One of the Great Drives in Hawaii

If you have a few hours at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Chain of Craters Road is not to be missed. This dramatic scenic drive descends about 3,700 feet from the volcano summit down to the coast, crossing decades of lava flows and ending where the road itself was buried by lava. It is a journey through raw creation, and one of the most memorable drives on the Big Island.

What the Drive Is Like

The road runs roughly 19 miles one way from near the summit to the sea, and it is a dead end, so you drive back the way you came. Plan for about two to three hours round trip with stops. As you descend, the landscape shifts from misty forest to vast fields of black lava, with pull-offs and overlooks the whole way down. There are no services along the road, so fuel up and bring water before you start.

Highlights Along the Way

  • Sweeping overlooks of craters and old lava flows near the top.
  • Miles of black pahoehoe and aa lava fields draping the hillside.
  • Puu Loa Petroglyphs, one of Hawaii’s largest ancient rock-carving sites.
  • The Holei Sea Arch, a natural lava arch at the coast.
  • The point where a lava flow buried the road, a striking end to the drive.

Puu Loa Petroglyphs and the Sea Arch

Two stops stand out near the bottom. A short boardwalk trail leads to the Puu Loa Petroglyphs, thousands of images carved into the lava by Native Hawaiians over centuries, a deeply sacred place to view with respect from the boardwalk. At the very end of the road, the Holei Sea Arch frames the pounding surf against black cliffs, a powerful spot to feel the meeting of lava and ocean.

Tips for the Drive

Give yourself unhurried time, since the overlooks are the whole point. Start with a full tank and plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes for the short trails, and bring sun protection because the lower road is hot and exposed. Check at the visitor center for any closures, as volcanic activity and weather can affect access. And treat the petroglyphs and all cultural sites with care and respect for Pele and Hawaiian tradition.

See It With a Guide

The Chain of Craters Road is a highlight of a full day in the park, and a guided tour can weave it together with the summit sights and the stories behind the landscape. Ask us about our volcano tours and how to make the most of this unforgettable drive from summit to sea.