Best Volcanoes National Park Day Trip from Kona | Avoid Traffic + Discover Local Stops
CATEGORY
Date Posted
Why a Volcanoes National Park Day Trip from Kona Is The Best Route
Planning a Volcanoes National Park day trip from Kona? Get ready for one of the most scenic drives on the Big Island. This southern coast route winds through coffee country, lava cliffs, black sand beaches, and hidden local gems. You’ll see a side of Hawaii few visitors experience, filled with history, flavor, and adventure.
Most travelers take Saddle Road to reach the park, but that route often means sitting in long lines. By driving the southern coast instead, you’ll enjoy ocean views, local stops, and a smoother drive with less traffic. You’ll make an easy right turn into the park. Drivers coming from Hilo often wait for hours to turn left. It may look longer on a map, but this route saves time and offers a much better experience overall.
As Big Island photographers who love adventure, we’re always drawn to the wild beauty of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. When we’re not photographing couples or families, we’re exploring its trails, lookouts, and quiet scenic stops. From the coffee farms of South Kona to the black sand beaches of Kaʻū, every turn along the road brings something new.
This itinerary highlights the best stops on the way to Volcanoes National Park. Visit local cafés, coffee farms, and scenic volcanic views. Start early, bring your sense of adventure, and enjoy a full day of unforgettable discoveries.
Full List of The Best Stops From Kona to Volcanoes National Park
If you want to get to Volcanoes National Park Before Sunset, Skip #3 (Choose One Option) From The List Below As It takes Up A Lot Of Time
- Free Coffee Tour and Refreshments at Greenwell Coffee Farm (8:30 AM)
- Breakfast or Brunch at: The Coffee Shack, Kaaloa Super J’s or South Kona Grindz (9:30 – 10:30 AM)
- Choose One Option (you won’t have time to do both) (11:30 AM – 2:00 PM)
- 1. Snorkeling at Honaunau Bay and Visiting The City of Refuge
- 2. Cliffs at South Point and Papakōlea Green Sand Beach
- Stop for Refreshments and Outdoor Showers at Paradise Meadows (3:00 – 3:45 PM)
- Stop at the Famous Punaluʻu Bake Shop and Take a Picnic to Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach (5:00 – 6:00 PM)
- Stop at Volcano House Lodge at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to Stretch and Use the Restroom. Crater Viewing and Stargazing (7:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
1. Morning (8:30 AM): Start Your Day Trip from Kona
Coffee Tasting and Tour at Greenwell Coffee Farm – A Relaxing Start
Start your morning early at Greenwell Coffee Farm, one of Kona’s most beloved stops. Arrive around 8:30 AM when the farm opens for a quiet, peaceful start before crowds arrive. Nestled in the heart of coffee country, this family-owned estate has been growing 100% Kona coffee since the 1800s.
Join one of their free guided tours and sample fresh-roasted coffee right where it’s grown. Walk through the orchards, learn about the harvesting process, and enjoy sweeping mountain views overlooking the coast. It’s a relaxed and flavorful way to start your volcanoes national park day trip from Kona.
Starting here offers a calm introduction to the Big Island’s southern coast before heading toward Volcanoes National Park. Greenwell Coffee Farm is a local favorite and a great stop for travelers beginning their day the Hawaiian way.
2. Breakfast or Early Lunch Stop (9:30–10:30 AM)
After your coffee tasting, head south for a late breakfast or early lunch at one of these local favorites. Each stop has its own charm and is perfect for travelers looking for fun things to do on the way to Volcanoes National Park.
Local Favorites for a Scenic Southern Coast Road Trip
The Coffee Shack
Perched high above Kealakekua Bay, The Coffee Shack is one of the most scenic breakfast spots on the Big Island. Its open-air seating overlooks the coastline, offering views that make you want to linger a little longer. Parking is limited, so plan to arrive early or be patient during the morning rush. Popular choices include the papaya special, lilikoi cheesecake, and fresh-baked bread.
Kaaloa Super J’s
If you’re craving true local flavor, Kaaloa Super J’s is a must. This small, family-run eatery is famous for its lau lau, pork and fish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed to perfection. The menu is simple but delicious, serving Hawaiian comfort food made with love. Parking is easy, and takeout is quick if you’re eager to stay on schedule for your drive from Kona to Volcanoes National Park.
South Kona Grindz
For something quick and hearty, stop at South Kona Grindz. This laid-back café is known for generous portions, great coffee, and a friendly local crowd. Try their breakfast plates or sandwiches before continuing your Big Island southern coast road trip. Parking is available right in front, and wait times are usually short, which helps keep your volcanoes national park day trip running smoothly.
3. Midday Options (11:30 AM–2:00 PM): Choose Your Adventure
By late morning, you’ll reach one of the most exciting stretches on your Big Island southern coast road trip where adventure meets history. This is the point where you’ll decide how to spend the next few hours before continuing to Volcanoes National Park. Both options are incredible, but each takes around three hours. If your goal is to reach the park before sunset, it’s best to skip these stops and continue your drive south, to Paradise Meadows instead.
Option 1: Snorkel at Honaunau Bay (Two Step) and Visit Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park (The City of Refuge)
If you love the ocean, this stop is a must during your volcanoes national park day trip from Kona. Before breakfast or lunch, stop at Kona Boys in Captain Cook to rent snorkel gear. Then head to Honaunau Bay, one of the island’s best snorkeling spots with clear water, bright coral, and tropical fish. Parking can be limited, so it’s best to arrive earlier in the day. There are no public showers at Honaunau Bay, but one of the next stops coming up (Paradise Meadows) is where you can rinse off and grab a snack.
After your swim, park and visit Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, also called the City of Refuge. This sacred site offers a peaceful glimpse into Hawaiian history with restored temples and palm-lined paths.
Option 2: South Point Cliff and Papakolea Green Sand Beach
For travelers who love adventure, this option is one of the highlights on the Kona to volcanoes national park route. Head down to South Point, the southernmost tip of the United States, where cliffs drop into turquoise water and the wind is almost always strong. South Point is one of the most popular places on the Big Island for cliff diving, known for its dramatic ocean views and deep blue water below. While it’s a thrilling sight to watch locals take the leap, we don’t recommend jumping yourself. The currents here are strong, the water is unpredictable, and there are no lifeguards on duty. It’s best to enjoy the view from above, take photos, and appreciate the adventure safely from the edge.
Just down the road is Papakōlea Green Sand Beach. Hike or take a local 4×4 shuttle to one of only four green sand beaches in the world. The round trip takes about three hours, so plan accordingly. Parking is available at the trailhead, and restrooms are limited. Bring cash, water, sunscreen, and snacks.
Question: Is the sand at Papakolea Green Sand beach, really green?
Answer: Only when the sun is shining on the shore, which is best seen in the early morning. If you arrive in the afternoon and it’s cloudy, the sand will look muddy brown instead of olive green.
4. Paradise Meadows Stop (3:00–3:45 PM): A Sweet Break on Your Day Trip
Whether you spent the morning snorkeling or exploring South Point, Paradise Meadows is the perfect place to rest before continuing to Volcanoes National Park. It sits just past the turn for South Point Road and before the drive to Green Sand Beach. This locally owned farm offers free outdoor showers, clean restrooms, and shaded seating, making it a peaceful stop to relax and recharge.
If you chose the snorkeling route, this is the best place to rinse off since Honaunau Bay doesn’t have showers. If you just finished diving at South Point or swimming at Green Sand Beach, this stop is perfect for cooling down, stretching, and grabbing a snack before getting back on the road.
Paradise Meadows is known for its macadamia nuts, honey, and small-batch coffee, all made on-site. You can sample local treats, visit the small food truck for smoothies and light bites, and browse handmade gifts. Take a few minutes to walk through the garden area before continuing north, as this peaceful farm is one of the best-kept secrets on your volcanoes national park day trip from Kona.
5. Punaluʻu Bake Shop and Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach (5:00–6:00 PM)
No volcanoes national park day trip is complete without visiting Punaluʻu Bake Shop, the southernmost bakery in the United States. It’s famous for manapuas (steamed bao bun stuffed with char siu pork), malasadas (Portuguese donuts filled with lilikoi, strawberry, vanilla, or chocolate cream), and their refreshing lilikoi lemonades.
Founded in 1991, Punaluʻu Bake Shop was created to support the small community of Naalehu and celebrate local island flavors. The bakery uses Hawaii-grown ingredients whenever possible, including local eggs, sugar, and tropical fruit. Visitors can stroll through the garden area, see native plants, learn about local agriculture, and watch bakers craft their famous treats by hand. With plenty of parking, clean restrooms, and shaded garden seating, it’s a relaxing place to stop.
If you’re short on time, we recommend calling ahead to place your order and taking it to Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach for a picnic to save time. You can explore their menu and order ahead of time at bakeshophawaii.com.
Just a short drive away, Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is one of the Big Island’s most iconic and historic sites. The shoreline is lined with coconut palms and gentle waves, making it a peaceful place to enjoy your picnic. Keep an eye out for honu, the Hawaiian green sea turtles, which often rest on the sand. Always admire them from a respectful distance.
Additional Things to Do Nearby on Your Volcanoes National Park Day Trip
If you missed Greenwell Coffee Farm earlier in the day, make a quick stop at Kaʻū Coffee Mill just outside the town of Pahala. This award-winning coffee farm is one of the best things to do on the way to Volcanoes National Park for coffee lovers. It offers free tastings, self-guided tours, and a gift shop filled with locally made products. Walk through the coffee fields, learn about the roasting process, and sample one of the island’s most flavorful coffee varieties before continuing your volcanoes national park day trip from Kona.
6. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (Late Afternoon or Evening Arrival)
After a full day of exploring, you’ll finally arrive at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. By this point, you’ll likely have just a few hours left before sunset, so it’s best to make the most of your time. Start by heading straight to the Volcano House Lodge, where you can stretch your legs and use the restroom.
Next, take a short drive to the Devastation Trail, one of the park’s most accessible walks. The paved trail winds through a quiet landscape created by the 1959 Kilauea Iki eruption and leads to a viewpoint near the crater. It’s an easy, peaceful walk that gives you a close look at the park’s volcanic terrain. It’s also a great way to end your volcanoes national park day trip before heading back or staying overnight nearby.
How to Make the Most of Your Volcanoes National Park Day Trip from Kona
If you want to explore more park locations or spend a full day at Volcanoes National Park, check out our detailed Volcanoes National Park Guide for extra hikes, scenic drives, and nearby attractions.
Plan Your Trip with Our Big Island Adventure Guide
Tips for Planning the Perfect Volcanoes National Park Day Trip
Our Big Island Adventure Guide is the perfect resource to plan your trip. It’s filled with local tips, hidden photo spots, sample itineraries, and insider recommendations to help you explore like a local.
Inside, you’ll find beaches, local restaurants, and unique experiences that help you see Hawaii beyond the usual tourist spots.
Download it through the Rexby app to get instant access to free ideas for day trips, local eats, and adventures. You can also book a photo with us and get all of it for free
Book a Tour With Our Friends at Wild Hawaii Tours
Relax and Enjoy a Guided Kona to Volcanoes National Park Experience
If you’d rather relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about directions or timing, book a guided experience with our friends at Wild Hawaii Tours. Their local guides offer full-day and half-day adventures across the island, including custom Volcanoes National Park tours that follow the same scenic southern route featured in this guide.
We captured all the photos for Wild Hawaii Tours and absolutely loved our time with them. Even though we’ve visited these stops many times before, it was such a treat to take the backseat, enjoy the views, and learn from a guide who shared fascinating stories and local insight along the way.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see more and stress less while exploring the Big Island’s southern coast. From coffee farms and black sand beaches to volcanic landscapes, Wild Hawaii Tours offers one of the best volcanoes national park day trips from Kona. Sit back, relax, and let their team show you the island’s most beautiful sights.
FAQs About the Volcanoes National Park Day Trip from Kona
How long does it take to drive from Kona to Volcanoes National Park?
The drive from Kona to Volcanoes National Park takes about two and a half to three hours without stops. If you follow this southern coast route, plan for a full day to include scenic stops and local highlights.
What time should I leave Kona for a Volcanoes National Park day trip?
Leave around 6:00 to 6:30 AM to avoid traffic and enjoy the best views along the southern coast. An early start helps you fit in more stops before sunset.
Can I visit Volcanoes National Park and return to Kona in one day?
Yes, but it will be a long day. Expect ten to twelve hours total, depending on how many stops you make. Many travelers say this is one of the best day trips on the Big Island because of the beautiful southern route and local spots along the way.
What should I pack for the drive?
Bring layers, since the weather changes quickly. You’ll also want reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, snacks, water, and comfortable walking shoes.
Is the entrance fee per person or per vehicle?
The entrance fee is thirty dollars per vehicle and valid for seven days, so you can revisit the park later in your trip.
When is the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park?
Mornings and late afternoons are best for cooler weather and fewer crowds. Sunset is especially beautiful when the light glows across the crater.
Can I see active lava?
Lava activity changes often and is not always visible. Check the official Hawaii Volcanoes National Park website before your visit for the latest eruption updates.
What if I don’t want to drive from Kona to Volcanoes National Park?
If you’d rather not drive, book a guided tour with Wild Hawaii Tours. Their local experts handle everything, making it an easy way to enjoy the Big Island’s southern coast without the stress of navigating.
Capture Your Moments With Hawaii Adventure Portraits
Turn your Big Island adventure into lasting memories
At Hawaii Adventure Portraits, we specialize in capturing the beauty and spirit of your journey. Whether you’re visiting as a couple, family, or solo traveler, we’ll help you plan a photo session that feels natural, fun, and true to your experience. Every image is taken with care to reflect Hawaii’s vibrant colors, stunning backdrops, and genuine moments of connection.
Please fill out the form below, and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours to confirm availability and share a link to reserve your session.
