Volcano House
Historic hotel with unparalleled views of Kīlauea's caldera, offering a unique lodging experience within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Witness nature's fiery spectacle
Volcano House
Best Time
Witness nature's fiery spectacle
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic hotel with unparalleled views of Kīlauea's caldera, offering a unique lodging experience within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
"The view of the volcano from the hotel room, lounge, and restaurants astounds with its charm and history."
🎯 Book Rim View Rooms
Secure a room with a direct crater view for an unforgettable experience. Book months in advance!
🍽️ Dine with a View
Even if not staying, the restaurant offers incredible caldera views. Reservations recommended for dinner.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Halemaʻumaʻu Crater Views
Lounge and Dining Room
Witness the awe-inspiring power of an active volcano from the comfort of the hotel's common areas.
Historic Hotel Atmosphere
Throughout the hotel
Step back in time in this iconic 1846 hotel, rich with history and character.
Lava Fountain Spectacle
Volcanoes National Park overlooks
Catch a glimpse of dramatic lava fountains during an eruption, a truly unforgettable sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Views
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Rim View Rooms
Secure a room with a direct crater view for an unforgettable experience. Book months in advance! 
🍽️ Dine with a View
Even if not staying, the restaurant offers incredible caldera views. Reservations recommended for dinner.
🧥 Pack Layers
Volcano weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for cool temperatures and potential fog.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the park. Good footwear is essential.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Rim View Rooms
Secure a room with a direct crater view for an unforgettable experience. Book months in advance!
🍽️ Dine with a View
Even if not staying, the restaurant offers incredible caldera views. Reservations recommended for dinner.
🧥 Pack Layers
Volcano weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for cool temperatures and potential fog.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the park. Good footwear is essential.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera! The volcanic activity and landscapes are incredibly photogenic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Volcano House offers an unparalleled location with breathtaking volcano views, making it a unique and historic stay. While the rooms are basic and some guests find the dining experience inconsistent, the staff's friendliness and the hotel's charm are frequently highlighted positives. It's an experience best suited for those prioritizing proximity to nature and history over modern luxury.
"We had reservations for 2 nights but left after 1 night. First night we had dinner in the dining room and it was horrible. We had reservations, but still had to wait 30 min. Not a big deal. My cocktail, special of the evening a grapefruit margarita, which was served after my apoetizer, was very strong, I asked the bartender if I could have a little more juice in it and he grabbed a chuck of a grapefruit, squeezed it with bare hands and shoved it in my glass and said there. Our steak was so tough we couldn't cut or chew it. We told the server and he said let me get you some steak knives. And brought knives. I had at least 5 chewed and spit out bites on my plate before I stopped eating it. The soup was soo fishy tasting, we could barely eat it. The mashed potatoes were cold. We left more than half of our dinners untouched. At $55 a steak and $16 a cup of soup, it should have been edible. Also we had tried for ice for our room earlier on check in, and had to go to the bar. 3 people later saying wait for the bartender. A different bartender for that bar came in and was very rude when we asked to see the bar menu and only filled our small bucket half way. The rooms were beyond out dated. No TV. 1 small fan, no air conditioning, tiny bathroom, but we were there for the scenery so some of the issues could be overlooked. When it was foggy the next day, we couldn't think of any reason to stay. The volcano couldnt be seen, the room was so so, no TV on a foggy night, bartenders were nasty, not hanging there, the food was terrible so we weren't going to eat, we decided to lose our nights pay and head back to our beach hotel. I'll say the check in girls were great with there advice and mimosas, the gift house people were great, the grounds were nice the park is wonderful. . But get a VRBO near by and visit the park. Don't stay at the volcano house."
Vicki Cook
"We stayed for 2 nights in a rim view room. While the location of the hotel is its selling point, the rooms left a lot to be desired. The hotel restaurant is very good, we had breakfast and dinner on the nights that we stayed.
Now on to the room. We knew this was an old historic hotel and expected the room and furniture to be old, and it was as we had anticipated. What I did not expect was the odor coming from the bathroom. Our room smelled like a dirty toilet despite the fact that the bathroom looked renovated. We left the windows wide open and the bathroom door shut during our stay. The room was clean, but the smell made the entire room feel dirty. At the price point that they are charging ($459 per night), I expect that they should at a minimum sanitize the bathroom after each check out. Very disappointing."
Liz S
"Overall this place was incredible and so were the people that worked there. We had a reservation to camp in the campground, and it was set up through the volcano house, where they provided a tent and a few other things along with that. We had some issues at the campground and the front desk ladies, I'm sorry, but I can't remember their names (the night and day receptionist on August 29/30/31) were exceptional. They helped us through the issue and did as much as they could for us.
Their food was delicious! We had the bbq pizza two different times and the burgers for lunch one day! the service was great and everyone was very pleasant and welcoming!"
Renee McLane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive from Kona to Volcano House is about 2.5 to 3 hours. It's a scenic route through the island. Many visitors opt for a long day trip, but staying overnight is recommended for a more immersive experience.
Yes, there is parking available for guests. However, during peak times or eruption events, parking can become limited. Arriving early is advisable.
Public transportation options to Volcano House are very limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the hotel and explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The best views are from the rim-view rooms, the hotel lounge, and the dining room. During eruptions, overlooks within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offer closer vantage points.
While the historic nature of the hotel presents some challenges, efforts have been made to improve accessibility. It's best to contact the hotel directly to discuss specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This fee covers access to the park for a set period. Volcano House is located within the park.
The park offers various passes, including daily and annual passes. Check the official National Park Service website for the most current pricing and options.
Absolutely! There are numerous viewpoints within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that offer excellent views of eruptions. The Volcano House offers a unique lodging experience with prime views. +1
Volcano House is open year-round. The hotel offers lodging, and its dining room and lounge have specific operating hours, which can vary. It's best to check their official website for current times.
Reservations are highly recommended for dinner at the Volcano House restaurant, especially during peak seasons or eruption events. Breakfast and lunch may have shorter wait times.
🎫 🌋 Onsite Experience
Rooms with 'rim view' are considered the best for direct views of the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater. These are highly sought after and should be booked far in advance.
Rooms are basic and historic, typically featuring beds, a small bathroom, and a fan. Air conditioning and TVs are generally not available.
If you book a rim-view room during an active eruption, you have a good chance of seeing the lava glow or even fountains directly from your window.
The main activity is enjoying the volcano views from the hotel. You can also explore the hotel's historic lounge and gift shop, and it serves as a great base for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
During an eruption, the sounds of the volcano can be heard, which some find awe-inspiring. Otherwise, it's generally a peaceful location, though rooms can sometimes have thin walls.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Reviews are mixed. Some guests praise the delicious food, particularly pizzas and burgers, while others report very disappointing culinary experiences with tough steaks and unappetizing dishes.
The restaurant offers a range of options, from casual fare like BBQ pizza and burgers to more gourmet dishes. They also serve breakfast and lunch.
The nearby town of Volcano has a few local eateries and cafes. For more extensive dining options, you would need to drive back towards Hilo or Kona.
Dining can be on the pricier side, with entrees like steak costing around $55 and soup at $16, according to one reviewer.
Yes, there is a bar at Volcano House where you can order cocktails and other beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The lounge and dining room offer stunning panoramic views of the crater. Rim-view rooms provide a private photography vantage point.
Yes, during an eruption, the glow of the lava and lava fountains are visible and photographable from Volcano House and its surrounding overlooks.
For eruptions, a tripod is highly recommended for long exposures to capture the lava's movement and glow. Experiment with ISO and aperture to balance light and detail.
While not directly offered by Volcano House, many local guides and tour operators in the area specialize in volcano photography tours within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
'Pele's Hair' refers to thin strands of volcanic glass formed during eruptions. It can be found in the park and is photographable, though delicate.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a rim-view room if your budget allows, as the volcano's activity can be captivating for all ages. However, be aware that the hotel's historic nature means no TVs or air conditioning, which might be a consideration for younger children. Packing snacks and drinks is also a good idea, as dining options can be limited and pricey.
💰 Budget Travelers
Many Reddit users suggest that while the park itself is a must-see, staying in a VRBO or a more budget-friendly hotel nearby and driving into the park for day visits is a viable strategy to save money. This allows you to experience the park's wonders without the premium price tag of the historic hotel.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2During eruptions, the park's overlooks are also prime spots. Bring a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and long exposures to capture the dynamic lava flows and the mesmerizing glow. The changing light throughout the day, from sunrise to sunset and into the night, offers diverse photographic possibilities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Witnessing Volcanic Eruptions
+1Timing is everything when it comes to eruptions. While some eruptions are continuous, others can be intermittent. Visitors often report being surprised by sudden bursts of activity. The glow of the lava lake at night is also a mesmerizing sight, visible from the hotel's common areas and rim-view rooms. It's crucial to stay updated on current volcanic activity through the National Park Service website or local news to maximize your chances of witnessing a significant event.
Remember that volcanic activity is dynamic and can change rapidly. Always prioritize safety and follow park guidelines. While the Volcano House offers a front-row seat, designated overlooks within the park provide closer, though sometimes more crowded, viewing experiences. The sheer power and beauty of these natural phenomena are a primary draw for visitors to this region.
The Historic Volcano House Experience
Guests often describe the rooms as basic and dated, with amenities like no air conditioning or TVs being common. However, this simplicity is part of its appeal for many, allowing them to focus on the surrounding natural wonder. The lounge area, with its large windows overlooking the crater, is a central gathering spot where guests can relax, share stories, and soak in the views.
The hotel's location within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is its greatest asset. It provides immediate access to hiking trails and viewpoints, making it an ideal base for exploring the park's diverse landscapes. Despite some criticisms regarding modern comforts, the enduring appeal of Volcano House lies in its historical significance and its unparalleled connection to the active volcanic landscape.
+1Dining at Volcano House: A Mixed Bag
However, the quality of the food itself receives varied feedback. Some patrons rave about the delicious BBQ pizza and burgers, while others have reported highly disappointing meals, citing tough steaks, unappetizing flavors, and cold side dishes. The high price point for some dishes, like a $55 steak, leads to higher expectations that are not always met.
Despite the culinary inconsistencies, the service from the staff is frequently praised. Many reviewers highlight the friendliness and helpfulness of the hotel's employees, from the front desk to the gift shop attendants. For those seeking an unforgettable view with their meal, the Volcano House restaurant can be a worthwhile experience, but it's advisable to manage expectations regarding the food quality.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit