volcano tours hawaii big island

Hawaii Geo Tours

Explore kilauea caldera, learn. explore. play..

With personalized attention and insider insights, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the Big Island’s unique culture and geography. Explore unique places that are rarely seen by visitors. Our small group tours feature a sit-down lunch and a full day of guided exploration in our Mercedes Sprinter Vans. For those wanting a personalized experience, we offer private VIP tours anywhere on the Big Island. Book Now for a Volcano Adventure on the Big Island!

Discover the Best of the Big Island with Hawaii Geo Tours

Unparalleled geology, volcano, and island life insights await.

As Hawaii-based experts, Hawaii Geo Tours is proud to offer the best tours and activities on the islands. If you’re seeking a custom private tour with an unparalleled geology experience, our local guides have you covered. From lava fields, tropical mountains to black sand beaches, Hawaii is no ka oi, and we’re here to help you discover the best of the Big Island.

Our volcanic tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the raw power of nature. Led by experienced geologists and guides, our tours will take you on a journey of discovery through the island’s most stunning landscapes.

Join Us For A Full Day Of Exploring Hawaii’s Landscapes

Your guide will give you a historical and geological journey through the park making it exciting and educational. We strive to provide a unique experience that includes short hikes, sightseeing, and photography to some of the less frequented areas of the park.

Take a private tour of Heavenly Hawaiian coffee farm.

Look for sea turtles black sand Punaluʻu Beach.

Spend the day at Volcanoes National Park for a fulfilling volcanic experience.

Amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.

Relax & take photos at the crowd favorite Rainbow Falls.

Relax in comfort as you travel around the island in our luxurious Mercedes Sprinters, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride while you explore the island’s volcanic features with unparalleled insight from our geology focused guides.

• Experience exclusive access to hidden gems and knowledge with our experienced guides.
• Enjoy a delectable lunch at Lava Rock Cafe, a sit-down restaurant where you choose from a menu of delicious options.
• Walk out to the Kilauea Overlook to see the lava.
• Explore the famous Chain of Craters Road which includes vistas, craters, lava flow walks, and sea arches.
• Explore a lava tube, see diverse vegetation and more.
• Enjoy a unique tour designed exclusively for Hilton Grand Vacations timeshare holders, available every Wednesday. Please, inquire with Hilton regarding this tour.

Our Happy Customers Say…

Read what our other guests have said about our guided trips of Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park.

Best Island Tour!

A must tour experience! Such an incredible day. What is unique about This tour, is how much you learn about the island formation and the flexibility in where he takes you! We traveled with friends and booked the VIP tour…if you can swing it, definitely put Geotours on your itinerary! Erik will not disappoint. You can see that he is passionate about the island and what he does. Mingled well with our group, lots of laughs, great energy and had a BLAST!!!

Well worth the time and money

David was an outstanding host and tour guide. He was very knowledgeable and entertaining. I highly recommend this tour. You will see a ton, learn a lot about the island and enjoy a delicious lunch.

Fantastic Tour

Amazing tour! Our guide Dave was absolutely fantastic, very knowledgeable and funny, kept everyone entertained over the trip.

Awesome adventure!

We couldn’t have made a better choice!!! Definitely the guides know their stuff, from history of the island and its people to the geological topics that kept me entertained throughout the trip. We just about went around the island in vip style, the guys were well known everywhere they took us as well as knew their way. Will recommend it to a few friends that are planning to visit the island, it’s a must in your itinerary and couldn’t have made a better choice in tour guide services

Highly Recommend!!

Zane was incredibly knowledgeable about the island! If you want to go on a tour with a geologist, this is the one to take!! As a privately owned company, he was able to hit all of the major island highlights as well as take us to places on the island that other tour companies don’t visit. We learned so much about the history of the island and the volcanos on the island all while having a fantastic time! HIGHLY recommend!!

Hawaii Geo Tours are the best!

Wow! Fantastic tour of the erupting volcano!!! The guides are geologists and explained so much about the volcano and how all the Hawaiian islands were created. The pictures I got during the day, and especially at night were incredible! The food and winery tasting were good too. I’ve done this tour twice in the past year and recommend it highly! I wish I could give more than 5 stars!!! 🤙

One of the best tours ever

What an excellent way to get to know the Big Island and learn about its unique place on Earth. Our tour guide Eric picked us up on time at our rented villa along with a number of other visitors and we proceeded to spend one of the better days on a tour of the island. Eric is one of the proprietors of the tour, is a degreed geologist and is truly an engaging and friendly person. The tour was excellent which combined both interesting sights and a tremendous amount of local knowledge about lava flows and local history. To say that this was worth the day spent would be to put it mildly. Even at twice the price, I would happily do this again and recommend the tour to anyone.

Geo adventure family trip for the win!

David has a vast knowledge of so much of the island it’s amazing and he charmed us with a ton a factoids the whole day. Highly recommend if you are short on time on the island but want to see as much as you can in little time.

Very Best Geo Tour on the Big Island of Hawaii

Zane found his calling. He is incredibly well educated in geology, has traveled the world and knowledgeable about not only the local history, but the flora and fauna of the island too. And he is super personable and able to keep all 10 of interested for almost twelve hours of the day. We conversed about what we wanted to see on a big scale and he narrowed it to specifics based on weather, crowds and our groups patience. He was a saint. If you want to enjoy the very best island tour and get educated on the land and history, hire Zane and you will write the next five star review!

Bolt says Geo Tour Big Island

Dave was a great guide. Very informative tour. I really enjoyed the geological aspect and lots of information on how the islands were formed and keep growing. Many interesting stops along the way including a walk through a lava tube. Very cool! Great experience!

• (808)900-6070
• 100% Refund Policy

Hawaii Volcano Expeditions

Experience the adventure of a lifetime, aloha and welcome.

Hawaii volcano expeditions are something that not everyone gets to experience. Volcanoes speckle the islands, and while your initial instinct is likely to veer away from exploring them, you’d be doing yourself a great disservice by not viewing these natural wonders! They’re a part of Hawaiian culture and history, so if you’re looking to get the most out of your Hawaiian excursion and truly see all there is to see, then a Hawaii volcano tour should be part of your travel itinerary.

What we offer

Tours by air, tours by foot, tours by bus, top hawaii volcano tours.

Volcano Adventure Tour (from Hilo)

Difficulty rating, tour duration.

Elite Volcano Hike (From Kona)

Oahu to Hilo: Volcano Adventure Tour

Easy to Moderate

Circle of Fire Helicopter Tour – Hilo

The View from Above

If you’re aiming to get the best view of a volcano, you’re going to want an overhead view. Through a variety of available packages, your chances to see some of these natural beauties from above increases tenfold. A selection of helicopter tours, offered with an open-door view to give an unprecedented view of the surrounding region, are readily available for adventurers that aren’t weary of heights. 

Tourists will explore the most active volcanoes around the globe, including Kilauea volcano located on the main island of Hawaii. Along with an aerial view of the beauty of these monumental natural structures, you’ll soar over lush forests, crystal clear waters, and black sanded beaches during your Hawaii volcano expedition. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Read our answers to our customers’ common questions. 

Everyone who visits Hawaii Volcanoes National Park wants to see lava.  You go there hoping to see lava fountaining into the air like on a National Geographic magazine.

Sorry to tell you, most visitors do not see lava.

Here’s why: Lava is dangerous. As soon as lava is fountaining or flowing in a certain area, Hawaii Civil Defense determines if it is safe to allow people near it.  Usually it is not safe and the area is closed off.

How to see lava on a volcano tour

The best way to be sure you will see lava is to take a helicopter volcano tour. You will see it from hundreds of feet away, but it is still magnificent.

The chances of seeing lava from a helicopter are very high, but not guaranteed. Volcanoes are extremely unpredictable. Volcanic activity changes every day. The lava flow moves and the surface cools.

Do not make the mistake of going on a volcano tour to see lava. There are so many other reasons to go on a volcano tour. Our volcanoes have an amazing history, cultural significance, biological uniqueness, geological wonder, and a beauty like no other place in the world.

People who go just to see lava and don’t see it are disappointed.  People who go to appreciate everything else about the volcano enjoy themselves. If you do see lava on a volcano tour, it is a bonus and you are a lucky one.

You want a quick answer? Sorry, the answer is constantly changing.

As we mention all over this site, the volcano is active. That means that it is moving and hard to pin down. You might see photos from a friend who saw lava flowing into the ocean a month ago, but now it is nowhere to be seen.

This is why a  volcano tour  is the best way to view the volcanoes. Tours will take you to see the sights in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Then the guide will use his contacts to find where you have the best chance of seeing lava.

Sometimes it is best viewed from inside the National Park. Sometimes it is by the shore in Kalapana. Sometimes it can only be seen from helicopters. Some days you can’t see lava anywhere you look.

The key to an enjoyable visit to the Big Island volcanoes is to go for the volcanoes and consider any sighting of lava as a bonus. If you’re whole purpose is to see lava, you could be setting yourself up for disappointment.

If you insist that lava is your focus, then a  helicopter tour  has the best chance of seeing lava. The pilots search for lava and communicate where the sighting is the best.  When you get close, you can actually feel the heat from inside the helicopter.

Five different Volcanoes are on the Big Island of Hawaii:

• Kilauea volcano

Mauna Kea Volcano Summit. 13,796 ft. Photo https://flic.kr/p/4h5JWS

Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in Hawaii. It is also the tallest sea mountain in the world. From it’s base at the bottom of the ocean floor it is 33,000 feet taller than Mount Everest.  Mauna Kea hasn’t erupted for thousands of years, but is still considered dormant and could erupt again.

Mauna Loa is the largest volcano on earth in terms of volume.

Kilauea is the volcano that most visit us to see.  It is the most active volcano in the world. It began erupting in 1983 and continues to erupt today.

Vog is volcanic fog. It is similar to smog in that it is dirty with particles that are not in typical fog.

Vog is formed when gases from the erupting volcano get into the air, mix with sunlight, oxygen and moisture.

Like smog, vog is not healthy for humans, plants or animals. Many people living near Kilaeau, experience headaches and respitory issues from vog.

Visitors on our tours will see and breath vog, but we rarely have visitors who complain of health issues as a result. Generally, complaints come more often from prolonged exposure by those living near the volcano.

Nevertheless, we encourage all visitors to pay attention to their bodies and take the following precautions:

• Drink lots of fluids
• Don’t overexert
• Don’t smoke

Does vog smell like sulfer? A little bit.

More Information about the Latest Big Island Volcanic Activity:

• Update September 17, 2023: The Kilauea summit eruption that began on September 10, 2023, has ended.  There is currently no lava activity.
• Seismicity and volcanic gas emission rates remain elevated
• Flights to and from Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO) are not affected and are operating as scheduled.
• All visitor accommodations and activities on the Big Island are operating normally.
• For more information please visit: https://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kilaueaupdate.htm

• Big Island Volcanoes and Dinner Tour

Recommended by 98% of Travellers

Big Island of Hawaii, USA

Indulge in a Late Morning Start, Then Uncover the Marvels of the Big Island: Volcanoes, Turtles, Black Sand Beaches, Kona Coffee, and an Unforgettable Three-Course Dinner at the Celebrated Kilauea Lodge…

• Tour Details

Starting at $309 per person, plus tax. 

Full Day – Departures Daily except Tuesdays Pickup between 10:00-11:30am, Returning between 10:00-11:30pm Departure Times May Vary With Pickup Location

Meeting/End Location

Hotel pickup and drop-off included from select Kona resorts & central locations

Max 12 passengers per luxury vehicle

All ages 5 and up welcome on public tours. 5 and under welcome on private tours. Car seats provided for young children.

Highlights:

• Sleep in and start your day at a relaxed pace with late morning resort pickup
• Go behind the scenes at an exclusive Kona coffee farm and enjoy a picnic lunch
• Seek out majestic sea turtles basking in the sun at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
• Uncover the geological wonders of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park with an in-depth exploration
• Indulge in an unforgettable three-course, farm-to-table dinner at the acclaimed Kilauea Lodge
• Travel in style and comfort aboard a luxury Mercedes Sprinter with panoramic windows

What’s Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off along the Kona Coast
• Refreshing hot towel service and all-day snacks and beverages
• Delightful, farm-fresh picnic lunch and gourmet Kona coffee tasting
• Knowledgeable, park-certified guides eager to share insider insights
• Park entry fees to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
• Elevated three-course dinner featuring local ingredients at the renowned Kilauea Lodge
• Thoughtful amenities like binoculars and umbrellas for your convenience and comfort

What’s Not Included

• Gratuities for your guide

Important Notes

• Please notify us of any dietary restrictions or preferences when making your reservation
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket or layer

What to Bring

• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle
• Extra cash for souvenirs or additional snacks
• Cancellation Policy
• With Trip Protection: Cancel up to 1 hour prior to departure for a full refund
• Without Trip Protection: Cancel or reschedule up to 48 hours prior to departure
• Tour operates rain or shine, but the itinerary may be adjusted in severe weather
• Volcanoes National Park access subject to change without notice due to volcanic activity
• Instant Confirmation
• Email & Mobile Tickets Accepted

Important…

Our tours and packages regularly sell out year-round. To get your preferred dates and to avoid missing out, we highly recommend booking as soon as possible.

Tour Highlights

Immerse yourself in the best of hawaiʻi island’s geological wonders, culinary delights, and rich traditions with our all-inclusive, luxury day + dinner tour..

Wake up refreshed and ready for adventure as you’re picked up from your Kona Coast resort mid-morning. Breathe in the rich, inviting aroma of freshly roasted Kona coffee during an exclusive plantation tour and enjoy a delightful picnic lunch overlooking the lush and fertile soil of rural Kona. Feel your heart race as you approach the awe-inspiring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, home to the world’s most active volcanoes. Delight your taste buds with mouthwatering local treats at the not-to-be missed Punaluʻu Bake Shop, sink your toes into the soft, jet-black sand of Punaluʻu Beach, and as the sun begins to set, cap off your extraordinary day with an unforgettable three-course dinner at the renowned Kilauea Lodge. Mouth-watering, dishes crafted with the finest local ingredients, each bite a testament to the Big Island’s rich culinary heritage. As you return to your resort at the end of the evening, cherish the memories of an extraordinary day spent uncovering the Big Island’s most awe-inspiring treasures.

Indulge in a Relaxed Start to Your Day

Enjoy a leisurely morning with a later hotel pickup between 10:00-11:30am. Sleep in, savor your morning, and start your adventure feeling refreshed and ready to explore.

Exclusive Kona Coffee Farm Picnic

Breathe in the aroma of freshly roasted Kona coffee as you tour a picturesque plantation. Learn the secrets of crafting the perfect brew from knowledgeable locals before settling in for a delightful picnic lunch amidst the verdant rolling hills.

Uncover the Secrets of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Dedicate over an hour to exploring the awe-inspiring landscapes of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most active volcanoes. Hike through the historic Thurston Lava Tube and witness the raw power of nature firsthand.

Savor a Spectacular Three-Course Dinner

Cap off your unforgettable day with an elevated dining experience at the renowned Kilauea Lodge. Delight in a procession of Hawaiian-inspired dishes, each crafted with locally-sourced ingredients and beautifully presented by attentive staff.

All-Inclusive Pricing

Unlike other operators that may appear cheaper at first glance, we don’t believe in hidden costs. Tours, tastings, meals, park fees and transportation are ALL included for a hassle-free, indulgent experience.

Luxury Mercedes Transportation

Settle into the plush comfort of premium leather captain’s chairs and enjoy panoramic views through oversized windows. With the island’s newest fleet of luxury vehicles, we ensure that every guest has the best seat in the house.

Experiences & Activities

Start with a Picnic Lunch and Kona Coffee

Upon pickup, the day starts off right with a drive through the rolling hills of Kona, where you'll stop at a plantation to experience the intense aroma and smooth taste of world-renowned Kona coffee. Taste the full-bodied flavors of the superior quality beans and learn about the process of brewing the perfect cup. As you ease into your day, breathe in the clean mountain air as your deli-style picnic lunch is set up for you to enjoy at your leisure.

Indulge in local treats: Punaluʻu Bake Shop

Delight your senses at the southernmost bakery in the U.S., the charming Punaluʻu Bake Shop. As you step inside, the enticing aroma of freshly baked Hawaiian sweetbreads and Portuguese-inspired malasadas will tantalize your taste buds. Treat yourself to these mouthwatering delicacies amidst the bakery's lush surroundings, creating an unforgettable mid-morning experience

Majestic Sea Turtles: Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach

Set foot on the awe-inspiring Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach and feel your stress melt away. The striking contrast of the jet-black sand against the shimmering turquoise waters of the Pacific will leave you breathless. This captivating beach is a sanctuary for the majestic Hawaiian green sea turtles, or honu. While sightings cannot be guaranteed, your expert guide will lead you to the best spots to potentially witness these sacred creatures basking in the sun.

Awe-Inspiring Landscapes: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Prepare for a highlight of your tour as we dedicate over an hour to exploring the jaw-dropping Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, home to two of the world's most active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Seize the opportunity to embark on a short yet unforgettable hike through the Thurston Lava Tube, an experience that will leave you in awe of the raw power and beauty of nature.

Savor a Three-Course Dinner: Kilauea Lodge

End your day of adventure and awe-inspiring sights with a well-deserved dinner at the Kilauea Lodge's acclaimed restaurant. The elevated menu is expertly prepared using fresh, local ingredients and creative flavor combinations that delight the taste buds. The ambiance is cozy and intimate, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere paired with attentive service, making it a memorable and satisfying end to a full-day experience of the Big Island's highlights.

What Our Guests Are Saying

1,125+ Reviews

110+ Reviews

2600+ Reviews

With Trip Protection (Highly Recommended)

For a small fee (15%), Trip Protection allows you to cancel or reschedule your tour at any time – for any reason – up to 1 hour prior to trip departure. You will be reimbursed for the FULL amount of each ticket, less the cost of trip protection and processing fees. 

You may opt in or opt out of Trip Protection at the time of booking, either online or over the phone.

Without Trip Protection

You may cancel or reschedule your tour up to 48 hours before your tour’s scheduled departure to avoid fees or penalties. 

Refunds are not possible within 48 hours of your tour’s departure time, however, we will make every effort to accommodate rescheduling your booking to another date, if you so desire.

Please Note: Our tours operate rain or shine, though itineraries may be adjusted in response to severe weather conditions. Access to certain parts of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, including during events like active lava flows or eruptions, may be restricted or closed by park officials without notice. In such cases, Kailani Tours does not offer partial refunds for any part of the tour affected by these restrictions.

With our vast experience navigating these occasional closures, you can trust that we will make the absolute most of your day with us, no matter the conditions.

Book With Confidence

The lowest price. period..

Book directly on KailaniToursHawaii.com or call our office to get the best price on our tours. Find it cheaper? We’ll refund the difference!

Free Cancellations

With Trip Protection, cancel up to 1 hour in advance for a FULL refund. We know that plans can change, that’s why we offer one of the most generous cancellation policies in the industry.

Great Tour Guarantee

If you don’t have a great tour, let us know and we promise to make it right with a full refund or voucher for a future visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Big Island Highlights Day Tour will begin early in the morning and includes a gourmet lunch on the rim of the Volcano and a stop at Rainbow Falls. The Deluxe Volcanoes and Dinner Tour will have a later start time, includes more focus on the Volcano National Park, as well as an elevated, three-course dinner before returning home.

Our tours are designed from the ground up for discerning travelers. From our exclusive partnerships with high-end resorts to our private tastings and experiences not open to the general public, you get unparalleled access. Forget being herded like cattle or looking over someone’s shoulder – with our upgraded Mercedes Sprinter fleet, oversized panoramic windows, luxurious leather captains chairs and warm/cold towel service – you’ll be given the white glove service from start to finish.

Our itineraries are designed to avoid peak times at busy areas. For example, at famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, we time our arrival after the large tour buses have departed to allow for a tranquil experience with the nesting honu (green sea turtles). We also have priority reservations at many of our stops to ensure an intimate and authentic experience.

While we make regular stops, preventing boredom is crucial, especially with our younger guests. That’s why our guides incorporate interactive storytelling, hands-on demonstrations like making seed leis from native plants, and activities tailored to each child’s interests. We also provide coloring books, games and other keepsakes to keep their hands and minds engaged between destinations. Our guides are also trained to modify the tour content to match appropriate age levels

We run tours rain or shine – though we’ll reschedule the tour in the event of unsafe or extreme weather. Hawaii’s microclimates mean the weather can vary across the island and we have options to adjust our itinerary to ensure you experience the best conditions while seeing our iconic sights.

Immersing you in Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage is our passion. Our local guides weave in ancient legends, historical narratives, and personal stories throughout the tour. You’ll participate in traditions like making plumeria leis, learn key Hawaiian phrases, and gain a deep appreciation for the island’s sacred sites. We go beyond just showing you the sights – we connect you to the heart and soul of Hawaii.

We limit our tours to a maximum of 12 guests per luxury Mercedes vehicle to ensure a personalized and intimate experience. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to interact with your guide, ask questions, and get to know your fellow travelers. For the ultimate in exclusivity, private tours are also available for your group alone.

While active lava flow isn’t guaranteed year-round, you’ll still witness the raw power and beauty of Hawaii’s volcanoes up close. Our expert guides prioritize your safety, using only approved trails and viewpoints. They monitor conditions in real-time and can adjust plans if needed. You’re in very capable hands to experience the wonder of standing on some of the youngest landscapes on earth!

All-inclusive means all-inclusive. All tasting fees, meals, beverages, park entries and transportation are included in one upfront price for a seamless, stress-free experience. 

Tips are never required but are greatly appreciated by our hardworking guides. If you enjoy your tour experience, feel your guide provided exceptional service, and want to show your gratitude, tipping is a wonderful way to do so. While the amount is always at your discretion, a common range for full-day excursions is $20-$40 per guest.

For your safety and comfort, open alcohol containers are not allowed in our vehicles. However, wine/beer tastings are included at certain stops for those 21+ to enjoy responsibly. Non-alcoholic beverages are also available throughout the tour.

Our Mercedes vans have panoramic views that help even our most sensitive guests avoid severe motion sickness. Though we also offer amenities like ginger candies and provide frequent stops throughout the journey.

Our guides are local experts rigorously trained in service, safety and storytelling. We maintain a 5-star guest rating because of their passion and personalities. But you don’t need to take our word for it. Read more about our amazing guides from past guest reviews!

Definitely not! During your online booking, we’ll ask about any food allergies, restrictions or preferences, we’ll communicate in advance with our farm-to-table lunch providers as well as the establishments hosting our tastings. From vegetarian to gluten-free and beyond, we’ve got you covered with delicious kid-friendly options.

We welcome families on our tours! However, to ensure the safety and comfort of our youngest guests, children under 5 are only permitted on private tours. Hawaii State Law requires all children 3 years and younger to be in a proper safety seat, and children aged 4 to 7 who weigh between 40 and 80 pounds and are less than 57 inches tall must be in a booster seat. We have all child seat options available upon request at no additional charge. During the booking process, please notify us of your children’s ages and seat requirements so we can best accommodate your family’s needs.

This tour allows people to explore the island at their fitness and comfort level. It is our “Easy” tour. You will be given the opportunity to exit the vehicle to enjoy the lush and unique landscapes of Greenwell Coffee Farm, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Volcano Winery, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, and Rainbow Falls. All walks are optional and it is up to you how far you walk at these destinations. The Thurston Lava Tube is the most strenuous part of the tour with roughly 15 steps down, a twenty-minute or 1/3 mile hike through the tube, and roughly 20 steps up.

Though we have a compact collapsible wheelchair available for guests, our guides are not able to push/assist with wheelchair mobility. Our tours are active and require some physical exertion. While on tour guests may experience some or all of the following: a large step up into the van, tight aisles, steep hills in either direction, stairs, uneven surfaces, wet surfaces, and loose sand. If you have any questions or would like to know more details about the physical aspects of your specific tour, please contact Kailani Tours staff at 808-938-4057 or [email protected] .

Kailani Tours Hawaii will provide your meals, snack baskets, beverages, hiking gear, jackets, parkas, umbrellas, flashlights, other related gear for all weather conditions, and items to help with car sickness/nausea. Please come prepared with close-toed shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera.

If you are not staying at a Resort or Hotel on our list of 40 pick-up locations on the West side of the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, then we have multiple centralized spots available with free and well-lit parking in the Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa areas. This is very important to have scheduled as early as possible.

A private tour allows you to go at your own pace, customize the itinerary, have more flexibility and receive upgraded services and exclusivity.

With Trip Protection, you can cancel for a full refund up to 1 hour before your tour’s scheduled departure – under any circumstances. Without trip protection, you may cancel or reschedule up to 48 hours before your tour’s scheduled departure with no fees or penalties.

• Free Cancellation With Trip Protection, cancel up to 1 hour in advance for a FULL refund.
• Great Tour Guarantee (or 100% of your money back)

Please note: This tour regularly sells out… We highly recommend booking as soon as possible to avoid missing out!

• Book a Private Tour
• Buy as a Gift

Related Tours

Private Tours on the Big Island of Hawaii

• Departs Daily
• Flexible Departure Times
• Included hotel pickup and drop-off

From $2,232 / SUV 

Hawaii Big Island Highlights Day Tour

• Pickup: 7:30AM, Returning 6:30PM

From $279/person

Volcano Explorer Tour from Kailua-Kona

• Departs Mondays & Saturdays
• Pickup: 7:30AM, Returning 4:30PM
• Departs/Ends from central location in Kailua-Kona

From $259/person

Volcano Explorer Tour from Waikoloa

• Departs Mondays, Thursdays & Saturdays
• Departs/Ends from central location in Waikoloa
• Big Island Highlights Day Tour
• Volcano Explorer Tour
• Privacy Policy

KAILANI TOURS HAWAII | 808.938.4057 | [email protected] | 74-555 Honokohau St, Ste. B8, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

At Kailani Tours, our top priority is delivering unforgettable Big Island experiences. We’re confident that you’ll find our tours enriching and well worth your time. If for any reason you feel otherwise, please tell us. We’ll make it right, whether that means inviting you on another tour, issuing a refund, or providing a voucher for a future visit. Your time is precious, and we’re honored that you choose to spend it exploring the Big Island with us.

Here’s what we cannot guarantee:

You will see active lava flows.

Mother Nature has her own schedule, and while we wish we could promise a spectacular lava show, it’s truly up to the forces of the earth.

You’ll have full access to every part of the parks.

Volcano National Park areas are subject to closures based on safety assessments by park officials. As always, safety is our top priority and we can easily adapt our itinerary to make sure you get the best experience possible.

You’ll experience perfect weather

The Big Island’s weather can be as unpredictable as it is beautiful. We can’t guarantee sunshine and clear skies every day, but the dynamic weather is part of the island’s charm.

We value your decision to discover the Big Island with us, and we’re committed to making your tour a highlight of your Hawaii visit.

FREE CANCELLATIONS

Lowest price guarantee.

We guarantee the absolute lowest price on all experiences we sell. If you find the same product cheaper within three days of booking or while you’re in your destination, we’ll refund the difference.

It’s Easy To Do: 

Gather your information

Assemble your Kailani Tours receipt and the proof of the lower price you found.

Send it to us

Email [email protected] with the documents, your name, and your home address. 

We’ll review 

We’ll examine your materials and get in touch as soon as we can. 

Receive your refund 

If everything checks out, we’ll refund you the difference between the two prices.

Summit to Shore

Heavenly Hamakua

Big Volcano Adventure

Choose Your Own

BOOK ONLINE NOW!

THE VOLCANO VAN PRIVATE TOURS

Private volcano & waterfall tours on the big island of hawaii.

We keep our tour groups to a maximum of 6 people, and the maximum length of our tours to 9 hours.

Our knowledge of Hawaii will allow you to understand and appreciate the geology, beauty, and importance of the land around you. We design our tours for quality, not quantity. We keep our groups small so that everyone can have a personal experience and be treated as a special guest, not just as an ordinary customer. Hawai'i is known for being laid back almost as much as it is known for its beauty, and our tours are no exception. We want you to take your time to enjoy the island, breath in the air, feel the earth below, and soak in the environment around you. We don't have big buses here, we want your experience to be your own. After all, this is a Hawaiian vacation, and traveling at your own pace is what it should be all about. So come with us, and our certified and passionate guide Scott, and we’ll set out on a day of adventure!

STARTING FROM $195 PER PERSON

Kilauea: Summit to Shore

A TOUR OF VOLCANOES

A tour of rainforests.

A TOUR OF WATERFALLS

STARTING FROM $221 PER PERSON

The BIG Volcano Adventure

A tour of volcanoes & rainforest s.

GO NORTH &  SOUTH!

A tour of volcanoes & waterfalls, choose your own adventure.

FLAT RATE $1050 PER GROUP

A PRIVATE CUSTOMIZABLE TOUR

Go wherever.

WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY ABOUT US!

CONTACT US: 1-469-546-5282 • EMAIL

BUSINESS HOURS 9:00am - 8:00pm HST MON-SUN

• Tripadvisor

Wasabi Tours Hawaii

Experience the Best Big Island Guided Tours

Wasabi Tours Hawaii is an award-winning Big Island of Hawaii based tour company specializes in small group Hawaii volcanoes tours, circle island tours, stargazing tours, and waterfall adventures from Kona and Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. Join our certified tour guides to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , spectacular waterfalls and lush rainforest valleys , rare black sand beach , world famous Kona Coffee farms , and many more hidden and off the beaten path places on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Big Island in a Day

Volcanoes, waterfalls, sightseeing, history.

No.1 Rated and Most Popular Tour on TripAdvisor

Big Island Grand Circle Island Tour

Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

Big Island Waterfalls Adventure

Historic Kona and Farm Tour

Save 10% Book a Combo Tour

Day and Night Combo

Combine Big Island helicopter tours with either the Grand Circle Island Tour or Big Island Waterfalls Adventure for two full days of fun and adventure!

From $559 / person

Land and Sea Combo

Combine  Body Glove Hawaii’s morning dolphin snorkel  with either the  Grand Circle Island Tour  or  Big Island Waterfalls Adventure  for two full days of fun and adventures!

From $285 / person

Fire and Water Combo

Private and Custom Tours

Wasabi Tours Hawaii specializes in private and custom tours on the Big Island of Hawaii for groups of all sizes.

Whether you are a family or a large meeting and incentive group, we can create and tailor tours to your interest and needs.

Top Reasons to Choose Us

We specialize in small group tours.

Even though our spacious tour vehicles are equipped to seat 15 passengers comfortably, all of our tours have a maximum of 13 guests per vehicle. This allows you to enjoy the intimate setting of a smaller group, promotes more interaction between the tour guide and each guest, and allows us to take great care of you throughout the tour. And most importantly, it gives us the ability to do what large group or motor coach tours can’t –we visit more places in less time, and access areas that the larger groups won’t get to see.

We offer unique experiences and adventures

Whether you want to explore the whole island in one day or wander off the beaten path in a remote valley, we’ve got you covered! Our different tours and adventures are crafted to offer one-of-a-kind experience to suit the interest of visitors from all age groups and backgrounds. Each site we visit and route we take are tailored to reveal only the best of the raw and natural beauty of our fascinating island to the visitors.

We have the best professional guides in the industry

Our interpretive guides are professionally trained and State of Hawaii Certified to be the best ambassadors of Hawaii with years of experience guiding tours. They will tailor the tour to the capability and interest of the group, and create an interactive and educational experience full of interesting facts and stories of all things Hawaiian: the cultures, history, geology, flora, and fauna. Guests will find our guides friendly and entertaining, yet intelligent and knowledgeable. All of our guides are first aid and CPR trained. We also have multilingual English, Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish guides on staff.

We use luxury and first class vehicles on our tours

Our luxury Mercedes Benz tour vans range from 11 to 14 seats and are customized for full-day tours. All the vans offer ample legroom and high ceilings for maximum comfort. Guests will enjoy individual seats with headrests, tinted windows, and air conditioning. Why settle for less when you can enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime trip in luxury and comfort?

#wasabitourshawaii

5% OFF per person

Book  Twilight Volcano , Circle Island , Historic Kona or Big Island Waterfalls Tour using promo code “DIRECT” to receive 5% discount . Cannot be combined with other offers.

Big Island Volcano Tours

Hawaii volcano tours.

Hawaii Forest & Trail’s interpretive guides can make your visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park a lasting memory. Hawaii volcano visitors can view past eruption sites, craters, and lava tubes while discovering how geologic events shape the Big Island of Hawaii. Hawaii volcano tours are an excellent way to experience the fantastic forces of creation and destruction.

Volcano Tours in Hawaii Our volcano tours include both famous destinations and off the beaten path spots that only insiders know. Our interpretive volcano guides are responsive to your wishes and will provide a unique and informative tour experience. The guides we have are knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the island with you.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the Island of Hawaii. Hawaii Forest & Trail provides tours from Kona and Hilo with convenient pickup locations in Waikoloa Resort areas. Browse our Big Island volcano tour options below and plan for an exciting time!

Volcano Unveiled

Hidden Craters Hike

Signature Series

• Volcano Adventures
• Birdwatching
• Zipline Hawaii
• Inter-island Travelers
• Private & Custom
• Weddings, Honeymoons & Events
• Discover Hawaii Blog
• FAQ’s
• Pick Up Locations & Directions
• Reservation Policies
• ʻIʻiwi Fund
• Ho’omalama Initiative
• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

The 7 Best Big Island Volcano Tours [2024 Reviews]

Each island of Hawaii is made up of one or more volcanoes, so it makes sense that one of the top Hawaiian tourist destinations are the volcanoes.

This unique natural feature isn’t accessible to most people, so you can count on these being unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

By signing up to any of the tours on our guide, you can rest easy knowing you’re in safe hands and will be guided by experts. Without further ado, we bring you the top volcano tours on the Big Island of Hawaii available!

Be sure to see our reviews of Big Island Helicopter Tours , Big Island Snorkeling Tours and Big Island Manta Ray tours .

Best Volcano Tours on the Big Island

Quick answer: the 7 best rated big island volcano tours for 2024.

• Best Guided Tour: From Kona and Waikoloa: Intimate Volcano Discovery Tour
• Best Full Day Tour: Big Island Volcano National Park Tour with Lunch and Transfer
• Best Adventure Tour: Triple Crater Hawaii Volcano Hiking Adventure
• Best Hiking Tour: Big Island Kilauea Volcano Hiking Tour
• Best Sightseeing Tour: Elite Volcano Hike From Hilo
• Best Small Group Tour: Big Island BIG Volcano Adventure from Kona: Small Group
• Best Night Tour: Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

Be sure to see our other reviews of Big Island helicopter tours , Big Island snorkel tours and Big Island whale watching tours .

Big Island Volcano Tour Reviews

1. best guided tour: intimate volcano discovery tour from kona and waikoloa.

• Duration: 12 hours
• Departure: Central pickup locations
• Departure Time: 10:10 AM
• Includes:   Select central pickup and drop-off locations for Kona and Waikoloa, n ational park certified interpretive guide, p ark access fees, e xclusive lava tube access on private property, w alking sticks, daypacks, rain gear, s unscreen and bug repellent, l ocal taxes, f iltered water, sparkling water, and juices, d ay and evening meals

Let’s start things off with a bang (or not)! The From Kona and Waikoloa: Intimate Volcano Discovery Tour offers an in-depth volcano adventure that few others can.

The certified guide knows just about everything you could ever want to know about the area, leaving you practically an expert yourself! This 12-hour tour is comprehensive, yet you’ll never feel bored, hungry, or thirsty.

Start off with a great way to start the morning: with a scenic, relaxing drive in a comfy ride over Saddle Road. Along the way, stop at the famous Rainbow Falls or stay in the park after dusk to see the firey glow of the volcano if you select the “Twilight” tour.

Your first official stop will occur at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which spans from sea level to a whopping 13,677 feet!

Holding 2 of the world’s most active volcanoes (Kilauea and Mauna Loa), you’ll learn all about the history and culture of the area and of course get to see some insane sights.

At this point, your stomach will surely be growling, so enjoy a picnic lunch. Afterward, head over to Hawaii Forest and Trail’s private lava tube: Kauhi Cavern. Reaching up to almost 40 feet, the ceilings are impressively high, with rooms that are easy to walk around in and explore the roots and golden sides of the tube.

After you’ve seen your share of volcanic phenomena, enjoy a light snack with the rest of your group and guide while chatting about everything you just experienced!

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. best full day tour: big island volcano national park tour with lunch.

• Duration: 11 hours
• Departure: Hotel pickup included
• Departure Time:  7:00 AM
• Includes: Explore Kealakekua Bay, Rainbow Falls, Waipio Valley, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park day trip,  access to all locations , tour guide, transport for activity duration , l unch, w ater, s oft drink,  poncho

If you’re looking to see some of the most beautiful bays, falls, valleys, and volcanoes, you’ve come to the right place.

The Big Island: Volcano National Park Tour with Lunch and Transfer is the most seamless, comfortable way to check out the area. The tour guides are incredible knowledgeable about native culture, traditions, and much more.

Start things off with visits to magnificent waterfalls located on the Big Island. Make sure to stop and take a break at the Waipio Valley lookout. This picturesque spot features smooth, green hills contrasting against blue skies and sparkling waves below.

Get back into the tour vehicle, where you’ll travel along the Hamakua coast, enjoying unreal views from your window of the air-conditioned van.

When you arrive at a rainforest where you’ll get to see Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls up close! After, check out the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here, you’ll see steam vents, the Jaggar Museum, the legendary Kilauea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes, and the Halema’uma’u and Kilauea Iki crater lookouts.

After all this walking and hiking, it’s time to relax and enjoy the black sand Punalu’u Beach! Lunch, water, and soft drinks are all included so you’ll be feeling great the entire time.

Other Experiences You May Enjoy

3. best adventure tour: triple crater hawaii volcano hiking adventure.

• Departure:  Hotel pickup included
• Departure Time: 8:30 or 9:00 AM
• Includes:  Lunch, dinner, bottled water, local guide

Get picked up from your hotel and hop in a luxurious Mercedes van while your guide takes you and the rest of your group all around various volcanic craters and more.

With a deli-style picnic lunch and local restaurant dinner, you’ll be well-hydrated and fueled up for exploring. If you want a safe way to get up close to the island’s most massive volcanoes, the Triple Crater Hawaii Volcano Hiking Adventure Tour is a great tour!

Eat your lunch while traveling along the famous Saddle Road on your way to hike at Mauna Ulu. Here, you’ll check out the first crater mouth, which is sure to impress.

The experienced guide places safety at the forefront, and may even be able to take you to see the constant eruption at Pu’u O’o.

Continue hiking on your way to the crater of Kilauea Iki. These trails are incredible; filled with interesting flowers and critters native to the area.

Once you get down to the crater floor, you’ll be able to check out the glowing lava and steam being emitted from it. Before you head to dinner, take a little hike through a lava tube before trekking up to the 4,000-foot Kilauea summit.

4. Best Hiking Tour: Big Island Kilauea Volcano Hiking Tour

• Departure: Pickup included
• Departure Time: 10:20 AM
• Includes:  Snacks, b everages, d eli-style lunch, d inner, n ational Park entrance fees, h otel pickup and drop-off

Next, we bring you the Big Island: Kilauea Volcano Hiking Tour . This is yet another 12-hour tour where you’ll get to hike and see beautiful active volcanoes.

This one involves nighttime trekking, where you’ll even get to see the eruption inside the Halemaumau Crater with its glowing lava! Thanks to the efficient route and experienced guides, this is a great tour for the whole family.

Due to the guides’ skills at captivating an audience, you won’t be bored for even a second. They’ll educate your group on the geology and history of the area, along with interesting personal anecdotes. With the small group tours, they are also excellent at answering all questions.

Including 2-3 miles of hiking through the lush foliage and varied flora and fauna, it’s like traveling through another world.

Catch views of lava tubes, boulders, and lava from a safe distance. Seeing the bright gold microbial mats on the walls of these chambers is unlike anything else!

Make sure to dress appropriately, as it’s often raining in this tropical environment. Not only that, but you’ll be outdoors for the vast majority of the day and also after dusk, so a jacket is important.

Also take advantage of the included snacks, beverages, and deli-style lunch prepared at a local deli. Not only that, you get dinner at the end before you’re dropped off at your hotel.

5. Best Sightseeing Tour: Elite Volcano Hike From Hilo

• Duration: 9 hours
• Departure Time: 9:30 AM
• Includes: Lunch, bottled water, dinner

Perhaps you’re on the hunt for a tour that’s a bit shorter than the others we’ve covered so far. If so, then we have just the tour for you: the Elite Volcano Hike from Hilo . This 9-hour tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, and will let you explore volcanic scenery all day long!

First, you’ll head to Kaumana Caves which is a portion of the enormous lava tube system. These caves have incredibly high ceilings, offering a kind of cathedral-like environment that’s unexpectedly breathtaking.

Next, head to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which we’ve covered a couple of times already. You’ll see an insane view of the Kilauea Caldera along with the massive Halema’uma’u Crater. The trails to get to them are also fascinating and filled with unique plants and wildlife.

In fact, some tree ferns are over 1,000 years old! The stop at the Star of the Sea Painted Church in Kalapana, which is almost 100 years old and has a very interesting history, itself. The colorful walls and folk art is certainly one-of-a-kind!

At this point, there’s no doubt you’ll have worked up an appetite! Head back in your luxury van with the rest of your crew to enjoy a delicious dinner with complimentary drinks at Volcano House with some equally as impressive views of the lush scenery and rolling hills.

6. Best Small Group Tour: Big Island BIG Volcano Adventure from Kona Small Group

• Duration: 9-11 hours
• Departure Time: 9:00 AM
• Includes:  Hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, bottled water, snacks, picnic lunch, transport by private vehicle

Get out in the fresh air with the Big Island BIG Volcano Adventure from Kona Small Group tour. If you’d like, you can even opt for a private tour just for your party! No matter who you’re traveling with though, you can rest assured you’re in for a real treat and a ton of entertainment!

Get picked up at your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about wasting any time or meeting at the right spot. The guides are so knowledgeable about the island, its history, and specifically, the volcanoes.

You’ll get to traverse through Mauna Kea’s Hamakua Coast’s tropical rainforest with thick, lush plants. You’ll even get to pass by sky-high waterfalls, which is quite the way to start off the tour.

Head through the town of Waimea, where you’ll get to see legendary cattle ranches, and experience all kinds of deep valleys and dramatic cliffsides. Stop at Laupahoehoe for sights of interesting rock formations and enjoy panoramic views of the turquoise waters below.

Next up, you’ll travel through the jungle to Akaka Falls, which measures an impressive 442 feet tall! Afterward, you’ll grab some food at Hila Sharks in Honomu.

Their fresh, locally-sourced wraps are equally refreshing as they are delicious. After regaining some energy, you’ll go to the backroads of the island, along the coast and jungle gorges.

Before heading to rest at your hotel, your group will go to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, summit the Kilauea, and check out the Chain of Craters road.

7. Best Night Tour: Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

• Departure: 10:00 to 11:00 AM
• Departure Time:
• Includes:  Beverages, snacks, picnic lunch, restaurant dinner, rain/warm jacket use, hotel pickup/drop-off, professional guide, luxury Mercedes Sprinter van transport, all fees and taxes

No volcano island tour guide would be complete without the Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour . This tour is also 12 hours, yet packs in as many activities as possible to ensure you’re not missing out on anything!

You’ll taste some local eats and drinks, as well as enjoy some of the most exclusive sights on the island and world. First, you’ll take a tour of a Kona coffee farm, where you’ll learn all about how they harvest and mill while trying their coffees and teas!

Next, head over to the Punalu’u Bake Shop where you’ll get to try their famous Hawaiian sweet bread and malasadas! After that, you’ll surely have a lot of energy for adventuring!

Your first outdoor stop is at the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, which is obviously quite the view. Here, you’ll take things slow and take it all in. It’s also a prime spot for catching sights of marine life from the shore!

Next, you’ll take a certified guided tour at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll actually get to see incredible volcanic eruptions and lava flows from a safe distance and location. Your guide will teach you all about these volcanoes and the history of the area.

Check out the Nahuku Thurston Lava Tube next, walking across a bridge that offers looks unmatched by just about any other. T

he tube features caves formed hundreds of years ago, while looking like something from an extraterrestrial film! The Chain of Craters Road is up next, which offers an interestingly contrasting appearance: black rock against deep blue waters!

Once it’s dark enough, the guide will take your group to a secret spot for stargazing. If it’s clear enough, you may even get the chance to see various planets and galaxies!

Big Island Travel Guide

The Big Island is the best Hawaiian island to visit by far. Why? Because it boasts active volcanoes, the world’s tallest mountain, 5 Marine Life Conservation Districts , and more wilderness and variety than any other island in the Hawaiian Archipelago.

Given its name, you won’t be surprised to learn that the Big Island is the largest island in the State of Hawaii. But this isn’t its official name. The Big Island is really the Island of Hawaii. However, calling it the Big Island helps to distinguish it from the state and avoid confusion.

It really is a big island. In fact, it’s the 3 rd largest island in Polynesia. Only the two main islands of New Zealand are larger. You may think the island gained its name from the name of the state. In fact, the state was named after this island.

Although the Big Island now has the lowest population density of the four main islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, historically it was the most powerful. In 1795, Kamehameha the Great from Hawaii united most of the islands under his rule and named his extended kingdom after his home island.

Today the low population density and many fascinating natural attractions on and around the Island of Hawaii make it the premiere Hawaiian destination for anyone who wishes to experience the full scope of Mother Nature’s variety, beauty, and majesty.

Airports & Entry

Most visitors come to the Island of Hawaii by air. You can fly directly from the mainland US and Canada to Hilo International Airport (ITO) in the east or Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) in the west.

Alternatively, you can fly to Daniel K. Inouye Honolulu International Airport (HNL) in Oahu and then take a short half-hour connecting flight to the Big Island. Most direct flights are from large cities on the western seaboard. However, there are also direct flights to KOA from Tokyo.

Although only 185,000 people live on the island, KOA saw 4 million and ITO 1.4 million passengers in the immediate each year pre-COVID. The vast majority of these are tourists.

If you intend to explore the whole island, it’s a good idea to arrange to arrive at one airport and depart at the other. This enables you to tour the whole island with no need to backtrack. However, many visitors stick to one of the main resorts, such as Kailua-Kona.

Before choosing your arrival airport, consider where you are going to stay. This will depend upon what you most want to see on the Big Island. It makes sense to arrive at the airport closest to your hotel.

KOA is a modern airport with 3 terminals, only 2 used for international travellers. ITO is much smaller with a single large terminal. Both airports offer a limited range of shops and restaurants focused on tourism. For example, there are gift shops, lei stands, and newsstands. Opening hours are arranged around flight arrival and departure times.

Eight major car rental companies operate out of both airports: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty. All the rental agencies have rental bases that are reached by a shuttle bus from the airports. It is advisable to book vehicle rental in advance to save time and ensure you get the vehicle you want. If you plan to pick up at one airport and drop at the other, you must tell them in advance to avoid extra charges.

If you don’t want to hire a vehicle, you can take a taxi into Kailua for around $25. There is a much cheaper option — The Hele-On Bus operated by the Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency . However, they only operate a limited service.

Traveling in the time of Covid

Like many other destinations worldwide, tours and visitor attractions in the Island of Hawaii have adopted special procedures.

Wearing a mask in mandatory in many locations. You will be expected to supply your own mask and wear it when you enter public buildings.

Keep your distance from other visitors who are not in your family group or bubble. You will be expected to keep your distance inside minibuses and other vehicles and when seated in restaurants.

At the time of writing, the State of Hawaii welcomes visitors but requires pre-travel testing for Covid-19. You can obtain the most up-to-date information directly from the State of Hawaii Portal .

Eco-Tourism and Sustainability in the Big Island

The Hawaiian Archipelago offers many areas of outstanding natural beauty and protected wildlife areas you can explore. In order to maintain this wonderful place for future generations, many of the local tour companies operate eco-friendly tours.

When considering the tours we review on the World Travel Guides website, note that there are often eco-friendly options that empower you to become a more sustainable traveler. This is especially true around the islands of Hawaii. Take care of our world and it will take care of our children.

Planning Tips

It’s always best to be prepared. Here are 5 tips to help you make the most of your stay on the Big Island.

Tip #1: If you want to see whales, go in winter

During the summer, humpback whales feed and congregate around Alaska. In winter, they migrate south to mate and calve. From mid-December to mid-April, there are an abundance of whale sightings around the Big Island. For the best chance of seeing whales, take a whale watching tour . The boat captains know where to find the whales!

Between 10 and 12 thousand whales congregate in these tropical waters. Whales are often visible at a distance from the beaches and will circle any small boats that approach their pods. Winter is the best time to whale watch in Hawaii.

Tip #2: Take your time to appreciate all that the Island of Hawaii has to offer

Perhaps you only want to see the whales or surf in the sunshine, but there’s a lot more to see and do on the Big Island.

Don’t miss the opportunity to take a tour of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park , experience a traditional luau, and visit Hulihe’e Royal Palace in historic Kailua-Kona. See the information on Nightlife and Attractions below.

Tip #3: Book Big Island tours in advance, especially during winter

The Big Island is a popular destination for tourists, so tours quickly sell out. Book in advance to avoid disappointment. You wouldn’t be able to forgive yourself if you went all that way only to miss your opportunity to whale watch because the tours were full. Especially popular on the Big Island is fishing. If you want to charter a fishing tour out of Kona , be sure to book a few months in advance.

Since many tours offer free refunds up to 24 hours before the activity begins, you’re not taking a risk if you book before you go. Just check the refund policy of each tour before you book.

Tip #4: Take summer clothes and raincoats

Because the Big Island is tropical, you need to pack summer clothes. However, don’t forget it also rains a lot on the island.

Light raincoats are an excellent idea. If you intend to visit the observatories on Mauna Kea, you will definitely need a jacket.

And if you plan to visit a plush Martini lounge or attend a luau, you should bring something a bit smarter for those special occasions.

Tip #5: Buy traditional local craft souvenirs

If you want to take home something unique, check out the Volcano Art Center inside Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

Over 200 local Hawaiian artists contribute to this store, so you can find and original arts and crafts that will make a unique souvenir of your visit to the Island of Hawai’i.

Restaurants & Eating Out

The Big Island not only has a unique ecosystem with plants not found in the other 49 States, but it also boasts an uninterrupted cultural history.

That means during your stay you have the unique opportunity to taste genuine Polynesian food untainted by European colonial influences.

Because the Big Island is surrounded by abundant marine life, it’s no surprise many restaurants feature seafood on their menus. A popular dish is Opakapaka, which is crimson snapper either steamed, baked or grilled.

Monchong is a deep-water fish marinaded and grilled. Raw tuna is a favorite with the locals and is found in traditional foods like Poke.

Poke is like Japanese Sashimi but with the raw fish served in hearty chunks rather than thin slices.

Something unique to the Hawaiian Islands is luau food cooked in an earth oven called an imu. A tasty example of luau food is Laulau, made with pork, chicken, or fish.

The selected meat is wrapped in taro leaves and then cooked inside the imu for hours until it grows soft with a smoky taste. Delicious!

While many North Americans might consider either bread or potato to be their staple food during meals, on Maui taro is the staple root crop.

Taro is most often consumed as Poi, a thick paste that is either baked or steamed. Poi is slightly sour due to fermentation during its preparation.

And for dessert, why not try some Banana-Apple Fruit, Breadfruit, or Kulolo. Banana-Apple is a common fruit eaten cold or hot. Breadfruit is melon-sized and is served boiled, deep-fried, baked, or steamed.

Kulolo is steamed taro pudding. Yes! Taro is a versatile root.

Nightlife & Entertainment

This Big Island can’t offer the same nightlife and entertainments as Honolulu, but the large quantity of tourists passing through ensure that there are plenty of night spots where you can let your hair down.

Much like the resorts and hotels, the nightlife tends to be clustered along short sections of the east coast and the west coast. On the eastern side, most of the nightlife is found in Hilo. There you will find low key establishments frequented by locals and visitors alike. This is the best area for a quiet night and meeting friends.

On the west coast, the nightlife focuses on Kailua-Kona. There you will find a much larger range of options, from relaxed bars to elegant cocktail bars and lively nightclubs. The beach bars on this side of the island are the best place to witness an amazing sunset while you’re sipping a delicious cocktail.

But while you are in Hawaii, you really should attend at least one traditional luau. That’s a special Hawaiian evening party where you can hear local songs, watch amazing traditional performances, and eat luau foods.

If you go to an organised luau, you can expect a lei greeting, watch the Imu Ceremony (cooking a pig in an earth oven), join in a Hula Dance, and maybe play some traditional games. The highlight is a show by Polynesian performers who re-enact traditional sagas to educate and entertain you about the mythical origins of the Hawaiian Islands.

One of the most popular luaus is the Island Breeze Luau held in an historically significant location — the grounds of King Kamehameha’s Palace in Kailua-Kona. This king was responsible for unifying most of the State of Hawaii into a single kingdom. This luau pulls out all the stops, with an outrigger boat landing, a royal procession, and a fire knife dance.

Getting Around

The easiest and simplest way to get around the Big Island is to rent a car. There are vehicle rental facilities at both international airports. With your own car, you can go where you want to go when you want to go there.

The Hele-On Bus operated by the Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency is an option. However, because of the Island of Hawaii’s relatively low population density and large area, the public bus services are relatively infrequent and don’t go everywhere.

When driving around the island, bear in mind that the speed limits are lower than in the mainland US. Typical speed limits between settlements are 45 mph or 55 mph. When planning your journey, take the lower speed limit and the winding roads into account.

Note there are some locations you cannot reach with a rental car. Your rental contract will most likely forbid you from taking your car to the Green Sand Beach or to the top of Mauna Kea.

If you choose not to hire a car, your best option is to take guided tours to visit the attractions you are interested in seeing. Many guided tours have the option of a hotel pick up, and some tours take you to those locations forbidden to rented vehicles.

Of course, you could also take taxis to visit attractions around the Big Island. This is the most expensive option and not a great choice. The relatively large size of the island and slow journey times means that you’ll pay much more than if you hired a car.

Accommodations

Most visitors to the Big Island stay in one of the resorts. Many of these are clustered on the east coast and the west coast near the international airports.

The accommodation on the east side is centered on Hilo. This is the best place to stay if you’re interested in the beautiful scenery around the Big Island. It is near River State Park, where you will find the famous Rainbow Falls, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with active volcanoes and rainforests. It is also the best base camp for visiting the summit of Mauna Kea via Saddle Road.

On the west coast, most of the accommodation is found in Kailua-Kona. This is the best location for cultural attractions and beaches. Most of the boat tours, snorkeling tours, and whale-watching tours sail from Kailua-Kona.

If you plan to see everything interesting on the Island of Hawaii, it’s a good idea to split your time between Hilo and Kailua-Kona. I would recommend that you visit Hilo first, since visiting the waterfalls and the volcanoes involves a lot of walking. Then, when you go to the west coast, you can relax on the beaches and boat cruises.

Although the Big Island is small compared to a continent, you will still find several distinctly different climate zones due to the island’s unique geography. The two important factors are the side of the island and the elevation above sea level.

The island can be divided into two sides. The north and east coasts are relatively wet with higher levels of rainfall. The west and south are dry, with very little rainfall. This is because the prevailing wind hits the eastern coast, which is the windward side. As the air hits the island, it is forced up into the tall mountains. This upward movement causes the air to lose its moisture as precipitation.

At the top of the mountains, it’s much cooler than down below. On average, it is around 30 0 F cooler at the top of the mountains than on the coast. You might need to wear shorts and a T-shirt on the beach but a heavy coat and sweater at the top of Mauna Kea.

There are two seasons called winter and summer. In reality, in winter the temperature doesn’t often fall below 65 0 F, and in summer the temperature doesn’t usually rise above 90 0 F. The water on the beaches has an even narrower temperature range between 77 0 F and 83 0 F. The real difference between the two seasons is the level of rainfall.

The dry season is between April and October. The wet season is between November and March, which is winter on the Big Island. However, the west coast sees little rain even during the rainy season. So, if you want to sunbathe, the west coast is best for you.

Attractions

The Big Island boasts both natural beauty and a rich cultural history. There are many fascinating attractions and activities to enjoy.

As mentioned above, the island is easily divided into an east and a west side. The major natural attractions are to the east. The major cultural attractions, boat tours, and best beaches to the west.

If you are into an adrenaline rush, be sure to take an ATV tour of the Big Island . You can explore areas that are not seen by most tourists. If you want to get a rush from the trees, try a Big Island ziplining adventure ! Zooming between the trees is a rush!

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Island of Hawaii is volcanic in origin. It was created by lava flows from five separate shield volcanoes, two of which are still active. And you can visit these active volcanoes inside the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The park covers an area of 21 square miles and growing. It’s growing because the volcanoes are spilling lava into the see and expanding the size of the island. The Halema’uma’u Crater is said to be home to Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire. Steam constantly rises from this crater, making it a popular attraction for visitors. One fascinating exhibit is the Thurston Lava Tube which is 20 feet high and 500 feet long.

Waipio Valley

There are many beautiful valleys on the east coast of the Big Island. Waipio Valley is a popular hiking spot. It is the site of Hiilawe Falls, which boasts a drop of 1,200 feet.

The valley is difficult to access because of steep cliffs inland and the proximity of the sea to the east. It can be reached by road, but this road is one of those the car hire companies do not allow rental vehicles to use. Most visitors get there on foot.

This dormant volcano is not only Hawaii’s tallest mountain, but it is also the world’s tallest. While Everest boasts a higher elevation at the summit, the height from the base of Everest to the top is less than the same distance at Mauna Kea.

This mountain is also where you will find the Mauna Kea Observatory. This is probably the best place in the world to go stargazing. The visitor’s Information Station sits at an altitude of 9,200 feet above sea level. If you reach the summit, that’s 13,800 feet above sea level.

Just like Waipio Valley, car hire companies often do not let their vehicles use the road that leads up Mauna Kea. Therefore, to visit this mountain it is easiest to take a stargazing tour.

Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

This is a fantastic place to learn about ancient Hawaiian traditions. It features a palace complex and a restored temple complete with replica idols carved to replace those destroyed when the islands were converted to Christianity.

There are many things to see in this park, including the royal fishpond, the Keoua Stone, rock carvings, and the landing place of the royal canoes.

Ahu’ena Heiau

This is the best example of a traditional temple on the island. It was built by Kamehameha I in honor of the god Lona. The temple has been fully restored to its former glory so that visitors can appreciate the complexity and unique nature of the indigenous religion.

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park

If you’re interested in Hawaii’s modern history, this is an essential spot to visit. It’s the location of Captain Cook’s landing and death in 1779. There you will find the Captain James Cook Monument.

This park also encloses Kealakekua Bay, which is one of the Island of Hawaii’s 5 Marine Life Conservation Districts. With its thriving coral and bright tropical fishes, this is a wonderful location for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Tour Guides

The Intimate Volcano Discovery Tour is our Editor's Choice for the best Big Island volcano tour.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 8 best maui & molokini snorkel tours [2024 reviews], 🤿 the 5 best oahu snorkeling tours [2024 reviews], 🚁 the 7 best oahu helicopter tours [2024 reviews], top 15 things to do in maui.

• Island of Hawaii Tourism
• Island of Hawaii Hotels
• Island of Hawaii Bed and Breakfast
• Island of Hawaii Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Island of Hawaii
• Island of Hawaii Restaurants
• Things to Do in Island of Hawaii
• Island of Hawaii Travel Forum
• Island of Hawaii Photos
• Island of Hawaii Map
• All Island of Hawaii Hotels
• Island of Hawaii Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Island of Hawaii
• Island of Hawaii
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Kilauea is erupting 12:30 am HST June 3, 2024 - Island of Hawaii Forum

• United States    
• Hawaii (HI)    
• Island of Hawaii    

Kilauea is erupting 12:30 am HST June 3, 2024

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Hawaii forums
• Island of Hawaii forum

Likely about a mile south of Kilauea Crater, within VNP. Lava visible in fissures.

Here comes the vog, let the lava peeping madness begin. No marshmallows please.

Check VNP website for closures.

You can subscribe to alerts and read current ones here

https://www.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/volcano-updates

25 replies to this topic

Yep, that is the link within the site Coral posted.

USGS says it's paused but there are still tremors and outgassing.

https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/hans-public/notice/DOI-USGS-HVO-2024-06-03T23:48:11+00:00

Thanks Coral and thanks for the map not everybody has the time or the interest for that matter to read every post of every thread

Lots of people have busy lives outside social media

It appears that today’s eruption has paused. Lava is no longer flowing, but incandescence can still be seen.

The last eruption in that zone (1974) only lasted about six hours… who knows if this was a short one as well.

• Cost of 100% Kona coffee at Hawaii Costco? 9:51 pm
• Wait time at KOA for Thrifty/Dollar car rentals? 9:39 pm
• Snorkel op bans snorkelers floatation aids/vests? 9:35 pm
• Kamehameha Day Parade & Ho'olaule'a, 06-08-24 4:41 pm
• Lava viewing this week 1:01 pm
• Big Island - 8 Nights Mona Lani Aubergine w/9yo must dos! 12:21 pm
• Stay in Hilo or Kona 11:59 am
• Travel time from Vista Waikoloa to Kona airport yesterday
• Kilauea is erupting 12:30 am HST June 3, 2024 yesterday
• Best snorkel tour? Jun 03, 2024
• Has anyone just come back from the Westin? Is it noisy? Jun 02, 2024
• Poncho necessary for volcano (3 days in June) Jun 02, 2024
• Can you please help me track an item Jun 01, 2024
• Shaka Guide vs GuideAlong (formerly GyPSy Guide) Jun 01, 2024
• Kona vs Hilo 8 replies
• Best place to stay? 18 replies
• Big Island vs Maui 9 replies
• Best places to stay in Hilo? 5 replies
• Best beaches in Kona, Hawaii 16 replies
• Kona with kids 8 replies
• Cheap places to stay 9 replies
• Best boogie boarding, body surfing beaches 5 replies
• Where to stay on the Big Island 11 replies
• Hawaii with Kids? Which Island do you recommend? 19 replies

Island of Hawaii Hotels and Places to Stay

• Lava Viewing information
• What are the issues about swimming with dolphins?
• How can I visit Mauna Kea summit and/or the Visitor Information Station?
• Snorkeling & diving on the Big Island - Kona Coast & Kohala Coast options
• West Side Beaches: Which ones should I visit ?
• Where to stay on the west side; Kona districts vs. Kohala districts
• Where do I stay to visit the east side of the Big Island and/or to see volcano?
• Photo-centric trip reports of the Big Island? - You want to see some great photos?
• Kohala Coast Lodging Options
• Kona Lodging Options
• All About Mauna Lani Resort
• All about the Waikoloa Beach Resort
• Respecting Hawaiian place names. Why not to use nicknames or English translations
• Trip Reports! - Links to TR's from 2010 to present
• I want to eat "local"! Where do I go?
• What are some good splurge or special occasion restaurants on the Big Island?
• What is good reef etiquette? Great video on reef etiquette.
• Manta Ray Night Snorkel/Dive
• Gluten Free Dining
• Inexpensive/Affordable Eats
• What are some quality cultural and educational activities on the Big Island?
• Where can I find good live Hawaiian or local music and/or hula?
• Altitude sickness, taking kids, risks when visiting Mauna Kea summit
• What can I do--or avoid--to be a responsible visitor?
• Safe Driving/Night Driving
• Why do I need to pack warm clothes for a trip to Hawaii Island?
• Rental Car Questions and Answers
• What to do the day of a red eye flight out
• Where can I can find a good church service with some local flavor?
• Where can I camp (tent or camper) and what are the rules? Should I camp?
• Need info on backpacking and wilderness camping
• Resort Fees on Big Island & Other Islands
• Big Island webcams
• Ocean Safety

Breaking News Alerts

Press "allow" to activate.

• Big Island News
• Big Island Polls
• Local Discussion
• Entertainment
• Guest Columns
• COVID-19 Updates
• Hawaii Sports
• Hawai’i Volcano Blog
• Weather Forecast
• Surf Report
• Merrie Monarch
• ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi / Hawaiian Language
• Hawaii Activities
• Recent Job Listings
• Upcoming Events
• Map of Events
• Post Your Event
• Opioid Crisis
• Latest Videos
• About Big Island Now
• Get the App
• Advertising
• Meet the Team

Privacy Policy | About Our Ads

• Graduations

High school girls can participate in free STEM summer program at UH Hilo

The Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is hosting the eighth annual Women’s STEM Aerospace Research Scholars program this summer.

The free STARS program welcomes high school girls interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and aims to inspire them to pursue STEM-related studies and careers.

STARS is scheduled during the week of July 15-19, and interested students are encouraged to apply by June 9.

Participants will engage in a range of activities such as exclusive behind-the-scenes tours at leading science facilities, hands-on workshops covering coding and technology, and presentations by accomplished women in STEM.

“STARS is all about showing young women what’s possible for their futures,” said STARS coordinator Chris Yoakum. “We aim to foster a supportive environment where students can explore their interests, connect with mentors and mentorship opportunities, and learn about what STEM careers are really like from women who work in them.”

STARS is open to Hawaiʻi high school girls ages 14 and up and is offered at no cost to participants. Meals, accommodations and on-island transportation are all covered.

“We want to eliminate barriers and provide equal access to STEM education,” Yoakum said. “Our hope is that participants leave the program with a new perspective and inspiration to pursue their dreams.”

Sponsored Content

Subscribe to our Newsletter

• Send Me Daily Updates
• Send Me Weekly Updates

Related Articles

• Hawaii Videos
• Hawaii Jobs
• Events Calendar
• Meet the Writers
• Advertise With Us

Facebook YouTube Twitter Instagram

Kilauea eruption prompts red alert on Hawaii's Big Island

Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, has begun to erupt again, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Lava began to emerge from the summit of the famed volcano, located at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, around 12:30 a.m. local time, prompting the USGS to raise the alert level to red.

A red alert signifies that a volcanic eruption is imminent, underway or suspected, with potential hazardous activity on the ground and in the air.

Due to the remote location of this eruption, the primary hazards are airborne hazards related to gas emissions and tephra (rock fragments) being blown down wind of the eruption, the USGS said. Current volcano activity is restricted to the summit region, and no lava is visible from accessible areas in the park.

The eruption occurred about a mile south of the Kīlauea Caldera and north of the Koa'e fault system and Hilina Pali Road, within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but in a closed, rugged area, according to the USGS.

The open fissure is more than a mile long, a USGS spokesperson told ABC News. The lava has varied in height and vigor, with some eruptions spewing up to 65 feet, the spokesperson said. Gas was also being emitted from the fissure, the spokesperson noted, and the last time there was an eruption like this was in 1974, which was far more voluminous and covered a much larger area.

Lava flows are thin and have only traveled a few hundred yards from the fissures, the USGS said. Numerous large ground cracks have formed in the vicinity of the eruption.

This eruption could continue for a few hours to a couple of days, the spokesperson said.

Officials have not yet observed a Pele's hair -- volcanic glass formation produced from cooled lava and stretched into thin strands -- at the site.

Officials are closely monitoring the volcano for signs of increasing or decreasing activity, the USGS said. Researchers are also collecting emissions data from the volcanic gases and steam being emitted from the eruptive fissure and nearby cracks.

More than 400 earthquakes occurred over the past 24 hours, with most of them occurring between noon Sunday and midnight Monday, just before the eruption began, the USGS said. The largest earthquake, measuring at magnitude 4.1, occurred at 9:12 p.m. Sunday.

Past eruptions at Kilauea have proven to be destructive. Heavy lava flow destroyed more than 600 properties in 2018 as it traveled from the Kilauea summit to the ocean.

A mechanism similar to a "stomp-rocket toy" contributed to the severity of the lava flow that year and could affect future eruptions similarly, according to a paper published last week in Nature Geosciences .

Continual eruptions since 2018 have not been as severe .

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Kilauea Volcano Erupts on Hawaii’s Big Island

The volcano erupted three times in 2023. There did not appear to be any immediate danger to residents on Monday.

By Victor Mather

Kilauea, the most active volcano in Hawaii, began erupting early on Monday morning. Kilauea, in the southeast part of the Big Island, erupted three times last year.

Because the eruption was happening near the summit, there did not appear to be any immediate danger to residents.

The eruption began at 12:30 a.m. local time. Magma was rising from beneath the surface and “fountaining” up through cracks, the United States Geological Survey said.

Rather than the hundreds of feet you might expect in a classic, major volcanic eruption , Michael Poland, a geophysicist with the U.S.G.S., said the lava at Kilauea was rising only “tens of feet” on Monday.

In 2023, Kilauea erupted in January , June and September . A major eruption in 2018 destroyed 700 homes.

“From 1983 to 2018, all of the activity came from two vents,” Mr. Poland said. “Since 2018, it has gone away from a period of steady eruptions. Now it has discrete, usually shortish eruptions happening in several different places. Now we’re getting eruptions happening in places we haven’t seen in 50 years.”

Recent eruptions have typically lasted six to eight hours.

“Unlike 2018, when lava was coming out in people’s backyards, these are in the national park,” Mr. Poland said, referring to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The volcano alert level was raised Monday to a warning from a watch, the normal move when an eruption starts.

Scientists had been watching for an eruption after about 250 earthquakes were recorded beneath Kilauea’s summit over an eight-hour period before the eruption.

Earthquakes are sometimes a precursor to eruption. The strongest quake was a magnitude-4.1 temblor at 9:12 p.m., about three hours before the eruption.

The U.S.G.S. said that during Kilauea’s eruptions, volcanic gas, including sulfur dioxide, is released. That gas reacts in the atmosphere to create volcanic smog, or vog.

“Vog creates the potential for airborne health hazards to residents and visitors, damages agricultural crops and other plants, and affects livestock,” the agency said.

“It’s more of an irritant,” Mr. Poland said. “If people have sensitive breathing or respiratory issues, they may find it more difficult to breathe.”

Mr. Poland said after the initial eruptions, the activity was starting to wane as of 11 a.m. Eastern time. “We wouldn’t expect this one to be a terribly long-term eruption,” he said.

Victor Mather , who has been a reporter and editor at The Times for 25 years, covers sports and breaking news. More about Victor Mather

Kilauea volcano, one of the world’s most active, erupts in Hawaii

The volcanic activity took place in an area that hadn’t erupted in nearly 50 years, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said.

Key takeaways

Summary is AI-generated, newsroom-reviewed.

• Eruption in remote, closed part of park posed no immediate threat to residents or homes.
• Activity paused after 12 hours, but situation remains dynamic.
• Eruption in 2018 destroyed 700 homes; volcanic smog (vog) can also pose hazard.

Did our AI help? Share your thoughts.

Kilauea volcano, one of the world’s most active , began erupting Monday in an area within Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park, but did not pose an immediate threat from lava to nearby residents or homes, authorities said.

The volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island blew in an area that last erupted a half-century ago, according to the United States Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

The observatory and Hawaii’s emergency management agency said late Monday that the eruption, which began in the morning, had paused about 12 hours later, but it warned that “activity in the region remains dynamic and could change quickly.”

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said lava had been “fountaining” from half-mile-long fissures, with volcanic gases blowing downwind. Scientists had been monitoring the volcano after increased earthquake activity was recorded at its summit.

“The unpredictability of volcanic eruptions is what makes them hazardous,” a park official, Jessica Ferracane, said on Hawaii News Now, which reported that guests arrived in the area to watch from afar.

The eruption took place in a remote, closed part of the park, the USGS said .

The volcano has erupted dozens of times over the past seven decades, including three times in 2023 , spewing lava fountains and bursts of volcanic gas. An eruption that lasted months in 2018 engulfed homes in lava, destroying more than 700 as hundreds of residents evacuated.

Over hundreds of years, the volcano has covered much of its surface with lava flows.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said after the eruption paused that “elevated volcanic gas emissions” continued and that it would continue to monitor as the eruption could resume.

Kilauea began erupting about 12:30 AM HST south of the caldera and north of the Koa'e fault system and Hilina Pali Road, within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. View from Keck Observatories on Mauna Kea. More info: https://t.co/N6WsRzPFij pic.twitter.com/VYg4ulABaX — USGS Volcanoes🌋 (@USGSVolcanoes) June 3, 2024

A hazard during Kilauea eruptions can be volcanic smog, or vog — a noxious smog formed when sulfur dioxide coming out of eruption vents interacts with oxygen and water vapor in the air.

Hawaii’s aboveground volcanoes formed over the course of the past 5 million years as the Pacific plate drifts over a hot spot in Earth’s mantle.