A visit to the Big Island isn’t complete without experiencing the raw power and beauty of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Located on the southeastern side of the island, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an unforgettable landscape of lava fields, volcanic craters, lush rainforest, and dramatic coastal views.
If you're staying along the scenic Kohala Coast, a day trip to the park is one of the most rewarding adventures you can take. With the right route, a few strategic stops, and an early start, you can experience the highlights of the park, explore some of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours, and still make it back in time for sunset by the ocean.
Below is the perfect itinerary for a memorable Big Island volcano adventure.
Best Route from the Kohala Coast to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
The drive from the Kohala Coast to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park typically takes about 2–3 hours each way, depending on traffic and stops. A popular route (and the fastest) from the Kohala Coast’s southern part is:
Waikoloa Road → Saddle Road (Daniel K. Inouye Highway) → Highway 11 → Crater Rim Drive W
This route offers stunning views of the island’s changing ecosystems. Just be sure to gas up before your trip and before passing Hilo and to start your travels early in the morning so you have plenty of daylight hours in the park. Please also keep in mind that Saddle Road is known for heavy fog and changing weather, so pack layers and avoid driving at dark.
Suggested driving route:
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Start early from the Kohala resorts or nearby communities.
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Take Waikoloa Road to Saddle Road (Daniel K. Inouye Highway).
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Cross the island on Daniel K. Inouye Highway, passing between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.
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Stop in Hilo for lunch or coffee.
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Gas up!
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Continue south along Highway 11 to the park entrance.
Ideal Timing for a Big Island Volcano Day Trip
To make the most of your day trip, timing is key.
Recommended schedule:
6:30–7:00 AM — Depart the Kohala Coast
An early start helps you beat traffic and maximize daylight hours in the park.
10:00 AM — Arrive at the park
Head straight to the Welcome Center, for current eruption updates and ranger recommendations. The Welcome Center is currently serving as the replacement of the Kīlauea Visitor Center until renovations are complete.
Morning–Afternoon Highlights
Lunch Options
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Picnic inside the park
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Grab lunch at a restaurant inside the Park
Late Afternoon
Take the scenic drive on Chain of Craters Road.
5:00–6:00 PM — Begin return drive
Before beginning your trip back, consider having dinner at The Rim, located inside the historic Volcano House. Perched directly on the edge of the Kīlauea Caldera, the restaurant offers one of the most unique dining views in Hawaiʻi—overlooking the steaming Halemaʻumaʻu Crater.
Scenic Stops Worth Adding Along the Way
One of the best parts of a Big Island road trip is discovering unique stops along the route.
Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue) – Hilo
Just minutes from downtown Hilo, Rainbow Falls is a stunning waterfall known for morning rainbows appearing in the mist.
Akaka Falls State Park
If you have extra time, visit Akaka Falls State Park, located about 15 miles north of Hilo, to see one of the island’s most famous 442-foot waterfalls.
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
On the southern route back, stop at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach where Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles often rest on the sand.
These stops turn your volcano visit into a full Big Island sightseeing adventure rather than just a simple drive.
After a full day exploring lava fields and rainforest, returning to one of the island’s peaceful coastal communities feels especially rewarding. Many visitors choose the Kohala Coast because it combines adventure access with some of the best luxury vacation home rentals Hawaii has to offer.
Book Your Kohala Coast Stay with South Kohala Management
The best way to enjoy a volcano day trip is by staying somewhere comfortable, spacious, and ideally located. That’s where South Kohala Management comes in.
They offer a curated selection of Kohala Coast vacation rentals and properties, providing travelers with beautifully maintained homes and condos in some of the island’s most desirable resort communities.
Benefits of booking with South Kohala Management include:
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Prime locations near the island’s best beaches
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Full kitchens and spacious living areas
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Private lanais with ocean views
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Resort-style amenities like pools and golf access
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Easy driving distance to Big Island attractions
After a day exploring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, there’s nothing better than returning to your private lanai to watch the sunset over the Pacific.
Whether you're planning a weeklong Big Island adventure or just a relaxing tropical escape, the team at South Kohala Management can help you find the perfect home base for your stay.
Start planning your Big Island adventure today and book your Kohala Coast vacation rental with South Kohala Management!