Kaumana Caves State Park
Explore a massive 1881 lava tube formed by Mauna Loa. Free to enter, this natural wonder offers a unique underground adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free to explore!
Kaumana Caves State Park
Best Time
Free to explore!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a massive 1881 lava tube formed by Mauna Loa. Free to enter, this natural wonder offers a unique underground adventure.
"This was such an unexpected awesome adventure. We were just looking for something to do after Kilaua volcano visit and we had free time before returning our car."
🔦 Bring Your Own Light
Essential! Phone flashlights work, but headlamps or dedicated flashlights are best for hands-free exploration.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Moisture and uneven terrain demand shoes with good grip. Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Massive Lava Tube
Main cave entrance
Descend into a colossal lava tube formed by the 1881 Mauna Loa eruption. It's a truly awe-inspiring geological wonder.
Underground Formations
Inside the caves
Marvel at the smooth and rough rock formations, a testament to the powerful lava flows that shaped this unique landscape.
The 'Man Cave' Experience
Left cave entrance
Navigate through a section requiring crouching, leading to a cool cave opening with a tree. A fascinating, slightly eerie adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gear Up for the Dark
Explore Both Sides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring Your Own Light
Essential! Phone flashlights work, but headlamps or dedicated flashlights are best for hands-free exploration.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Moisture and uneven terrain demand shoes with good grip. Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes.
👖 Consider Long Pants
Protect your legs from scrapes and the cool cave air. Knee pads can be helpful for crawling sections.
⚠️ Respect the Signs
Venture only as far as marked. Some areas become private property or are unsafe to proceed further.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring Your Own Light
Essential! Phone flashlights work, but headlamps or dedicated flashlights are best for hands-free exploration.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Moisture and uneven terrain demand shoes with good grip. Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes.
👖 Consider Long Pants
Protect your legs from scrapes and the cool cave air. Knee pads can be helpful for crawling sections.
⚠️ Respect the Signs
Venture only as far as marked. Some areas become private property or are unsafe to proceed further.
🐔 Watch for Chickens
You might spot some local chickens roaming near the parking area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Kaumana Caves as an unexpected and awesome adventure, often more exciting than anticipated. The sheer scale and geological formations of the lava tube are consistently praised. However, preparedness is key, with many emphasizing the need for good footwear and reliable lighting to navigate the dark and sometimes challenging terrain.
"This was such an unexpected awesome adventure. We were just looking for something to do after Kilaua volcano visit and we had free time before returning our car. This was even more exciting than the volcano. Close shoes and a flashlight, we used our phones flashlight with a spare battery pack. Need to be a little agile, I think not too much but just enough to bend very low. Highly recommend 👌."
Nani Pero
"Really cool experience! The tunnels were so beautifully silent, scary, and grand inside. The formation from the lava is just so incredible to see... rock both smooth and rough. We went to both sides. There’s a lot of moisture so bring shoes that have a firm grip, and headlamps/flashlights (recommend both). Be careful walking down those yellow stairs. Export, but stop when you see the signs.
Parking is across the street. You’ll see chickens running around."
Jen Sanchez
"One of the coolest things on the whole island I spent like an hour here! Make sure you checkout both sides when you go down the stairs left and right they’re different caves! You definitely need headlamps or flash lights at the least. The left cave doesn’t require much crouching but lots of rock climbing with a cool cave opening with a tree at the end. It was a creepy and fascinating experience."
Brandon Kain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kaumana Caves State Park is located just north of Hilo. Take Highway 190 (Kaumana Drive) north from Hilo. The park entrance and parking area will be on your right. It's a short drive and easily accessible.
Yes, there is a parking area available across the street from the main cave entrance. Be mindful of the chickens that often roam the area!
While public transportation options directly to the park are limited, you could consider a taxi or rideshare service from Hilo. Renting a car is generally the most convenient way to explore the Big Island's attractions like Kaumana Caves.
Yes, the park is well-marked and located directly off Highway 190 (Kaumana Drive) on the way out of Hilo. Look for the signs for Kaumana Caves State Park.
The address is approximately 1492 Kaumana Dr, Hilo, Hawaii.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kaumana Caves State Park is free to visit! There are no admission fees, making it an excellent budget-friendly activity on the Big Island. 
No, there are no tours or supervision required to explore the caves. This allows for a self-guided adventure, but also means you need to be prepared with your own lighting and safety gear.
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, since it's a natural attraction, you can explore it during daylight hours.
No booking is required as the park is free and self-guided. Just show up ready to explore!
You can explore a significant portion of the lava tube, but be aware that some sections become private property or are unsafe. Always respect the signs and boundaries.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip, as the cave floor can be damp and uneven. Long pants are recommended for protection against scrapes and the cool cave air.
A reliable flashlight or headlamp is essential as the caves are completely dark. Phone flashlights can work in a pinch, but a dedicated light source is highly recommended for safety and a better experience. Bring extra batteries or a power bank.
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the caves, depending on how much they venture in and how long they take to admire the formations.
The main entrance involves a steep staircase, and some areas inside require crouching or scrambling over rocks. It may not be suitable for those with significant mobility challenges.
It is generally safe if you come prepared with proper footwear and lighting, and respect the marked boundaries. Be cautious on the stairs and uneven terrain.
📸 📸 Photography
Use a tripod for stability in low light and experiment with different lighting angles. A headlamp can be used to illuminate specific formations. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing the cave environment.
Yes, with a good flashlight and a steady hand, you can capture interesting shots. Modern smartphone cameras can also perform well in low light if you use a stable surface or tripod.
Look for interesting lava formations, the unique textures of the cave walls, and any natural light that might filter in. The 'man cave' section with the tree opening is also a popular spot.
While technically possible, it's best to use flash sparingly and strategically to avoid overexposing your shots and to preserve the natural ambiance of the caves.
Experiment with a higher ISO, a wider aperture, and a slower shutter speed. Using manual focus can also be beneficial in the dark.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should be prepared for the pitch-black conditions and the need for constant supervision. It's a great opportunity to teach kids about geology and volcanic activity in a hands-on way. Pack snacks and water, and be mindful of the time spent inside to avoid fatigue. The free admission makes it an accessible activity for families exploring the Big Island.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1This makes it an ideal addition to an itinerary filled with other free or low-cost attractions on the Big Island, such as scenic lookouts and many of the island's beautiful beaches. It offers a unique and memorable experience without breaking the bank.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
While the caves are self-guided, you might encounter other visitors, which can add a sense of security. The opportunity to explore at your own pace and immerse yourself in the natural wonder of the lava tube is a significant draw for solo explorers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Kaumana Caves
The park preserves a significant portion of this lava tube, allowing visitors to walk through a piece of volcanic history. The sheer scale of the cave is astonishing, with some sections being wide enough to stand comfortably, while others require a bit of a squeeze. The formations within the cave, from smooth, ropy pahoehoe lava to rougher a'a lava textures, offer a fascinating glimpse into the dynamics of volcanic activity.
It's important to remember that these caves are natural formations and are part of a larger, active volcanic system. While the 1881 flow is long past, the presence of Mauna Loa nearby is a constant reminder of the island's dynamic geological nature. Exploring Kaumana Caves provides a unique opportunity to connect with the raw power of the earth.
Exploring the Lava Tubes: What to Expect
Once inside, you'll encounter a variety of terrains. The cave floor can be damp and uneven, so sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential. Some sections require you to crouch or even crawl under low ceilings, especially in the 'man cave' area on the left. Long pants are also a good idea to protect your legs from scrapes. Visitors are advised to stick to the marked paths and respect any signs indicating private property or unsafe areas.
The caves are divided into two main sections accessible from the initial descent. Exploring both sides is recommended, as they offer slightly different experiences and formations. The left side, for instance, leads to a more challenging section with a tree growing through an opening in the cave ceiling. The sheer silence and the vastness of the underground space create a unique and memorable atmosphere.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit