Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Before visiting Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, I had never seen a lava tube — and I certainly didn’t expect to walk through one.

The Thurston Lava Tube, also known as Nāhuku, quickly became one of the park’s most memorable highlights.

This short, easy hike takes you through a 500-foot volcanic tunnel surrounded by lush rainforest, and it’s a must-see stop for anyone exploring Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

Thurston Lava Tube

Nāhuku, better known as the Thurston Lava Tube, is one of the most fascinating places I’ve visited in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.

This massive tunnel was formed when lava from Kīlauea, one of Hawai’i’s most active volcanoes, cooled on the outside while molten rock kept flowing inside.

What’s left behind is a 500-foot-long lava tube that you can actually walk through today! An experience that feels both surreal and unforgettable.

I recommend also hiking Hawaii’s Most Scenic Waterfall Hike Is On The Big Island!

Thurston Lava Tube Hike: What to Expect

The Thurston Lava Tube hike (Nāhuku) is short, easy, and unforgettable.

The 0.4-mile loop trail winds through lush rainforest before leading you into a massive lava tunnel.

• The hike includes a steep descent at the start.
• The path can be slippery, so wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots.
• The cave is lit daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, so no flashlight is needed during those hours.

As you approach the entrance, the trail takes you past vibrant tropical plants and a small boardwalk surrounded by greenery.

The contrast between the lush rainforest outside and the dark, rocky interior of the cave is stunning.

Once inside the Thurston Lava Tube, you’ll notice smooth walls carved by flowing lava from Kīlauea volcano.

The tunnel is about 500 feet (150 meters) long, making it an easy but once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’d like to extend your adventure, you can connect this short loop with other hikes nearby.

It’s 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round-trip from the Kīlauea Iki Overlook.

Or,6 miles (9.7 km) if you include the Kīlauea Iki loop from Devastation Trailhead, and an extra mile (1.6 km) from Puʻupuaʻi.

Exploring Nāhuku is one of the most unique things to do in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and a must-see stop on the Big Island.

Visiting the Big Island? Eat at Jackie Rey’s in Kailua-Kona: The Big Island’s Best Seafood Spot!

How to Get There & Entrance Fees

There are no Nāhuku Thurston Lava Tube Tickets The only fee you need to pay when visiting is the National Park Entrance fee.

• Location: Inside Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, about 1.5 miles from the Kīlauea Visitor Center
• Fees: Included in the $30 per vehicle national park entrance fee (valid for 7 days)
• Hours: Open 24/7, but lighting is available from 8 AM to 8 PM

I recommend buying the Annual US National Park Pass, which is only $80 and allows you access to all US National Parks for one year!

Explore More of Hawaii

Visiting Hawaii? Read all of my Hawaii Travel Guides!

Make sure to hike Hawaii’s Most Scenic Waterfall Hike On The Big Island too!

Visting Honolulu? The Best Food In Hawaii Is The Hula Dog!

You should also visit The Byodo-In Temple in Hawaii’s Ko’olau Mountains.

Don’t forget to explore Hawaii’s Famous Malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery!

Have you hiked the Thurston Lava Tube? Let me know in the comments!