Things to Know Before You Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
: A spectacular 18.8-mile scenic drive that descends 3,700 feet to the coast. It ends at the Hōlei Sea Arch , a natural 90-foot rock formation carved by the ocean. Along the way, you can stop at various lookouts and see ancient Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs .
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an awe-inspiring destination on the Big Island where you can witness the raw power of Earth’s creation and destruction. Whether you are a casual traveler or a hardcore hiker, the park offers a diverse range of experiences—from walking through lush rainforests to standing on the edge of a massive, steaming crater.
: This is widely considered the park's premier hike. The 3.3-mile loop descends through a rainforest onto a solidified lava lake that still emits steam from cracks in the ground.
: Located near the entrance, these areas offer an easy way to see volcanic activity up close as groundwater meets hot underground rocks, creating dramatic plumes of vapor. Current Conditions (as of April 27, 2026)
: A short, 0.4-mile walk through a massive underground tunnel formed by flowing lava. Note that as of late April 2026, the bridge entry is under renovation; the tube remains open but is accessible only from the "exit" end until late June 2026.
Things to Know Before You Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
: A spectacular 18.8-mile scenic drive that descends 3,700 feet to the coast. It ends at the Hōlei Sea Arch , a natural 90-foot rock formation carved by the ocean. Along the way, you can stop at various lookouts and see ancient Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs .
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an awe-inspiring destination on the Big Island where you can witness the raw power of Earth’s creation and destruction. Whether you are a casual traveler or a hardcore hiker, the park offers a diverse range of experiences—from walking through lush rainforests to standing on the edge of a massive, steaming crater.
: This is widely considered the park's premier hike. The 3.3-mile loop descends through a rainforest onto a solidified lava lake that still emits steam from cracks in the ground.
: Located near the entrance, these areas offer an easy way to see volcanic activity up close as groundwater meets hot underground rocks, creating dramatic plumes of vapor. Current Conditions (as of April 27, 2026)
: A short, 0.4-mile walk through a massive underground tunnel formed by flowing lava. Note that as of late April 2026, the bridge entry is under renovation; the tube remains open but is accessible only from the "exit" end until late June 2026.