This 19-mile Big Island drive descends 3,700 feet from Kilauea's summit to the coast, taking you through some of the most dramatic volcanic landscapes you'll ever see. You'll pass steaming craters, endless lava fields, and witness where molten rock literally swallowed the road in the '80s and '90s — the pavement just vanishes under a wall of black rock. The drive ends at Holei Sea Arch where waves crash into cliffs carved by the ocean. Multiple pulloffs let you explore lava formations and petroglyphs, but plan plenty of time — this isn't a quick jaunt. On cloudy days you might find yourself driving through clouds, but clear days offer incredible views of how lava has transformed this coastline.
💡 Insider Tip
Drive all the way to the end even though it feels long — the sea arch and ocean views are the payoff. Stop at Pu'u Loa Petroglyphs trail 2 miles from the end for ancient Hawaiian carvings, and fill up your gas tank before entering since there are zero services on this road.
Open 24 hours with park admission
$30 per vehicle park entrance fee
Free pulloffs throughout
Late afternoon for golden light on lava
