Hawaii is a paradise for spelunkers. You can find several natural caverns, lava tubes, and sea caves here, especially in Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and Big Island. As you explore the ancient and sacred cave areas, you are sure to be mesmerized by the various beliefs and stories behind them. While some like Hana Lava Tubes and Maniniholo Dry Cave are easy to access, underwater caves like Bubble Caves and Mermaid Cave are quite tricky to enter. Despite some challenges, each of them offers a breathtaking and unforgettable adventure. In addition, the enchanting scenic beauty of the surrounding filled with cliffs, tropical rainforests, and beaches all together create a magical experience attracting tourists and locals alike to spend a fun-filled time here.
Visiting Fern Grotto would give you a feel of being in a tropical rainforest. As the name suggests, the natural cave is lushly adorned with hanging ferns and tropical foliage. In addition, a pretty little waterfall flowing down near it adds to the scenic appeal.
Located at the eastern side of Kauai, Fern Grotto requires a two-mile boat ride upstream of the Wailua River to access it. You would find several riverboats offering guided tours of the site. The picturesque setting attracts many to celebrate their wedding ceremonies while Hawaiian music is played in the background.
Things to do around here: On your exploration on the boat, you can also admire the sights of an ancient hau tree, the sacred Mount Kapu, and other scenic wonders.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
If planning an adventurous family outing, you can think about visiting Hana Lava Tubes in Maui. Also known as Ka’eleku Cave, it is a large and ancient natural wonder formed by the eruption of Mount Haleakala. A self-guided tour that would cost you around $15 allows you to explore and experience the depths of the underground lavascape. As you read the informative signs along the way, you can get an in-depth understanding of the interesting geological features.
Things to do around here: You can end your trip with a fun stroll through the beautiful garden maze located in the area.
Hours of operation: 10:30 am to 4:30 pm
Just a 10-minute drive from downtown Hilo will bring you to Kaumana Caves. It was created due to the lava flow from Mauna Loa in 1881. It’s quite an enchanting experience to witness the surrounding lush greenery and vines dangling from the cave entrance. It gets even more interesting once you descend on a metal ladder to explore the interior of the long tube. Make sure to bring a flashlight and put on a sturdy pair of shoes as it is pitch black along with uneven and slippery terrain.
Things to do around here: Don’t miss witnessing the gorgeous Rainbow Falls in Hilo as it flows over a lava cave. It’s believed to be the residing place of the ancient Hawaiian goddess of the moon, Goddess Hina.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
Hawaii’s largest limestone cave, Makauwahi Cave Reserve, is a hidden gem in Kuaui. A short and relatively easy hike from the dirt path will bring you to the cave mouth. Accessing it is free of cost, and the tour guides will give you fascinating information about the area’s history. A short crawl through the cave entrance will bring you to an open amphitheater. The jagged layers of sedimentary rocks that make up the cave’s walls prove how ancient they are. In addition, the surrounding native flora enhances the place and makes it a sight to behold.
Things to do around here: You can spot giant tortoises in this area, and the Mahaulepu Beach is within walking distance. Experiencing the stretch of golden sands and witnessing the Monk Seals basking in the sun is worth a visit.
Hours of operation: 10 am to 4 pm
Maniniholo Dry Cave is worth a short stop if driving along Highway 560 or planning to visit North Kuaui. It sits right across from Haena Beach, at the base of a cliff. With the help of your flashlights, you can enjoy exploring its interiors. It gets darker and narrower, and you will have to stoop down after a point when the high roof lowers.
According to the Hawaiian legends, the cave is named after Maniniholo, the chief fisherman of Menehune, Kuauai’s mythical dwarf people. He, along with other Menehune fishermen, caught several fish at Haena. They left some under the cliff while taking the rest to their people in the island’s interior. However, on their return to collect the remaining fish, they found out that an akua or evil spirit stole all of them. They began digging into the cliff to search for him, which is how the cave was formed.
Things to do around here: You can walk to Haena Beach and enjoy a relaxing time there. Another attraction, Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, is about a mile away. The stunning sea cliffs and cascading waterfalls are worth a visit.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
Waikanaloa Wet Cave is a part of Haena State Park formed by the waves that carved an opening in the rock wall when the sea levels were higher. Despite being a sea cave, it is surrounded by freshwater fed by underground springs. The pristine waters attract many to plunge into it or swim to get near the cave. However, due to the presence of leptospirosis, a harmful bacteria, swimming here is not at all advisable. Remember to acquire permits to get an entry to the area.
Things to do around here: You could head to the nearby Ke’e Beach for a day trip. If feeling adventurous, you can hike along the adjoining Kalalau Trail and witness the splendid Hanakapiai Falls.
Hours of operation: 7 am to 5:30 pm
Waikapalae Wet Cave sits at the end of Kauai’s North Shore, which requires a short hike up from the road. Also known as the Blue Room, the cave was once known for radiating a shimmery blue light. Sunlight reflecting through the crystal-clear waters on the calcite formation created the unusual phenomenon. Due to the decrease in water levels, it is a rare sight to see today. However, if you visit when the tide is at its highest and wait till the sun is positioned north of Haena, you might witness the blue glow. Do keep in mind not to swim or drink the water despite its clarity as it is exposed to the harmful leptospirosis bacteria. Attaining a permit before accessing it is mandatory.
Things to do around here: You can find many beaches and other two caves, namely Waikanaloa Wet Cave and Maniniholo Dry Cave, in the vicinity.
Hours of operation: 7 am to 5:30 pm
Mermaid Caves is a hidden gem that offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Located near Nanakuli Beach Park in Oahu, the caves are quite tricky and potentially dangerous to access. It is better to enjoy the breathtaking views from a safe distance. However, if attempting to enter it, you will have to cross jagged lava rocks and climb down an open hole to reach the underwater cave. Make sure to do so only during low tide, as one large swell could fill the entire cave. Also, do watch your head from bumping on the coral ceiling.
Things to do around here: You could head to Nanakuli Beach to enjoy safer swimming. It is also an ideal place to enjoy a picnic with surrounding coastal cliffs adding to the place’s beauty.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
Double Door Cave, or Waiahuakua Cave, is one of the most beautiful natural wonders on the Nā Pali Coast. It is best to access it during the summer months when the tide is low. You’ll find plenty of boats offering a tour of the site. As its name implies, it has two openings, each for entering and exiting. However, the most striking feature is the small hole on the ceiling’s western side from which a waterfall dramatically descends into the cavern. It is indeed a breathtaking experience to witness it during the summer when the sunlight shines through the fissure and creates a glowing phenomenon in the waters below.
Things to do around here: Boat tours usually offer to explore the other sea caves and wonders on the Nā Pali Coast. You can enjoy witnessing the Queen’s Bath or Open-Ceiling Cave, Waiwaipuhi Sea Cave, and Nā Pali Coast Sea Arch with Pōhakuao Falls in the background.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
Extending about 40.7 miles, Kazumara Cave is the longest and deepest lava tube in the world. Formed by the eruption of a vent in Kīlaue Caldera’s eastern slope, the extensive cave system features fascinating lava formations like lava falls, plunge pools, and tubular stalactites. It can be accessed only by being a part of a guided tour. While the novice and intermediate spelunkers can choose the tours to Lava Falls or the Pit Room, the experienced cavers can opt for the challenging Maze Tour.
Things to do around here: To experience additional stunning wonders, you can head to the nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If you love orchids, you can walk to the Akatsuka’s Orchid Garden to witness them and purchase one of the beautiful collections.
Hours of operation: 8 am to 6 pm
The well-known Kula Kai Caverns is a large underground lava tube located along the slopes of Mauna Loa on the southern end of Big Island. Guided tours give deep insights into the history of geological formations and their importance to Hawaiian culture. Depending upon your caving skill, you can choose a basic tour of 30-40 minutes to the lighted section of the cave or the more extensive ones requiring you to crawl through tight passageways or spelunking through a labyrinth of caves.
Things to do around here: You can enjoy cliff jumping on summer at the nearby Southern Point Lookout.
Hours of operation: 9 am to 5 pm
Kanena Cave was once an underwater cave carved out by the ocean’s waves. Now, it’s at the base of a cliff outcropping on Oahu’s Leeward Coast and holds great cultural and historical significance to the Hawaiian people. Named after Lord Kane, the Hawaiian God of Creation, the cave is believed to be the spot where the first creation of mankind took place here from the womb of Mother Earth.
Also known as Makua Cave, the formation can be reached by a short hike beginning from the mountainous side of Farrington Freeway, right next to the 45 MPH sign. As it is dark and not maintained, be sure to carry a flashlight and not explore its narrow ends. Many visitors avoid entering the cave as they believe it is haunted.
Things to do around here: If you wish to explore further, continue hiking up to the top to get breathtaking views of the Waianae Mountain Range and Kaena Point. You can also bring your picnic baskets to enjoy your meal in the area.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
Located at a very close distance from Honolulu, Spitting Cave is a popular attraction among adventure enthusiasts. The unique geological feature gets its name because the waves hit the cave, causing it to spit the water back into the ocean. If lucky, you might also see a rainbow formed by the sunlight reflected by the mist. Though many enjoy cliff-diving here, it is highly recommended not to jump from the cliffs or swim in the waters. Numerous visitors have lost their life due to the strong underwater currents pulling and trapping them into the caves beneath.
Things to do around here: The place is worth admiring for its unspoiled landscape, including beautiful cliff-lined shorelines, waterfalls, and turquoise waters.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
Thurston Lava Tube, also known as Nahuku, is a 500-year-old geological formation found on Kilauea Crater within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It is paved and well-lighted, making it easily accessible to all. However, for a more authentic experience and to avoid the crowd, you can come here before 8 am or after 8 pm with your flashlights as the lights are kept off during that time.
Things to do around here: You can stroll along the tropical rainforest at the far end of the lava tube and spot various bird species.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
Visiting the sea caves at Keauhou Bay is a must for an unforgettable experience. Several kayak touring companies offer the opportunity to see them and other spectacular wonders like underwater lava tubes and stunning sea cliffs. The entire setting of the formations and crystal clear water is a treat to the eye. Don’t miss looking out for dolphins, sea turtles, octopuses, and manta rays.
Things to do around here: You can enjoy snorkeling to explore the beauty of the lives and formations underwater on your tour. Swimming and cliff-jumping are other sought-after activities that many enjoy here.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
ubble Cave is a massive cave with an air bubble trapped in it. You will find a short trail leading to the shoreline from the parking lot just off Makena Road on Maui’s southern side. From here, you will have to go snorkeling or scuba-diving starting from 5 Caves or 5 Graves. Look out for the cave’s entry point at the two large, rocky fingers jutting out of the sea, located within an area called Turtle Town. The best way to find its entrance is by staying close to the shoreline and following the underwater rocks leading to it.
The cave’s opening is wide and about 15-20 feet deep. As you descend into the cave, you can enjoy the sights of various small caves and nooks, several turtles, moray eels, octopuses, puffers, and sharks. Make sure to carry a powerful diving flashlight and a few backup lights.
Things to do around here: With many beautiful beaches and cliffs, you can also enjoy cliff-diving or swimming in it.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
TOP PICKS
Best Underwater Caves: Mermaid Caves, Bubble Cave, Spitting Caves
Best Sea Caves: Waikapalae Wet Cave, Double Door Cave, Mermaid Caves
Best Lava Cave: Thurston Lava Cave, Kaumana Caves, Kazumura Caves
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