Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
National Park · Hawaii

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Photo: National Park Service/S. Geiger · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

The park runs from sea level to the summit of Mauna Loa and protects steaming craters, lava fields and rainforest. Drive Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road, walk the Kīlauea Iki trail and Nāhuku lava tube, and watch the caldera from open overlooks when Kīlauea is erupting. Eruption episodes can close overlooks and roads at short notice, so check the park's alerts on the day.

Good to know

Tickets
Charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates.
Time needed
One full day; stay overnight to see the eruption glow after dark.
Best time
Any time of year. Come early morning or after dark for the best eruption views.
Getting there
Volcano village sits at the entrance; Naalehu is about 45 minutes south. Hilo International Airport is about 45 minutes by car; Kona is about 2 hours.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Naalehu, Hawaii
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Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park questions

Can you see lava at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park?

Often, yes. Kīlauea has been erupting in episodes at its summit, visible from rim overlooks; check the park's eruption page before you go.

What is the best hike in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes?

Kīlauea Iki, a 4-mile loop that crosses a solidified lava lake, is the favourite.

Where should I stay near the volcano?

Volcano House is on the crater rim, and Volcano village has B&Bs and cabins a few minutes away.

Nearby national parks