Imagine a place where creativity, exploration, and the highest caliber of educational and artistic experience thrive. Imagine a place where artists, writers, naturalists, and creative spirits of all ages gather to draw inspiration from a pristine rainforest on the most beautiful volcanic island in the world. Volcano Art Center's arts and environmental education campus at Niaulani is this place.

The administrative offices of VAC are located at Niaulani Campus, nestled between Old Volcano Road and the pristine Niaulani Rain Forest. The beautiful wooded site is located at 19-4074 Old Volcano Road in Volcano Village near Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. A natural fern, 'ohi'a, and koa forest envelops this property of 7.4 acres, where an ongoing project to restore the native rain forest and remove invasive plants is underway. Sponsored in part by the Hawaii Tourism Authority Natural Resource Program, this project endures this pristine, beautiful natural old-growth forest will be available to future generations. Every Monday, rain or shine, even on holidays, Volcano Art Center offers a free guided tour of the Niaulani Rain Forest.

In November 2010, Hale Ho`omana, our new educational facility with two classrooms and a large multipurpose room opened its doors, providing ample space for classes, workshops, and retreats as well as for special events like our biannual Art Markets and our signature fundraiser, Love the Arts. 

Niaulani means "brushed by the heavens" or "billowing heavens." The name describes the way clouds and mist drift silently through the moist rainforest. For thousands of years, people have found their way to this volcanic region to nourish their creative beings. Nearby Kilauea Volcano, where the Hawaiian goddess Pele makes her home, has inspired ancient hula mele, and ka'ao. At Niaulani, artists, performers, writers, and cultural practitioners from all over the world will come together to create and celebrate this magical place. Under the canopy of ever-changing skies, they will share ideas, techniques, and experiences.

Download a Niaulani Plant Guide

Download the Niaulani Trail Companion