Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

National Park  ·  Hawaii

Rocky coastline with palm trees and a cliff beyon
Photo: Courtesy of J. Frank (NPS)
Location
Hawaii
Designation
National Park
Entrance fee
$30 / vehicle
Track it
Free in Park'd

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Extending from sea level to 13,680 feet, the park encompasses the summits of two of the world's most active volcanoes - Kīlauea and Mauna Loa - and is a designated International Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to do in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes offers a range of activities for visitors in Hawaii:

When to visit & weather

The weather the summit of Kīlauea (~4000' elevation) varies daily and may be rainy and chilly any time of the year. Temperature varies by elevation. At the summit of the volcano, temperatures may be 12 to 15 degrees cooler than at sea level. The coastal plain at the end of Chain of Craters Road is often hot, dry, and windy with the possibility of passing showers.

Getting to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is located on the Island of Hawai‘i. From Hilo: 30 miles southwest on Highway 11 (45 minute drive); from Kailua-Kona: 96 miles southeast on Highway 11 (2 to 2.5 hour drive), or 125 miles through Waimea and Hilo via Highways 19 and 11 (2.5 to 3 hours).

Track your visit to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes

Check Hawaiʻi Volcanoes off your national parks passport, log the trails you hiked and the wildlife you spotted, and see it on your personal map — free on iPhone with Park'd.

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Explore more national parks

Planning a bigger trip? Browse the full list of all 63 US national parks, or keep exploring: