The Impressive Volcanoes National Park On The Big Island

The striking Kilauea Volcano on Hawaii's Big Island is one of the world's most lively volcanoes and has been erupting for more than twenty five years. The Big Island is one of the few places on the planet where the splendor of a live volcano can be experienced through the beauty offered by the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The extraordinary volcano's name, meaning "much spewing", holds true as the volcano's lava creates a cloud of steam as it spills into the Pacific Ocean.

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii's Big Island is the island's number one visitor attraction with 377 square miles of unfamiliar terrain providing a spectacle to behold, taking visitors on a journey back to the beginning of time. Kilauea has been erupting since 1983 whilst Mauna Loa, the Big Island's other volcano, last erupted in 1984. The great mana, or spiritual power, can be felt as the vast National Park is explored.

Hawaii's Big Island is a truly exceptional island offering experiences and scenery to thrill - here there are 11 of earth's 13 climate zones, so be ready for changeable weather and pack accordingly, so that you can enjoy all the natural glories of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Mauna Kea is the world's tallest mountain from the ocean floor and at its peak, where there is even snow to play in. It measures 13,796 feet from sea level and is therefore higher than Mount Everest. Hiking lovers will be in their element at the Volcanoes National Park's rocky trails and at the Waipio Valley, the "Valley of the Kings".

Visitors can stop off and unwind at one of many of the Big Island's beaches including the green sand beach of Papakoa at South Point, which is made from Olivine crystals. A must see place is Hilo, the island's largest city and capital which holds a traditional Hawaiian aura and is great for entertainment, culture and cuisine. The tropical rainforests, cascading waterfalls and deep gorges of the Hamakua Coast are a world away from the arid scenery of the eastern coast and a wonder to discover.


For a longer stay to have the benefit of all that the area has to offer, you will find a variety of hotels and lodges in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The area is also good for camping with two designated drive-in camps: Namakani Paio, accessed via Highway 11 and Kulanaokuaiki, accessed from Hilina Pali Road. Both are free except for a park entry fee and no reservations are needed but please be aware it is operated on a first come, first served basis. You are allowed to stay at either of the parks for one week out of four and for no more than thirty days in one year. Namakani Paio has good barbecue pit and picnic amenities. There is no running water available at Kulanaokuaiki but two out of the three sites that make up Kulanaokuaiki in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park have wheelchair access facilities.

If you're camping in a tent, or walking in the region, it is good to know that the weather in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park can be wet and cool. An efficient rain fly and warm clothes are advisable.