Nāhuku, formerly called Thurston Lava Tube, is a cave left behind when a lava flow stopped and cooled, in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. A walk through rainforest, where you can listen for native birds, leads to the tube. Its Hawaiian name means the protuberances, possibly for lava drippings that once hung from the ceiling; souvenir collectors took them after the tube was discovered. The tube is lit from morning into the evening, so bring a flashlight outside the lit hours. The park warns that you enter at your own risk: rockfall, low ceilings, standing water and tripping hazards are all possible, so watch your head and your footing. Do not touch the walls or any hanging roots. You enter on a new bridge. Parking at Nāhuku is extremely limited, and Kīlauea Iki Overlook, a short walk away, is the alternate lot. To avoid crowds, the park suggests starting early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Do not walk along Crater Rim Drive, and bring water, snacks, sturdy shoes and rain gear.
When to go
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, to avoid crowds.
Parking is extremely limited; alternate parking at Kīlauea Iki Overlook, a short walk away. Do not walk along Crater Rim Drive.
