Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and is renowned for its active volcanoes and stunning natural beauty. The park stretches over 333,000 acres and includes two active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

Established in 1916, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is not only famous for its volcanic activity but also for its cultural and historical significance. The park is home to various archaeological sites showcasing the ancient Hawaiian culture, including petroglyphs, lava tubes, and historic landmarks. The sacred Mauna Loa trail, once a Hawaiian pilgrimage route, leads visitors to the summit of the world's largest volcano.

Visitors to the park can explore a range of natural wonders. The Kīlauea Visitor Center provides information on volcanic activity, hiking trails, and ranger-led programs. Crater Rim Drive encircles the summit of Kīlauea and offers breathtaking views of the caldera and surrounding landscapes. The Chain of Craters Road takes visitors down to the coast, revealing vistas of ancient lava flows and dramatic sea cliffs.

One of the most popular attractions is Halemaʻumaʻu, the summit crater of Kīlauea. From the Jaggar Museum overlook, visitors can witness the mesmerizing lava lake glowing against the dark night sky. The park also features fascinating lava tubes, such as Thurston Lava Tube, where visitors can walk through a dormant lava cave and witness unique rock formations.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is not only a place of geological wonder but also a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers a wide range of hiking trails that vary in difficulty, from leisurely strolls to challenging treks. Adventurous visitors can explore the stark landscapes of Kīlauea Iki or embark on the wilderness of Mauna Loa, a multi-day hike to the summit.

Nearby attractions to the park include the charming town of Hilo, known for its lush gardens, farmers markets, and stunning waterfalls like Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls. The Puna Coast, located just south of the park, offers picturesque coastal views, unique lava formations, and the opportunity to witness the ongoing creation of new land.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park provides a unique opportunity to witness the power and beauty of active volcanoes while immersing oneself in the rich history and culture of Hawaii. It is a place where visitors can connect with the forces of nature, explore ancient traditions, and experience the enduring legacy of volcanic activity.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is situated on the southeastern edge of the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. This captivating national park encompasses an area of over 323,431 acres, showcasing the dynamic volcanic landscapes and diverse ecosystems that define the state's volcanic origins. Precisely located on the slopes of the towering Mauna Loa volcano and the active Kīlauea volcano, the park spans from the lush rainforests surrounding the Kīlauea Caldera to the barren deserts of the Mauna Loa summit. Its unique position within the Hawaiian archipelago grants visitors unparalleled access to witnessing the powerful forces of nature, providing an awe-inspiring experience that immerses them in the captivating beauty of the volcanic activity, lava flows, and volcanic cones that shape this remarkable region.

Address & Contact

1 Crater Rim Drive
Hawaii National Park, HI 96718
Driving Directions
Phone: 8089856011
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park would be during the months of January, May, and June. These months offer pleasant weather conditions with average temperatures ranging from 76°F to 79°F. Additionally, these months experience lower precipitation levels, averaging between 7.6 to 9.9 inches. Visiting during these times ensures favorable conditions for outdoor activities while also avoiding large crowds.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park are: Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Arts and Culture Biking Camping Backcountry Camping Car or Front Country Camping Hiking Front-Country Hiking Backcountry Hiking

Topics

Learn about these topics at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Animals Birds Archeology Arts Rock Landscapes and Features Trails Unique Species Wilderness Scenic Views Rare Endangered Oceans

Visitor Centers

Welcome Center

The Welcome Center is a great first stop when entering the park. Rangers and volunteers are on duty daily to provide visitors with the latest information on the current conditions, hiking information, things to do and the daily schedule of ranger-led activities. The Hawai'i Pacific Parks Association operates a park store in the Welcome Center that sells books, posters, and other educational materials. Proceeds benefit park programs.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Welcome Center.

Campsites within or near Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Kulanaokuaiki

Kulanaokuaiki is located off Hilina Pali Road at 3,200 feet (975 m), there are nine walk-in campsites with picnic tables. There is an accessible vault toilet; however, no water is available and campfires are not permitted. Use fueled camping stoves only. This campground is subject to closure when the area is dry and during times of high fire risk. No dogs or pets are allowed at this campground to protect endangered nene.
Fees (US$): 10.00 (Per site)
Total Campsites: 9
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water

Nāmakanipaio

Nāmakanipaio Campground is located 31.5 miles south of Hilo on Highway-11 at 4,000' elevation. It is a large, open grassy area with tall eucalyptus and 'ōhi'a trees. This campground has restrooms, water, picnic tables and barbecue pits. Campfires are permitted in the barbeque pits only. If there are more than 2 people in your party, you can expand to 4 people per site with another tent. Maximum stay is 7 days.
Fees (US$): 15.00 (Per tent site)
Total Campsites: 16
Toilets: Flush Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - year round

Hotels within or near Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a Doubletree by Hilton

In the heart of Hilo, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a Doubletree by Hilton is within a 5-minute drive of Coconut Island Park and Port of Hilo. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Hilo? This hotel has facilities measuring 11,000 square feet (1022 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 93 Banyan Dr, Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Web: Link

Aloha Junction Bed & Breakfast

When you stay at Aloha Junction Bed & Breakfast in Volcano, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Volcano Garden Arts. Featured amenities include express check-out, luggage storage, and microwave in a common area. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 19-4037 Olapalapa Road, Volcano Village, Volcano, Hawaii 96785
Web: Link

The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls

When you stay at The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls in Hilo, you'll be on a river and 13 minutes by car from Pacific Tsunami Museum. Featured amenities include a computer station, express check-in, and luggage storage. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 100 Kulaniapia Drive, Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Web: Link

Crème De La Crème

When you stay at this vacation home in Volcano, you'll be near the beach and 7 minutes by car from Volcano Garden Arts. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 11-3759 10th St., Volcano, Hawaii 96785
Web: Link

Old Hawaiian B and B

Located in Hilo, Old Hawaiian B and B is on a river, within a 15-minute walk of Wailuku River State Park and Kaumana Springs Wilderness. Featured amenities include luggage storage and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1492 Wailuku Dr, Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Web: Link

Sea Mountain

When you stay at this vacation home in Pahala, you'll be on the beach and 12 minutes by foot from Punalu'u Beach. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 95-788 Ninole Loop Road, Punalu'u, Pahala, Hawaii 96777
Web: Link

Village Manor B21

When you stay at this condo in Pahala, you'll be on the beach and 12 minutes by foot from Punalu'u Beach. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 95-788 Ninole Loop Road, Punalu'u, Pahala, Hawaii 96777
Web: Link

Tropical Island Paradise 2 Bedroom Home

Located in Mountain View, this vacation home is within a 15-minute drive of Akatsuka Orchid Gardens and 2400 Fahrenheit Art Glass. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 18-2045 Leialoha St, Mountain View, Hawaii 96785
Web: Link