We’ve thought about going to the Big Island to see the lava but this one gives me pause:
We did a volcano helicopter ride last Fall and got to see some small patches of lava. I imagine they don’t allow helicopters anywhere near the good stuff if chunks of rock like this are flying around.
It’s not Disney. It’s nature making a new island. Looks stupid even on my computer screen.
Lava is unpredictable and spews where it must. It’s best to give it very wide berth. Even if you aren’t hit by a flying lava bomb, the air has a lot of fumes and give particulate matter that is NOT good for breathing. 
Lava entering the ocean can be especially dangerous as it can generate hydrogen chloride fumes. I am not even talking about microscopic glass particulate that can damage lungs… No thanks. Plus, if you want to spend your tourist money to help local businesses, do so in a manner that does not put additional burden on the emergency services. Just go to the Big Island and stay oit of trouble. 
the beach at Mauna Kea is fabulous.