Hana Lava Tube Maui, Hawaii Hike Guide
The Hana Lava Tube is a short hike located right outside of Hana on the island of Maui in Hawaii. The hiking here is extremely short and not great in itself, but the main attraction of this one is being able to walk down into the largest lava tubes (at least open to the public) in Maui. This is a popular spot to visit year round and is a great stop for families and hikers of all skill levels. With your price of admission, the owners of the land provide you with a high power flashlight so no extra gear is needed.
Hana Lava Tube Quick Facts
Hana Lava Tube Rating: ★★★★ (4/5 Stars)
Distance: .6 Miles RT
Elevation Start: 315ft
Lowest Point: 30 feet below the ground
Total Elevation Gain: 50ft
Estimated Time to Complete: 30 minutes to 1 Hour RT
Difficulty: Walk in the Park What does this mean?
Class: Class 1 What does this mean?
Season: Year Round
Directions to Hana Lava Tube
Trailhead: Hana Lava Tube
Getting Here: From mile marker 33 or so along the Hana Highway (about 10 minutes before you hit Hana), turn left onto Ulaino Road. Continue for about a half mile until you reach he signed entrance for Hana Lava Tube on your left.
Fees: As of 2021, there is a $12.50 cash only fee to enter. There is an ATM located in the small shack at the entrance point that requires a minimum withdrawal of $80 and a $4 fee.
Parking: There is a large parking lot located right next to the start of the hike. There are several outhouses to use at the TH as well.
Summary
Hana Lava Tube Camping: The best bet for lodging in the area is to find something in the town of Hana. There are also several food trucks here if you are hungry.
Dogs: Due to the sensitive nature of the hike, dogs are not allowed on this one.
Make it a Loop: This is an out and back hike, but be sure to take your time and check out the maze after if you want to move around some more.
Hike X Factors: When visiting the Hana Lava Tubes, be sure to check out the lava stalagmite as they are the only known ones in Maui and are extremely rare.
Hike Tip(s) Patience is key when hiking the Hana Lava Tubes. Take some time to chat with the person working the check-in, read all the signs and take your time walking through these amazing lava tubes. Most groups fly through here not taking time to read about all of the amazing geology and features of the caves and they are just burning money IMO. If you are patient enough, you should be able to find a secluded spot in the cave. Turn your flashlight off and take in the darkest scene you have ever seen.
Best Views: The Hana Lava Tubes have great views from start to finish. Bring a tripod and long exposure lens to get some really cool shots on this hike.
Hana Lava Tube Hike Route
Probably not extremely helpful since 99% of this hike is underground
Gear Needed
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Optional: Headlamp – flashlight provided
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Our Trip to Hana Lava Tube: April 2021
Jackie and I had the Hana Lava Tubes on our list before we even stepped foot in Maui thanks to a recommendation from our Airbnb owner. After checking out the much smaller and free lava tube along the Hana Highway, we arrived at the commercial version just outside of Hana. This hike was extremely crowded but we managed to take our time and find our own space within the deep, dark caverns. Overall, I think we both enjoyed the free lava tube better, but were very happy we paid the $25 to see this one as well. In my opinion, this is not a worthy destination in and of itself, but along your drive to Hana is certainly worth a stop if you have time.
Map of Hana Lava Tube 
