When people think of Hawaii, the iconic image that almost inevitably pops into their heads is volcanoes. Volcanoes are responsible for the formation of all the Hawaiian islands, and active volcanoes are still building Hawaiian real estate even today. The US Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii currently protects two of the most active volcanoes in the world, and it has become one of the most memorable tourist attractions in Hawaii. Whether you are planning a helicopter tour or a vacation at one of our luxury rental homes in Kolea at Waikoloa, find out what makes these volcanoes so special and why they should be on your to-do list during your next Hawaiian vacation.
About the Volcanoes
As we already mentioned, there are two active volcanoes in Volcanoes National Park, and they are often cited as the most active of any volcanoes in the world. The first is called “Kīlauea” and “Mauna Loa ” is the second. Kīlauea has been constantly erupting since the 1980s and has recently been in the news for erupting out of underground lava tubes that run beneath surrounding areas and villages. Mauna Loa is still active but has not erupted since the 1980s. It is, however, earth’s most massive active volcano. There are several other sites in the park, such as craters, lava tubes, and more. The volcanoes can often be visited within a day, but many people will sometimes take longer, a week or more even, to explore different parts of the parks.
History and Legends
Kīlauea was traditionally thought of as the home to the volcano and fire goddess, Pele. In the original Hawaiian religion, Pele belonged to a family who lived in the volcano Kīlauea, and she was responsible for the care of the volcano and its lava flow. Many ancient Hawaiians would often visit Kīlauea’s neighboring craters to offer gifts, and even today the footprints of men and women who were killed in the area during an explosion in the 1700s can still be seen in the dried lava today.
Tours to See the Volcanoes
There are several ways to get a close look at the sites and volcanoes of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. As we mentioned, many people often enjoy hiking or camping in the unique park along guided and safe paths. There are also access roads for vehicles to drive through to get a close look at the volcanoes, and many tourists will often opt for the helicopter and boat tours where they can get near the volcanoes from a different perspective. There are many options available to you and your family so everyone can enjoy the beauty and activity of Hawaii’s natural volcanoes.
Best Vacation Spots to See the Volcanoes
The Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, one of the most frequented islands for tourists because of its beautiful beaches, endless scenery, and luxurious vacation rental spots. If you are interested in visiting the park to see these volcanic wonders, consider calling us to rent a Kolea vacation home at Waikoloa. We are a short drive away from the park, and we are in a central spot to all of the other amazing sights of the Big Island. Whether you are looking to relax or simply need a central place to stay while you tour the Island, be sure to call us for your next Hawaiian getaway!
