Best Hawaii Volcanoes To See On A Cruise

The power of volcanoes created the Hawaiian Islands we know and love today. Each island comprises one or more volcanoes, most of them dormant or extinct. Active, lava-spewing volcanoes are found on the Big Island. Hike a caldera or zoom over Pele’s fiery home, Kilauea on shore excursions. Our Hawaii cruises are a great way to discover Hawaii volcanoes because you can visit four islands in one trip. Here are some of the most popular.

Diamond Head, Oahu

If you’re planning a Hawaii cruise, you’re familiar with Diamond Head. It is one of the most accessible Hawaii volcanoes, smack-dab in the middle of Honolulu. Hoof it to the top of this emerald mound for spectacular views of the city at 763-feet. To better understand the geology, name origin and native flora, take a guided hike.

Molokini, Maui

A crescent off the shore of Maui, Molokini is legendary. The story goes like this: Pele, the goddess of fire and a gecko fell for the same prince. A vengeful Pele cut the gecko in half and turned her to stone. Look for her head by Makena Beach and her tail as the beautiful crescent known as Molokini. Go snorkeling near its semi-submerged crater and then swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles on shore excursions from the port in Lahaina.

Haleakala, Maui

A massive volcano looms over Maui. That’s Haleakala, whose name means “house of the sun,” because it’s where the demigod Maui stood to lasso the sun. The park has more endangered species than any other U.S. national park and is home to the po’ouli bird and Maui parrotbill. Spectacular waterfalls, streams, and red deserts at the base make Haleakala a beautiful, serene place to spend a day.

Mauna Kea, Big Island

At 13,803, ft. Mauna Kea Hawaii’s highest point and the highest island mountain in the world. So high, it’s the only part of Hawaii that regularly receives a dusting of the white stuff. But while the mountain is impressive, the stars and sunset are the real show. There’s a station partway up the volcano with telescopes and free stargazing events.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Nicknamed “the world’s only drive-in volcano,” it’s 45 miles from Hilo in the Volcanoes National Park. Travel along Crater Rim Drive and pass breathtaking viewpoints, including the Puu Puai Overlook and Devastation Trail. Learn about the volcanic ecosystems and see lava tubes, steam vents, scalded deserts, and rainforests up-close.

Ready to explore Hawaii volcanoes? Book Hawaii and Tahiti cruises today and take the island adventure of a lifetime.