While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park’s Thurston Lava Tube gets all of the credit, we can think of at least one lava tube on Hawaii Island that is just as cool – if not even better – than its lava tube brother. Kaumana Caves, located near Hilo, may not be a tourist destination, but we’d like to think that it’s just because it’s a far trek from all of the luxury resorts of the Kona coast.

Found just miles from downtown Hilo, in a relatively small park without any formal supervision, open 24 hours a day, Kaumana Caves may be relatively unknown, but that doesn't mean it's not worth the trip.
Robert Linsdell/Flickr
The incredible formation was created during a 1881 lava flow from Mauna Loa, and is, in fact, a 25-mile long lava tube.
Graeme Churchard/Flickr
kernsandcairns/Flickr
The skylight entrance drops into two miles of pitch-black cave, complete with stalactites and stalagmites, as well as vines and roots falling from the cave’s roof.
GroovyAndDreamy/Fliickr

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Unfortunately, exploration within the lava tube is forbidden due to it being on private property, but you can still explore a few hundred yards near the skylight.
Robert Linsdell/Flickr
Besides, I'm not sure how much exploration you would really want to do, as the cave's floor is covered with sharp rocks and uneven surfaces.
Bismo Beerbelly/Flickr
And though the cave is not home to any streams or pools, the cave's extreme humidity makes the ground extremely slippery.
kernsandcairns/Flickr
From Hilo, follow Highway 200 (Saddle Road) to the west, and stop between mile markers 4 and 5. Park on the south side of the road, cross the road, and drop into the collapsed skylight of the cave.
Pixtory/Flickr
There is no admission fee to enter the park, and the park features picnic tables and restrooms.
Sean O'Neill/Flickr

For more incredible cave adventures in Hawaii, check out Kauai’s Makauwahi Cave, or this incredible sea cave you can only reach via boat.

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