Looking for a thrilling experience on your Honolulu vacation? You must include a trip to the Spitting Caves on your itinerary.
The Spitting Caves in Honolulu are a natural wonder located on the southeast coast of Oahu, Hawaii. They are the result of waves crashing against cliffs, which carve out a hole in the rocks. When the waves are strong enough, they can fill the cavity and then force the water back out, creating a powerful spray.
The Spitting Caves are a popular spot for cliff jumping, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved. The water can be very deep, and the currents can be strong. There have been several deaths at the Spitting Caves, so it is important to be careful.
A safety note we would add today: Spitting Cave is a rocky ledge, not a beach park, and there are no lifeguards. Swells that look small from the top can surge up the cliff face without warning. If you are not a strong ocean swimmer with local knowledge of the spot, enjoy it from the top and leave the jumping to the people who grew up there.
Things to Know Before Visiting the Spitting Caves in Honolulu
These cliffs offer beautiful vistas and thrilling experiences. To maximize your experience, you need to know a few things before you go. In this blog post, we’ll talk about 5 important things you need to know before going to the Spitting Caves in Honolulu .
1. How They’re Made: Nature’s Water Show
Imagine waves crashing against big, towering cliffs, making a hole in the rocks over time. When waves are really strong, they fill up the hole with water and then shoot it back out, making a giant spray that’s like nature’s water cannon. It’s so awesome to see and hear the waves making this spectacular show.
2. Cliff Jumping is fun, But Stay Safe
Now, here’s something really exciting – people actually jump off these cliffs into the water below! It’s like a daring adventure, but there are some important things you need to remember. The water can be really deep, and the currents can be super strong. Sadly, some accidents have happened here, so it’s super important to be super careful.
3. Where to Find Them: A Little Hike
The Spitting Caves hang out in the Portlock neighborhood of Honolulu. To get there, you’ll need to take a little hike down a steep hill. It’s about 0.2 miles long and kind of challenging, but totally worth it for the amazing view.
4. What You’ll See: Caves and Clear Water
Once you make it to the bottom of the hill, you’ll spot the Spitting Caves. There are a bunch of caves, but the biggest one is about 30 feet deep. The water in these caves is usually super clear, so you can see all the underwater wonders. But sometimes, after a storm, things might get a little murky.
5. Best Time for Cliff Jumping: Low Tide
Ready for some splashes? If you’re planning to jump off those cliffs, the best time is during low tide. That means the water is lower, and you’ve got more space to jump and swim around. But keep an eye on the tides, they can change pretty quickly.
Related: 14 Best Places for Couples to Visit in Honolulu
Adventure Safety Guide
Here are some safety tips for exploring the Spitting Caves:
- Always wear a life jacket, even if you are a strong swimmer.
- Be aware of the tides and currents. Never swim or jump in the water if the conditions are not safe.
- Don’t jump from heights that are too high for you. Start small and work your way up.
- Be careful of the rocks. They can be slippery and sharp.
- Don’t drink alcohol before or during your visit. Alcohol can impair your judgment and make you more likely to take risks.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.
The Spitting Caves are like a water show put on by nature. You can jump off hills, but you have to be super careful. You can get there with a short walk, and when you do, you’ll see amazing caves with clear water. Make sure you stay safe and have a great time on your cool journey.
Frequently asked questions
Where are the Spitting Caves on Oahu?
On the rocky shoreline of Portlock, part of Hawaii Kai on the southeast coast of Oahu, on the western side of Koko Head. From the clifftop it is a short, steep scramble down to the ledge, about 0.2 miles.
Are there lifeguards at the Spitting Caves?
No. It is a rocky ledge, not a beach park, so there are no lifeguards, restrooms or showers. Waves can surge up the cliff face without warning, so keep well back from the edge when the swell is up.
Is cliff jumping at the Spitting Caves safe?
Not for visitors. The water below is deep, currents are strong and people have died here. If you do not know this stretch of coast and the ocean conditions on the day, watch from the top.
When do the caves spit the most?
On days with bigger swell, which is also when the ledge is most dangerous. Check the National Weather Service surf forecast for Oahu before you go, and skip the visit if a high surf advisory is posted for the south or east shores.
