etween Volcano and Hilo as you travel south on Hwy. #11 you will find the cut off at Keaau to go to Pahoa in the Puna District. Puna retains it's funky, down-at-the-heels rural charm. You will drive thru a lush rain-forest to discover the barren rock lava of the Kalapana Area. The town of Kalapana was destroyed by the 1990 lava flows. It is also the rest of the Chain of Craters Road going back to the Volcano. There are hot springs to soak in, a black sand beach, some nice B&B's for the true pilgrims. 
 

The old Kumukahi Lighthouse, still in operation, had the lava just flow around it is a special attraction. Also Lava Tree State Park, a volcanic landmark, is located on Hwy. #132.  Well worth the time if you would like to see a little of Old Hawaii. Puna is just 27 miles to Hilo and it is a real nice drive.