Join experienced guides on underworld adventures in the Kula Kai Caverns. You’ll gear up with helmets, headlamps, and knee pads before venturing deep into this braided lava-tube system. You’ll learn how lava tubes are formed and how ancient Hawaiians used the caves for shelter and as a water source. If you’re claustrophobic, choose the easier, lighted trail tour.
A must-do for visitors interested in geology and volcanoes.
Tours are available by advanced reservation only.
Dress the part, and wear pants and closed-toed walking shoes for the tours.
Kula Kai Caverns is not wheelchair accessible.
The Kula Kai Caverns are located in the south end of Hawaii’s Big Island near South Point, 46 miles (74 kilometers) south of Kona. Bus service on the Big Island is infrequent and transit times are long, so you’ll want to rent a car to make the most out of your time on the island. Many guided tours provide transportation to island highlights.
Kula Kai Caverns are open daily, but reservations must be made in advance over the phone or via email. Visit in April and May or September and June if you want to avoid Hawaii’s busiest seasons and save on hotels and flights.
The Big Island has several lava tubes to explore. Nahuku, also known as Thurston Lava Tube, is located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and is the most easily accessible. With large tunnels and well-lit pathways, Nahuku can be a good choice for claustrophobia-prone visitors. Experienced spelunkers can go deep on tours at the Kazumura Cave, located on the eastern slope of Kilauea and one of the deepest and longest lava caves in the world.
