Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kilauea is one of the most popular volcanoes we have in the world, and it truly is one of the best places on Earth for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike! Kilauea offers different flavors of raw power and natural beauty, with everything from its dramatic landscape to its lush rainforests and its fiery lava flows.
Whether you are walking several trails through the tropical forests, hiking around volcanic craters, or seeing live, glowing lava after sundown, Kilauea has much to offer. Kilauea is part of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park system, which attracts millions of visitors who want to get close to some of nature’s geological wonders here on Earth every year.
From steaming vents to ancient lava tubes, every corner adds to this Edenic imaginarium! Are you ready for an adventure? Here are our best spots we recommend for exploring Kilauea for an epic Hawaiian Adventure!
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – The Heart of Kilauea
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the hallmark of any adventure to Kilauea. The park features two of the world’s active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Take a stroll along the Steam Vents, where groundwater meets hot lava rock to form unusually eerie plumes of steam. You won’t want to miss Halema’uma’u Crater, a massive pit that, at night, often glows with red-hot molten lava.
For an even better experience, take a hike on the Kīlauea Iki Trail, a 4-mile loop that takes you into a rainforest over a solidified lava lake. Also, be sure to check out the Thurston Lava Tube, a cave that is nearly 500 years old, formed from lava that once flowed through it. Kilauea is a must-do for any budding geologist or even someone who just wants to sit back and soak in the views.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach – A Unique Coastal Gem
The Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is only a short drive from Kilauea and is one of Hawaii’s most stunning beaches. The remarkable thing is that the black sand originated from the cooling lava that poured into the ocean beyond and makes a stunning contrast with the aquamarine color of the water. More than that, it would be a great place to see wildlife, as Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) are often seen basking on shore.
Swimming is strongly discouraged due to the strong waves, but it is perfect for a picnic, taking photos, or just relaxing in the shade with the palm trees swaying above you. And just down the beach is the Punalu’u Bake Shop, making some of the nation’s best malasadas (Portuguese donuts). This beach should not be missed on any trip to Kilauea to see its natural wonders.
Why Kilauea Should Be Your Next Adventure
From flowing lava to black sand beaches, Kilauea is an amazing destination for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, driving the Chain of Craters Road, or chilling out in Volcano Village, the experiences Kilauea offers are nothing short of breathtaking. The innate power of an active volcano, along with Hawaii’s lush natural beauty, inspires both awe and serenity. So throw your bags together, have a relaxing attitude, and find out for yourself why Kilauea is unlike any place on the planet.
Chain of Craters Road – A Scenic Drive Through Lava Fields
For an unforgettable experience, go down the Chain of Craters Road in Kilauea, a 19-mile scenic drive through breathtaking lava landscapes and dramatic ocean views. This scenic drive starts in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and descends almost 3,700 feet to the ocean, with a variety of ancient lava flows, pit craters, and sea arches along the way.
Stop at the Hōlei Sea Arch, a natural rock formation carved by waves, or walk the Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs Trail and see the ancient Hawaiian carvings that are centuries old. The end of the road is a reminder of its power because it is located at the same spot where lava flowed across the road. Whether driving at sunrise or during a starlit sky, this is an unforgettable experience regardless of the WHEN! It is one of the highlights of your Kilauea experience.
Volcano Village – A Charming Retreat Near Kilauea
After discovering Kilauea’s volcanic beauty, take a break and visit Volcano Village, a small town located outside the gates of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This creative community has everything from charming lodges to local art galleries to farm-to-table restaurants such as Kīlauea Lodge.
Be sure to stop by Volcano Winery to try their tropical wines made from Hawaiian honey and grapes, and the Volcano Garden Arts Café with its beautiful gardens surrounding their colorful and inspiring hospitality experience. Sit with a Kona coffee or take in one of the locally made crafts; you will not be disappointed. With its small-town atmosphere and tranquility, Volcano Village is well worth a stop during your Kilauea adventure.
