Is the volcano in Hilo or Kona?

HVNP is located 30 miles southwest of Hilo and 96 miles southeast of Kona. It's open year-round, 24 hours a day. HVNP is home to Kilauea Volcano, the most continuously active volcano in the world, and the park offers the unique experience of walking on land that is younger than you are.



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Kona offers better weather, the best beaches and snorkeling, newer resorts, more vacation rentals, and more nightlife compared to Hilo Town. Hilo is worth a visit but may not be worth staying for more than a night. Erica and I make Kailua-Kona our launching pad during our Big Island vacations.

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Kilauea volcano is not erupting The eruption that began on September 10, 2023 has ended. No lava fountains, flows, or glow are visible at this time. Read the activity summary of Kilauea, courtesy of USGS. Read the activity summary of Mauna Loa, courtesy of USGS.

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There are two separate volcanoes that are considered active on Big Island. They are Kilauea, which is 4,091 feet tall, and Hualalai, which is 8,271 feet tall. All throughout Kilauea's history, there have been eruptions at the summit of the volcano and also at the vents along the East Rift Zone.

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For example, the town of Hilo is in Zone 3, a safe zone despite its proximity to a volcano.

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The last eruption before its longest period of quiet in recorded history— began in March 1984. In dramatic fashion, lava descended to the doorstep of Hilo, the island's population center.

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Lava Zone 3 According to the USGS 1% to 5% of Zone 3 has been covered in the last 200 years. The towns of Hilo, Keeau, Waikoloa, and some South Kona areas are all in Zone 3.

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Is Hawaii Safe to Visit? If you're wondering “is Hawaii safe to visit” the answer is a resounding YES! While Kilauea's lava flow remains powerful after an initial eruption on May 3 and series of subsequent earthquakes, the island is not completely shut down – contrary to popular belief.

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There are currently no lava flows outside the crater or ocean entry of lava, therefore Lava boat tours and many lava related tours are not currently running due to the lack of molten lava flowing outside of the crater.

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Volcanic hazards in Kona (i.e. the western side of the island of Hawai'i) stem primarily from Mauna Loa and Hualalai volcanoes. The former has erupted 39 times since 1832. Lava flows were emplaced in Kona during seven of these eruptions and last impacted Kona in 1950.

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Lower Tourist Population = Lower Prices This means greater room availability and lower prices for accommodations in and around Hilo, making a Hawaii vacation within easier reach for those traveling on a budget.

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The District of Hilo is relatively far from the most active part of Mauna Loa's Northeast Rift Zone (NERZ) and the slopes above the town are fairly gentle.

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The city is known for its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere, and the crime rate is relatively low. However, as with any destination, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Women should avoid walking alone at night, and should be aware of their personal belongings at all times.

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Hilo pretty much closes down after the dinner hour, as far as legitimate activity goes, other than the big box stores and markets, so you don't want to be walking around in the historic area with dark alleys and parks, just enjoy that area during the day.

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Rising gradually to more than 4 km (2.5 mi) above sea level, Hawaii's Mauna Loa is the largest active volcano on our planet. Its submarine flanks descend to the sea floor an additional 5 km (3 mi), and the sea floor in turn is depressed by Mauna Loa's great mass another 8 km (5 mi).

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