The Big Island of Hawaii is filled with wondrous adventures. Swim with the manta rays in Kona, or encounter a pod of dolphins from the fairways along the Kohala Coast, snorkelling with tropical fish at Kealakekua and whale watching at Kawaihae Harbor. But nothing is more unforgettable than a boat tour to the coastal lava flows. Although there are several tours with Lava Ocean Adventures, the Lava Boat tour is by far the most exciting.
The experience begins at remote Issac Hale Beach Park over 100 miles from the oceanfront condos and resorts of the Kona side of the island. Deprtures are scheduled in the late afternoon where passengers board the lava vessel at Pohoiki Boat Ramp to make their way to the lava flows. The entire trip takes two and half hours roundtrip and the tours are only offered when the lava flows are actively entering the ocean. The experience is surreal as the sun slips over the horizon and replaced by darkness with clear skies and more than just a mere sprinkling of starlight.
The experience can be an intimidating one especially for those who have never been on the open ocean at night, but the crew has an amazing way of making the experience both comfortable and exhilarating.
The journey follows the Kalapana coast northward toward the makai or ocean areas of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The coastal plains are a mix of heavily old growth forests mixed in with barren plains where recent flows have devastated foliage and fauna. The viewing locations vary and Lava Ocean Adventures are skilled at finding and positioning their vessels for an up close and personal view of the magnificence of Madame Pele.
Nature plays a significant role in the operations of this tour, so book early so Captain Shane Taupin can monitor and plan your unforgettable tour. If you are lucky enough to be on the Big Island when the coastal flows are active, you will be happy to have booked a seat in advance.
Photo courtesy of Captain Shane Taupin and Lava Ocean Adventures