Volcano
The only place in the world to witness an active shield volcano in real time. Kilauea has erupted continuously in various forms since 1983. Drive Crater Rim Drive, walk Thurston Lava Tube (free, 10 min loop), and drive all 19 miles of Chain of Craters Road to where lava met the ocean — the road simply ends in a lava field. Kilauea Iki Trail (6km crater floor hike) is the best single activity in the park. Check current eruption status at nps.gov/havo before going. Always check the vog index (vog.higp.hawaii.edu) before the day — sulfur dioxide from the caldera can cause serious respiratory distress for anyone with asthma or heart conditions.
$35 per vehicle, valid 7 days. Check nps.gov/havo for current eruption status and closed areas. Visitor Center open daily. Chain of Craters Road is 19 miles one-way — allow time.
Volcanic fog (vog) from SO2 emissions — check vog.higp.hawaii.edu daily. Avoid prolonged exposure with respiratory conditions. Rain is common in the park.