Volcano House, Hawaii: A History
The Volcano House on the Big Island of Hawaii stands as a cherished historical landmark, renowned for its deep cultural and geological significance. Perched on the rim of Kīlauea Caldera within Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, this historic hotel offers unparalleled views of the active volcanic landscape. Since its inception in 1846, it has served as a hub for scientists, artists, and adventurers drawn to its unique environment. Beyond its geological allure, the Volcano House represents a testament to Hawaiian resilience and reverence for nature, embodying a legacy of exploration and discovery amidst the island’s volcanic wonders.
When you stay with us at our Volcano bed and breakfast you’re only an eight-minute drive from the Big Island Volcano House. On your next trip to Hawaii, don’t miss visiting this historic site for the views of the caldera from the viewing platform. Read on to learn more about the Volcano House!
Origins & Early Years of Volcano House
The establishment of Volcano House in 1846 marked a pivotal moment in Hawaiian history, as Western explorers began to uncover the Big Island’s volcanic mysteries. The Pitman House, built by Benjamin Pitman, was the first iteration of the Volcano House. It was a simple and less-than-luxurious accommodation with dirt floors, polluted water, and inconsistent maintenance.
Later in 1866, a thatch-roof Volcano House was constructed. Excellent food, service, and modern amenities quickly made the hotel a vital sanctuary for travelers, offering insights into the island’s geological wonders. Its strategic location near Kīlauea Caldera provided a front-row seat to volcanic activity, fostering scientific inquiry and artistic inspiration.
As tourism grew, the Volcano House evolved into a symbol of Hawaii’s natural beauty and a gateway to understanding the island’s profound geological and cultural heritage. More renovations were made in 1877 with the building of a Western-style house made of native wood, in 1891 with Victorian-style additions, and in 1921 when the size of the hotel grew exponentially to suit the increasing number of visitors.
Key Moments in Volcano House’s History
Notable Guests & Visitors
The Big Island Volcano House became so popular that many recognizable figures visited this faraway destination. Early visitors, including writers like Mark Twain, marveled at the island’s fiery landscapes and indigenous culture. Hawaiian royalty, including Queen Lili‘uokalani, who reigned at the time of the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893, and Kalākaua, the last king of Hawaiʻi, reveled in the beauty of Kīlauea from Volcano House. Other famous guests include Amelia Earhart, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Louis Pasteur. Several U.S. presidents stayed at the Volcano House including Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhouwer, Harry Truman, John F. Kennedy, and Richard Nixon.
To learn more about guests who’ve stayed at the Volcano House, there are historic guest house registers on site and digitized into PDF files to be enjoyed freely. Browse through pages of handwritten signatures, illustrations, anecdotes of guests’ visits, calling cards, and poems dating from 1865 to 1922.
Evolution of Accommodations & Facilities
With the increasing popularity of the Volcano House, changes to the structure and function of the hotel were necessary every few decades. The largest effort to expand the hotel was in 1921 when the Interisland Steamship Company bought out ownership and began to invest large sums of money. A grand two-story wing was added to the Victorian addition from 1891 increasing the total amount of rooms from 25 to 104. However, when the Great Depression hit and tourism came to a halt, ownership of the hotel changed hands again to George Lycurgus, also known as “Uncle George.” Lycurgus helped operate the hotel until his death in 1959, and his efforts played a significant role in increasing the impact of the hotel on Hawaii’s economy and tourism industry.
On February 7, 1940 the Volcano House burnt to the ground. A kitchen fire raged out of control and claimed the entire building. Management and staff reacted quickly and reopened the old 1877 building the very next day to accommodate guests. All the while, a new hotel needed to be built. Lycurgus commissioned a well-known Hawaiian architect, Charles W. Dickey, and the new building opened a year and a half later on November 8, 1941. This version stands to this day.
Volcano House in Modern Times
Since the inception of the Big Island Volcano House, visitors have witnessed eruptions of one of the world’s most active volcanoes up close. The proximity of the historic hotel allows people to see activity and lava flows from the dining room and guest areas. Recently, from 2008 to 2018, and again in 2020, visitors were able to view the orange light of a lava lake within Halemaʻumaʻu crater from the dining room after the summit eruption of Kīlauea.
Today, the Volcano House works to preserve the historical significance of this landmark. Each room features rustic accents and common areas that maintain the old charm of the original architecture. The restored Volcano House offers a dining room, snack bar, lounge, and gift shop featuring arts and crafts made by local artisans. Dining at The Rim restaurant is a great way to experience the history of this landmark. Enjoy a varied lunch and dinner menu, we suggest making reservations in advance for dinner.
Uncle George’s Lounge offers some lighter fare, with signature cocktails, and domestic beers.
Cultural & Environmental Impact
The Volcano House is just a short walk across Crater Rim Drive from park headquarters and the Kīlauea Visitor Center. Its proximity to the nearby natural features makes this a highlight on anyone’s visit to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
The Volcano House on the Big Island of Hawaii is a historical landmark with deep roots in the state’s history and culture.
Guests of our Volcano bed and breakfast can visit the Volcano House without having to stay there, we suggest going for dinner in the dining room and experience this piece of Hawaiian history.