Kaneana Cave is a hidden power spot located in the northwestern part of Oahu.
Since there are two caves here, Upper Makua and Lower Makua, they are collectively known as the Makua Caves, but are more commonly referred to as Kaneana Cave.
Lower Makua, the more common tourist spot, is a cave said to have been formed by sea erosion about 150,000 years ago. It is approximately 11 meters (36 feet) high, 6 meters (20 feet) wide, and about 150 meters (492 feet) long.
On the other hand, Upper Makua is a trekking spot with stunning views known only to a few, and it feels more like a small hollow compared to Lower Makua.
Kaneana Cave is said to be a passageway for the souls of the deceased and is believed to be filled with sacred energy.
It’s not a typical tourist area, but if you’re interested in off-the-beaten-path power spots, be sure to check it out.
Upper Makua at Kaneana Cave
The trail to Upper Makua is quite steep.
To reach the entrance, walk north from the parking lot along the road for about a minute.
Near some road signs, you’ll find a rut in the grassy area. Enter there and follow the path to reach the cave.
Along the way, the steep path will split; one continues straight up, and the other turns to the right. Take the path to the right.
The one-way hike takes about 20 minutes, but due to the slippery and very steep slope, it is recommended for advanced hikers.
Note that Upper Makua is officially closed to the public for environmental and safety reasons, so if you choose to hike, you do so at your own risk!
This cave is also known as the “womb of the earth,” and it’s said that ancient people meditated here to gain energy.
There are various legends about it, such as Menehune (little people) living in its depths or that it connects to the North Shore.
While you may see some people hiking due to the spectacular views, please be extremely careful when you climb.
Lower Makua at Kaneana Cave
Lower Makua is easily accessible and is a more common tourist spot.
After parking your car, you’ll see a guardrail on the opposite side of the road. The cave is located just beyond it.
You can enter the cave, but it comes to a dead end fairly quickly.
According to Hawaiian legend, Kaneana Cave was once forbidden to enter because it was believed to be the home of Nanaue, a shark god.
It’s said that orbs sometimes appear in photos taken inside the cave, but there’s no need to be alarmed!
In Hawaiian culture, orbs are considered to be spirits, and having one appear in your photo is thought to be a very lucky sign.
If an orb appears in your photo, it might be a sign of good things to come!
Kaneana Cave: General Information
| Name | Kaneana Cave |
| Address | 86-260 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792 |
| Map | |
| Hours | 24 hours |
| Closed | None |
| Approx. Time | 15+ minutes |
| Restrooms | None |
| Parking | Available (Free) |
| Website | None |
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