We've seen the volcanos in Hawaii and the "lava flow" was a disappointment. For those of you who have been to both Hawaii and Costa Rica, how would you compare the Arenal volcano?

Arenal is a beauty, a huge rumbling monster. It does not, however, spit out lava, so there really isn't a comparison in that aspect.

No. Was not impressed with Arenal but then I have been to Hawaii. However there are other things to do while there/ Wish we would have taken the trip to Cano Negro.

I went to Hawaii in Sept. and I just got back from Arenal last week. They are two different places as far as volcano viewing..I enjoyed both but I do have to say that there was something about sitting on the side of the hill watching Arenal flow..so relaxing and beautiful.It was truly a highlight of our trip.

the days I stayed in La Fortuna (at the base of Arenal) it was too cloudy to actually see the volcano, but I'm sure on a clear day it's pretty impressive. We went up to the hot springs, which was interesting and relaxing.

Been to hawaii, but not to any volcanoes, so I have no idea how they compare. The only negative thing I would say about Arenal is that it's a very loonngggg drive from San Jose, but you could always stop off for a canopy tour on the way!!!

I've been to both. Arenal is more of a resort destination then going to Kilauela. Volcano's Nat'l Park is awesome. But at Arenal you can do all sorts of things - hot springs, zip line tours, white water raft, atv through the jungle, see wild toucan's flying around, cruise down the river for wildlife viewing. I think you go to Arenal for that whole experience. Not just the volcano itself. Hot springs are awesome. You might not even get to see the volcano at Arenal b/c its socked in by clouds a lot.

The Hawaii volcano is a shield volcano and Arenal is not. Arenal is a big cone shaped volanco. You can hear it exploding and watch rocks and boulders fly down its sides. I got to see the lava flow at night also - which I did not get to see at Hawaii Volcano's NP.

I've been to both, and they are different experiences. Arenal is a gorgeous sight - a huge cone you can see for miles in clear weather. And feeling and hearing the rumbling even if you're not able to see the top due to clouds is awesome. It's such a gorgeous lush area, with so many fun activities, we're heading back for the second year in a row. Someday I'll get back to the Big Island and do the helicoptor tour.

Thanks to all who replied. When we were in Hawaii, we never saw the lava "running down the side" of the volcano; rather it seemed to be coming out of the sides thru holes at the base of the volcano.
I've heard about the springs at the base - which is the best place for the springs and do we have to stay at the resorts to experience these?