Explore Hawaii Sub-Club: Mermaid Caves

Let's explore one of the sights of Nanakuli on Oahu's west side - the "Mermaid Caves".  Many visitors to Oahu never make it to the west side, and they are missing out - some of the best beaches, snorkeling and diving can be found here, blissfully free of crowds.

The so-called "Mermaid Caves" are a series of caves which formed under the lava shelf, and can be reached via holes in the lava which opened into the cave system below.  They seem to have gotten their modern name from visitors who found this to be what they'd imagine a mermaid's home to be like:  picture clear blue water lapping the sand, illuminated in the caves by light filtering through the holes above.  This special place also houses some memorial markers on the lava above.

The parking lot is a short 5-minute walk from the caves, and there is usually plenty of parking.  Strong climbers will have no difficulty entering and exiting the hole to the cave system; just in case Amy and Lain will bring a ladder to make sure everyone has a chance to climb in if they want.  Expect to spend no more than 10-15 minutes looking around below.  Bring a camera!  There's plenty to see if you just explore the lava rocks above, gazing down through the holes into the cave system.  If the tide is too high or conditions don't support climbing in, we'll all stay above deck.

After, we'll spend however long we like at Nanakuli/Kalaniana'ole Beach Park next door, enjoying the relatively remote beach, the view, and the company!

Getting There:  Meet at 10AM in the parking lot at Nanakuli/Kalaniana'ole Beach Park.  You can't make a left into it from Farrington Highway, so expect to have to drive past, turn left into the larger beach park parking, and then come back a block to the Mermaid Cave parking on the right as soon as you turn right into Laumania Avenue.

What to Bring: a picnic lunch, water, bathing suit, water shoes, beach chair, towel, umbrella and/or hat (this beach doesn't have a lot of shade)

Reservation Deadline: February 24, 2024

Cancellation Deadline: February 25, 2024