USGS Photo by Tim Orr

Steam and fumes rise where lava enters the ocean. (click on photo for a larger version). Notice the visitor viewing area on the left side of the photo

Lava is currently flowing into the ocean from a vent that is outside the boundaries of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. The site is east of the eastern boundary of the park and about 12 miles from the summit caldera of Kilauea.

Hawai`i County has opened a viewing area at the end of Highway 130 (the Kea`au - Pahoa bypass road). Visitors may enter the viewing area between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. daily (vehicles must exit the area by 10 p.m. when the gates will be locked). See: Map to Viewing Area

Visitors may call the lava update recorded message for more information about the lava viewing area: (808) 961-8093.

Lava viewing conditions are unpredictable and constantly changing. There may be times when wind direction changes and blows fumes/smoke toward the viewing area, making it unsafe for the public. Safety issues such as these may cause the viewing area to be closed without prior notice.

Visitors should be prepared for a long walk. Wear shoes. Bring a backpack with bottled water and snacks. Flashlights are essential for after 6pm - headlamps are helpful.

The eruptive vent is in a remote and inaccessible area east of the park in the Kahauale'a natural area reserve. Due to hazardous conditions, the State of Hawai'i has closed access to the vent site.

USGS Photo

Lava drips into the ocean at the Ki ocean entry, March 26, 2008

Visitor Alert - Hazardous Fume and Area Closure Advisories 

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