Nahuku Lava Tube

The Nahuku Lava Tube, formerly known as Thurston Lava Tube, is one of the magnificent sights located within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Created over hundreds of years by volcanic activity, lava tubes are not uncommon in Hawaii. Molten lava flows beneath the ground's surface, insulated by the tube's roof of earth which keeps the lava flowing and molten for a long period of time. An eruption drains the lava from its cavernous tube and creates a vacant chamber once the earth cools.

In the Hawaiian language, the name "nāhuku" means "the protuberances," which likely refers to the small lava stalactites or "drippings" than once hung from the tube's ceiling. Lorrin Thurston, the publisher of a local newspaper, discovered Nahuku in 1913. After discovery, the tube lost these lava stalactites over the years at the hands of cave visitors and ‘souvenir’ collectors.

To get to the entrance of the Nahuku Lava Tube, you'll follow a short trail through lush vegetation and cross a small bridge. The entire trail is about 0.4 miles (640 m) long. The entrance to the lava tube blends in well with its jungle-like surroundings, as it is disguised by the foliage that grows around it. Once inside, the lava tube is easy enough to navigate. The tunnel is lit by electric lights along the cavernous walls from 8 am to 8 pm. Outside of these hours, you will need a strong flashlight or headlamp. The ceiling is high enough, roughly 20 feet (6 m) tall and wide in places, to comfortably accommodate adults who wish to explore the tube.

The unlit (unimproved) extension of Nahuku is permanently closed. Following a roof collapse during the 2018 Kilauea summit events, the longer unlit extension of the lava tube is permanently inaccessible. You can no longer access the completely dark stretch of the cave, as the trail ends at a barricade.

Please note: Parking is limited at Nahuku. For the best chance of getting a parking spot, plan to arrive before 9 am or after 4 pm. The lava tube is open 24 hours, but is only lit between 8 am and 8 pm. Flashlights are necessary outside of those hours.