Kilauea Volcano
Kilauea Volcano
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
187 reviews
Excellent
141
Very good
28
Average
11
Poor
4
Terrible
3
AyaHawaii
United States1,913 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
Unfortunately, restaurant and shops were closed now, but you still can trail around the volcano. In front of Kīlauea Caldera has steam vents. You may feel the power from this living mountain. You can park your car and start short trail with young kids. Please bring jacket. 2hours from Kailua-Kona by car.
Written August 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jane H
12 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
Every time we visit Volcanoes National park, it's different. Always talk to the rangers to get the most recent volcanic activity.They are very friendly and full of information. We have been on several of the guided walks, and depending who is guiding, the range of info will be different. One of the great views are the stars at night. They look so close, you feel like you could reach up and grab one.
Written March 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RealityEngaged
Kailua-Kona, HI44 contributions
Feb 2022
We always enjoy going up to the Volcano National park and the whole area. Things had changed since we were there last but there is always something cool to see. Lots of vents but no flowing lava currently
Written March 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JDSoui
Tampa, FL6,701 contributions
Mar 2023
Had a fabulous experience. Each time at the park there is something new to see and new path to find. From the entrance, to the chain of craters road to the pull off areas to view and take in the sights or go for a hike. This is a great experience for all ages and activity levels.
Written March 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tikiznbamboo
Albuquerque, NM225 contributions
May 2018 • Family
Good morning from the top of Kilauea volcano. We live just outside the National Park. Our vantage point of what is going on at the summit doesn’t get much closer.
It is a beautiful day here. The birdsong is extravagant and celebratory. You would never believe the most active volcano on the planet is undergoing one of its changes just down the road.
It is more stressful to read what certain widely read so called news outlets are saying about us. It is like a world wide game of gossip. Our volcano is not about to explode. Rather, there will be explosions within the volcano. This is *normal*. It is what happens when rocks and boulders fall off the vertical sides of the vacated lava tube that used to be the lava lake we ooooohed and awwwed over just days ago. Eventually if the column of lava continues to recede, the water table will intrude and steam will be produced.
The way it goes from there is known from past experience with this volcano. A similar set of circumstances to those at present took place in 1924 with quite a bit of documentation from many different perspectives. What we know is that the material falling into the mostly vacated lava column would pile up until the steam could no longer escape. There would be a lull in anything escaping from the crater. Then pressure would build until the steam would escape in an explosion. You can think of champagne exiting the bottle if you shake it. This is more the sensation. This is not a great tragic event that sends people running for their lives. It is more like a fireworks display you watch from a sane distance. The ejecta from the volcano will include some large pieces that will fall into the crater.
To understand this, picture our crater. It is maybe four miles across. The Halema’uma’u portion, what had been the lava lake, the lava column now, is much smaller. A crater within a crater within a crater within a crater etc. I have amused myself many times standing on the edge of Kilauea counting the crater edges. They are ragged and tend to both vanish in spots and be obscured by vegetation that has grown in over the intervening years since the last lava event inside. The ejecta of size will fall within those craters.
Although part of the same plumbing system, the events down mountain with lava periodically fountaining from cracks in the ground is absolutely a different sort of eruption than anything expected on top in this eruption cycle. The loss of homes our friends are staring in the face and experiencing is the deep sadness here. The anticipation of loss, the return to their homes to do all the normal things when next week their homes may not be there, that is a whole other story.
It is a beautiful day here. The birdsong is extravagant and celebratory. You would never believe the most active volcano on the planet is undergoing one of its changes just down the road.
It is more stressful to read what certain widely read so called news outlets are saying about us. It is like a world wide game of gossip. Our volcano is not about to explode. Rather, there will be explosions within the volcano. This is *normal*. It is what happens when rocks and boulders fall off the vertical sides of the vacated lava tube that used to be the lava lake we ooooohed and awwwed over just days ago. Eventually if the column of lava continues to recede, the water table will intrude and steam will be produced.
The way it goes from there is known from past experience with this volcano. A similar set of circumstances to those at present took place in 1924 with quite a bit of documentation from many different perspectives. What we know is that the material falling into the mostly vacated lava column would pile up until the steam could no longer escape. There would be a lull in anything escaping from the crater. Then pressure would build until the steam would escape in an explosion. You can think of champagne exiting the bottle if you shake it. This is more the sensation. This is not a great tragic event that sends people running for their lives. It is more like a fireworks display you watch from a sane distance. The ejecta from the volcano will include some large pieces that will fall into the crater.
To understand this, picture our crater. It is maybe four miles across. The Halema’uma’u portion, what had been the lava lake, the lava column now, is much smaller. A crater within a crater within a crater within a crater etc. I have amused myself many times standing on the edge of Kilauea counting the crater edges. They are ragged and tend to both vanish in spots and be obscured by vegetation that has grown in over the intervening years since the last lava event inside. The ejecta of size will fall within those craters.
Although part of the same plumbing system, the events down mountain with lava periodically fountaining from cracks in the ground is absolutely a different sort of eruption than anything expected on top in this eruption cycle. The loss of homes our friends are staring in the face and experiencing is the deep sadness here. The anticipation of loss, the return to their homes to do all the normal things when next week their homes may not be there, that is a whole other story.
Written May 12, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tikiznbamboo
Albuquerque, NM225 contributions
Of all the attractions in the islands of Hawaii, none are as visited as Kilauea, the volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park actively erupting, oozing lava, spewing gaseous clouds, and periodically rumbling and plumping up then sending surging flows into the sea.
If you are making a trip to the middle of the ocean to visit Pele at Halema'uma'u, her own house of everlasting fire, there are a few ways to prepare for your visit that will make it all you hope for. Most visitors come in hopes of seeing flowing lava. There are several ways to achieve this, the main one being luck. We had visitors last week who booked a helicopter tour and were treated to sights of lava inside skylights in the lava, but before they left, the lava surged and they were among the lucky few to be at Kalapana to see the river of lava spill over the mountain.
It helps you plan your stay better when you have a sense of how much time it will take to explore the various aspects of the volcano.
Lately every night at Jaggar Museum as dusk takes over, the glow from the lava within the crater at Halema'uma'u glows brilliant orange. To enjoy this site, you will need a flashlight to find your way from where you car is parked to the edge of the viewing area. You can even use your cell phone here to light your way if need be. The walk is short. You will want to be wearing a long sleeved shirt and most likely a light fleece jacket. At 4000 feet, the mountaintop can be chilly. FYI - the drive back to Kona is two and half to three hours, so spending at least one night in Volcano is something to consider as you make your plans.
Several times in recent months Pu'u O'o vent has spilled surface lava down toward Kalapana. Hawaii Civil Defense has taken charge of the viewing area. They cordon off what they determine is a safe distance from the flow, and it is safe from any effects of red hot lava, being hundreds of feet away. If you come early in the day before 10 am, you can walk closer. Use your good judgment - the lava is hot, and you can tell. It is all but impossible to walk right up to it, it is so hot. Do not venture out onto any new shelf, as the shelves collapse. But a hike over fairly recent flow along the ocean edge can yield some spectacular views of the lava entering the ocean. Wear a brimmed hat, light clothing, use sun screen, and bring plenty of water. There is a food stand at Kalapana where you can get a plate lunch, into the night. It is separate from the end-of-the-road viewing area. If you have gone to the end of the road, to find the beach area and the food stand, follow the road back and make the right turn to go over to Kalapana.
There are also lavaboats. There are several tours. The cost is about $150 a person, and the tour director will know in advance if the lava is flowing, and should be willing to share that info with you. If not, you may want to pass or move along to a tour director will let you know the lava status before venturing out. The tour leaves before dawn, so you will want to be in the mood to get up at 4 am or so. I will say it is very much worth it, as long as the lava is there.
When you are making your travel plans, in order to give yourself the flexibility to see the volcano in its glory and from these aspects even without a formal tour, you will want to book some nights nearby. There are vacation rentals in Kapoho and Kehena, not far from Kalapana. Near the park, there are vacation rentals and an inn. Currently and perhaps until 2012, Volcano House in the park is closed for renovations. And there is Hilo with a couple of hotels. Hilo is more than a half hour from the park, and if you are doing intense hiking or even relatively moderate hiking and driving about, it is extra nice not to have to drive far to get to where you are staying. You will be looking for accommodations to fit your travel group and your budget. There are some very inexpensive places to stay in both areas, but it is also an opportunity to spend just a little more and get a whole lot more for your money. A private hot tub under the night sky is a huge plus, and there aren't a lot of places that offer that amenity. But they are out there.
As hosts to travelers, we have noticed certain "traveler's habits" you may want to consider as you prepare for you Hawaii trip. Hawaii is a very casual place. Most people wear flip flops everywhere. If you are hiking, you will need footwear that closes over your toes. There are hiking sandals that hold your foot snugly - best if the toes are protected against jagged edges, that you can even wear into the water. You will seriously not need any other footwear, other than possibly snorkel gear. If you plan on snorkeling, ask your hosts if they provide gear. You may be able to borrow theirs and not have to bring yours along. Or you can rent some at a very low price. You will find that your swim suit, a couple of tshirts, shorts, and maybe a dress or one pair of regular pants are all you need. For the mountain top, a long sleeved shirt and fleece jacket. All that will fit in a small backpack.
I mention this as we see travelers bringing huge rollerbags full of stuff they truly do not need. Then they rent Jeeps that cannot be secured and have to lock their roller bags up in their rooms. When you are traveling the tiny communities of back roads Hawaii, your accommodations are likely to be small. Even the premium beachfront hotels on Waikiki can have small rooms and tiny closets. There is just no room for huge roller bags. Travelers are very resistant to packing light, but Hawaii is certainly one place you can do that, and it will work out very nicely. If you are thinking you want to have room to bring back stuff, look for a folding nylon duffel, or simply pick up a re-usable shopping bag with handles, and use that as carry-on for your return.
Lastly, food at Volcano. There are restaurants, and some are very good and maybe even excellent. Some not so. There are two convenience stores. Down the mountain there are regular grocery stores. It takes a chunk of your time to grocery shop, and food is much more expensive here than on the mainland. Eating out and eating in will cost you about the same, except maybe breakfast. Before you drive up the mountain, it's generally a good idea to stop at Hilo Farmer's market for fresh fruit, maybe some eggs for breakfast, and veggies if you plan to cook. Suisan Fish market on the bay front has local fresh catch. If your stay encompasses a Sunday morning, there is also Volcano Farmer's market for all kinds of food including pre-made. Plus the best coffee on the island...
If you are making a trip to the middle of the ocean to visit Pele at Halema'uma'u, her own house of everlasting fire, there are a few ways to prepare for your visit that will make it all you hope for. Most visitors come in hopes of seeing flowing lava. There are several ways to achieve this, the main one being luck. We had visitors last week who booked a helicopter tour and were treated to sights of lava inside skylights in the lava, but before they left, the lava surged and they were among the lucky few to be at Kalapana to see the river of lava spill over the mountain.
It helps you plan your stay better when you have a sense of how much time it will take to explore the various aspects of the volcano.
Lately every night at Jaggar Museum as dusk takes over, the glow from the lava within the crater at Halema'uma'u glows brilliant orange. To enjoy this site, you will need a flashlight to find your way from where you car is parked to the edge of the viewing area. You can even use your cell phone here to light your way if need be. The walk is short. You will want to be wearing a long sleeved shirt and most likely a light fleece jacket. At 4000 feet, the mountaintop can be chilly. FYI - the drive back to Kona is two and half to three hours, so spending at least one night in Volcano is something to consider as you make your plans.
Several times in recent months Pu'u O'o vent has spilled surface lava down toward Kalapana. Hawaii Civil Defense has taken charge of the viewing area. They cordon off what they determine is a safe distance from the flow, and it is safe from any effects of red hot lava, being hundreds of feet away. If you come early in the day before 10 am, you can walk closer. Use your good judgment - the lava is hot, and you can tell. It is all but impossible to walk right up to it, it is so hot. Do not venture out onto any new shelf, as the shelves collapse. But a hike over fairly recent flow along the ocean edge can yield some spectacular views of the lava entering the ocean. Wear a brimmed hat, light clothing, use sun screen, and bring plenty of water. There is a food stand at Kalapana where you can get a plate lunch, into the night. It is separate from the end-of-the-road viewing area. If you have gone to the end of the road, to find the beach area and the food stand, follow the road back and make the right turn to go over to Kalapana.
There are also lavaboats. There are several tours. The cost is about $150 a person, and the tour director will know in advance if the lava is flowing, and should be willing to share that info with you. If not, you may want to pass or move along to a tour director will let you know the lava status before venturing out. The tour leaves before dawn, so you will want to be in the mood to get up at 4 am or so. I will say it is very much worth it, as long as the lava is there.
When you are making your travel plans, in order to give yourself the flexibility to see the volcano in its glory and from these aspects even without a formal tour, you will want to book some nights nearby. There are vacation rentals in Kapoho and Kehena, not far from Kalapana. Near the park, there are vacation rentals and an inn. Currently and perhaps until 2012, Volcano House in the park is closed for renovations. And there is Hilo with a couple of hotels. Hilo is more than a half hour from the park, and if you are doing intense hiking or even relatively moderate hiking and driving about, it is extra nice not to have to drive far to get to where you are staying. You will be looking for accommodations to fit your travel group and your budget. There are some very inexpensive places to stay in both areas, but it is also an opportunity to spend just a little more and get a whole lot more for your money. A private hot tub under the night sky is a huge plus, and there aren't a lot of places that offer that amenity. But they are out there.
As hosts to travelers, we have noticed certain "traveler's habits" you may want to consider as you prepare for you Hawaii trip. Hawaii is a very casual place. Most people wear flip flops everywhere. If you are hiking, you will need footwear that closes over your toes. There are hiking sandals that hold your foot snugly - best if the toes are protected against jagged edges, that you can even wear into the water. You will seriously not need any other footwear, other than possibly snorkel gear. If you plan on snorkeling, ask your hosts if they provide gear. You may be able to borrow theirs and not have to bring yours along. Or you can rent some at a very low price. You will find that your swim suit, a couple of tshirts, shorts, and maybe a dress or one pair of regular pants are all you need. For the mountain top, a long sleeved shirt and fleece jacket. All that will fit in a small backpack.
I mention this as we see travelers bringing huge rollerbags full of stuff they truly do not need. Then they rent Jeeps that cannot be secured and have to lock their roller bags up in their rooms. When you are traveling the tiny communities of back roads Hawaii, your accommodations are likely to be small. Even the premium beachfront hotels on Waikiki can have small rooms and tiny closets. There is just no room for huge roller bags. Travelers are very resistant to packing light, but Hawaii is certainly one place you can do that, and it will work out very nicely. If you are thinking you want to have room to bring back stuff, look for a folding nylon duffel, or simply pick up a re-usable shopping bag with handles, and use that as carry-on for your return.
Lastly, food at Volcano. There are restaurants, and some are very good and maybe even excellent. Some not so. There are two convenience stores. Down the mountain there are regular grocery stores. It takes a chunk of your time to grocery shop, and food is much more expensive here than on the mainland. Eating out and eating in will cost you about the same, except maybe breakfast. Before you drive up the mountain, it's generally a good idea to stop at Hilo Farmer's market for fresh fruit, maybe some eggs for breakfast, and veggies if you plan to cook. Suisan Fish market on the bay front has local fresh catch. If your stay encompasses a Sunday morning, there is also Volcano Farmer's market for all kinds of food including pre-made. Plus the best coffee on the island...
Written July 20, 2010
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
fredEssex
Grays Thurrock, UK367 contributions
Jun 2016 • Couples
I am so glad that we visited here in hire cars. The thought of being pushed for time when visiting a place like this must be terrible.
First stop the visitors centre here you can get your bearings and a Ranger will explain what the up to date position is with the Volcano. Second stop was the steam vents but take the time to walk over to the crater rim there was far more activity to be seen here and better than looking down a manufactured safety vent. Then on to the museum and the closest you can get on foot to the inner crater. Then you appreciate the vastness of this sleeping giant. Then finally off to the Lava Tube. Amazing as you go down the walkway to the tube how the temperature drops and the humidity increases.
If you are going here by a tour check first exactly how long you get and what parts you will be going to.
If this review has been of help to you then please tick the box
Thank you
First stop the visitors centre here you can get your bearings and a Ranger will explain what the up to date position is with the Volcano. Second stop was the steam vents but take the time to walk over to the crater rim there was far more activity to be seen here and better than looking down a manufactured safety vent. Then on to the museum and the closest you can get on foot to the inner crater. Then you appreciate the vastness of this sleeping giant. Then finally off to the Lava Tube. Amazing as you go down the walkway to the tube how the temperature drops and the humidity increases.
If you are going here by a tour check first exactly how long you get and what parts you will be going to.
If this review has been of help to you then please tick the box
Thank you
Written June 24, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bucketlisttravellers
Sydney, Australia3,645 contributions
Nov 2019 • Couples
The area surrounding the Kilaeua crater area has been opened up again since last year's eruption. Whilst it is too dangerous to enter the crater, there are plenty of features to see. There are steam vent lookout around a mile past the visitor centre. You can get there by car, however I highly recommend walking from the centre and going through the sulfur banks on the way. The sulfur banks are also amazing to see, smell and hear. It is an easy flat walk and you can go back via the section of the Iki trail that is still open. The view from the steam vents overlooking the crater is spectacular and I think better than the vantage point of Volcano house.
Written December 7, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ImGeoff2
San Jose, CA39 contributions
Jun 2017 • Family
There are several places where you can safely and easily view Kilauea, which is very active right now. The best is from the Jaggar Museum, which is at the top of Volcanoes National Park. It's free to visit and you can learn a lot about Kilauea there...but, better yet, you can SEE Kilauea!
Tips:
1. Go up around 1 hour before sunset and visit the museum and the gift shop. They have many great books about volcanoes. I got a nice one from the USGS for only $6, complete with lots of great info and nice color pictures!
2. Stay until just after dark and take pictures of the volcano. It lights up the whole caldera!
3. Spray yourself with mosquito repellent and/or wear a jacket + long pants! There are mosquitoes up there! I got bit a couple of times! Prevent that, if you can!
Tips:
1. Go up around 1 hour before sunset and visit the museum and the gift shop. They have many great books about volcanoes. I got a nice one from the USGS for only $6, complete with lots of great info and nice color pictures!
2. Stay until just after dark and take pictures of the volcano. It lights up the whole caldera!
3. Spray yourself with mosquito repellent and/or wear a jacket + long pants! There are mosquitoes up there! I got bit a couple of times! Prevent that, if you can!
Written June 30, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DivikGlobal
New Delhi, India207 contributions
Nov 2017 • Family
This is definitely not a routine holiday destination. While I am writing this review the volcano must be devastating the area and changing the landscape of big island. But visiting the Kilauea Volcano and spotting the lava as shown in my pictures is once in a lifetime opportunity. I would have rated this with 100 stars. Must see places in a lifetime. The island is so beautiful that you feel like spending a lifetime here.
Written June 9, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jycyn2009
Tokyo, Japan
3/30現在、溶岩流の勢いが弱まっているとのことですが、現状を知る方法を教えてください。
ツアーに参加せずに、レンタカーで個人的に火口が見れる位置に近づけるのでしょうか
Written April 4, 2018
Couple questions. Can we get there with a regular car, not a 4-wheel drive? I ask because we did a tour for the summit due to the high elevation and we are hoping to drive ourselves to this volcano. What else is there to do there? Can we go before dark and do some things while we wait for the sun to go down?
Written June 30, 2017
Yes, regular car fine. You will probably have to hike to see the lava flow up close. If you want to do this, bring sturdy shoes, good flashlights and plenty of water. The lava can be very sharp if you fall. Every day conditions are different so check with the (excellent) ranger center for latest updates. The Rangers give interesting scheduled talks and walks and there are great exhibits at their HQ and at the Jagger Museum on the brim of Halema'uma'u caldera
The Park HQ and Ranger center are located not far past the main park entry gate. There's also a good art Gallery just past the center and the historic Volcano House inn & restaurant.
The village of Volcano, outside the Park has a few galleries and restaurants and many cozy little houses to rent via vrbo, Airbnb, etc. Because of the frequent mist and rain, the Volcano area is lush and dense with tropical plants and flowers. It's also cooler than either Hilo or Kona.
Written June 30, 2017
Should I schedule a tour of Kilauea or should we just do it on our own. I don't want to be tied to a tour but I also don't want to miss anything. What is the best way to see Kilauea?
Written March 23, 2017
You do not need to be part of tour granted you have your own transportation. We just grabbed a map from the Park Visitor Center. Enjoy but make sure you have a good windbreaker. The wind, even when warm, can really kick up and chill you to the bones. We have seen many people unprepared for that. Once you get away from the main areas, traffic lightens up and there are many trails worth exploring. Start your day early.
Written March 24, 2017
How do I get there using public transportation?
Written June 3, 2016
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