Volcanoes National Park

One of the top scenic attractions in the Aloha State, and definitely the most unique park in the US National Parks system.

It covers a huge area and encompasses two active volcanoes, a still-steaming sunken crater and geologically awesome landscapes of unique volcanic formations from cinder cones and pumice pillars to hardened rivers of lava. Its terrain ranges from tropical beaches to lush rainforests and groves of giant tree ferns, to the subarctic summit of Mauna Loa, This is one of the best areas in Hawaii for camping and hiking. Also, check out the volcanological museum which has many interesting exhibits, a gift shop and a free color movies daily.

Jack's tips for viewing the volcano area- don't drive there after diving, go the next day and if you can, spend the night at one of the B&B's so that you have plenty of time to check out all the unique sights this park has to offer. It takes nearly two hours to drive there one way from Kona, and that's not including sightseeing stops along the way!