Lava Tree State Monument

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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.

Lodging Near Lava Tree State Monument

Entire Hawaii Home - Modern & Nestled in the Jungle of Big Island Hawaii

Entire Hawaii Home - Modern & Nestled in the Jungle of Big Island Hawaii

Pahoa HI
The price is AU$647 per night from 1 Mar to 2 Mar
AU$647
1 Mar - 2 Mar
includes taxes & fees
Located in Pahoa, this vacation home is in a rural location, within a 10-minute drive of Pahoa Museum and Lava Tree State Monument.
Private and clean. Thank You

Reviewed on 3 Dec 2025

Opens in a new windowEntire Hawaii Home - Modern & Nestled in the Jungle of Big Island Hawaii
Hawaiian Sanctuary

Hawaiian Sanctuary

3 out of 5
13-3194 Pahoa Kalapana Rd Pahoa HI
The price is AU$223 per night from 5 Mar to 6 Mar
AU$223
5 Mar - 6 Mar
includes taxes & fees
Located in Pahoa, Hawaiian Sanctuary is a 4-minute drive from Pahoa Museum and 14 minutes from Star of the Sea Painted Church.
Cabin.

Reviewed on 6 Feb 2026

Opens in a new windowHawaiian Sanctuary
Lava Tree Tropic Inn

Lava Tree Tropic Inn

3 out of 5
Lava Tree State Park 3 Pahoa HI
Located in Pahoa, Lava Tree Tropic Inn is in a rural location, within a 15-minute drive of Lava Tree State Monument and Pahoa Museum.
This is a bed and breakfast. It is in a great location to see the west and southern end of the island. The owner was very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful in every aspect of our stay. The food/breakfast was great.

Reviewed on 7 Mar 2018

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Opens in a new windowLava Tree Tropic Inn
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.