Hotspots > Hawaii Volcanoes National Park > Sightseeing >

Drive to the end of the Chain of Craters Road and see huge steam plumes as lava enters the ocean, as well as the paths of past lava flows down the cliffs, over the Chain of Craters Road and destroying the former visitor center. Depending on the direction and character of the current lava flow, lava can be viewed flowing down the Pali (Cliff), spilling into the ocean, or up close in slow moving surface flows. The viewing area’s location, which changes as the flow changes, may be accessed with a 1-4 hour hike. Viewing is the best in the evening or at night, so don’t forget your flashlight (available at the Volcano House gift shop).