Updated April 2025

From lava flows to luxury lodges, few landscapes inspire awe like a volcano. These dramatic destinations offer more than just panoramic views—they invite us into Earth’s rawest, most elemental beauty. Whether you're watching molten lava under a star-filled sky or soaking in a hot spring surrounded by mist, volcano-view travel is equal parts thrill and tranquility.

In this guide, I’m sharing three unforgettable volcano destinations that are on my personal bucket list—plus bold home decor finds to help bring their fiery energy into your own space.

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Santorini, Greece: Caldera Views + Cycladic Charm

Looking north from the top of Skaros Rock in Santorini

Santorini isn’t just a romantic escape—it’s a volcanic wonder. The island’s crescent shape wraps around the remnants of a massive volcanic eruption, with whitewashed buildings perched on dramatic caldera cliffs. Sunsets here are legendary, and the volcanic soil gives local wine and cuisine their distinctive flavor.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: April–June or September–October for warm weather without the crowds
Must-See Spot: Oia for caldera views, Fira for nightlife
How to Get There: Fly to Santorini (JTR) via Athens or ferry from other islands

Balcony, Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

View, Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Bathroom, Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Bedroom, Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Pool, Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Living Room, Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Pool with View, Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Hotel Recommendation

Stay at Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel—carved into the cliffs with uninterrupted volcano views and dramatic cave-style suites.

👉 Check Rates on Expedia

Design Inspiration

Bring Santorini’s volcanic elegance home with a mix of stark white, matte black, and stone textures.

🕯️ Volcanic rock candle holder – Adds moody elegance to any room
⚫ Black ceramic vase – Sleek and sculptural
🤍 Textured white throws or linen bedding – Clean, airy contrast

Big Island, Hawaii: Lava Landscapes + Island Serenity

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island is one of the few places where you can witness active lava flows (when conditions are right). Kīlauea and Mauna Loa shape this ever-evolving island, surrounded by black sand beaches, lush rainforests, and geothermal hot springs.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: November–May for fewer crowds and cooler weather
Must-See Spot: Chain of Craters Road at sunset
How to Get There: Fly into Kona or Hilo (ITO)

Guestroom, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, Courtesy of Expedia

Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, Courtesy of Expedia

Balcony Guest Room, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, Courtesy of Expedia

Lobby, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, Courtesy of Expedia

Oceanfront, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, Courtesy of Expedia

Exterior Spaces, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, Courtesy of Expedia

Hotel Recommendation

Stay at Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a Doubletree by Hilton—This hotel is located on the waterfront and on the beach and about 25 minutes away from Volcanoes National Park

👉 Check Rates on Expedia

Design Inspiration

Channel Big Island energy with organic textures, lava rock accents, and warm, earthy tones.

🌋 Obsidian decor objects – Reflective and grounding
🪵 Teak or acacia wood pieces – Warm and rugged
🔥 Fire-colored textiles – Burnt orange, deep red, and golden tones

Arenal, Costa Rica: Jungle Meets Fire

Arenal Volcano towers above lush rainforest in northern Costa Rica, surrounded by hot springs, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Though no longer erupting, it remains one of the country’s most iconic landmarks and a magnet for eco-lodges and adventure-seekers.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: November–April (dry season)
Must-See Spot: Mistico Hanging Bridges for sweeping volcano views
How to Get There: Fly into San José or Liberia, then drive to La Fortuna

Guestroom, Nayara Springs Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Hammock by Pool, Nayara Springs Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Poolview Dining, Nayara Springs Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Exterior Property View with Volcano in Background, Nayara Springs Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Lobby, Nayara Springs Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Nayara Springs Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Pool, Nayara Springs Hotel, Courtesy of Expedia

Hotel Recommendation

Stay at Nayara Springs, a luxury adults-only resort with private plunge pools and volcano views.

👉 Check Rates on Expedia

Design Inspiration

Infuse your space with jungle-meets-volcano vibes: dark greens, lush plant accents, and warm lighting.

🪴 Lava rock planters – Perfect for succulents or ferns
💡 Ambient orange glow lamps – Inspired by molten lava
🌳 Botanical prints – Add a natural layer to black or charcoal backdrops

Final Thoughts: Let the Earth Move You

Volcanoes remind us of nature’s raw beauty and quiet strength. Whether you're soaking in a hot spring, sipping wine on a cliffside terrace, or simply watching the sun set behind a crater, these destinations stir something deep. And even if your next getaway is a little further off, you can bring that same elemental inspiration into your home, one design detail at a time.