Spitting Cave & Island Brew Coffeehouse

Honolulu, Hawaii · Beach · Accessibility score 0.7/5

Address: 377 Keahole Street, Suite C5, Honolulu, HI 96825

About

Tucked into the Portlock neighborhood of Hawaii Kai on Oahu's southeastern shore, Spitting Cave is one of the island's most dramatic natural spectacles. Here, powerful Pacific waves crash against rugged volcanic cliffs and funnel into underwater lava tubes. Pressure builds inside the hollowed-out rock until the ocean is forcefully shot back out through the cave opening, sometimes reaching 20 feet or more. It's raw, thundering, and completely mesmerizing.

The cave sits at the end of Lumahai Street, accessed through a narrow path between residential homes. From the clifftops, visitors look out over layered volcanic rock and endless blue water. Between December and April, humpback whales migrating from Alaska are often spotted from this very perch. Sunset here is extraordinary, with the light catching the spray as it erupts from below.

There are no facilities at Spitting Cave itself, so plan accordingly. No restrooms, water fountains, or trash receptacles exist on site. Street parking is available but limited, and visitors should be mindful of the residential neighborhood.

Just a few minutes' drive away, Island Brew Coffeehouse in the Hawaii Kai Shopping Center makes the perfect companion stop. This family-owned cafe, open since 2012, specializes in 100% Hawaiian coffee from Kona and Ka'u regions. Their open-air patio offers views of boats and Koko Head while you sip a Hawaiian honey latte or dig into an acai bowl. The menu includes flatbreads, sandwiches, fresh pastries (with vegan and gluten-free options), and smoothies, all made to order with local ingredients. Free WiFi and a relaxed atmosphere make it easy to linger.

Together, these two spots capture the best of Hawaii Kai: wild natural beauty followed by warm, locally rooted hospitality. Start at the cave for the spectacle, then settle into Island Brew for the comfort.

Accessibility

Visitors should be aware that Spitting Cave presents significant accessibility challenges. The path from the street to the cliffside viewing area is steep, uneven, and rocky. The terrain can be slippery from sea spray and rain, and sturdy non-slip footwear is strongly recommended. There are no paved paths, railings, or improved walkways. The site is not wheelchair accessible and is difficult for anyone with mobility limitations. There are no restrooms, seating areas, or other facilities at the cave. The nearest restrooms and amenities are at Koko Marina Center, a short drive away. Parking is on-street only in a residential area with no designated accessible spaces.

Island Brew Coffeehouse, located in the Hawaii Kai Shopping Center, is a much more accessible experience. The shopping center provides onsite parking and a paved, level approach to the cafe. The coffeehouse features both indoor and outdoor patio seating. As a commercial establishment in a modern shopping center, standard ADA-compliant access is expected, though visitors with specific needs should contact Island Brew Coffeehouse directly at their Hawaii Kai location (377 Keahole Street) to confirm current accommodations.

For those who cannot safely access Spitting Cave's terrain, pairing a visit to Island Brew with other accessible coastal viewpoints in the Hawaii Kai area may be a good alternative. Contact the City and County of Honolulu's ADA coordinator for information on accessible beach and park options nearby.

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