Heating Up And Cooling Down In These Hawaiian Springs

Unlike traditional mineral hot springs found inland, many of Hawaii's geothermal treasures are coastal, mingling the earth's heat with the ocean's salt or the fresh runoff from mountain streams.

The highly active Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island dramatically reshaped the Puna coastline in its 2018 eruption. As a result, several historically popular thermal sites listed here—including Ahalanui Hot Pond, Champagne Pond, and the Kapoho Tide Thermal Pools—were unfortunately covered by lava flows and are no longer accessible.

We include them for historical context and to celebrate the natural wonders they once were, while focusing our current ratings on the accessible locations.

Ahalanui Hot Springs

The Ahalanui Hot Springs are situated in Ahalanui Park. Flowing out into a warm pond, the area features basic facilities such as showers, toilets, and a relaxing picnic space. The place is often crowded on the weekends, so generally, it is best to visit during the weekdays, particularly in the wee hours of the morning.

Once one of the most famous and accessible hot springs on the Big Island, officially known as Puʻalaʻa County Park. Covered by lava flow in July 2018 and no longer exists.

A large, man-made pool where geothermally heated freshwater mixed with the cool ocean water, resulting in a perfectly comfortable, expansive swimming pool. It was maintained by the county and protected from the surf by a rock wall, complete with amenities like picnic tables and restrooms.

A nearby option for those looking to enjoy geothermal fun with more of an ocean mix, Issac Hale Beach Park and Pohoiki Beach are only a half mile south and make for a great option for your day.

Champagne Pond

A picturesque thermal pool located in the Kapoho Bay area of the Big Island. Covered by lava flow in June 2018 and no longer exists. Kapoho Bay was filled by the lava flow.

An ocean-fed tidal pool protected by a lava reef where hot springs bubbled up through the black sand, giving the water a distinctive "champagne" effervescence. The mix of hot freshwater and ocean saltwater made it a clear, unique, and warm snorkeling spot.

Pohoiki Warm Springs

Pohoiki Warm Springs is now the primary coastal thermal soaking destination on the Big Island, having been spared by the 2018 lava flow that buried its famous neighbors.

Located within the newly formed Isaac Hale Beach Park, Pohoiki Warm Springs are a series of new ponds created when the 2018 lava flow formed a black sand barrier. This flow covered the old boat ramp but simultaneously created several new thermal pools where hot, fresh groundwater mixes with the new ocean inlet. Soaking here is a surreal experience, offering a direct view of the new black sand beach and the powerful evidence of volcanic activity.

Stay within walking distance at the Kirpal Meditation and Ecological Center where you can enjoy the serenity of the Balinese Meditation Pavilion, ocean view yoga studio, and 10 acre organic orchard.

Or if you want you own time while enjoying the environment, try this Off-Grid getaway with ocean views in paradise. Breakfast is available in-room with American, à la carte, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Four thermal ponds lie in the region, but the water isn’t always disinfected, which may expose you to the risk of bacterial infections. However, the chances of such an event happening are rare, and the warm waters are often enjoyed by plenty of travelers.

The hot springs aren’t immediately visible when you arrive at Isaac Hale Park. First, you’ll notice the remnants of an old boat ramp, now cut off from the ocean by a newly formed black sand beach from the 2018 eruption.

Beyond that, near the tree line, you’ll spot some shallow pools—these are the initial Pohoiki Hot Springs. These warm ponds were formed when the new black sand trapped the water. 

The pools are rocky at the bottom and only about knee-deep, making them perfect for sitting without getting your whole body wet, if that’s what you prefer.

This pond is in a collapsed lava tube. It’s about 4 feet deep with temperatures reaching around a toasty 100°F.

Water Quality (3 stars): Water is clean but has limited circulation, especially in the warmest pools, which can lead to bacterial concerns. Signs advise against soaking with open wounds.

Ease of Access (4 stars): Accessible by paved and newly graveled roads (Hwy 137). There is an official county park (Isaac Hale Beach Park) with a parking lot and clear entry points.

Ability to be Alone (2 stars): This is the Big Island's last public thermal soaking spot, making it extremely popular with locals and visitors. Expect moderate to large crowds, especially on weekends.

Water Temperature (4 stars): Varies comfortably from warm to very hot (up to 106∘F in some areas). Soakers can choose a preferred temperature depending on the pool.

Health Benefits (4 stars): Geothermal heating and the presence of volcanic minerals offer noticeable relaxation and muscle-soothing benefits.

Nearby Amenities (3 stars): The county park offers portable restrooms (port-a-potties), lifeguard stations, and limited covered pavilions. No running water or commercial services on-site.

Kapoho Tide Pools

The Kapoho Tide Pools are around 1.5 miles away from the warm Ahalanui Springs. Though these ponds are incredibly beautiful, they are difficult to reach. Nonetheless, when you do approach them, not only do you get to soak yourself, but you can snorkel and enjoy the colorfully diversified marine life.

The pools are filled with fresh water twice a day when the tide sweeps in. They are surrounded by a basalt ridge and are slightly away from the main sea. Considering the facilities, there are only portable toilets in the area, and the parking lot is around half a mile away from the pools. Just be wary of the corals in the pool, which are often fragile.

Pools of Oheo

A series of stunning tiered pools fed by mountain streams, located within Haleakala National Park on the famous Road to Hana.

The Oheo Pools are located in the Oheo Gulch, which takes up the lower slope of a dormant volcano. The region comprises 7 tiered pools that are constantly filled with fresh water from the river.

The closest place to stay is a bit north. The Hana-Maui Resort will let you use your Hyatt points. You won’t run out of things to do at the 70 acres of lush tropical gardens, spa wellness classes, local activities such as lei making, and outdoor adventure activities such as horseback riding.

Often mistakenly called the "Seven Sacred Pools," the Pools of Oheo Gulch are a spectacular natural phenomenon where a rainforest stream tumbles down a series of tiered pools and waterfalls into the ocean. While incredibly scenic, these are not hot springs but cold-water pools. Due to flash flood risks, swimming has been closed indefinitely by the National Park Service in recent years. Visitors can still hike and view the pools from a distance.

Water Quality (4 stars): Clean, fresh mountain stream water. However, the NPS often closes them due to potential for waterborne bacteria (Leptospirosis) when water levels are low.

Ease of Access (5 stars): Located within Haleakalā National Park (Kīpahulu District). Accessible via the famous Hana Highway with park facilities, paved trails, and ample parking (requires park entrance fee).

Ability to be Alone (1 star): Extremely popular attraction at the end of the Road to Hana. Expect significant crowds throughout the day, particularly mid-morning to mid-afternoon.

Water Temperature (2 stars): Cold mountain stream water. The low score reflects that they are not suitable for a "soak" and swimming is often prohibited.

Health Benefits (3 stars): Recreational and mental health benefits from the stunning natural scenery and the physical activity of hiking. No thermal or mineral benefits.

Nearby Amenities (3 stars): National Park facilities are available, including restrooms and a visitor center. The closest commercial amenities are in Hana town, a significant drive away.

Wai Ola Springs

Wai Ola Springs is located on the Big Island of Hawaii. The property is a beautiful 10 acres with fruit trees and gardens. The hot spring water comes out of the ground at perfect soaking temperatures between 108-115 degrees Fahrenheit.

Unlike the public coastal pools, these are private homesteads or retreat centers in the Puna district (near Pahoa and Opihikao) that tap into the geothermal aquifer. The hot, fresh groundwater is pumped into above-ground tubs (like Japanese-style ofuro tubs) or managed rock pools, offering a clean, reserved, and relaxing alternative to the crowded public spots. Access requires a reservation and an appointment.

Wai Ola Springs is a breathtaking paradise on 10 private acres of organic fruit trees and gardens with multiple living areas, to host up to 16 guests, plus camping. The idyllic property offers a perfect blend of solitude and communal experiences.
Enjoy the soothing warmth of 8 natural mineral-rich geothermal soaking tubs, each providing a unique soaking experience.

Two charming 130 sq ft cabins are nestled in the orchards. The heart of this retreat lies in the 822 sq ft bathhouse, where 8 soaking tubs filled with geothermal heated mineral water await. Enjoy BBQs and picnics under the adjacent pavilion. Organic orchards and gardens throughout the 10-acre property provide delicious food all year round!

They are also a retreat center that hosts an array of special events. We would be happy to host your group for a retreat, have you join us for a short term rental or even just a soak in our mineral rich tubs. Come explore what we have to offer.  

The center is located in Opihikao on the beautiful historic Kamaili road on Big Island. The fresh hot spring water comes out of the ground at temperatures around 108° to 115°. With over 400 known minerals, you will leave with glowing skin, relaxed muscles and an enlivened spirit.

Water Quality (5 stars): Geothermal water from a deep aquifer is pumped fresh, offering a clean, managed, and controlled soaking environment, often without the brackish water or ocean surge concerns.

Ease of Access (3 stars): Accessible by paved roads in lower Puna, but specific addresses are kept private. Requires pre-booking and navigating the last-mile to a private residence/center.

Ability to be Alone (5 stars): Excellent. Access is limited to private reservations and small groups, ensuring solitude and a quiet, personal spa-like experience.

Water Temperature (5 stars): Tubs are managed with water temperatures often between 108∘F to 115∘F, giving the perfect, intense soak.

Health Benefits (5 stars): Rich mineral content from the volcanic aquifer is touted for skin softening, muscle relaxation, and profound therapeutic benefits.

Nearby Amenities (2 stars): Very limited. Found in a remote, rural area. Amenities are typically limited to the soaking tubs, dressing areas, and restrooms provided by the host.

Queen’s Bath

Not a true hot spring, but a sacred, naturally formed tidal pool on Kauai's rugged north shore, famed for its beauty and danger.

Queen's Bath is a unique, natural tide pool carved into a lava shelf. Filled by the Pacific Ocean, it is a serene and beautiful spot when the ocean is calm. Historically used by royalty for bathing, it is a treacherous location during high surf, particularly in winter, when it is frequently closed.

Stay nearby at the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay with golf courses, a full-service spa, and gourmet dining. I personally love the canopy beds and hanging out in the hot tub overlooking the ocean at sunset.

Extreme caution is mandatory. Visitors must respect all closures and weather warnings, as numerous deaths have occurred here due to powerful rogue waves.

Water Quality (5 stars): Crystal-clear, naturally filtered seawater, refreshed with every wave (when safe). Small fish and marine life are often visible inside.
Ease of Access (2 stars): Requires navigating a steep, often muddy, and extremely slick trail through a dense residential neighborhood (Princeville). Limited parking is often a problem.

Ability to be Alone (2 stars): Extremely popular tourist destination, especially when open and during calm summer months. Solitude is rare; expect to share the pool and the trail.

Water Temperature (3 stars): Ocean temperature—comfortable for swimming in summer, but can be chilly for an extended soak, as it is not geothermally heated.

Health Benefits (2 stars): Primarily a sensory and recreational experience; the benefit lies in the refreshing seawater and the beautiful natural setting.

Nearby Amenities (3 stars): Located near the upscale Princeville community, but no direct amenities on-site. Hotels, restaurants, and shops are a short drive away.