Overview
Chain of Craters Road is a scenic 18.8-mile drive through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, offering stunning views of craters, lava tubes, and the Pacific Ocean. The road leads to the end of the lava flow at Holei Sea Arch.
This road provides access to some of the most active volcanic features in the park, including the Kilauea Volcano.
Location
Address
Chain of Craters Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
Neighborhood: Puna
Coordinates
19.425900, -155.133400
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-June, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Cooler weather and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild
- • Wildflowers
- • Clear views
summer
Warm
- • Extended daylight
autumn
Mild
- • Clear skies
- • Fall colors
winter
Rainy
- • Rainbows
- • Lush vegetation
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check road conditions
- Carry water
- Wear sturdy shoes
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate
- • Uneven terrain
- • Volcanic gases
Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor center
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable walking shoes, Sturdy walking shoes, Open-toed shoes
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but check for events
- • National Park Service website
- • N/A
- • N/A
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Hawaii Volcanoes NPS App
Size: 100 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Park information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor Center, Volcano House
Charging Stations: Visitor Center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Hilo International Airport
Distance: 45 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 10 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique volcanic landscapes and cultural significance
Historical Significance: Active volcanic activity and Hawaiian cultural history
Insider Tips
- Visit early for fewer crowds
- Check for recent lava activity
Local Recommendations
- • Try local shave ice
- • Visit Volcano House for lunch
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Holei Sea Arch
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide shots
Result: Stunning ocean and lava arch photos
Kilauea Overlook
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Low angle
Result: Great shots of the active volcano
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Thurston Lava Tube
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Geological Wonder
Kilauea Visitor Center
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Visitor Center
Reviews
Based on 2,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Check for lava activity"
- "Visit early"
- "Wear sturdy shoes"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (2)
Quick Info
Available Tours
24
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
2,000
Adult Entry
$30 per vehicle