Makauwahi Cave Reserve
Explore Kauai's largest lava tube cave, a fossil-rich site accessed via a scenic coastal hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & catch sunrise
Makauwahi Cave Reserve
Best Time
Beat the heat & catch sunrise
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Kauai's largest lava tube cave, a fossil-rich site accessed via a scenic coastal hike.
"The hike is beautiful, even if you can't go in the cave, the views are amazing!"
Check Access Before You Go
Cave access can vary. Some visitors can only view from outside. Always confirm current status . :informationdeskperson:
Hike Early to Avoid Sun
The trail is fully exposed. Mornings are best to stay cool and enjoy the scenery . :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Makauwahi Cave
South shore of Kauai
Explore Kauai's largest known lava tube cave, a treasure trove of fossils and archeological finds.
Mahaulepu Heritage Trail
Starts at Shipwreck Beach
An easy, scenic hike with breathtaking ocean views and native flora. Perfect for nature lovers.
Native Hawaiian Forest
Within the reserve
Discover a 17-acre native Hawaiian forest, a peaceful sanctuary for local flora and fauna.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Current Status
Best Time for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Access Before You Go
Cave access can vary. Some visitors can only view from outside. Always confirm current status. :informationdeskperson:
Hike Early to Avoid Sun
The trail is fully exposed. Mornings are best to stay cool and enjoy the scenery. :athletic_shoe:
Donation Appreciated
There's no fee, but a donation box is available to support the reserve's preservation. :moneywithwings:
Crawl to Explore
Entry to the first cave requires crawling. Be prepared for this unique experience! :woman_shrugging:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Access Before You Go
Cave access can vary. Some visitors can only view from outside. Always confirm current status. :informationdeskperson:
Hike Early to Avoid Sun
The trail is fully exposed. Mornings are best to stay cool and enjoy the scenery. :athletic_shoe:
Donation Appreciated
There's no fee, but a donation box is available to support the reserve's preservation. :moneywithwings:
Crawl to Explore
Entry to the first cave requires crawling. Be prepared for this unique experience! :woman_shrugging:
Stunning Ocean Views
The hike offers spectacular coastal vistas, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the stunning coastal views along the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, calling the hike beautiful and rewarding. The unique geological and archeological significance of Makauwahi Cave is also a highlight. However, some reviewers note that the cave can be closed or inaccessible, and the trail is fully exposed, making it hot during midday.
"It was closed when we went but the hike out there is beautiful! Even though it’s closed it’s worth going and taking a hike! We got to see the cave but not go in. Still an amazing sight to see! If you love nature do it!! If you love the sight of waves crashing into cliffs, do it!! Do it early too! The sunrise is amazing!!"
Shayla Ramos
"This cave could be accessed by hiking the Malaluepu Heritage Trail from the resorts at shipwreck beach. Sadly you cannot access only see the top of the cave, you cannot go inside it."
LC 444
"Seems to be abadoned. Everything was packed up and gone, no tortoises. There was a little secluded beach that had a few people but everything else waa dried out and gone. Definitely looks like it was once beautiful though! Wish we could've seen it before it shut down"
Heather Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The reserve is typically accessed by hiking the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, which starts near Shipwreck Beach in Poipu. The trail is about a half-mile long and offers beautiful ocean views along the way.
Parking is usually available at Shipwreck Beach, which serves as the starting point for the hike. Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
No, direct vehicle access to the cave is not permitted. The primary way to reach it is via the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail hike.
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate. It's fully exposed, so it can get hot. Seniors with limited mobility might benefit from a walking stick due to uneven terrain and small hills.
Early mornings are highly recommended to avoid the heat and crowds. Sunrise hikes are also popular for their stunning views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no official entrance fee. However, a donation box is usually present at the cave to support its preservation efforts.
The reserve doesn't have strict operating hours like a typical attraction. However, access is dependent on trail conditions and the presence of guides or staff. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
While not always guaranteed, sometimes a guide is available at the cave who can share information about its history and significance. It's advisable to check for local tour operators or inquire upon arrival.
If the cave is closed or inaccessible, don't despair! The hike along the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail itself is beautiful and offers stunning ocean views, making the trip worthwhile.
The cave requires crawling to enter, so it might not be suitable for very young children or individuals with severe mobility issues. However, children aged 6 and up can typically manage the hike.
📸 📸 Photography & Nature
The reserve is home to native Hawaiian flora and fauna. You might spot various native plants and birds within the 17-acre forest area.
Yes, the dramatic coastal scenery along the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail and the unique cave formations offer excellent photographic opportunities. Sunrise and sunset can provide particularly beautiful light.
Look for viewpoints overlooking the rugged coastline, the crashing waves against the cliffs, and the diverse native vegetation. The entrance to the cave itself can also be a striking subject.
No, it's crucial to leave all natural elements undisturbed. The cave contains fossils and archeological artifacts, and the flora is protected. Respect the environment.
The cave is a significant paleontological site, containing fossils of extinct birds and other ancient species, offering insights into Kauai's prehistoric ecosystem.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature & Hiking Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mahaulepu Heritage Trail Experience
This trail is a fantastic way to connect with Kauai's natural beauty. It's a relatively short walk, often described as about a half-mile, but packed with visual splendor. The path can be uneven in places, and there are some gentle inclines, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Beyond the visual appeal, the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail is part of a larger protected area, highlighting the importance of conservation. It provides a sense of stepping back in time, away from the more developed tourist spots. The opportunity to see the cave, even if only from the outside, combined with the beautiful coastal walk, makes this a highly recommended activity for nature enthusiasts and casual hikers alike.
Exploring Makauwahi Cave: A Natural Wonder
Accessing the cave often involves a unique experience: you may need to crawl on your hands and knees to enter the first chamber, which then leads to a second, larger cave.
It's important to note that access to the cave can be variable. Some visitors have reported finding it closed or only accessible for viewing from the exterior.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit