Big Island Parks (1 of 4)
The Big Island is very large and diverse with numerous parks to enjoy the land and sea.
BIG ISLAND NATIONAL PARKS
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Established in 1916, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park displays the results of 70 million years of volcanism, migration, and evolution — processes that thrust a bare land from the sea and clothed it with complex and unique ecosystems, and a distinct human culture.
The park encompasses 333,000 acres and ranges from sea level to the summit of the earth's most massive volcano, Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. Kilauea, the world's most active volcano, offers scientists insights on the birth of the Hawaiian Islands and visitors views of dramatic volcanic landscapes. Over half of the park is designated wilderness and provides unique hiking and camping opportunities.
Getting There
Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island of Hawai`i. From Hilo: 30 miles southwest on Highway 11 (a 45 minute drive); from Kailua-Kona: 96 miles southeast on Highway 11 (2 to 2 1/2 hour drive), or 125 miles through Waimea and Hilo via highways 19 and 11 (2 1/2 to 3 hours).
Hilo and Kona Airports are served by inter-island carriers. Some major airlines have direct flights to Kona from the continental U.S. Rental cars may be reserved at both airports. At various locations the public bus (Hele On Bus) ph# (808) 961-8744, commercial tour buses, taxis, motorcycles, and bicycles are available. No rental vehicles or bicycles may be obtained in the park.
Operating Hours
- Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park is open 24 hours a day year-round. Kilauea Visitor Center is open daily from 7:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Jaggar Museum is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. "Born of Fire... Born of the Sea" is the featured 25 minute film that is shown in the Kilauea Visitor Center on the hour throughout the day, starting at 9:00 a.m. with the last film shown at 4:00 p.m..
- Volcano Art Center Gallery, located adjacent to the Kilauea Visitor Center, is open from 9:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m. daily.
- Volcano House, located across the street from the Kilauea Visitor Center, operates a hotel, restaurant, snack bar, and gift shops.
Weather
Expect changeable weather. Weather at Kilauea's summit (4000' elevation) fluctuates daily and can be rainy and chilly any time of the year. (See the Climate webpage for weather trends, and Mauna Loa Summit Weather for alpine conditions). Temperature varies by elevation and it is generally 14 degrees cooler at the summit than it is at sea level. The coastal plain at the end of Chain of Craters Road is often hot, dry, and windy. Come prepared. Bring rain gear, sturdy shoes, hats, water bottles, sun glasses, and high UV factor sunscreen.
Fees
Entrance to the park (a seven-day permit) is $10.00 per vehicle, $5.00 for pedestrians or bicyclists. Fees for those arriving by commercial bus or tour vary by passenger capacity. Persons holding a Golden Age Passport (available to U.S. citizens or residents 62 years of age or older for a one-time fee of $10.00) or Golden Eagle Passport are admitted free of charge. An annual pass may be purchased for $20.00 which allows access for 1 full year at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Haleakala National Park, and Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park.
