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Spitting Cave

Honolulu, U.S.A.
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Photo by Sean Heath

Cliffs and ocean meet in dramatic fashion at Spitting Cave, where the Pacific hurls itself against hidden lava shelves, sending water shooting high into the air. Waves crash, spray sparkles, and the surrounding silence is broken only by wind and surf. For those curious about the wilder edges of Oahu, Spitting Cave offers a slice of nature's raw beauty—unexpected, elemental, and unforgettable.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
Free
Hours
Opening hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Contact Information

Location
Address
7 Lumahai St, Honolulu, HI 96825, USA

Planning your visit

Before setting foot near Spitting Cave’s swirling waters, visitors should know a few basics. Located in the quiet residential area of Portlock in Honolulu, Spitting Cave can be tricky to find—Google Maps helps, but watch for the small sign near Lumahai Street. The best experiences come at quieter times, when ocean colors pop and the cave's magical spouts impress without a crowd. The site is free, and tickets are not required, but the trail down is steep and rocky, so proper shoes matter.

  • Best time to visit: Early morning for solitude, or sunset for golden light. Weekdays mean fewer visitors.
  • How to get there: Drive to Portlock, park on residential streets (respect posted signs), then walk to the lookout near 7 Lumahai Street. No direct bus route; a taxi or rideshare works.
  • Accessibility: The path down is not stroller-friendly or suited for those with limited mobility. Families with adventurous children fare best; use caution.
  • Average visit duration: Plan for 45–90 minutes, longer if you linger for photos or a picnic.

Must see stuff

Spitting Cave's rugged scenery is the main event, but much more waits beyond the edge. The powerful geysers of water that give the landmark its name steal the show, yet the location’s peace and panoramic ocean views serve as a fine reward for those who seek them. Down by the rocks, visitors sometimes spot daring cliff divers, or even dolphins and honu—green sea turtles—coasting below in the deeper blue. On the best days, the sunset bathes everything in saturated pink and orange, with Diamond Head’s outline visible in the distance.

  • The blowhole: Watch for the main “spit,” where each swell surges beneath the cliffs and shoots skyward in a spray.
  • Cliff views: Scan for marine life, or just soak in the vast sweep of ocean.
  • Photo moments: Snap silhouettes against ocean sunset, or capture seagulls skimming wave tops.
  • Cliff diving (watch, don’t try): Local thrill-seekers leap from the tallest points; it may look exciting, but the currents and rocks make it dangerous to attempt.
  • Local legends: Learn local stories of Menehune (mythical island folk) and the spiritual significance of these cliffs to Hawaiian culture.

Tips for your visit

Spitting Cave offers a rare look at Hawaii’s wild side, but preparation ensures the visit is safe and pleasant. Paths can get slippery, and the drop to the waves below is steep, so respect the boundaries of fences and common sense. This area is a neighborhood; keep noise low and keep parking respectful. No restrooms, food stands, or lifeguards wait at the site, so pack in everything needed for comfort.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Early mornings or weekdays, especially outside of standard school holidays.
  • What to bring: Water, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, a hat, a camera, and a light windbreaker for breezy afternoons.
  • Local etiquette: Respect neighborhood tranquility. Pack out trash. Don’t trespass onto private lawns or block driveways.
  • Safety and comfort: Stay back from cliff edges, supervise children closely, and resist any urge to climb lower rocks—the ocean here is unpredictable, and accidents do happen.