Now may be an even better time to go than when I did because there are brand new ocean entries that you can safely view from close range. The
USGS Kilauea update for today says:
The westernmost ocean entry, named the Lae`apuki lava delta, is going great guns this morning. The delta, now about 80 m wide along shore though still only 10-12 m beyond the sea cliff, is fed by several lava falls, some in tubes, some bare. The delta is actively widening as numerous spigots pour lava off the perimeter of the delta.
The West Lae`apuki entry (the "middle entry" of past updates) has 3-5 narrow lava falls dropping into the water. The falls wax and wane a bit; during the lulls, waves take away any delta formed during the waxing inflow.
Both Lae`apuki and West Lae`apuki entry areas are nicely seen from the visitor overlook at the end of the park's trail.
The two older active lava deltas are not safe to view up close, but the new one is (for now). This should provide some fantastic lava viewing and photographing opportunities. If you're going to be on the Big Island anytime soon, you should really try to go see this if you are in relatively good shape for the moderate hike across the lava fields along the path marked by the park rangers. Make sure to follow the
park services recommendations about what to wear and bring.
[This message has been edited by dhacker (edited 11-22-2002).]