The 9 Most Amazing Cave Adventures You Can Have In Hawaii

The Aloha State is full of beautiful geographic anomalies, including caves of all varieties scattered across our stunning islands. From Hawaiian lava tubes caused by volcanic eruptions to coastal caves carved by the ocean, there is little more adventurous than heading underground - or underwater - to explore one (or all) of these nine magnificent Hawaiian caves. Let’s get to exploring, shall we? Here are some of the downright best caves in Hawaii if you're searching for adventure:

1. Kaumana Cave

Found just miles from downtown Hilo, in a relatively small park without any formal supervision and open 24 hours a day, Kaumana Caves may be relatively unknown, but that doesn't mean it's not worth the trip. The incredible formation was created during an 1881 lava flow from Mauna Loa, and is, in fact, a 25-mile long lava tube, and is accessible via a skylight entrance.

2. Hanakapiai Caves

Situated along Kauai’s fabled Na Pali Coast is Hanakapi’ai Beach, a stunning slice of paradise accessible only via a strenuous four-mile round-trip day hike. It is at the edge of this magnificent beach that you will find a series of incredible aboveground caves carved into the cliffside that look like something out of your wildest dreams - or maybe even Jurassic Park. These above-ground caves are all different sizes and create a positively surreal landscape along an already gorgeous - and quite famous - stretch of coastline.

3. Kazamura Cave

Found on the eastern slopes of Kilauea Volcano - which has been constantly erupting since 1983 - is Kazamura Cave, a massive lava tube that originated from the nearby Kilauea Iki Crater approximately 500 years ago. In the 1990s, Kazamura was established as the longest-known lava tube in the world, measuring in at approximately 40 miles long and 3,600 feet deep. The extensive cave system contains all kinds of lava formations, including lava falls, blades, tubular stalactites, stretched lava, and even lava plunge pools.

4. Hana Lava Tube

A haven for anyone interested in caves, volcanoes, or geology, the Hana Lava Tube is perhaps one of Maui’s greatest natural wonders. The underground lavascape was formed some 30,000 years ago when an eruption of Mount Haleakala caused molten lava to flow down the mountainside near what is now Hana. Also known as Ka’eleku Cave, this ancient lava tube in Hawaii is the largest and most accessible formation of its kind on Maui, and visitors are able to explore approximately ⅓ mile of the large cave, fifty feet below the earth’s surface.

5. Kaneana Cave

Located on Oahu’s leeward coast north of Waianae, near where Farrington Highway ends at Kaena Point, is Kaneana Cave, a truly mysterious site. The cave sits at the base of a cliff outcropping and is approximately 100 feet tall and 450 feet deep. The cave is thought to be 150,000 years old, and was once underwater, carved out by the crashing waves of the Pacific. Also known as Makua Cave, there are many legends that feature this cave, including the story of a half shark, half human who would prey on unsuspecting locals.

6. Thurston Lava Tube

This 500-year-old lava cave in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a stunning geographic feature formed when a river of lava gradually forms walls and a ceiling. When the lava flow stops, the remaining lava flows downhill, and you are left with a tunnel. The 20-minute walk to Thurston Lava Tube is definitely easy, but the 500-foot cave-like tunnel is one of the most unique experiences you'll have in Hawaii.

7. Na Pali Coast Cave Boat Tour

The most spectacular caves on Kauai can be found along the Na Pali Coast, where dramatic sea arches and caves have been formed over thousands of years as a result of the relentless, pounding surf you’ll find here in the winter months. In the summer, though? The waves calm down enough to take a boat tour of these natural wonders. With more than 20 years of experience navigating Kauai’s waters, as well as skilled and knowledgeable captains, your ride aboard a rigid-hull, inflatable raft with Na Pali Riders will take you to cave waterfalls, sea arches, and even an open-ceiling cave.

8. Mermaid Cave

While many people have heard of the Mermaid Caves, few have actually been there, or even know where it is. This particular hidden gem, which is located somewhere on Oahu’s leeward coast, is a true local secret. You won’t find an exact location online, and we aren’t about to give it to you.

9. Kula Kai Caverns

Carved by lava flows over the last thousand years, this subterranean labyrinth of caves and tunnels is one destination you need to see to believe. Nestled near South Point on Hawaii’s Big Island, Kula Kai Caverns is a privately-owned cave system only accessible via tours operated by experienced and knowledgeable guides but is well worth a visit.

Have you visited any of these amazing Hawaii caves? Share your favorite underground spots and experiences in the comments - we love hearing from you!