If I could visit every National Park and walk on all the trails that a National Park has to offer for the rest of my life I would. You can call me a #NationalParkGeek and I would not be offended. I feel that it is a blessing that these amazing places have been preserved for all of us to enjoy. Many come to Hawai’i to sit around and enjoy the beautiful beaches of the Big Island but we came to see this one of a kind National Park. Don’t worry we enjoyed our time at the beach as well.:)
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a place where you can observe the beauty that comes out of natures destructive power. The scotched ground from the lava has turned into this magnificent desolation. It is far more magical than we had imagined.
Lava Viewing
You can view the Kilauea volcano glow from the Jagged Museum.
If you are simply passing by Hawai’i Volcano National Park we highly recommend you not to miss the glow. We came early in the mornings and late in the evenings and we found that the best time to come is early in the morning while it’s still pitch dark. It is not as crowded. It is cold here both in the morning and in the evening so you’ll want to bring your warm clothes or else you’ll be wearing your warm pajamas like I did.
Kilauea Overlook
We were fortunate to see locals come and pay homage to the Goddess Pele. We have never seen anything like this before. We saw how this group gave their Ho’okupu (gifts or offering) to Pele. People usually give food, flowers, or berries to Pyle, oftentimes prayers, chants, and dances are offered to Pele as well.
Kilauea Iki Trail
Have you ever wanted to walk through a pit crater? If so here is your chance. This is an easy 4 mile round trip hike. We did this hike first thing in the morning and we highly recommend you do that as well because there are no trees and it gets really hot on this black lava trail. First you walk through the jungle and then you will descend onto the crater floor where you walk along steaming vents. The ground is black with no vegetation, it is right over the hill from an active volcano. Then you will come to piles upon piles of sharp lava rocks and towards the end of this trail your back to the lush green rainforest. In our opinion this unique trail is one of the best hikes on the Island.
My jacket in burnt olive is from Snergy Clothing
Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs Trail
For me nothing makes me feel more connected to the past then seeing Petroglyphs. I can just imagine someone in the distant time creating these ancient images to tell us their story. These are very well preserved images carved into the volcanic rock. It is just a short hike away, only 1.4 mile round trip . A boardwalk was built to help preserve these petroglyphs so that you will be higher up and get a better view.
Holei Sea Arch
If you’ve been following us for awhile you know we love unique natural formations.This arch is like no other we have ever seen before. This arch stands 60 feet above the crashing waves. It was formed by wave erosion which means that it is ever changing and could be gone the next time we visit Hawai’i. There This arch is super easy to reach it is right next to the parking lot.
My Large checks dress is from Not Perfect Linen
Thurston Lava Tube
It is fun to explore lava tubes. It is crazy to imagine that fast moving molten lava had created this 500 foot long lava tube. If you’ve been to Subway Cave in California or anywhere in Lava Beds then you won’t be as impressed with Thurston Lava Tube. It is well developed and easy to explore lava tube. Here you will see how powerful the volcano can be and it is defiantly worth the stop.
My leggings are from Senita Athletics
Sulphur Banks Trail (Ha’akulamanu)
Let’s just say that I am fascinated with everything that has to do with volcanoes. Sulfur banks are so neat but the smell is not pleasant because it almost smells like rotten eggs. If you have kids with you then you’ll want to keep them close to you because the vents are extremely hot . Here you will find the beautiful bright yellowish/greenish color of crystals which has been created from sulfur gases.
Namakanipaio Campground
Did you know that you can sleep within half a mile from Jagger Museum? It is located within the national park which gives you great opportunity to spend more time to explore this incredible volcanic wonder. We stayed two nights in this cabin and we loved it. This is glamping at its best because there is no need for you to bring your mattress or bedding. To reserve your stay call 1-808-756-9625.
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What is your favorite National Park? Why?
Heather | My Moxietude
Yosemite!! It is just such a peaceful place for me. 😉
robin Rue
That is absolutely gorgeous. It has long been my dream to visit here and I hope to make it there someday!
OvenStruck
Wow. This post brought back so many beautiful memories. We love the islands, people, culture and customs of Hawaii… the Pele offering brought tears to my eyes. Thanks for the travels! Aloha ?
Angela Tolsma
that is so neat you got to see locals pay homage to the Goddess Pele. What a unique opportunity! The crater pic photos are so neat!
Marcie
I’ve been there, but it was many years ago. I’m a hula dancer and it’s so awe-inspiring to watch people dance in honor of Pele. It’s such a spiritual experience.
Terri Steffes
I don’t have a favorite but I am like you, I could go to a national park every vacation. So beautiful. We’ll be sure to add this to our must dos when we get back to Hawaii.
Angela
Wow that volcano glow is just breathtaking!!! My husband and I are not the most outdoor people, but WOW I would do an exception for this! Just beautiful
Reesa Lewandowski
When we visited Hawaii we did not have time to see things like this. What a beautiful natural part of the landscape!!
Lynn
I have to admit I haven’t been to a National Park in a long time, but this one sure does make me want to go. The pictures are amazing an I think I want to walk through a crater pit now.
Karina
Wow. What gorgeous photos you captured. I would’ve probably been too worried about that volcano exploading while walking though the crater to even attempt the hike. I would probably only do it for the photography opportunities though – that always draws me in. So glad you got to experience this. Looks like it was extremely memorable!
Tereza
Oh wow that’s amazing! I’ve never see anything like this before and totally didn’t realise that Hawaii looks like this too! Amazing pictures xx
Amanda Rosson
Oh wow, what incredible photos of an incredible place!! I would definitely like to visit there one day! Out of the National Parks I’ve been to, I loveee Yosemite. It’s so beautiful there 🙂
Anna nuttall
Beautiful photos. That must have been spectacle to see the volcano. xx
Amanda Love
Volcanoes are so fascinating. It’s nice to that you got to tour all of these places. You’re really going to appreciate the world more when you see its wonders up close.
Jeanine
This would be amazing to experience. I don’t travel often which means I don’t get to see much sadly, but something like this would be really lovely. I would love to visit someday!
CourtneyLynne
Omg lovely photos!!!! I’ve been fortunate eneough to visit this park as well! Amazing to see in person!
Blythe Alpern
This is my kind of adventure. I’m not much of a beach person but going for a hike and exploring a park created from volcanic ash and lava would absolutely be something I would love to do.
Heather
What an incredible experience. For our honeymoon in 2006 we went on a cruise around all the islands and made a stop there. We hiked the Kilauea Iki Trail too and it was amazing. I’m so silly and didn’t take many pictures and because of that need to plan another visit soon!
Jalisa Harris
This looks like an amazing place to visit. When my toddler gets a little older this a place I would definitely love to visit.
Jess McKenney | Salt & Life Blog
I’ve always wanted to travel to Hawaii and see the black sand beaches and the lava tunnels!!! Pretty sure it’s gonna be a while for us, so thanks for all the beautiful photos! There’s such a telling if history through that landscape!
Heather
This looks like an amazing vacation! I love that little cabin at the end too – so cute!
Sara
It looks like a great trip and the photos here tell a great story. I’d be afraid of the volcanoes though