SECRET MERMAID CAVE ON OAHU – Here’s How To Get There!

I often see people, usually those sent to live here for a few years, frustrated that others won’t share locations of hidden treasures of the island. Places like the secret mermaid cave. These people are typically the ones who don’t like Hawaii. Unfortunately, I have seen it over and over again since moving here. It led me to this post. I wanted to share some notes on the culture of this island paradise which we are a guest of. I certainly did not know until someone taught me, so this is my chance to pass it on to others. If you are new to the island I hope it gives you a good understanding of adventuring on Oahu.

SECRET MERMAID CAVE ON OAHU – Here’s How To Get There!

2020 UPDATE on the mermaid cave:

A lot has changed since I wrote this post.

Many of the adventures on Oahu that were once a challenge to get to are now all over Google Maps.

In light of this, since the information is already out there, I’m willing to share how to get to the mermaid cave.

Park in the parking lot on Laumania Ave near Nanakuli Beach.

Face the ocean, follow the street towards the water until you get to the lava rock, then turn left.

You will walk on the lava for a little bit until you see a hole back a little away from the water, and most likely people around it. You have to climb into the hole and you will be in the mermaid cave.

Remember what goes in must come out, and getting out of the cave will require that you have enough strength to lift yourself up. Or a friend to give you a boost.

Safety tips for visiting the mermaid cave on Oahu

It can be rough and you need to use A LOT of common sense when it comes to your safety.

Use caution and your best judgment. If the tide is really rough, it’s usually too rough in winter, it is probably not worth going in the cave.

Know that once you climb in the cave you need to be able to lift your bodyweight back out through the hole.

Be careful as you walk on the lava rock as it can be jagged.

Adventure hoarding and the secret mermaid caves

Firstly, I don’t doubt for a second that there are some who keep areas secret for the sake of it.

Maybe the area is not really a secret but they just like that spot or the power of knowledge. Maybe they don’t want everyone to crowd it.

That’s frustrating, though it is important to note that there are other reasons information is not spread all over the Internet. Particularly when it comes to some of the ‘secret’ spots in Hawaii.

They are protected with an air of secrecy not through selfishness, but out of respect for the Hawaiian culture, the land, and people.

What to expect from people in Hawaii

‘The locals’ are some of the friendliest and hospitable people I have met.

I remember buying furniture for my new house when I first moved here.

The older Polynesian lady who sold them to me invited me to her family gathering for Christmas. She knew I was here alone and didn’t know anyone yet.

“You can’t be alone on Christmas,” she said as if we were old friends.

I also think of the ‘locals’ from my old workplace who would always greet me by my name as we passed each other during the workday. It was hard to even get a passing nod from others.

This group was the most amazingly kind, generous, and friendly bunch of people I have met.

Time is different in Hawaii

The bond people here have with each other and their island is incredible. Driving past campgrounds on weekends amazes and impresses me.

It’s heartwarming to see tent after tent of large family gatherings and people sharing time with each other.

Time being the most valuable gift we can give to one another.

I love to see family and community bonds.

I went camping earlier in the year and ended up sharing a small section of the beach with a local family.

During our time in this shared space, I watched them enjoy the outdoors with each other and it was beautiful. They seemed carefree. The kids ran around with each other all day.

They laughed and played as they moved from water to sand, then back to the water.

The adults relaxed, chatted, and prepared food and they all came together in the evening to enjoy the meal and family time.

How this all relates to the secret mermaid cave

It is no surprise that in this island culture the sharing of the ‘secret’ experiences are shared through people and not read on the Internet.

For example, my friend took me to the secret mermaid cave, and then I would take someone else and so on.

This allows us to share a bond between those who want to enjoy the island.

It teaches us to respect the area and also, more importantly, helps to preserve the areas for future generations to enjoy.

How to share adventures in Hawaii

Something that is important to remember is that we are guests here.

We are very lucky to be living here.

Hawaii does not owe us a great time while we are stationed here. Most importantly, your experience will be what you make it.

I understand this seems a little unusual for someone who has a blog about Hawaiian adventures right? My blog rule is that if an adventure is all over the Internet already then I post about it.

This blog is primarily about the more popular areas. The more secret adventures have very little (or generally no) information on how to find them.

I encourage readers to treat the area and animals with respect.

My posts are full of encouragement to stick to trails and take our trash because I am passionate about caring for the island.

I do believe in sharing some of the more well-known information to help others plan their own adventures and develop a love for the island too. If people love it then they will care for it.

At the same time though, I believe in respecting the local culture. This is how I strike a balance between the two.

Our responsibility as adventurers

I liked Venture Hawaii’s stance on the subject.

They said that they share some of the adventures though it is us, as adventurers, who have the responsibility to care for and respect the island and its natural wonders.

Having a sense of adventure and an explorer’s spirit is half the fun of getting out and enjoying these adventures.

Here’s what you can do next time you see photos of an amazing place you want to see.

Ask if that person would go with you instead of asking where it is.

Perhaps you will have better luck, be kept safe, and even enjoy time with a friend. You might even make a new one.

After you have been, by all means, share your amazing pictures of the day.

But be very mindful of what information you post as far as locations. This is especially important if they are the hidden treasures because you could be acting in a disrespectful manner.

That’s my thoughts and a few things to keep in mind.

Hopefully, more understanding will lead to an increase in appreciation of the island and a decrease in frustrations.

Other guides to help you plan your adventures on Oahu

• Off The Beaten Path Oahu Adventures – How To Explore Like A Local

• Best Beaches On Oahu – Here’s The 10 Beaches You Don’t Want To Miss

• Waterfall Hikes On Oahu – 12 Incredible Hikes That Will Blow Your Mind

If you found this useful, return the favor by sharing it or following me on Instagram!