Crater Rim Drive

Overview

Crater Rim Drive is a scenic 10.5-mile route that offers stunning views of the active Kilauea Volcano and other geological wonders within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This drive is a must-do for visitors looking to explore the park's volcanic landscapes.

The drive provides access to various volcanic features, including active craters, steam vents, and lava tubes. It's a key route for experiencing the dynamic geological activity of the park.

Nature Geology Volcano

Location

Address

Crater Rim Drive, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

Neighborhood: Volcano Village

Coordinates

19.474400, -155.241100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 7:45 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 7:45 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 7:45 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 7:45 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 7:45 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 7:45 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 7:45 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$30 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Children

$0 (ages 15 and under)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May and October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

cool temperatures and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

full day with hikes

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild and pleasant

• wildflowers
• lush greenery

summer

hot and dry

• extended daylight
• high volcanic activity

autumn

cool and clear

• fall colors
• clear skies

winter

moderate temperatures, some rain

• rainbows after rain
• holiday events

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check for volcanic activity updates
Book accommodations in advance
Bring plenty of water

What to Bring

essential

water sturdy walking shoes sun protection park map

seasonal

rain jacket umbrella warm layers

not allowed

drones without permit pets off-trail hiking

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate (some hikes can be strenuous)

• high altitude areas
• volcanic gases
• uneven terrain

Medical facilities: first aid available at visitor centers

Payment Information

Accepted

credit cards, cash

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $30 per vehicle

parking $0 (included in entry fee)

guided tour $50-$100

food $15-$30

Dress Code

casual and comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, layers for changing temperatures, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots, inappropriate clothing, high heels

Booking Tips

• at least 2 weeks for popular activities
• official Hawaii Volcanoes National Park website
• 48 hours for refund on guided tours
• available for some guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Official App

Size: 45 MB

Features: interactive map, real-time volcanic activity updates, audio tours, event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, Volcano House

Charging Stations: Visitor centers, Volcano House

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Hilo International Airport (ITO)

Distance: 45 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

taxi

$80-$100 45 min

public_transport

$2 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 30 km

car

varies with gas prices 35 min

bus

$2 1 hour

taxi

$60-$80 35 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique volcanic landscapes, rich Hawaiian culture, and the awe-inspiring power of nature

Historical Significance: Home to the active Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes, with a rich history of Hawaiian culture and volcanic activity

Insider Tips

Visit the Jaggar Museum overlook for the best view of the active crater
The Chain of Craters Road offers additional stunning views and access to the coast
Early morning visits to the steam vents provide the best visibility for steam activity

Local Recommendations

• Try local Hawaiian shave ice
• Visit the nearby Volcano House for a meal with a view
• Ask rangers for the latest volcanic activity updates

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Aloha

thank_you Mahalo

where_is Eia i

how_much Pehea i

beautiful Nani

ticket Tikeki

Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Steam Vents Overlook

Best Time: Early morning or sunset

Tips: Capture the steam rising with the volcanic landscape in the background

Result: Stunning shots of volcanic activity

#hawaiivolcanoes #craterrimdrive #volcanicwonders

Kilauea Overlook

Best Time: Sunrise

Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the crater

Result: Breathtaking views of the active crater

#kilauea #volcanicwonders #hawaii

Sulphur Banks

Best Time: Mid-morning

Tips: Focus on the colorful mineral deposits

Result: Vibrant colors against the volcanic landscape

#sulphurbanks #volcanicolor #hawaii

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas, viewpoints, and trails

prohibited areas inside buildings without permission

flash photography not allowed in museums and indoor exhibits

commercial photography permit required for professional shoots

drone policy only allowed with a special use permit

tripod policy allowed in designated areas, not during peak hours

selfie sticks allowed but use with caution near edges

Nearby Attractions

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Visitor Center

Kilauea Iki Trail

Distance: 2km

Walking: 30 min

Type: Hiking Trail

Thurston Lava Tube

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Lava Tube

Chain of Craters Road

Distance: 5km

Walking: not walkable, drive or bike

Type: Scenic Drive

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Distance: 30km

Walking: not walkable, 30 min drive

Type: Beach

Reviews

4.7

Based on 2,500 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Check for volcanic activity updates before visiting"
"Start early to avoid crowds and heat"
"Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes"
"Visit the Jaggar Museum overlook for the best views"

Contact Information

+1 808-985-6000

havo_interpretation@nps.gov

www.nps.gov/havo

Social Media

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