Kīlauea Visitor Center

On our latest National Park adventure we visited the Volcanos National Park, Hawai’i. Our journey was a four day adventure of hikes, and tours of the mountains, formations and hopefully see some volcanic activity. Our Junior Ranger Program took us on various adventures within the park and an extensive look at nature and our surroundings. Our entire family joined in the pursuit of the all mighty Volcano National Park Badge, and our mission was accomplished on the last day. As we bid a farewell to this beautiful place, we know it’s in loving hands with the professionals National Park Service staff who we encountered and were true forrest warriors. If you have an opportunity, please consider a donation to this amazing National Park, every little bit goes a very long way. Safe travels!

An unforgettable stop on the Big Island! The Kīlauea Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for exploring Volcanoes National Park. The staff was friendly and super knowledgeable—they gave us great tips on current lava viewing spots, trail conditions, and weather updates. The exhibits are informative and engaging, helping you understand the cultural and geological significance of the area. We visited on a weekday and had almost no wait. From the center, it’s a quick trip to the stunning overlooks and the Thurston Lava Tube—walking through that glowing tunnel was surreal! If you’re heading here, definitely stop in first. Great place to get your bearings, refill water, and pick up maps or souvenirs. One of the most unique national parks in the world—don’t miss it!

Definitely a must experience while visiting the big Island, Lava Tubes, Volcanoes, Lava Arches, Lava Fields, steam vents, Hiking, sight seeing and if you're lucky the volcanoe will have an episode while visiting. Its truly a beautiful place and there is nothing like it in the world.

Such a nice restaurant with the volcano view! It was a huge portion of the food 🔥🔥 I ordered Chicken Katsu. It was enough to share with 2people!

The visitor center was nice. It was raining, though. When visiting Hawaii in the summer, all I think about is sunshine. If visiting the National Volcanoes Park, be aware that it may be raining.

Great place to see the volcano. I personally think it’s one of the better viewing areas

Not easy to find. Phone plus directions got us there. This temporary center hits the mark as equally as efficient as many of permanent centers. The store is sufficiently large (former military retail?). The ranger desk and area are small. Yet, the NP help was friendlier at the overlook etc than it felt like here.

Very basic as National Park Centers go ... Friendly, professional staff. Small gift shop (larger gift shop at hotel and Arts building). Very good guidance on hiking trails. Note that this Visitor Center is being replaced in 2025, with a temporary Center in place during construction. Note: excellent dining room in the hotel overlooking Kilauea. Food and drinks are very good.