Hilo or HVNP?

Question

We will be going to Maui and then the Big Island in February. We fly ifrom OGG nto Hilo and will spend 2 1/2 days/3 nights in that area -- then drive to Kona and stay there for a few nights (and fly out from Kona to Maui and then back home). That part is all set. But trying to decide whether to stay in Hilo or near the Volcano National Park. Thinking we may want to be at VNP one night to see the lava flows (if there will be any) but we'd rather not drive back to Hilo after a long day there. So we are thinking of staying near HVNP for the three nights. We want to stay in the same place for the three nights.

A couple of questions:

1. Our interisland flight gets into Hilo at 6:30 pm (around sunset) and we pick up a rental car at the airport. Is it safe for us to drive from there to the HVNP area at that time? I think we have an SUV.

2. Does this make sense if we only plan to be in the HVNP one day and one night - and spend the other two days in the greater Hilo area ( leave mid-day on day three to drive to Kona)?

Thanks for your thoughts.

Answer

It sounds like you have a wonderful trip planned for both Maui and the Big Island! Deciding between staying in Hilo or near Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park (HVNP) can be a tough call, especially with your plans to explore the volcano area. Here are some thoughts to help you with your decision:

1. Driving from Hilo to HVNP at Sunset (6:30 pm Arrival):

Yes, it is generally safe to drive from Hilo to HVNP in the evening, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

Road Conditions: The drive from Hilo to the Volcano area is about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The roads are paved and well-maintained, but you will be driving at night, so be cautious of potential wildlife (like wild pigs or other animals) and low visibility in some areas.
Nighttime Driving: The road is quite winding in some areas, so it’s always best to take it slow. Since you’ll be driving in the dark, it’s important to stay alert and avoid distractions. The SUV will be comfortable for the drive, and you shouldn’t face any issues if you’re careful.
Time of Day: Depending on your energy levels after the flight, be prepared for the fact that it will likely be dark by the time you arrive. Consider whether you're okay with traveling in the dark after a long day of flying, or if you'd prefer to stay in Hilo for the night before heading to HVNP the next day.

2. Staying in HVNP Area for One Night:

Given that you want to visit HVNP and see the lava flows (if available), staying near the park for one night makes a lot of sense. Here's why:

Proximity to the Park: Staying near HVNP means you’ll be right at the heart of the action. You can visit the park's attractions at sunrise or sunset for the best views of the volcanic landscape and, potentially, the lava flows (if they’re active at that time). You won’t have to worry about a long drive after a day of exploring.
Logistical Convenience: If you only plan to spend one full day at HVNP, staying close will allow you to maximize your time there without the stress of driving back to Hilo after a long day of hiking and sightseeing.
Alternating Your Days: For the remaining two days, you can explore the greater Hilo area, which offers a lot of natural beauty and attractions like Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls, the Hilo Farmers Market, and the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo. These sites are relatively close to Hilo, so staying in the area will give you easy access to them. Hilo has a more laid-back vibe compared to the Volcano area, and you’ll find great local dining options and shops in the town.

Other Considerations:

Drive to Kona: On Day 3, leaving mid-day to drive to Kona is a good idea. The drive from Hilo to Kona is about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather. If you leave around noon, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy a leisurely drive and make stops along the way, such as at the beautiful Pololu Valley Lookout or the town of Waimea.
Alternative Option: If you’re not keen on driving in the dark or would prefer a more leisurely first evening, you could stay in Hilo the first night and then drive to HVNP the next morning. This would give you a full day at the park and allow you to rest before your trip to Kona.

In Summary:

Staying near HVNP for the one night makes sense if you’re eager to explore the park and see the lava flows without the stress of driving back to Hilo after a long day. Just ensure you're comfortable driving at night if you choose that route. For the other two days, you can enjoy the Hilo area and plan your drive to Kona for Day 3. Either option should work well, so it’s more about your preference for how much time you want to spend driving versus exploring the area.