Kula Kai Caverns
Lauhala Drive, Ocean View, Big Island of Hawaii, HI, 96704
Kula Kai Caverns features miles of 1000-year-old lava tubes that can be explored with experienced cavers. This cave system on the Big Island, is one of the planet’s youngest and attracts scientists from all over the world. Kula Kai offers a range of tours, from an introductory geology tour to demanding crawl and spelunking adventures.
The Basics
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.
Things to Know Before You Go
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.
How to Get There
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.
When to Get There
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.
Big Island Lava Tube Hikes
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.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!