California isn’t just about beaches and mountains—it’s also home to some of the most incredible underground destinations in the U.S.! Whether you’re into sea caves, volcanic tunnels, or rappelling into the unknown, there’s an adventure waiting for you beneath the surface.
Here are five must-visit underground and cave destinations in California that will take your exploration to the next level! 
Mitchell Caverns (Mojave Desert)
Deep in the Mojave Desert, Mitchell Caverns is a hidden world of limestone formations and eerie beauty. The caves, located inside the Providence Mountains State Recreation Area, feature stalactites, stalagmites, and rare crystal formations that have taken millions of years to form.
Pro tip: You can only visit on a guided tour, so make reservations in advance! 
Why You’ll Love It: Jaw-dropping cave formations + a unique desert setting.
Location: Mojave National Preserve, CA
Price: Around $10 per person (plus park entry fee).
Lava Beds National Monument (Tulelake)
Ever wanted to walk through an ancient lava tube? This park in Northern California is home to over 700 caves, created by volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. You can explore pitch-black tunnels, crawl through tight passages, and witness lava rock formations that look straight out of a sci-fi movie.
Pro tip: Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes—it gets super dark in there! 
Why You’ll Love It: Tons of caves to explore + otherworldly scenery. Location: Tulelake, CA Price: Around $25 per vehicle (valid for seven days).
Painted Cave (Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands)
Hidden on Santa Cruz Island, this sea cave is a natural masterpiece with walls painted in vibrant shades of red, purple, and green. At over 1,200 feet deep, it’s one of the largest sea caves in the world! The best way to experience it? By kayak or boat, paddling through its colorful, echoing chambers while spotting sea lions and dolphins.
Pro tip: Visit in the spring when the water levels are lower for the best access! 
Why You’ll Love It: Unreal natural colors + a magical ocean setting. Location: Channel Islands National Park, CA Price: Kayaking tours start around $150 per person.
Moaning Cavern Adventure Park (Angels Camp)
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Moaning Cavern is the place to go! This massive vertical cave is so big it could fit the Statue of Liberty inside. Thrill-seekers can rappel 165 feet straight down into the cavern, or take a spiral staircase to the bottom if that’s more your speed.
Pro tip: If you love adventure, try the underground zipline experience! 
Why You’ll Love It: Epic rappelling + cave exploration. Location: Angels Camp, CA Price: Cave tours start at $20 per person; rappelling costs $80+.
La Jolla Underwater Sea Caves (San Diego)
Beneath the cliffs of La Jolla, you’ll find a series of stunning sea caves that are best explored by kayak or snorkeling. These caves have been shaped by waves over thousands of years, creating hidden passages and breathtaking coastal views.
Pro tip: Join a guided tour to paddle through multiple caves and spot leopard sharks and sea lions! 
Why You’ll Love It: Ocean adventure + marine life encounters. Location: La Jolla, San Diego, CA Price: Kayak tours start at $40 per person.
Which Underground Wonder Will You Visit First? 
From eerie lava tubes to magical sea caves, California’s underground destinations offer something for every explorer. So, which one is calling your name? Tag your adventure buddy and start planning your next trip below the surface! 
