Lava Viewing on the Big Island: Current Conditions & Tips

Hawaii's Big Island is one of the few places on Earth where you can witness the creation of new land. Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, offers visitors a chance to see flowing lava, steaming craters, and the raw power of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire.

Understanding Kilauea

Kilauea has been continuously erupting since 1983, though the nature of eruptions changes frequently. The volcano can be:

• Summit eruptions: Lava lake visible within Halema'uma'u crater
• Rift zone eruptions: Lava flows from vents on the volcano's flanks
• Quiet periods: No active lava, but steaming vents and recent flows

Current conditions change frequently—always check the National Park Service website before visiting.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The park is your gateway to Kilauea. Even without active surface lava, the park offers incredible volcanic experiences:

Halema'uma'u Crater

The summit crater often hosts a lava lake when Kilauea is erupting. Multiple overlooks around Crater Rim Drive offer views. At night, the glow is spectacular even from miles away.

Chain of Craters Road

This 19-mile road descends 3,700 feet through volcanic landscapes, past numerous craters and recent lava flows, ending where lava crossed the road in 2003.

Kilauea Iki Trail

Walk across a solidified lava lake from the 1959 eruption. Steam still rises through cracks, and the trail offers a visceral sense of volcanic power.

Steam Vents & Sulphur Banks

Easy roadside stops where volcanic gases escape, reminding visitors that Kilauea is very much alive.

When Lava is Active

During active eruptions, viewing options depend on the eruption location:

Summit Eruptions

• Viewable from overlooks within the park
• Best at night when the glow is visible
• No hiking required—drive-up viewing

Rift Zone Eruptions

• May require hiking (sometimes several miles)
• Access can be limited due to hazards
• Sometimes visible from County viewing areas

Safety Guidelines

Volcanic areas present real hazards. Follow all rules:

• Stay on marked trails: Ground can be unstable over lava tubes
• Heed closures: Rangers close areas for good reasons
• Watch for lava haze (vog): Volcanic gases can irritate lungs
• Wear sturdy shoes: Lava rock is sharp and uneven
• Bring water: Volcanic areas are often hot and dry
• Don't approach active flows: Lava is unpredictable

Best Viewing Times

• Night: Lava glow is most visible after dark
• Dawn/dusk: Beautiful light for photography
• Clear days: Better visibility across the caldera
• After sunset: Park stays open 24 hours

What to Bring

• Warm layers (park is at 4,000 feet elevation)
• Rain gear (weather changes quickly)
• Flashlight for night viewing
• Camera with tripod for night shots
• Water and snacks
• Cash for park entry ($30/vehicle)

Getting There from Island Goodes

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is about 45 minutes from Island Goodes via Highway 11. The drive itself is scenic, passing through the town of Volcano and Hawaii's only tropical rainforest zone.

Suggested Itinerary

1. Afternoon: Arrive at the park, visit Kilauea Visitor Center
2. Late afternoon: Drive Chain of Craters Road
3. Sunset: Return to Crater Rim Drive
4. After dark: View lava glow (if active) or star-filled skies

Checking Current Conditions

• NPS website: nps.gov/havo for current eruption status
• USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory: Scientific updates
• Park rangers: Best source for viewing conditions