Volcano House Parking Hawaii 96778, Hawaii, USA

Overview & Location
This parking area serves as the primary hub for visitors to the historic Volcano House hotel and the main Kīlauea Visitor Center. Situated directly on the rim of the Kīlauea caldera within Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, its location is unparalleled for immediate access to key viewpoints and facilities. The address is Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii 96778, USA, with precise coordinates at 19.428724, -155.258179. Travellers will find two main surface-level lots: a small car park directly in front of the Volcano House hotel and a slightly larger overflow car park located directly opposite, servicing the Kīlauea Visitor Center. Our research indicates that parking in both areas is extremely limited and operates on a first-come, first-served basis for all park visitors, with no spaces specifically designated or reserved for hotel guests.

Pricing & How to Pay
There is no separate fee or payment system in operation at this specific car park. Parking is included as part of the overall Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park entrance fee, which is paid at the park’s main entrance station upon arrival. The park entrance pass is typically valid for seven days and covers all occupants of a single, private vehicle. Visitors should ensure their park entrance receipt is clearly displayed as required. There are no pay-and-display machines, meters, or mobile payment apps in use at this location.

Features & Accessibility
– Surface: Both the hotel and visitor centre car parks are tarmac-surfaced and open-air, with no covered bays.
– Capacity: The total capacity is very restricted, leading to high competition for spaces throughout the day.
– Accessibility: Designated accessible parking bays for visitors with a valid permit are available. These are typically situated in the most convenient positions nearest the main entrances to the Volcano House hotel and the Kīlauea Visitor Center. Pathways from the car park to the buildings are paved and generally level.
– Vehicle Restrictions: The car park is best suited for standard cars and smaller vehicles. Larger vehicles such as motorhomes or campervans will find it exceptionally difficult to find a suitable space and are advised to use larger car parks elsewhere in the park, such as the one at the Kīlauea Iki Overlook.

What’s Nearby
This car park’s strategic location places visitors within immediate walking distance of several primary park attractions.
– Volcano House: The historic hotel, with its restaurant, lounge, and gift shop, is directly adjacent to the primary car park.
– Kīlauea Visitor Center: Located directly across the road, this is the main information hub for ranger programmes, maps, and park updates.
– Halemaʻumaʻu Crater Overlook: The viewing areas along the caldera rim are just a few steps from the car park, offering dramatic and iconic views.
– Crater Rim Trail: This popular walking trail runs directly past the parking area, providing an excellent starting point for a scenic caldera walk.
– Sulphur Banks (Haʻakulamanu) Trail: The trailhead for this unique and accessible walk is a short distance from the visitor centre.
– Volcano Art Center Gallery: Housed in the original 1877 Volcano House building, the gallery is situated next to the Kīlauea Visitor Center.

Expert Tips & Things to Know
– Our research indicates that parking availability is the most significant challenge here. We recommend arriving early in the morning, ideally before 10:00, or later in the afternoon, after 16:00, to secure a space more easily.
– During periods of visible volcanic activity, particularly for evening glow viewing, expect extreme demand for parking. The car parks often reach full capacity hours before sunset.
– Guests staying at the Volcano House hotel should be aware that a parking space is not guaranteed. The official guidance states, “If our parking area in front of the hotel is full, we do have additional limited parking across the street at the Visitor’s Center.” Be prepared to carry luggage from the overflow lot.
– Patience is essential. It may be necessary to circle both lots several times or wait for another visitor to depart.
– If both car parks are full, a potential alternative is to proceed further along Crater Rim Drive to the Steam Vents or Kīlauea Iki Overlook car parks and walk back, though this involves a considerable distance.
– As with any popular visitor destination, it is advisable to lock your vehicle and keep any valuables out of sight. Park Rangers patrol the area, but personal vigilance is recommended.