hi, i will be on the big Island in August and will be staying on the kona coast,what is the best way to get to Volcano National park..and is there any "must See's" on the way???? thank you

You are about 4 hours away from VNP. I would alter stay to include couple of nights in or near park. You want to see that volcano at night. Also the most gorgeous and diverse landscape is just around the VNP. I would suggest a night or two at the volcano house. Only hotel inside the park. The best hotels are on Kona side but they neglect to tell you how far you are from the best outdoor acitivities on the island.

just a little fyi -- We wanted to see VNP while on the Big Island and also stayed on the Kona Coast. After a very long drive, which we didn't mind, we arrived at the park at nearly dusk and were told for a real good look, we would need flashlights, binoculars and be prepared for a long hike. Needless to say, we should've set out earlier, because it was to late and dark for a long hike and the only glimpse of volcano activity we got was in the form of a very distant ember through binoculars. Maybe others have had different experiences.

Never had the experience oohaah had at the volcano. The lava does flow in different ways . I lived on Oahu and frequently made night trips to the volcano. A park ranger was always on hand and we never needed to hike far. I would call the park for specific information. You really do not see much if you visit the volcano during the day. A white cloud chemical reaction from lava hitting water obscures view of lava during day. We never had flashlights but it does sound like a good idea sense you are traversing on uneven hardened lava. Worth the trek I assure you. Like nothing you have ever seen in your life. And you will not be alone, there are many tourist heading out in the evening for a glimpse. Go online and look at the photography of the volcano. You rarely see a photo taken during the day, for good reason.

Does it really take 4 hrs. to get there from the Kona side???

I can't remember if it was 4hours round trip or 4 hours straight but I am sure your hotel could tell. Which ever way you cut it, it is certainly a haul.

a haul and a hike

It is around 4 to 5 hours round trip from Kona to Volcano.
Cathy

What way did you take to the park,around the top or the bottom??

Hello Helene, I love VNP and the drive there was not that bad, except some parts of the roads that were rather scary at times. I had white knuckles at times. But often on the way back, we would stop and marvel at the amazing scenery along the way. We stopped at the black sands beach, and saw marvelous turtles! We also stayed near Kona town. I adore the BI. Judy

Look at www.hawaii.volcanoes.national-park.com Great site. Note that volcano is plural. Wish we could go back. You might look into staying at the Volcano House if you're really into the volcano. It's not luxurious but is great fun. The road across the middle of the island was a bear when we were there last. Maybe it's been improved but I would doubt it.