Lava Tree State Monument Tours

In 1790 a swift moving lava flow leveled the forest here and drained away, leaving behind a new forest of "lava trees". These hollow rock columns were formed when the lava wrapped around the cool tree trunks and quickly solidified. When the molten lava drained away, these rock columns were left standing. The columns are hollow because the tree trunks themselves were incinerated during the process, but only after the rock had cooled enough to hold it's shape. If you look closely, you can sometimes see the texture of the tree bark in the rock molds.
In 1790 a swift moving lava flow leveled the forest here and drained away, leaving behind a new forest of "lava trees". These hollow rock columns were formed when the lava wrapped around the cool tree trunks and quickly solidified. When the molten lava drained away, these rock columns were left standing. The columns are hollow because the tree trunks themselves were incinerated during the process, but only after the rock had cooled enough to hold it's shape. If you look closely, you can sometimes see the texture of the tree bark in the rock molds.
Some of the "lava trees" here stand 15ft tall. Take the easy .7mi loop to enjoyed this well maintained park, and bring a snack to enjoy at the picnic tables.
A peaceful oasis amid the busy streets, Lava Tree State Monument is a delightful place to relax and take five. Find a bench and watch fellow parkgoers stroll around the grounds.

This recreation and green space is often on the itineraries of travelers to Pahoa. But Lava Tree State Monument isn't the only highlight in the area. Pohoiki Beach, Isaac Hale Beach Park, and Kapoho Beach are some other interesting attractions close by.

Plan a trip to see Lava Tree State Monument

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Kehena Mauka Nui LGBTQ Clothing Optional

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2 out of 5
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Price was $456, price is now $232 per person
$232
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Apr 2 - Apr 7
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Honolulu (HNL) to Hilo (ITO)
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2 out of 5
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Price was $13,718, price is now $11,145 per person
$11,145
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found 21 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Long Beach (LGB) to Hilo (ITO)
No reviews
Volcano Forest Inn

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3.5 out of 5
Price was $636, price is now $532 per person
$532
per person
Apr 2 - Apr 7
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Honolulu (HNL) to Hilo (ITO)
8.6/10 Excellent! (165 reviews)
The host is efficient to reach out; the location is very good.

Reviewed on Feb 19, 2026

Popular places to visit

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Pohoiki Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Pohoiki Beach during your trip to Pahoa? Discover the volcano viewpoints while you're in the area.

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Road stops here

Ka Lae Apuki

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Ka Lae Apuki during your travels in Pahoa. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

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Pahoa Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Pahoa Museum in Pahoa. Wander the seaside or discover the volcano viewpoints in this relaxing area.

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You can take time to visit Mackenzie State Park during your travels to Pahoa. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

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Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Pohoiki during your travels in Pahoa. Discover the volcano viewpoints while you're in the area.

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Isaac Hale Beach Park

Enjoy the volcano viewpoints and explore Isaac Hale Beach Park, a lovely green space in Pahoa. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.

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