Your Hawaiian trip won’t be complete without a visit to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park - one of the most famous and unique places on the Big Island. Plan on spending a full day here, because there’s a lot to see. Within the park you can experience everything from lush rainforest and steaming volcanic landscapes to dramatic crater views and wide-open lava fields. One of the easiest ways to explore is via Crater Rim Drive, where you can view Kīlauea Caldera and stop at several scenic overlooks and trailheads.
The park is also home to Mauna Loa, one of the largest volcanoes on Earth. Another must-see is the Thurston Lava Tube, where you can walk through a massive tunnel formed by ancient lava flows. As you continue along Chain of Craters Road, the landscape changes quickly - it’s a striking reminder that the island is still being shaped by volcanic forces. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is also a sacred place for Native Hawaiians, and visiting with respect adds meaning to the experience.
If you’d rather explore with transportation and a guide (and skip the planning), take a look at our Big Island volcano tours. You can also browse more Big Island activities to round out your itinerary.