Have you heard about the Kaumana Caves lava tube? It’s a no-frills lava tube near Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii, and it’s something you can visit without it turning into a half-day expedition. This spot checks boxes: dramatic skylight entrance, cool underground temps, and a “wow, what did we just discover” feeling that many travelers crave.

Where to find the Kaumana Caves lava tube (and what to expect)

Just mauka of Hilo off Saddle Road, Kaumana Caves lava tube is located within Kaumana Caves State Park. The entrance is between the 4 and 5 mile markers, and sits beneath a collapsed skylight with a steep staircase down. You’ll see two openings at the bottom–left and right–with a damp, mossy amphitheater feel before you enter the darkness. It’s free to visit and feels very local: no ticket booth, no boardwalk lighting; just you, your flashlight, and the lava.

How to explore the Kaumana Caves lava tube safely

Inside, the ground is uneven and often slick. Wear sturdy, grippy shoes, bring a real flashlight (phone lights are more of a backdrop, not a main light source), and go slowly. Keep in mind rock ceilings vary in height, and if you’re with kids or not used to caves, set a comfortable turnaround point and stick to it. This is a “choose your own depth” experience; you don’t have to go far to feel the magic.

What to bring for the Kaumana Caves lava tube (keep it simple)

• Closed-toe shoes with traction
• A real flashlight or headlamp
• Light jacket as it can feel cool and damp
• A sense of adventure – and a willingness to turn back when it stops feeling fun

A quick geology note (and why it feels different than Thurston)

Thurston lava tube inside Volcanoes National Park is a groomed stroll with lighting and signage – albeit still rustic. The Kaumana Caves lava tube is the opposite – more natural, darker, and quieter. Lava tubes are formed by flowing lava that hardens on top while molten rock continues underneath, carving out a tunnel. Here, you’re stepping into one of those frozen-in-time corridors, complete with drippy ceilings and knobbly floors. So while Thurston is amazing in its own right, Kaumana definitely feels more off-the-beaten-path.

Easy pairing: a Hilo mini-loop you’ll love

Make it a Hilo day: Rainbow Falls in the morning, followed by breakfast/coffee in town. Hit up Kaumana Caves lava tube late morning with Akaka Falls, Liliuokalani Gardens, or the scenic 4-mile drive to round out the afternoon. If you’re staying in Kona, this fits nicely on a Hilo/Volcano loop using Saddle Road – just plan on daylight driving.

Respectful reminders

Keep voices low, pack out any trash, and don’t disturb rocks or formations. This is a living landscape – let it stay wild for the next adventurer who flicks on a headlamp and whispers “whoa.”

A Hilo-side day like this fits beautifully into our Big Island all-inclusive vacations, so if Kaumana Caves lava tube sounds like your kind of detour–let us know. You choose the vibe; we’ll handle the routing. Contact us today to get started.