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The ultimate guide to the Hana Lava Tube (Ka’eleku Cave) in Maui 

Here is the ultimate guide to the Hana Lava Tube, or Ka’eleku Cave, in Maui. This is one of the many stops on the famous “Road to Hana” and one that many visitors overlook, but shouldn’t! 

The Hana Lava Tube is both the largest and most accessible lava tube in Maui. It’s a must for anyone interested in geology or any visitors wanting to see a unique stop on the Hana Highway.

Today, we will discuss why you should visit the Hana Lava tube, the location, how the lava tube was formed, and more!

I also have a complete guide to the Road to Hana, which you should check out when you’re done here. 

Book your Maui vacation with a Hawaii Travel Agent

Before we get started, let me introduce myself. My name is Amy, and I’m a Hawaii Travel Agent. I’m one of the top travel agents for Hawaii, and creating fantastic custom trips in Hawaii is my passion! Contact me today to help plan and book your Hawaii vacation.

DO I NEED A RENTAL CAR IN Maui?

You’ll definitely need a car in Maui, especially to explore the Road to Hana! You’ll find the best prices anywhere at Discount Hawaii Car Rental. 

Should you visit the Hana Lava Tube?

Yes! The Hana Lava Tube is a unique stop on the Road to Hana. If you have time, you should definitely check it out. It’s relatively inexpensive and one of the most unique things to do in Maui. 

There are some steps, but they have handrails, and the rest of the cave is relatively easy to explore. Don’t worry if you’re a bit claustrophobic; there are no extremely small spaces to navigate in this case. At least, not in the parts that you are allowed to explore!

Fun (?) fact: Don’t worry if you see bones. Although most have been removed, this cave was once used as a place to discard the bones of cows!

Hana Lava Tube facts

All lava tubes form when fast-moving molten lava beneath a hardened surface continues to flow, eventually draining and leaving a hollow tunnel behind. You may think of lava tubes more as something you’d find on the Big Island, but remember all of the Hawaiian islands were formed by volcanoes!

Hana Lava Tube originated from lava flows from Haleakala’s eruptions. Scientists estimate the tube formed roughly 900 to 1,000 years ago, dating back to a major eruption on Maui. Don’t forget to check out our guide to Haleakala Sunrise in Maui when you’re done here!

The tube is part of a much larger volcanic system, revealing magma paths beneath the surface and contributing to the study of eruption sequences and lava movement in Maui. However, you can only explore a small portion of the lava tube. Please don’t go further than where you’re supposed to; you’ll be trespassing.

Where is the Hana Lava Tube?

The Hana Lava Tube can be found at 205 ‘Ula’ino Road; it is very close to mile marker 31 on the Hana Highway. This is very close to Wai’anapanapa State Park, which is also well worth a visit!

GPS Coordinates of Hana Lava Tube: 20.785707,-156.027848

How much does it cost to see the Hana Lava Tube?

The cost is $15 per person; children under 5 are free. This is a family-friendly activity, but with all things in Hawaii (and anywhere!), make sure to keep an eye on your kids. As with many other things on the Road to Hana, bring cash!

How long does it take to explore the Hana Lava Tube?

The actual lava tube is much, much larger, but the accessible part is only 1/3 of a mile. You can take as much or as little time as you’d like. There’s also a maze outside the lava tube made of ti plants. This can be a great way for kids to run off some energy if they’ve been stuck in the car for a while. 

You can see the ti maze behind us!

Hana Lava Tube

I hope this guide to the Hana Lava Tube, or Ka’eleku Cave, was helpful. If you’re planning a Maui vacation or Maui honeymoon, I’d love to help with your trip! Contact me today. You can also check out more things to do in Maui and Hawaii travel tips.

More Hawaii Travel Tips and things to do in Maui:

• What not to do in Hawaii (30 things you should never do in Hawaii)
• Cheap things to do in Maui
• The best Maui Snorkeling Guide
• 50 things to do in Maui
• The ultimate guide to Upcountry Maui

Ready to plan your Hawaii vacation or Hawaii honeymoon?

It can be overwhelming planning a Hawaii vacation! Contact me today. I’d love to work with you! To offer the best service, I only take on a select number of clients per month. Please reach out early!

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Don’t miss my Hawaii itineraries if you want insider tips for your vacation, but aren’t working with a travel agent.

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