About the Park

Born of Fire, Born of the Sea

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, which inspires the support and stewardship of the Friends, protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world and is a designated International Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Park consists of 333,086 acres encompassing a spectacular array of environments ranging from the shoreline to the 13,677′ summit of Mauna Loa. With over half of its lands designated as wilderness, the park is a showcase for Hawai’i’s unique natural, archeological, and cultural heritage.

A volcanic eruption with lava and smoke rising from the volcano, with a group of spectators and tourists observing from a designated viewing area in the foreground.

Experience the wonder and power of the Park’s living volcanoes.

Things To Do

In Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, friends and visitors can walk on new lava fields, hike thorough ancient rainforests, see plants and animals found nowhere else on earth, and learn to respect and celebrate the culture and traditions of Hawai‘i’s indigenous people.

Park Location & Hours

Located on the Big Island of Hawai‘i, the park entrance is located off of Highway 11 between mile markers 28 and 29. Approximate drive time from Hilo is 45 minutes (30 miles) and from Kailua-Kona is 2.5 hours (96 miles). The Park entrance is open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. The park’s Kahuku Unit is located off of Highway 11 between mile markers 70 and 71. Kahuku is open on Thursdays through Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Colorful rainbow arching across a cloudy sky above a scenic landscape with trees and a distant mountain. Several people are observing the rainbow near a stone wall and sidewalk.
Lava rocks and volcanic terrain with some sparse vegetation under a blue sky with clouds.

Weather Conditions

Kilauea Summit is located at 4,000’ elevation, where temperatures may be 12 to 15 degrees cooler than at sea level. Come prepared for variable weather conditions, including sunny, windy, chilly, and/or rainy.

Volcanic Landscape

Extending from sea level to 13,680 feet, the park encompasses the summits and rift zones of two of the world's most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, Kīlauea has been in nearly continuous eruption since 1983, while Mauna Loa last erupted in 2022. The park and its active volcanoes draw more than 1.3 million visitors annually, making our National Park the #1 natural attraction in the state.

Kīlauea Live View

East Halemaumau crater
Source: USGS [V3cam]

Resources