19 Best Things to Do in the Big Island National Park: Hawaii Volcanoes

LOOKING FOR THINGS TO DO IN THE BIG ISLAND NATIONAL PARK?

You’ve come to the right place! We love the national parks in the United States and have visited over 30 national parks. Hawaii Volcanoes was one of the most unique parks we have been to. During our last visit to the Big Island we had a great time exploring this amazing national park.

The Big Island National Park is one of the most unique geological sites in the world. The park is home to the world’s largest active volcanos, Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Visitors can see lava flows, steam vents, and even volcanic craters.

Big Island National Park is also the best place for hiking volcanoes in Hawaii, camping, and bird watching. There are many different trails to explore, and the scenery is simply breathtaking. Whether you’re interested in geology or just looking for a beautiful place to spend some time, Big Island National Park is definitely worth a visit.

During our last visit, we took some time to explore Volcanoes National Park. We were pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to see so much during our visit. We had such a fun time exploring the different trails and seeing the different craters and volcanic features.

Kilauea Visitor Center Operating Hours: Daily, 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ranger Station and Chain of Craters Road: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle or free with the America the Beautiful Pass

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tours

1. Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

The Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Hawaii after dark. This intimate tour takes you to see Volcanoes National Park, followed by a stargazing session at Mauna Kea.

The tour starts at some of the most tantalizing sights when the sky is ablaze with colors as the sun sets over the horizon.

As night falls, you’ll be able to see the glowing lava as it flows into the ocean. Afterward, you’ll head up to Mauna Kea, where you’ll have a front-row seat to some of the clearest night skies in the world. With expert guidance, you’ll be able to spot constellations, planets, and even distant galaxies. It’s an unforgettable experience that’s not to be missed.

Not only will you see some beautiful sights, but their provided lunch and dinner with Hawaiian sweet bread is a real treat.

▶ BOOK Volcano and Stargazing Tour

2. Eco Tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Eco Tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park takes you through one of the most unique places on Earth. As you explore the park, you will see native wildlife like Hawaiian honeycreepers and Nene Geese.

The tour has two options for their private tour. You can do a 3 or 6-hour tour. A private Volcanoes National Park tour is the best way to explore and experience Kilauea’s summit.

The lava-sculpted landscape is truly breathtaking. The goal of this tour is to provide you with an intimate experience of this special place. They will take you off the beaten path to see some of the park’s hidden gems and share stories about the history, culture, and ecology of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

By the end of the tour, you’ll have a deep understanding and appreciation for this national treasure. You will love to tour Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

▶ BOOK Eco Tour of Volcanoes National Park

3. Volcanoes National Park Tour from Hilo

Volcanoes National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Big Island of Hawaii. The park is home to Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Visitors can explore lava tubes, view eruptions, and hike through rainforests.

The park also offers a variety of ranger-led programs. The Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall, and Gardens Tour is the perfect way to see the park. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Hilo, as well as a guided tour of the lava tubes and a hike to see the active volcano.

Tours are led by experienced guides who are familiar with the park and its history.

The Volcanoes National Park Tour from Hilo is an intimate and professional way to see one of Hawaii’s most popular tourist destinations. The tour will also show you the beauty of Hilo with a visit to Rainbow falls and a stop at a local chocolate shop.

▶ BOOK Volcanoes National Park Tour from Hilo

4. Helicopter Tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mount Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can see firsthand the power of these truly awe-inspiring natural wonders.

One of the best ways to experience the park is from the Circle of Fire Helicopter Tour from Hilo. This tour provides an intimate look at the lava flows, steam vents, and craters that dot the landscape. They also offer a unique perspective on the size and scale of the volcanoes.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to experience Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, consider taking a helicopter tour. You can choose between a morning or afternoon tour.

▶ BOOK Circle of Fire Helicopter Tour

Best Things to Do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Tip: If you aren’t going on a guided tour, we highly recommend using this self-guided audio tour. It is really inexpensive but adds so much to your experience in the park. It shares so many great facts and stories from the history of this area.

5. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center is the perfect place to learn about the fascinating geology of the Hawaiian Islands. The center, which is located in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, offers a variety of interactive exhibits that explain the formation of the Hawaiian Islands and the unique geological features of each island.

The center also showcases the work of local artists and scientists and offers a variety of educational programs for both children and adults.

Whether you’re looking to learn more about Hawaii’s unique geology or simply want to enjoy some stunning artwork, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center offers something for everyone.

6. Crater Rim Drive

Crater Rim Drive is one of Hawaii’s most popular drives. The drive takes visitors around the rim of Haleakala crater, providing stunning views of the crater floor and the surrounding landscape. Haleakala is an active volcano, and the crater is home to a variety of plant and animal life.

The drive also passes through several towns, giving visitors a chance to experience Hawaiian culture. Crater Rim Drive is a must-see for anyone visiting Hawaii.

7. Halema’uma’u Crater

Nestled within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Halema‘uma‘u Crater is one of the most iconic features of the Big Island. This massive crater was formed during a centuries-long eruption that came to an end in 2018.

Today, it is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, who come to marvel at its size and beauty.

The crater is also home to a number of rare plants and animals, making it a vital part of the island’s ecosystem. In addition, the crater serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the ever-changing landscape of Hawai‘i.

For all these reasons, Halema‘uma‘u Crater is an essential part of the island’s identity.

8. Drive the Hilani Pali Road 

The Hilani Pali Road in Hawaii is one of the most beautiful and scenic drives in the world. The road winds through lush rainforests, towering waterfalls, and pristine beaches. The Hilani Pali Road is also one of the most dangerous roads in Hawaii, with numerous blind turns and steep drop-offs.

The Hilani Pali Road is definitely worth the drive as long as you are attentive to your surroundings. The views are simply breathtaking, and there’s no better way to experience the beauty of Hawaii. Just be sure to drive carefully and always be aware of your surroundings.

9. Drive the Chain of Craters Road

The Chain of Craters Road is one of the most unique and scenic drives in the world. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, the road takes you through a lava field that was created by a series of volcanic eruptions. The most recent eruption occurred in 1993, and since then, the lava has slowly cooled and hardened, creating an otherworldly landscape.

This was our favorite part of Volcanoes National Park. The drive will take you about 90 minutes, depending on how long and how often you stop. Craters and other volcanic highlights are found in the first four miles.

It is a fun area to drive through and get out of the car when something catches your eye. We especially enjoyed the Mauna Ulu stop. There are lava flows from as recent as 1979.

Today, the road is a popular tourist destination, and it offers visitors an up-close look at the power of nature. It is worth the drive and will leave everyone with a great visual of the island.

10. Volcano House

The Volcano House is one of the most iconic hotels in Hawaii. Nestled within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it is the perfect place to experience the power and beauty of an active volcano.

Guests can admire the churning lava from the comfort of their room or take a closer look at one of the hotel’s guided Volcanoes National Park Hikes.

There is also a Museum of Volcanoes on site, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the history and science of these fascinating natural wonders. Whether you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience or simply want to enjoy some of the best views in Hawaii, the Volcano House is sure to exceed your expectations.

The hotel is 4,000 feet above sea level surrounded by some of the most unique landscapes in the world. The Hotel is inviting with great reviews.

11. Kilauea Crater

The Kilauea Crater is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Big Island of Hawaii. The crater is located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and is home to an active volcano.

Although the volcano has been erupting continuously since 1983, the crater itself is relatively small and safe to visit.

Visitors can take a boat tour to see the lava flowing into the ocean, or they can hike to the crater’s rim, where they can get a close-up view of the lava flow. The Kilauea Crater is also a popular spot for stargazing, as the lack of light pollution makes it one of the best places in Hawaii to see the night sky.

There are several museums and educational centers near the crater, making it an ideal destination for families. Despite its popularity, Kilauea Crater is also one of the most dangerous tourist destinations in Hawaii, so make sure you are paying attention because volcanoes can be unpredictable.

The lava flow is unpredictable, so it is always a good idea to check in at the visitor center before your visit.

12. Thurston Lava Tube

The Thurston Lava Tube is a favorite for many visitors to the Big Island of Hawaii. This natural wonder was formed when a river of molten lava cooled and hardened, creating a tunnel that is now large enough for people to walk through.

Visitors can explore the tube’s twisting passages and learn about its formation from interactive displays.

In addition to its fascinating history, the Thurston Lava Tube offers stunning views of the surrounding lava fields. With its otherworldly landscape and fascinating geological features, the Thurston Lava Tube is an unforgettable experience for all who visit it.

13. Kilauea Iki Crater Hike

The Kilauea Iki Crater Hike is a popular hiking trail in Hawaii. The trailhead is located near the town of Volcano, and the hike itself takes about four hours to complete. The trail winds through lush rainforest and passes by several lava flows before descending into the crater itself.

The crater is a massive volcanic basin that is still active, and it is filled with steaming fumaroles and churning lava lakes. The hike can be challenging at times and is considered a moderately difficult hike.

The views from inside the crater are truly breathtaking, and it is an unforgettable experience to stand atop an active volcano. If you are looking for an adventure while visiting Hawaii, the Kilauea Iki Crater is a highly enjoyable trail.

14. Mauna Loa Lookout

As you drive up the winding road to Mauna Loa Lookout, you can’t help but be awestruck by the views. On one side, the massive volcano looms large, while on the other side, the ocean stretches out to the horizon.

The lookout itself is perched on the edge of a cliff, providing an unobstructed view of both the volcano and the ocean. But this isn’t just a place to take in the view; it’s also a place to learn about the history and geology of Mauna Loa.

There are informational displays about the volcano’s formation and eruption history, as well as a seismograph that monitors earthquake activity. This is an ideal spot for anyone interested in geology or Hawaiian history.

Even if you’re not particularly interested in either of those things, it’s impossible not to be impressed by the sheer size and majesty of Mauna Loa.

15. Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs

The Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs are the largest concentration of ancient rock carvings in Hawaii. Found on the Big Island, these glyphs offer a glimpse into the lives of the island’s first inhabitants. Most of the carvings depict human figures, often engaged in daily activities such as fishing and hunting.

Other petroglyphs depict animals, plants, and geometric shapes. It is believed that the carvings were made using sharp tools made of stone or bone.

While the meaning of the glyphs is not known for certain, they are thought to be associated with religious beliefs or ritual practices. Gazing at these ancient carvings, it is easy to imagine the lives of Hawaii’s first inhabitants.

The Pu’u Loa Trail will take you through a collection of petroglyphs documenting the life and culture of the native Hawaiians. The trail has about 23,000 petroglyphs, many of which you can see from the boardwalk. It is a moderate hike that is about 1.5 miles.

16. Holei Sea Arch

The Holei Sea Arch is an iconic natural feature on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is at the end of the Chain of Craters Road. This massive arch is formed from lava that cooled and solidified into hard rock. Over time, waves crashing against the rocks eroded the archway, creating the impressive formation that we see today.

The archway is 90 feet high, and the steep cliffs drop into the ocean. Visitors to the Holei Sea Arch admire the spectacular views and take photographs of the beautiful landscape. The Holei Sea Arch is definitely worth a visit.

The Holei Sea Arch is at the end of the Chain of Craters Road. The arch is about 90 feet tall and was cut into the cliff of an ancient lava flow from approximately 500 years ago.

If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great place to let them do some climbing and exploring on the lava rock before driving out of the park. This was one of my kids’ favorite places to explore in the national park.

17. Volcanic Steam Vents

Few things are as awe-inspiring as a volcano. These massive natural wonders can spew lava, ash, and steam, reshaping the landscape instantly. Volcanic steam vents are particularly fascinating as they offer a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a volcano.

These vents are formed when magma comes into contact with groundwater, causing the water to boil and turn to steam. The steam then escapes through cracks in the volcano’s surface, often carrying bits of rocks and other debris with it.

Visitors to volcanic national parks can sometimes get up close to these vents, and the experience is truly unlike anything else.

The steam vents throughout Volcanoes National Park are a cool way to see another feature of these unique and mesmerizing volcanoes at Volcanoes National Park.

18. See the Sulphur Banks (Ha’akulamanu)

Ha‘akulamanu, or the Sulfur Banks, is a popular hiking trail close to the Kilauea Visitor Center. Visitors can see steam vents and smell the rich smell of Sulfur from the CO2, sulfur dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide. Many people often say the smell is reminiscent of rotten eggs.

Ha‘akulamanu trail is also a popular destination for birdwatchers.

The hike is one of the easy trails and is about 1.2 miles round trip from the Kilauea Visitor center. This trail is not recommended for young children but is wheelchair accessible. 

19. Devastation Trail

The Devastation Trail in Volcanoes National Park is named for the direct cause of the 1959 Kilauea Iki eruption. The Devastation Trail is an easy wheelchair and stroller trail that is paved, and it is popular for those looking for a relatively short and easy hike. The trail is only one mile long.

This was one of our favorite hikes in Volcanoes National Park because our kids could hop in the stroller when they were tired and explored all over the trail.

The trail offers stunning views of the different landscapes in the area. You will see areas with little vegetation to dense vegetation areas and a great view of the Kilauea caldera. You can see where a forest was engulfed in cinders from the mountains of lava and see the cinder cone.

MAP OF THINGS TO SEE IN HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Animals

There are a variety of animals that you might see during your visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The most famous residents of the park are the Hawaiian Nene or Hawaiian geese. These birds were once on the brink of extinction, but thanks to conservation efforts, their populations are getting better.

Other animal species that call the park home include Hawaii mongooses, red-footed boobies, and several types of endemic fish.

You might even encounter an endangered Hawaiian monk seal basking on the beach. Keep your eyes peeled during your visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you never know what kind of wildlife you might see.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Weather

The weather at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is determined by a number of factors, including the elevation of the park, its location on the island of Hawaii, and the time of year. The park is located in a tropical climate, so the weather is generally warm and humid.

You can expect the typical temperature lows to be around 48 degrees F, with the typical high being around 79 degrees F.

Safety at Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes in the park can be unpredictable. It is important to stay on the trails and follow instructions from the park rangers and any signs. We would recommend starting your visit to the Visitors Center because they will tell you what is happening in the park the day you are there.

This is a great website for some more information and safety tips.

Getting to the Big Island National Park

Hilo to Volcanoes National Park

Hilo to Volcanoes National Park is about a 45 min drive via HI-11. It is recommended you rent a car if you are going to be traveling this distance, but you could visit the Volcanoes National Park by taking a tour from Hilo. You can also use a taxi or Uber service, but the difficulty of getting a ride back is unknown.

The Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall, and Gardens Tour will take you from Hilo to Volcanoes National Park and back. This is a great tour and highly recommended by many.

▶ Check Prices on a Rental Car Here

Kona to Volcanoes National Park

Kona to Volcanoes National Park is just under a 2-hour drive. You will get to Volcanoes by taking the HI-11 and Hawaii Belt Road. Because the trip is over 80 miles one way, it is recommended you have a rented vehicle when visiting Volcanoes National Park from Kona.

The drive is really pretty, and we highly recommend taking a day trip over from Kona if you aren’t going to be staying on the Hilo side of the Big Island.

▶ Check Prices on a Rental Car Here

Hotels Near Big Island National Park

Inside the Park: Volcano House

The Volcano House is a beautiful place to stay inside the Volcanoes National Park. It is on the rim of one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The house has 33 guest rooms and dining. They also provide cultural demonstrations and events.

Outside the Park

Jade Oasis/Palila

If you are looking for a cute smaller place to stay that is very close to the Volcanoes National Park, you should stay at the five-star Jade Oasis/Palila. This property has 6 room resort with each room being 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom. The Asian style décor is very inviting.

The property has all the amenities you would want for a comfortable stay, including WIFI, coffee makes, comfortable beds, a hot tub, and it is close to a laundry mat.

▶ Check Rate & Book: Jade Oasis/Palila

Volcano Village Estates

Another great place to look at when deciding where to stay near Volcanoes National Park is the Volcano Village Estates. The park is only a 14 min walk with food and the Cooper Center nearby. There are over a hundred 5-star reviews for this cute and inviting location.

The rooms are modern with bright and cute decorations. You can rent multiple different types of places here, from a bungalow to a family cottage with a private kitchen. We love having a kitchen where we can cook and keep for the kids.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Volcano Village Estates

Is Volcanoes National Park Worth Visiting?

If you love nature and are looking for adventure, Volcanoes National Park is definitely worth a visit. The park, which is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is home to Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Although the volcano has been erupting continuously since 1983, the park is still safe to visit.

Do keep in mind when visiting that some areas don’t have a lot of vegetation. You will see lots of volcanic rock and the plants that initially start to grow in and along the rocks.

In fact, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from hiking and camping to bird watching and stargazing. Plus, the lava flows provide a stunning natural backdrop. If you’re looking for an exciting and educational experience, Volcanoes National Park is definitely worth a visit.

If you are interested in looking at images and information before your trip to see if the volcano is active, there are some great websites where you can see webcams and photos of the Kilauea volcano.

More Information:

• Kīlauea volcanic activity summary is also available by phone: (808) 967-8862
• Kīlauea webcam images: https://www.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/webcams
• Kīlauea photos/video: https://www.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/photo-and-video-chronology
• Kīlauea lava-flow maps: https://www.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/maps
• Kīlauea FAQs: https://www.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/faqs

The Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park

The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is April through November. This is when the weather is typically driest. However, don’t let that deter you from going if you cannot make it during that time. It is a nice place to visit year-round.

FAQ: Big Island National Park

What are the two national parks in Hawaii?

Haleakala National Park and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are the two national parks in Hawaii. Haleakala is located on Maui and is home to the Haleakala volcano. The park includes many different trails, as well as the opportunity to stargaze from the summit.

 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on Big Island and includes the Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. The park is home to many different plant and animal species, as well as lava tubes and lava flows. Visitors can hike through the rainforest or see the volcanoes up close by taking a helicopter tour.

How many national parks are on the Big Island?

Volcanoes National Park is the only national park on the Big Island.

What is the name of the national park on the Big Island of Hawaii?

Volcanoes National Park is the national park on the Big Island of Hawaii.

When was Hawaii Volcanoes National Park established?

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was established on August 1, 1916. It was created to preserve the area’s unique volcanic landscapes and ecosystems.

The total park size is over 500 square miles of land, making it a large national park in the United States. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea.

How much time do you need at Volcano National Park?

When going to Volcanoes National Park, you could spend 1 to 3 days visiting the park. Depending on how in-depth you want to get and how much hiking you will do.

If you are a volcano fanatic, this is the park for you, and you may want to spend a longer time there.

How big is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is around 500 to 525 square miles. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is very large.

What can you do in Volcanoes National Park?

The best thing about Volcanoes National Park is that you can see an active volcano in action. This is also a good park to hike, stargaze, and look for animals.

Can you see lava in Volcanoes National Park?

Yes, you can see lava flows in Volcanoes National Park. However, this can change because volcanoes are not super predictable like Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park.

What is Volcanoes National Park known for?

Volcanoes National Park is known for its two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. You can see active lava flows and learn a lot about volcanoes at Volcanoes National Park.

Punalu’u Black Sands Beach

Although not in Volcanoes National Park, make sure to visit the nearby Punalu’u Black Sands Beach. It is the most famous black sand beach in Hawaii. Small pieces of lava make up the sand.

There are strong currents here, so be careful if you plan on swimming. You also have a good chance of seeing the endangered Hawksbill and green turtles sunbathing on the beach.

Waterfall, Hilo, Volcanoes, and Black sands beach tour

If you are interested in seeing the Hilo waterfalls along with Volcanoes National Park and this beach, I recommend a tour with Hawaii Outdoor Guides. It is a highly rated tour that will give you the opportunity to see the best parts of the eastern side of the Big Island.

This tour departs from the Kona and Kohala Coast with transportation over to the Hilo side of the island.

Book Your Volcano and Black Sands Beach Tour Here

Conclusion: Big ISland National Park

The Big Island National Park is a great way to see how islands form. The birth of the Hawaiian islands was from volcanic eruptions. There is lots of lava rock and craters like the Halemaumau crater at the Big Island National Park.

This Hawaii national park is one of the best stops if you are on the Big Island. You will love looking off the sea cliffs, and the ancient lava flows coupled with new lava flows. We hope you have a great time on your Hawaii adventure at Volcanoes National Park.

If you’re going to be spending more time on the big island, check out our guide The Best Things to Do on the Big Island in Hawaii.

Pin for Later –

Want more National Parks inspiration? Follow our National Parks Board on Pinterest!