Kīlauea Overlook sits on Crater Rim Drive West in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, a short drive from the entrance station. It looks into Kaluapele, the caldera of Kīlauea, and Halemaʻumaʻu crater, and during an eruption it has an unobstructed view of the floor of Halemaʻumaʻu. It is a separate stop from Uēkahuna, where the earthquake-damaged Jaggar Museum stood until it was removed; the two are a short walk apart. Crater Rim Trail runs from here, and when lava is showing, the views get better as you walk west on the trail. The lot has a vault toilet and a picnic shelter. Evenings bring heavy traffic, so come before sunrise if you can. Bring a headlamp for night visits, warm clothes, and glasses and a hat against volcanic ash. Pets may stay in the parking lot but are not allowed at the overlook or on trails. Do not go into closed areas or near cliff edges, and remember that conditions can change at any time.
When to go
Before sunrise; evenings bring heavy traffic.
Kīlauea Overlook parking area on Crater Rim Drive West; asphalt surface; pets allowed in the parking lot, not at the overlook.