Abstract. Kauai is one of the oldest, and is structurally the most complicated, of the Hawaiian Islands. Like the others, it consists principally of a huge shield volcano, built up from the sea floor by many thousands of thin flows of basaltic lava.
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No matter how long you plan to stay on the Big Island, you owe it to yourself and your group to make a journey to the southeast section of the island to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, view the lava (when it is flowing) and see one of the most volcanically active areas in the world.
Why Kauai, you ask? Well, let's start with the fact that it's known as the “Garden Island,” thanks to its lush greenery and vibrant flowers. But that's not all! Kauai is also famous for its stunning natural attractions, from the majestic Waimea Canyon to the awe-inspiring Napali Coast.
Lava is best seen at night along the south rim. There are three main viewing locations: Kupina?i Pali (Waldron Ledge) from Crater Rim Trail, Kilauea Overlook, and Keanakako?i Crater. Keanakako?i Crater is the closest eruption viewpoint - here you'll see a lava lake that emits a reddish-orange glow at night!
We offer Hawaii volcano tours on the Big Island and one day tours from Oahu Maui Kauai. Volcano tours in Hawaii are the perfect way to experience the rich volcanic history of the Hawaiian Islands. Tours to the most active volcano, Kilauea volcano, depart from Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Kona on the Big Island.
A: While Kauai was created by volcanic eruptions more than five million years ago and is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands, it is not home to active volcanoes. If you're interested in volcano tourism, you'll want to head to the big island of Hawaii, which is home to Kilauea and Mauna Loa.
For example, between 1868 and 1933, only three major tsunamis impacted Kauai's shores with an average reccurrence interval of 22 yr. However, during the more active period between 1946 and 1964 five tsunamis had damaging impacts to Kauai at an average frequency of 3.5 yr.
Stunning coastlines, towering mountains, and lush jungles abound on both islands. However, the main difference between the two islands comes down to the variety in the landscapes, which Maui wins by a narrow margin. Maui: All in all, the scenery on Maui is more accessible than what's found on Kauai.
Kauai's West ShoreThe West Shore of Kauai is often underrated, but it's one of the most beautiful places on Earth, in our humble opinion. The West Shore is separated from the north by the Napali Coast, which gives the west a distinct desert-like feel.
The best time of year to visit Kauai is during off-peak seasons, between September and December or between April and June. During these times you can avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices on accommodations and excursions. Either way, be sure to book everything far in advance!
While all Hawaiian Islands have a volcanic history, the Big Island is known for its extremely active volcano - Kilauea, which is located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
If the park determines that access to the flow is safe you can go on a hike to see the lava. Because viewing conditions change on a daily basis you should look up the most recent information about the active surface flows shortly before you plan to see the lava yourself.