Nāhuku Lava Tube

Historical landmark · Hawaii County

Nāhuku Lava Tube

Historical landmark · Hawaii County

#52, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718

Highlights

Walk through a natural lava tube cave with rainforest views

#52, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718 Get directions

nps.gov

@travelleisure

I Took a Family Vacation to Hawaii That Combined Relaxation and Adventure

"A dramatic lava tube within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park that illustrates how molten flows carve subterranean tunnels; visitors often expect glowing lava but instead explore a cooled tunnel formed centuries ago, with the reminder that active flows can reach temperatures up to about 2,000°F. The site is a common starting point for nearby hikes and provides an easy, tangible lesson in volcanic geology." - Flora Stubbs Flora Stubbs Flora Stubbs is the executive editor of Travel + Leisure. She has been a journalist for over 20 years, and a travel editor for over a decade. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/hawaii-big-island-family-trip-8728434

View Postcard for Nāhuku Lava Tube

Walter R

Google

That was a 5 star once in a life time experience. After we found a free parking space (the tiny parking lot was packed and controlled by park rangers) we hike to and through the lava tube. We had a great time and the hike is easy and not difficult at all. Don't miss this awesome attraction in the park.

Nomad Life

Google

If you are going to the National Park, then this is a MUST as long as you're able to do stairs. (Not many, like a normal staircase to an upper level floor.) Bring a flashlight and enjoy your experience. Oh and park at the overflow parking lot to enjoy the 0.5 mile extra hike. The beauty of the rainforest is worth it!

Review User

Google

Amazing experience! Very creepy after 6PM though, don’t come alone. Very short but it’s pretty fun to see the dark tunnel. If you look up you’ll see vines and it is very slippery so be careful. Literally no one else was there, you’ll most likely have it to yourself. Absolutely recommend if in area & coming during dawn.

Alice Lumsden - Vee

Google

Just did a quick walk; do not wear flip flops here your feet will get wet! Hubby and kiddo both bumped their heads where some parts were low; it's pretty dark even with the lights so bring a proper flashlight; the mobile phone flashlights are pretty useless lol!

Jon P.

Google

Our visit to Nahuku - Thurston Lava Tube was a one-of-a-kind adventure! Walking through the dark, dimly lit tube felt like stepping into another world—the formations and natural beauty inside were incredible. While it was a bit chilly and wet inside, it only added to the unique atmosphere of the experience. It’s definitely something everyone should check out when visiting Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Highly recommend for those looking for a fascinating, natural wonder to explore!

Carlos Chilla

Google

Short but safe walk through a lava tube. Lit until 2000, after that, you will need flashlights. Best to do some reasearch to fully understand why lava tubes are awesome cave systems. Parking is very limited so you may have to time this area during low visiting hours.

Kathy Green

Google

Located inside Volcano National Park. very busy place. Parking is somewhat difficult, but we got lucky someone pulling out as we were pulling in. It's worth seeing, but the lava tube isn't very long. Be careful of footing as it is uneven, wet, and on the darker side with only yellow lights. A handicapped person may have a hard time going down steps as it was slightly steep but okay if using the hand rails. Younger people would have no problem. There is no extra cost to go through the tube.

Tom Guarnera

Google

Parking in the area is tough. There is another parking lot before you get to the lava tube. Turning back once you get to the tube isn't super easy. The alternate lot is a short hike that has beautiful views of the crater. It's probably a better choice for those that can hike the non paved trail.