Kaumana Caves: Hilo’s Hidden Lava Tube Adventure
A hidden lava tube just outside Hilo, filled with natural skylights and caverns. Bring a flashlight and explore this geological wonder.
The first time I stepped into Kaumana Caves, I felt like an explorer discovering an uncharted world—untouched, raw, and pulsing with the spirit of Hawai‘i’s volcanic past. Sunlight streamed through a collapsed skylight, illuminating the jagged, black walls with an eerie glow. The air was cool, carrying the damp scent of ancient rock, and the only sound was the rhythmic drip of water echoing through the cavern.
Unlike the Thurston Lava Tube in Volcanoes National Park, which is paved and well-lit, Kaumana remains wild and untamed—a true adventurer’s paradise. It’s the kind of place where you need to bring your own flashlight, sturdy shoes, and a thirst for discovery. Just minutes from downtown Hilo, this natural wonder is often overlooked by tourists rushing toward more famous attractions, but for those who find it, Kaumana Caves is a portal to another world—a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re a budget traveler seeking a free yet unforgettable experience or a nature lover fascinated by Hawai‘i’s volcanic landscapes, Kaumana Caves offers an adventure unlike any other. But before you set foot inside, let’s dive into the history, formations, and secrets hidden within these ancient lava tubes.
The Story Behind Kaumana Caves: A Window Into Hawai‘i’s Volcanic Past
How the Caves Were Formed
Standing at the mouth of Kaumana Caves, it’s easy to feel small. The entrance yawns open like the jaws of time itself, carved out by the fiery breath of Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth. This cave isn’t just a geological marvel—it’s a living piece of history, a reminder of the powerful forces that shaped the Big Island.
Back in 1881, Mauna Loa erupted, sending rivers of molten rock surging toward Hilo. The lava cooled at the surface while still flowing underneath, forming a natural tunnel that stretched for miles. The flow eventually stopped just short of Hilo Bay, sparing the town from destruction.
Legend has it that Princess Ruth Keʻelikōlani, a high chiefess of Hawai‘i, camped near the lava’s edge, chanting prayers to Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes. Many believe her spiritual connection with Pele stopped the flow, saving Hilo from devastation. Whether you embrace the legend or the science, there’s no denying that Kaumana Caves holds a mystical allure, etched into the island’s history.
A Cave Unlike Any Other - Best caves on the Big Island
Most visitors to the Big Island have heard of Thurston Lava Tube, a well-paved and tourist-friendly cave inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. But Kaumana is different—untamed, rugged, and unlit. It’s not just a walk-through attraction; it’s a true spelunking experience where you’ll need to crouch, climb over jagged rocks, and feel the chill of subterranean darkness.
Stepping inside, you’ll notice the textures of the walls—some areas are smooth, where lava flowed like a thick river, while others are rough and jagged, remnants of gas bubbles trapped in the cooling rock. The cave stretches deep into the earth, with hidden chambers and natural skylights, creating dramatic beams of light piercing through the darkness.
Pro Tip: Bring a bright flashlight or headlamp—the further you go, the darker it gets, and phone flashlights won’t be enough.
Why This Place Matters
Kaumana Caves isn’t just a cool place to visit—it’s a reminder of the island’s ever-changing landscape. The Big Island is the youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, still being shaped by lava flows today. Exploring this cave is like stepping back in time to witness the raw power of nature.
For adventurers on a budget, Kaumana Caves offers a thrilling, free alternative to costly tours, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking authentic Hawaiian experiences beyond the usual tourist trail.
How to Explore Kaumana Caves Safely & Responsibly
The first thing you’ll notice as you step down the steep concrete staircase leading into Kaumana Caves is the sudden shift in temperature. The humid Hawaiian air gives way to a cool underground stillness, a stark contrast that immediately signals—you’re entering a different world.
But unlike commercialized caves with handrails and paved paths, Kaumana is raw and unlit. Exploring here isn’t just a walk—it’s an adventure. One moment you’ll be walking upright through a spacious lava tunnel, and the next, you might find yourself ducking under jagged rock formations, feeling your way carefully through the darkness.
Here’s how to make sure your exploration is both safe and unforgettable:
Essential Gear: What to Bring
Many first-time visitors make the mistake of arriving unprepared, assuming the cave is just a short, casual stop. Don’t be that person!
- Flashlight or Headlamp (Mandatory!) – Kaumana is pitch dark inside. The further you go, the more disorienting it becomes. A good headlamp lets you keep your hands free for climbing.
- Sturdy Footwear – The cave floor is uneven, with loose rocks and slippery spots. Avoid flip-flops! Hiking shoes or sneakers with grip are best.
- Light Jacket or Long Sleeves – The cave is cool and damp, and brushing against sharp lava rock isn’t fun.
- Bug Spray – The entrance area is lush with vegetation, meaning mosquitoes are plentiful.
Navigating the Cave: What to Expect
The cave entrance splits into two main tunnels:
- Right Tunnel – Easier to navigate but narrows as you go deeper. Good for casual explorers.
- Left Tunnel – More rugged and challenging, requiring some scrambling over rocks. A must for thrill-seekers.
Both sides are part of the same lava tube, but they go deep—over 25 miles underground (though much of it is inaccessible). Most visitors explore just a short section before turning back.
Pro Tip: The best photo spots are right where natural skylights filter through the collapsed sections. The contrast of light and shadow makes for dramatic, otherworldly shots.
Safety First: Don’t Get Lost!
Kaumana isn’t a commercialized tourist site—it’s a natural cave system with no signs or guided paths. It’s easy to lose your sense of direction.
- Stick to well-traveled areas—going too deep can be dangerous.
- Always explore with a buddy—never alone.
- Let someone know you’re going before heading in.
- Stay aware of low ceilings—lava rock is sharp!
Despite its challenges, Kaumana Caves is one of the safest and most accessible lava tubes on the Big Island—as long as you come prepared.
Why Kaumana Caves is a Hidden Gem for Adventurers
For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Kaumana Caves offers something no commercial tour can provide—an authentic lava tube experience where you explore at your own pace, unfiltered and raw.
A Budget-Friendly Adventure
Many visitors to the Big Island shell out $30-$50 per person for guided lava tube tours. But here’s the secret: Kaumana Caves is completely free—and just as breathtaking.
If you’re a budget traveler, this spot is a goldmine of adventure without the price tag. You don’t need expensive gear—just a flashlight, good shoes, and a sense of adventure.
Best of all? Unlike paid tours, where you’re herded through a crowded path, Kaumana lets you set your own pace—whether that’s a quick peek inside or a deep exploration into the cave’s heart.
Off-the-Beaten-Path (and Crowd-Free!)
Most visitors to Hilo rush straight to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, missing the hidden gems right outside town. This means you’ll often have Kaumana Caves all to yourself—a rarity in Hawai‘i!
Imagine standing alone in a cavern carved by fire, the only light coming from your headlamp. The silence is absolute—except for the occasional drip of water or flutter of a bat’s wings in the distance. It’s eerie, beautiful, and unforgettable.
If you love adventure but hate crowds, this is your spot.
A Photographer’s Dream
Kaumana’s natural skylights create some of the most stunning photo opportunities in Hilo. The contrast between pitch-black tunnels and sunlit beams filtering through collapsed sections makes for dramatic, almost cinematic shots.
Pro Tip: Visit in the late morning or early afternoon for the best natural light inside the cave.
Planning Your Visit: What You Need to Know
Now that you’re ready to explore Kaumana Caves, let’s talk about the best times to visit, how to get there, and what else you can do nearby to make the most of your adventure.
Best Time to Visit Kaumana Caves
Kaumana Caves is open year-round and, because it’s a self-guided site, you can visit any time of day. However, for the best experience:
Mid-Morning to Early Afternoon (10 AM – 2 PM):
- Skylights create the most dramatic lighting for photos.
- Cooler than hiking in full sun, but still bright enough to see the entrance clearly.
Evening or Early Morning (Less Ideal):
- The cave is always dark inside, but outside lighting affects visibility at the entrance.
- Less crowded if you prefer solitude (though it’s rarely busy).
Pro Tip: Avoid visiting after heavy rain—the cave floor can become slick and hazardous.
How to Get to Kaumana Caves
Driving Directions:
- From Downtown Hilo, take Kaumana Drive (Hwy 200) west toward Saddle Road.
- The cave entrance is just 4 miles from downtown.
- Look for the Kaumana Caves State Park sign on the left.
Parking:
- A small parking lot is available across the street, but it fills up quickly.
- If full, park along the shoulder with caution—this is a local road.
Navigation Tip: Use Google Maps and search for “Kaumana Caves State Park”—it’s an easy drive, but it’s easy to miss the turn-off if you’re not looking.
What Else to Do Nearby
Since Kaumana Caves is a quick stop (you can explore for 30 minutes or up to a few hours), why not pair it with other amazing sights in Hilo?
- Rainbow Falls (10 min drive) – A stunning waterfall with misty morning rainbows.
- Boiling Pots (12 min drive) – A lava rock river with deep pools and cascading rapids.
- Wailuku River State Park (12 min drive) – Perfect for easy hiking and scenic views.
- Downtown Hilo (10 min drive) – Grab a bite at local favorites like Pineapples Restaurant or Moon and Turtle.
Pro Tip: Want more lava adventures? Visit Kīlauea Iki Trail in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, where you can walk across a solidified lava lake.
A Lava Tube Unlike Any Other
Kaumana Caves isn’t just another tourist attraction—it’s an untouched piece of Hawai‘i’s volcanic history, waiting for those with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore.
Unlike commercialized lava tubes, this one demands your full attention—from its rugged terrain to its eerie, underground silence. But that’s what makes it special. No tour guides, no lights, no pavement—just you and the raw beauty of nature.
So grab a flashlight, step into the darkness, and experience one of Hilo’s best-kept secrets.
Have you explored Kaumana Caves? Share your experience in the comments or tag us in your adventure photos!
Hidden Gem Alert: Explore Kaumana Caves in Hilo!
Ever wondered what it feels like to step into a lava tube formed by Mauna Loa’s fiery eruption? Just minutes from downtown Hilo, Kaumana Caves is an untamed adventure where you can explore natural skylights, rugged lava formations, and a raw underground world—all for FREE!
What to Bring:
- A flashlight (it’s pitch dark inside!)
- Sturdy shoes (lava rock = no joke!)
- A sense of adventure!
Location: Kaumana Caves State Park, Hilo, Hawai‘i
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning for the best natural lighting & photos!
Ready to explore Hilo’s best-kept secret? Tap the link to get the full guide, safety tips, and must-know travel hacks!