eeo wrote:
The one thing they don't warn you about is what happens when lava
flows into the sea. It creates a mist that contains sulfuric acid.
It stings the eyes and is uncomfortable but the experience is
worth a little discomfort.

One nitpick: when the hot lava hits the water, it generates clouds of
hydrochloric acid, not sulfuric acid. I would disagree with eeo and
tell you to stay out of the steam clouds in any case; a lungful of acid
is not a good idea.

http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov/kilauea/update/main.html is a good place to
check on current lava conditions.