Makauwahi Cave, Archaeological cave site in Kauai County, United States.
Makauwahi Cave is a limestone formation featuring a natural freshwater lake within a collapsed chamber in Mahaulepu Valley. The entire site spans roughly 17 acres, creating an impressive underground landscape with distinct geological features.
Researchers discovered this site's paleontological importance in 1992 during a scientific expedition in the area. Fossil remains of around 45 extinct bird species were found preserved in the sediment layers.
Ancient Hawaiians treated this location as a sacred burial ground for their deceased, making it spiritually important to the community. Visitors can sense the reverence placed on this site through the careful way it remains protected today.
Access to the cave is available through a hiking trail from Keoneloa Bay or via private roads managed by Grove Farm. Visitors should prepare for uneven terrain and changing ground conditions along the approach.
African sulcata tortoises graze the grounds surrounding the cave to control invasive plant growth. This unconventional conservation approach also supports restoration of native plant species in the area.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
