Eruption Viewing

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Eruption Update

Volcanic activity is episodic, with eruptions separated by pauses lasting several days or more. Eruption can be as short as a few hours. Check webcams and the USGS daily volcano update for current conditions before visiting. Stay safe and follow all regulations.

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Live view of the ongoing eruption within Halemaʻumaʻu crater.

Use the webcam to determine current volcanic activity.

When the volcano is active, you can observe lava fountains, flowing lava, and a strong glow, especially at night.
During a pause, volcanic activity is minimal, with little to no eruptions, though a faint glow at night from previously erupted lava may still be visible.

Where are the Best Eruption Viewing Locations?

The current eruption within Halema'uma'u crater can be seen from various overlooks along Crater Rim Drive. Although lava may be visible within the national park, conditions can change at any time. Changes in the eruptive activity and weather conditions such as fog or rain often prevent any eruption viewing. Consider factors such as viewing experience, long waits and crowds, hiking ability, and available time when selecting where to view the eruption. Check out the park map and download the new NPS mobile app to help you navigate during your visit.

Showing results 1-5 of 5

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Eruption Viewing from Uēkahuna
- Locations: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
The overlook at Uēkahuna offers great views into Halemaʻumaʻu crater and surrounding areas from the summit of Kīlauea volcano. Located at the end of Crater Rim Drive West, a 2.8 mile (7 minute) drive from the entrance station. Family-friendly location with ranger's on-site for information. More available parking compared to other locations.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Eruption Viewing from Kīlauea Overlook (Kapalikapuokamohoaliʻi)
- Locations: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Kīlauea Overlook offers unobstructed views of the bottom of the Halemaʻumaʻu crater during an eruption. Located 2.5 miles (7 minutes) from the entrance station. Family-friendly location with great views. A short 0.4 miles walk from the overlook at Uēkahuna.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Eruption Viewing near Keanakākoʻi Overlook
- Locations: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Eruption viewing from the overlooks near Keanakākoʻi offers close-up views but requires planning. Parking is extremely limited between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., so it's best to visit outside these hours. Have a Plan B if parking is full. The site requires a 2-mile round-trip hike (about 1 hour) from Devastation parking area. Additional parking at Puʻupuaʻi Overlook an additional 0.5 miles.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Eruption Viewing from Wahinekapu
- Locations: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Experience the heat from nearby steam vents as you take in the breathtaking views of the eruption, with unobstructed, panoramic views of the entire cinder cone. Located on Crater Rim Drive West, 1 mile (4 minutes) from entrance station. A popular, but congested spot due to being the first overlook you encounter upon entering the park.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Eruption Viewing from Kūpinaʻi Pali
- Locations: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Escape the crowds and experience the eruption in solitude. This vantage point offers stunning wide-angle views of the caldera, being the furthest overlook from the eruption. Located at the end of Crater Rim Drive West, a 0.3 miles (2 minute) drive from the entrance station. Parking available near the closed Kīlauea Visitor Center. Hike 0.5 miles (20 minutes) towards Volcano House hotel and southeast on Crater Rim Trail.

Map showing eruption viewing areas between Uēkahuna, Kīlauea Overlook at Kūkamāhuākea (Steam Vents), Kūpinaʻi Pali, and Keanakākoʻi. — Lava can be seen at numbered areas listed below. Park at designated overlooks and parking areas for the best views of the eruption.

Eruption Viewing Tips

Arrive early to enjoy stunning views and avoid crowds, especially before 5 p.m. Avoid popular parking areas like Devastation and Kīlauea Overlook between 5-9 p.m.
Bring essentials: headlamp for nighttime visits, sturdy shoes, warm clothes, and a rain jacket.
Stay out of closed areas: Rope lines and hazard signs protect you from dangerous volcanic fumes, sudden collapses, and hidden cracks.Air quality is important—check before and during your visit.
Have respect: The Kīlauea eruption is a reminder of sacredness in Hawaiʻi. Watch quietly and learn about the cultural significance of the land to Native Hawaiians.

Overlooking massive dark grey volcanic caldera with camera in the top left foreground.

Webcams

Get a live look inside the park, courtesy of USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

Parking

Parking lots can be full by 10 am. Find out where and when you stand a better chance of finding an available parking space.

Weather and Climate

Be prepared for the island's unpredictable weather.

Two hikers on a road with a distant snow-covered mountain

Safety

Many hazards exist in this dynamic landscape. Be prepared and informed so your visit is safe and enjoyable.

Last updated: April 11, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 52
Hawaii National Park, HI 96718

Phone:

808 985-6011

Alerts In Effect

Danger

Kīlauea eruption

Park Closures

Construction Closures and Delays

Kīlauea Visitor Center (KVC) Closed for Extensive Renovation

Mauna Loa Road closed to vehicles

Eruption Viewing

Where are the Best Eruption Viewing Locations?

Eruption Viewing from Uēkahuna

Eruption Viewing from Kīlauea Overlook (Kapalikapuokamohoaliʻi)

Eruption Viewing near Keanakākoʻi Overlook

Eruption Viewing from Wahinekapu