End Of Chain Of Craters Road Parking Hawaii 96778, Hawaii, USA

Overview & Location
This parking area marks the dramatic terminus of the iconic Chain of Craters Road within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Situated at the coordinates 19.2950574, -155.0986128, the car park serves as the final accessible point by vehicle before the road is famously truncated by historic lava flows. Travellers will find this location in Pāhoa, HI 96778, at the base of the Kīlauea volcano’s coastal pali, or cliffs. It is a designated roadside parking area, offering direct access to the rugged volcanic coastline and its unique geological features. The setting is stark and beautiful, providing an unparalleled look at the power of volcanic creation.

Pricing & How to Pay
Our research indicates that there is no separate fee for using this car park. Access is included with the standard entrance fee paid upon entering Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Visitors should ensure they have paid their park entrance fee at the main gate near the Kīlauea Visitor Centre and retain their receipt. Park rangers may patrol the area and check for proof of valid entry. Payment for park entrance is typically made by credit or debit card at the entrance station.

Features & Accessibility
– Parking Type: This is a surface-level, open-air car park with designated spaces arranged along the final loop of the road. The surface is paved.
– Amenities: Visitors will find public restrooms available on-site. It is critical to note that there is no potable water available here or at any point along the entire 19-mile Chain of Craters Road.
– Capacity: The number of spaces is finite and can fill quickly. During peak seasons, such as December, January, June, and July, parking availability can be limited.
– Accessibility: The car park and the short, paved trail leading to the Holei Sea Arch viewing area are designed to be accessible for both strollers and wheelchairs, offering a relatively level and smooth surface.

What’s Nearby
From this vantage point, visitors have immediate access to several key attractions.
– Holei Sea Arch: A short, paved footpath leads directly from the car park to a scenic overlook of this impressive 90-foot natural arch, carved from ancient lava cliffs by the relentless force of the Pacific Ocean.
– Coastal Lava Fields: The car park is the starting point for exploring the vast coastal lava fields on foot. A closed section of the road continues as a walking path, allowing visitors to hike for miles over the solidified lava flows that covered the original road in years past.
– Pacific Ocean Views: The location offers magnificent, panoramic views of the coastline. It is an excellent spot for photography and observing the powerful surf against the black rock cliffs.

Expert Tips & Things to Know
– Be Prepared: It is essential for visitors to understand that there are no services whatsoever along the Chain of Craters Road. We recommend arriving with a full tank of fuel, ample drinking water, and any food or snacks you may require for your visit.
– Check Conditions Before You Go: Access to this area can be impacted by various factors. Before beginning the drive down, it is crucial to check the official Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park website for the latest updates on road closures, construction, air quality, or restrictions due to volcanic activity.
– Arrive Early: During the peak visitor months of December, January, June, and July, the car park can reach capacity. An early morning arrival is advisable to secure a parking space and to experience the area in cooler temperatures.
– Appropriate Attire: The coastal environment is often hot, sunny, and windy. Sun cream, sunglasses, and a hat are highly recommended. For those planning to walk on the lava fields, sturdy, closed-toe footwear is essential as the volcanic rock is sharp, uneven, and absorbs significant heat from the sun.
– Stay Safe: Always remain on marked paths and stay back from the unstable cliff edges, especially near the sea arch viewing area. The coastal cliffs can be dangerous and are prone to collapse.