safe.

Its spiritual significance runs deep in Hawaiian culture, giving the cave an atmosphere that feels separate from modern Hawaii. Respect the site’s sacred history while marveling at nature’s architectural power.

7. Ka?eleku Caverns (Maui – Road to Hana)

Known locally as the Hana Lava Tube, this privately-owned cave once served as a Cold War fallout shelter; imagine hiding from nuclear threats underground!

Today it offers self-guided tours that feel remote despite being maintained and safe. The commitment comes from the journey: driving the famously winding Road to Hana takes hours and tests your patience.

But arriving at this lesser-known tube rewards you with fewer crowds than Big Island caves attract. The maintained paths make exploration comfortable while preserving that adventurous feeling.

8. The Unmarked ‘Skylights’ of Puna (Big Island)

Thousands of unmarked openings puncture the ground across Puna subdivisions like Hawaiian Paradise Park. Residents literally live above massive, complex lava tube networks with skylights appearing in backyards and forests.

Here’s the reality: these aren’t for public exploration. They’re dangerous, unstable, and mostly on private property. Yet they represent the true scale of Hawaii’s forgotten underground world.

This vast network reminds us that beneath ordinary neighborhoods lies an entire hidden realm shaped by ancient volcanic fury. Respect boundaries, but appreciate knowing this secret landscape exists.

9. Emesine Cave

Hidden along the Kohala Coast, Emesine Cave offers a thrilling underground adventure for those willing to search for it. Local hikers know this spot as one of the island’s best-kept secrets, featuring smooth tube walls that tell stories of ancient lava flows.

The cave stretches about 200 feet into the earth, with ceilings high enough to walk comfortably in most sections. Bring a good flashlight because natural light fades quickly once you venture past the entrance. The temperature inside stays refreshingly cool, making it a perfect escape from Hawaii’s tropical heat.

Watch your step on the uneven floor, where centuries of mineral deposits have created interesting patterns and textures.

10. Makauwahi Cave

Ever walked through a cave that scientists call a time machine? Makauwahi Cave on Kauai holds thousands of years of island history within its walls. Unlike typical lava tubes, this sinkhole cave formed differently, creating a massive chamber that archaeologists absolutely love exploring.

Fossilized bird bones and ancient plant remains have been discovered here, painting pictures of Hawaii before humans arrived. The cave’s unique ecosystem supports rare native species found nowhere else on Earth.

Guided tours happen occasionally, led by researchers who share fascinating discoveries about extinct Hawaiian animals. The collapsed ceiling creates a natural skylight, illuminating the cave floor with golden rays of sunshine.