Natural site · Volcanoes NP, Big Island

Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube)

Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube)
Photo: Michael Oswald, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons

The tube formed about 500 years ago when a river of lava drained. A new access bridge was finished in August 2026, and the tube is lit from 8:00 to 20:00.

Updated November 11, 2026On day 4 of Big Island in 5 Days

Visiting Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube): what to know

Tickets
Included in park entry
Time needed
About 30 minutes
Best time
Before 9:00 or after 17:00 to avoid crowds
Getting there
Off Crater Rim Drive East in the park

Big Island itineraries with Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube)

Day 4 of Big Island in 5 Days

Craters and lava tubes

How Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) fits into a day.
  1. 8:30Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube)Volcanoes NP
  2. 10:00Chain of Craters RoadVolcanoes NP
  3. 12:30Puʻu Loa PetroglyphsVolcanoes NP
  4. 16:00Drive to Hilo (about 45 minutes)Hilo
See all 5 days
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Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) FAQs

Is Nāhuku open?

Yes, it reopened fully in August 2026 after a bridge replacement. Check park alerts before you go.

Do I need a flashlight?

Not in the day, as the tube is lit from 8:00 to 20:00. Bring one if you go earlier or later.

Is parking easy?

The lot is small, so arrive early.

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