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Big Island - Volcanoes National Park
Published: 03/23/2009
Ready to explore Volcanoes National Park? Then dedicate this day to Madam Pele and all women of heart. From the west coast of the Big Island head north to Waimea through the Hamakua Coast, past Hilo and arriving early at the Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Take a quick break in Hilo at the Big Island Candies on Hinano Street. The entire operation is visitor friendly and the famous chocolate dipped macadamia nut shortbreads are great snacks while at the volcano.
A great way to see the volcano is through the air and Sunshine Helicopters has locations on the west coast at the Hapuna Heliport (this saves a lot of time for those with limited days on the Big Island) and at the Hilo Airport. For more information call 1-800-469-3000.
The heart of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is Kilauea Caldera, encircled by 11 miles of Crater Rim Drive. This is a circular route so it doesn’t matter which way you proceed. The drive will take you past steam vents, sulpher springs and lush vegetation filled with the songs of the birds that call this special place home . Hawai`i’s oldest hotel, Volcano House, has hosted an ongoing march of visitors, royalty and heads of state, writers and artisans, adventurers and scientists since it opened its doors in the 1860s. Mark Twain was a guest as well as Pres. Franklin Roosevelt. Stopping here provides not only refreshments but a fantastic view of the crater.
We recommend you that you go first to the Volcano House then to the Thomas A. Jaggar Museum just a few minutes up the road. Be sure to visit Thurston Lava Tubes. This short walk will leave you feeling like you are in an enchanted movie kingdom. You will find yourself in a vibrantly green fern forest filled with native birds. As you take in the beauty of this place you might find yourself looking for a resident fairy, elf, gnome or menehune.
Inside the tube, which is lit on one side, but dark at the other end; you can almost hear the chants and drums from times gone by. As lovely as it is there is no time to dilly dally. The drive is filled with pullovers for a great view and there are too many to stop at each one if you are in the area for just one day. It doesn’t matter where you stop, you will get a photograph with which you are thrilled!
As the afternoon is getting late it is time to go back to Hilo and visit the Lyman Museum and Mission House before your dinner. They have tours scheduled at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. Your trip to the Big Island is certainly not complete until you visit this outstanding museum. Times may vary so be sure to call 808-935-5021 for more information.
Locations
Big Island, Hilo
Big Island, Volcano
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