Waikanaloa & Waikapalae Wet Caves

Waikapalae is the second wet cave located in this area. A short, uphil climb brings you to the entrance. The other wet cave, Waikanaloa, and Manini-holo, a dry cave, are nearby. All of these caves were formed when the ocean was much higher than today and etched away at the lava rock creating the caves. This particular cave has an unusual effect for those who want to brave the ice-cold water. It is called the Blue Room. At the back of the main cave is a small opening into another, smaller room accessible only by swimming. Once inside the smaller chamber, look toward the main opening. The sunlight reflecting off the freshwater makes everything around you turn blue. The water in the wet caves comes from underground springs that eventually feed into the ocean. The water level in the caves are effected by the tide. Viewing in the Blue Room is best during high tide as the sunlight has a narrower opening into the chamber and more of the blue color is reflected. Short hike up to this wet cave Bacteria, such as leptospirosis, is often present in freshwater. A sign posted nearby indicates this hazard and states "No Swimming" The water is very cold In the "Blue Room", the water is deep and there is nothing to hold on to so you will have to tread water the entire time Wear reef shoes to provide grip on the slippery lava rock.