Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Kahuku Unit - Ocean View, Hawaii

Samuel M. Worthington IV

This place is absolutely huge, so really it needs 7 or 8 reviews as you break it into parts. We did 4 hikes here over a long day in July and each one was just awesome. From the lush forests to the seemingly endless craters we loved it all. The rangers were great, with super helpful suggestions on where to go next. The parking at some of the trailheads was a tad crazy, but I guess that goes with the territory. FWIW our fav hike was Kilauea Iki Day hike

Michelle Porter

This is a free to visit and sadly under utilized satellite location of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Once a working ranch, it's where lush rolling pastureland meets gnarly lava wasteland in a dramatic and beautiful contrast. There are 7 different trails to choose from, ranging from 0.6 to 10 miles and free maps are available at the ranger station near the entrance. You can climb ancient cinder cones and enjoy sweeping views of the coast, check out a pit crater and enjoy the old growth Ohia trees which are at peak bloom in May-June when they are raging red. On the Pit Crater Trail you will find one Ohia that is as big as an ancient oak tree! It must be the biggest on this island! The trails are all well-marked and meticulously maintained. Highly recommend a visit!

Shayla Abercrombie

Very scenic landscape. Go to the Hilo side of the island to see the active volcano. Wear hiking attire and be prepared for lots of walking down trails and up hills. Many places are accessible by car. You'll need to make this an all-day visit to really enjoy the park.

Amalina Ariffin

Do not expect to see steam or lava even if it is called the Volcanoes National Park. Ranger Wendy is very passionate about the park and was very helpful in providing a briefing about the area and it's history (including cultural myths about Goddess Pele). There are hiking trails that you can go to and they were pretty easy I was fine hiking with slippers (flip flops) only.

Make sure you have something to eat because there's no cafes or restaurants nearby and the restroom is a compost toilet with no sink which may throw some people off

Important: only opens Wednesdays until Fridays so plan accordingly!

Jim K

Check before coming, as not open every day.
Very small visitor center, but rangers very helpful. Beautiful and varied landscapes and views with numerous well maintained trails of various degrees of difficulty. Best part is there are very few people on the trails, so no congestion. Definitely a little known spot to take advantage of if you enjoy hiking and want to see another side of Hawaii.

Dennis Elliott

This was a fun day trip. While it wasn't as exciting as the main park, the big draw is the main pit crater which is fun. You can do the more strenuous, longer hike, but with a 4WD, you can cut it down to a roughly 2 mile round trip hike if you prefer. Ask the ranger who was very helpful for your options.

Dennis Hust

I have visited site, both day and night, with and without volcano active. So much to see! I will admit it is more incredible when the volcano is active especially at night! Visitor center is where to start your visit!

Lisa Olson

Surreal place to visit. Bring a jacket for the high elevation. Park is open 24 hours but Visitors Center closes at 8 pm. For spectacular night viewing get to the top before dusk as the 3 parking lots fill up fast. Volcano house has viewing deck open to the public.