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By now, you know Hawaii’s scenery is unmatched-but there’s one place on the Big Island that feels truly otherworldly: Kīlauea. Located within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, this living landscape connects you to the forces that built the Hawaiian Islands, with steaming vents, fresh lava rock, crater views, and dramatic coastline shaped by fire and sea.
Kīlauea is one of the world’s most active volcanoes. While activity changes over time, the volcano is well known for long-lived eruptive periods-most famously the Puʻu ʻŌʻō eruption, which began on January 3, 1983 and continued until 2018—followed by ongoing, more episodic activity in and around the summit region.
Inside the park, plan to drive between viewpoints and trailheads. Highlights often include crater overlooks into Halemaʻumaʻu, easy walks to steaming areas, and iconic stops like Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube), Devastation Trail, Kīlauea Iki, and scenic stretches of Chain of Craters Road where the terrain changes fast-from rainforest to stark lava fields and sea cliffs.
One important update: the historic Thomas A. Jaggar Museum area was heavily impacted by the 2018 eruption and summit collapse, and its exhibits were removed—so today you’ll rely on current overlooks and visitor-center info for the best (and safest) views.
Because volcanic conditions can change quickly, check official park updates before you go, dress for cooler/windier summit weather, and follow all closures and posted safety guidance. If you want the easiest, most efficient visit, a guided volcano tour can be a great option-especially if you’re trying to see the highlights in one day.
Due to high visitor demand year-round, our Big Island tours and activities can sell out in advance. To lock in your preferred dates, we recommend reserving early-call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.