Kaumana Caves State Park
Wild Lava Tube Cave Near Hilo on Hawaii’s Big Island — Lava Tube Cave Formed by an 1881 Mauna Loa Eruption, Descend a Metal Staircase Into a Collapsed Skylight Opening, Explore Two Directions of Raw Unlit Lava Tube Passage, No Lighting No Pavement No Guardrails — A Genuine Underground Adventure, Free Admission and Self-Guided Exploration, Located Just Minutes From Downtown Hilo on Kaumana Drive, Near Hilo Hawaii County Big Island of Hawaii
Kaumana Caves State Park is a state park just minutes from downtown Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, managed by Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. The park features a lava tube cave formed during an 1881 eruption of Mauna Loa, a metal staircase descent into a collapsed skylight opening in the cave ceiling, two directions of raw, unlit lava tube passage to explore — extending for miles underground, no lighting, no pavement, no guardrails — a genuine underground caving adventure unlike commercialized tourist caves, free admission and self-guided exploration at your own risk, lush tropical vegetation surrounding the skylight entrance, and one of the most accessible wild cave experiences in the Hawaiian Islands.
This is not a tourist cave — there are no lights, no guides, no handrails, no paved walkways. You descend a metal staircase into a jungle-filled skylight, then enter raw lava tube passages where the only light is whatever you brought with you. The uneven, jagged volcanic rock floor demands sturdy shoes and reliable flashlights.
The cave splits in two directions at the skylight entrance. Both branches extend for considerable distances underground, though portions pass under private property. The left branch is generally considered easier to explore, while the right branch offers more challenging terrain.
Things to Do
- Lava tube — wild cave, unlit
- Skylight — jungle entrance
- Free — self-guided
- Photography — volcanic formations
- Geology — 1881 eruption
- Adventure — bring flashlight
Park Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kaumana Drive, near Hilo, Big Island, HI |
| Formed | 1881 Mauna Loa eruption |
| Type | Wild lava tube — unlit, unimproved |
| Admission | Free |
| Bring | Flashlight + sturdy shoes required |
| Managed By | Hawaii DLNR |
| Coordinates | 19.7500° N, 155.1333° W |
Frequently Asked Questions
Wildlife & Nature
Kaumana Caves SP — a lava tube formed during Mauna Loa’s 1881 eruption — the same flow that nearly destroyed Hilo. The cave’s lava formations, roots, and darkness support endemic cave-adapted insects. The entrance is a collapsed skylight draped in tropical ferns.
Nearby Attractions
Hilo — 3 miles east. Mauna Loa — visible above. Rainbow Falls — 5 miles east.
Do you need a flashlight for Kaumana Caves?
Yes — a reliable flashlight or headlamp is absolutely essential for Kaumana Caves. Unlike commercialized tourist caves, Kaumana has no lighting, no pavement, and no guides. You explore raw, unlit lava tube passages formed during an 1881 Mauna Loa eruption. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are also mandatory due to the jagged volcanic rock floor. Free admission, self-guided, minutes from downtown Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii.
The tropical vegetation at the skylight entrance creates a Jurassic Park atmosphere — ferns, hanging vines, and tropical trees have colonized the collapsed section, creating a lush green amphitheater before you enter the dark passages. The contrast between tropical sunshine and absolute cave darkness is dramatic and unforgettable. Phone flashlights are not sufficient — bring a dedicated flashlight or headlamp with fresh batteries.
Last updated: May 2026
