Kīlauea is one of the world's most active volcanoes, located within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawai'i. Known for near-continuous eruptions, it offers visitors dramatic vistas, active lava flows, and a range of hiking trails.
Geography
| Address | Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Hawai'i, USAHawai'i Volcanoes National Park |
|---|---|
| Continent | Oceania |
| Region | Hawai'i |
| Subregion | Polynesia |
| Country | United States |
| State | Hawai'i |
| County | Hawai'i County |
| District | Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park |
| Timezone | PacificHonolulu |
| Latitude | 19.4069 |
| Longitude | -155.2812 |
| Maps |
Kīlauea sits centrally within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island and has been erupting almost continuously since 1983 — one of the most reliable sites for observing lava in motion. Visitors encounter stark volcanic landscapes, steaming vents, and the ever-shifting surface of the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater. Multiple boardwalks and trails provide access to overlooks, lava viewing points, and the crater rim. Beyond the summit, flowing pāhoehoe and ʻaʻā lava can reach lower elevation parks and coastal areas, creating a dynamic and often rapidly changing terrain. Safety and respect for the active environment are paramount; stay on established paths and heed park advisories. For explorers, night visits can reveal glowing rifts and incandescent flows, while daytime trips highlight volcanic landforms and native plant and birdlife.
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