The Best Hot Springs Big Island Offers: Pohoiki Warm Springs and More

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Are you looking for the best hot springs Big Island has to offer? We’ve got you covered! Whether you’re looking for warm volcanic hot springs, or warm ponds on the newest black sand beaches, you’ll find them in this post!

When we visited the USA and Big Island, we absolutely loved learning about the geology of the island, and the volcanic activity. On top of our surprise to hear that Hawaii does get snow sometimes, we were also surprised to learn about the Big Island Hawaii hot springs! Who would have thought that volcanic activity could create the hot Big Island tide pools where people go to relax? According to scientists, the formation of these pools can be explained by the presence of a large thermal system south of the lower east rift of Kilauea and we’re here for it!

As you know, we love hot springs or any kind of hot pools that provide us with a romantic spa like experience. Hot springs are probably one of our favorite alphabet date ideas that start with H! So we couldn’t pass on sharing these ones with you!

Are there hot springs in Hawaii?

Yes, there are hot springs in Hawaii, but they’re quite unique and not quite like the commercial ones we’re accustomed to in places like the Idaho hot springs near Stanley or the ones in British Columbia. For example, when we visited the hot springs spa in Whistler, Canada, we paid an entrance fee and enjoyed well-maintained, bacteria-treated pools. Similarly, when I (Marie) was living in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, I had the pleasure of visiting hot springs in British Columbia which were also well kept, required a fee, and offered several pools.

In Hawaii, the situation is slightly different. Rather than traditional hot springs, you’ll find what are often referred to as hot tide pools, some even created by lava. These pools vary, with some being warmed by the sun and others heated by underground lava.

Some of the Hawaiian hot springs you can find include the Olivine Pools on Maui, as part of The Seven Sacred Pools of Oheo, and Pohoiki Hot Springs on the Big Island. Though different, these natural hot pools provide a distinctive Hawaiian thermal experience, and we highly recommend exploring them for a truly unique spa experience with your partner.

Are there any natural hot springs in Hawaii?

Yes! Indeed, Hawaii is home to natural hot springs. However, they’re unlike the traditional hot springs you might envision, such as the natural ones near Lake Tahoe. These are not commercial establishments with built-in amenities; they’re natural phenomena that provide a unique Hawaiian experience. In Hawaii, you’ll find warm springs and tide pools. These are formed when seawater is trapped by rocks after the tide goes out, and the rocks retain heat either from the sun or from underground lava flows.

If you’re looking for hot springs Hawaii Honolulu has to offer or hot springs in Hawaii Oahu, you might get disappointed as most of the hot ponds and pools are on Big Island, Kauai and Maui.

You and your partner should be aware, though, that not all hot springs are accessible. Some of them, unfortunately, disappeared in 2018 due to lava flows. Nevertheless, we recommend embracing this unique Hawaiian thermal experience when you have the opportunity. It’s unlike anything else.

Here are the ones you can still find in Hawaii.

1. Pohoiki Hot Springs – Isaac Hale Park, Big Island of Hawaii

Taking a journey to the Pohoiki Hot Springs, located in Isaac Hale Park on the Big Island of Hawaii, provides an exciting and unique experience. As one of the newest hot springs in the world and in the United States, this site was created and reshaped by the volcanic eruption in 2018. Pohoiki Hot Springs, positioned on the captivating Puna Coast, is home to several inviting pools and a black sand beach, both products of the volcanic activity. The site is about a 30-mile drive from Hilo, making it a thrilling day trip for you and your partner. So if you are looking for hot springs Hilo has to offer, these are the ones!

2. The Seven Sacred Pools of Oheo – Maui, Hawaii

On the stunning island of Maui, nestled in the Oheo Gulch area of Haleakala National Park, you’ll find The Seven Sacred Pools of Oheo. These pools, although not technically hot springs, are famous natural wonders that offer a tranquil soaking experience. Formed by igneous rock and filled with sun-warmed river water, these pools provide a peaceful retreat in a serene setting. As a bonus, we recommend a visit to Haleakala at sunset for breathtaking views. The pools are a brief 15-minute drive south of Hana. To avoid the crowds, we recommend an early morning visit. Just bear in mind, there is a $10 fee per car to enter the park, which also includes access to Haleakala Summit.

3. Queen’s Bath – Kauai, Hawaii

If you and your partner find yourselves on the stunning island of Kauai, we recommend making a visit to Queen’s Bath. This natural oceanside tide pool, created by a collapsed lava tube, isn’t a traditional hot spring but offers an enchanting experience nonetheless. The sun-warmed rocks trap the heat creating a pool about the size of a large swimming pool filled with crystal clear water. It offers breathtaking ocean views and can be accessed via an easy 8 to 10-minute hiking trail. The best time to visit is during spring or summer when the water is warmest. However, be cautious of dangerous surf waves and always heed warning signs.

4. Kapoho Tide Pools – Big Island of Hawaii (closed)

It’s also noteworthy to mention the now-closed Kapoho Tide Pools on the Big Island of Hawaii. These pools were once nestled within the bounds of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and were a popular destination until the 2018 eruption of Kilauea, which buried the pools under 60 feet of volcanic rock. Our visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was an incredible experience where we got to witness craters, fumes emerging, and learn a great deal about the geology of Hawaii. The 2020 eruption served as a stark reminder that the landscape of Hawaii’s hot springs and tide pools can change rapidly due to active volcanic activity.

5. Millionaires Pond in Ahalanui Park – Big Island of Hawaii (closed)

Another noteworthy spot was the Millionaires Pond in Ahalanui Park, located on the Big Island of Hawaii. This natural feature was once considered one of Hawaii’s best-kept secrets. A naturally warm pond, it was the perfect place for you and your partner to take a refreshing dip. However, in 2018, the Kilauea volcano’s eruption and subsequent lava flow from the lower Puna eruption led to its destruction. It’s a poignant reminder of the power of nature and the ever-changing landscapes in Hawaii.

6. Sacred Source Hot Springs Resort

The Sacred Source Hot Springs Resort was another one of the hot springs Big Island Hawaii offered. This off-the-grid volcanic hot spring experience is now closed.

Does the Big Island of Hawaii have hot springs?

If you’re wondering whether the Big Island of Hawaii has hot springs, it’s not that straightforward. While there are certainly warm ponds or hot pools Big Island offers, they aren’t traditional hot springs where the hot water naturally springs from the ground. However, they still offer a relaxing and refreshing experience for you and your partner.

Where are the hot springs on the Big Island?

As for the locations of the hot ponds Big Island offers, the only remaining one post-2018 volcanic eruption is the Pohoiki Hot Springs, situated in Isaac Hale Park near the eastern coast of the Big Island. Before the 2018 eruption, the Big Island was also home to the Kapoho tide pools and the Ahalanui Hot Ponds, both sadly destroyed due to the volcanic activity, with Kapoho tide pools lost on June 4, 2018, and Ahalanui Hot Pond on July 11, 2018. It’s a reminder of the ever-evolving landscapes in Hawaii due to the island’s volcanic nature.

How to Get to Pohoiki Hot Springs

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure with your partner, consider exploring the Pohoiki Hot Springs, located in Isaac Hale Park, in the Puna region of the Big Island, near the town of Pāhoa. These warm ponds Big Island offers are about 40 miles south of Hilo, a journey of just over an hour by car, and approximately two and a half hours from Kona. We recommend renting a car as there are no bus or public transportation options that go directly to the springs. Simply take Hwy 130 until it hits Hwy 137, also known as the Red Road.

On your way to Big Island’s only hot springs

The road to Phoiki hot springs is well-maintained, winding its way along the Lower Puna coastline, through lush tree canopy and lava fields from the 2018 eruption. During the drive, you’ll pass the Kehena Black Sand Beach, a picturesque, if somewhat unconventional, nudist beach. Once you arrive at Isaac Hale Park, turn right on Kalapana Kapoho Beach Rd and you’ll find a large parking lot at the end.

Pohoiki Beach Park 

Pohoiki Beach Park is the park that is home to the Pohoiki hot springs. The park itself is something of a natural wonder, having been reshaped by the 2018 LERZ eruption. The eruption resulted in the creation of a new black sand beach, several natural thermal ponds, and a black-rock coastline, offering a stunning contrast against the azure ocean and the verdant tropical jungle backdrop. Stroll along the beach and take in the beauty of the coconut trees and the striking dried lava formations on the east end of the beach.

For your safety, there’s also a lifeguard cabin on the beach. This evolving landscape provides a vivid reminder of the island’s vibrant volcanic activity, making your trip to Pohoiki Hot Springs a memorable journey through nature’s awe-inspiring power.

Safety at the Pohoiki Hot Springs on the Big Island

As you and your partner prepare to visit the Pohoiki hot springs, we’d like to stress the importance of safety. While the pools provide a warm, inviting soak, it’s important to remember that the water is not treated and there can be bacterial growth. As such, we recommend that you do not use the pools if you have any open cuts or injuries. Remember, the pools are not disinfected, so there is a risk of bacterial infections. Ultimately, entering the pools is at your own risk.

Cost of the Hot Springs on the Big Island

One of the appealing aspects of Pohoiki hot springs is that access is free. There’s no entry fee and parking is also free. However, if you’re not a local, there may be other associated costs to consider, such as renting a car for the journey. We recommend Discover Cars for their reliable service.

Arriving at the beach and Pohoiki hot springs

Upon arriving at the beach, you and your partner may notice that the pools are not immediately visible. Look for the remnants of a boat ramp, an interesting feature left behind by the ever-changing volcanic landscape. While exploring Pohoiki, take your time to soak in the unique atmosphere of this place that beautifully showcases the dynamic nature of the Big Island.

Pohoiki hot springs: the only remaining hot springs Big Island offers

General Information on the Pohoiki Hot Springs the Big Island is home to

As you and your partner set off on your adventure to the Pohoiki hot springs, here’s some essential information you might find useful. The heat from the 2018 LERZ lava flow, which permeates underground, warms the water of the hot springs. These springs, also known as Puna hot springs, consist of five thermal ponds, each offering a unique experience.

Close to the parking lot, you’ll find a large pool that resembles a big swimming pool, and a bit further away, between the beach and the jungle, there’s another large one. As you make your way onto the beach, a smaller pool to the left catches your attention, appearing and disappearing with the ebb and flow of the tide. Continuing towards the end of the beach before it curves, there’s yet another smaller, intermittent pool. Finally, tucked away in the jungle, you’ll find the last thermal pond, offering a more secluded experience.

The average temperature of these Hawaii Big Island hot springs ranges between 95 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a comforting warm bath. What’s truly captivating about these springs is that they are all surrounded by lush tropical plants, adding to the sense of being in a natural, tranquil paradise. So, we recommend taking the time to immerse yourself in this unique landscape, as you unwind and connect with the natural world.

Pohoiki Warm Pool 1: On the Right When Arriving

As you and your partner first step onto the sands of Pohoiki, the pool to your right is the closest to the parking lot. It is enclosed by new black sand, creating a shallow, knee-high pool with a rocky bottom. However, the ocean view is obscured by a pile of rocks that barricade the water in. Because of the easy access, this pool tends to be the most crowded.

Pohoiki Warm Spring 2: On the East End of the Beach

Venturing further along the beach, you’ll find a small, shallow pool on the east end. This pool also has a rocky bottom and is sometimes concealed depending on the tide. It’s right by the large area of dry lava. This pool is much smaller than pool 1 but can be good for a quick dip.

Pohoiki Warm Spring 3: In the Jungle

A bit further away, a trail leads you and your partner into the trees to the original Pohoiki Hot Springs. We recommend wearing hiking sandals, as the flat trail is covered with volcanic rock and these can sometimes be quite sharp. Flip flops would be a bit too soft for this trail.

After a short 5-minute walk, you’ll reach a small, intimate pool. It’s a pool created by a collapsed lava tube filled with fresh spring water. The pool is about 4ft deep and just over 100F which is definitely warm. This pool, surrounded by lush tropical trees, usually impresses visitors the most with its stunning jungle vibe. It’s the one we find most romantic. In our opinion, it’s also the one that feels more like a hot spring.

Note that this one is much smaller so it can become quickly crowded.

Pohoiki Hot Water Pond 4: On the Beach Across from Number 3

If you’re looking for a decent sized warm pool with a bit more space, this one should work. Returning to the beach, across from the jungle pool, there’s another large warm pool. One of the erks of this one is that you’re right by the jungle but in a bigger pool.

It shares similar characteristics with pools 1 and 2, providing a convenient spot for a dip after your jungle exploration.

Pohoiki Warm Pool 5: the West-end warm pool

Lastly, on the western side of the beach, a small and new pond awaits. This one was created by the 2018 eruption. It’s a calm and peaceful spot to round off your Pohoiki hot springs experience.

Hot springs Big Island: Pohoiki Warm Springs map

What to know when visiting the hot springs Hawaii Big Island offers

Before visiting the Pohoiki Hot Springs with your partner, here are some essential tips we recommend you to follow:

1. Timing: The park opens from 9am to 6pm. We recommend coming as early as possible to enjoy the morning tranquility together before it gets busier. Early morning also offers beautiful light for photography!
2. Attire: Unlike some natural hot springs, nudity isn’t accepted here. Ensure you’re wearing your bathing suits. Wearing a quick-dry type of bathing suit can make you more comfortable during and after your soak.
3. Local Respect: This park is a cherished part of the local community’s home. Respect the residents and their customs. This respect also extends to being quiet and not playing loud music.
4. No Chemicals: The pools are natural and untouched by chemicals. To keep it that way, please refrain from using sunscreen, soap, or any other chemicals that could disturb the natural ecosystem.
5. Health Precautions at these natural hot springs in Hawaii: Open sores or cuts could become infected in the untreated water. Avoid going in the water in these circumstances. And of course, don’t drink the water or put your face into it to avoid any possible infections.
6. Rinse off quickly: This is probably our most important tip to go to these hot springs Big Island offers. Though there are no showers on site, we recommend bringing your own water and some eco-friendly soap to rinse off right after your dip. Don’t forget to rinse well in all the little corners. This will decrease any potential risk of infection.
7. Hydration: Hot water can dehydrate your body faster than usual. Keep yourselves well-hydrated by drinking lots of water before, during, and after your visit.
8. Leave No Trace: Adhere to the “leave no trace” principles, a set of outdoor ethics promoting conservation. This means, whatever you bring with you, take it back. Leave the springs as pristine and beautiful as you found them, ensuring that they remain a wonderful place for future generations to enjoy.

What creates hot springs on the Big Island?

Exploring the science behind Hawaii’s hot springs can be a fascinating journey, as we found out during our research. On the Big Island, hot springs are typically formed when rainwater or groundwater is heated by magma beneath the ground. Interestingly, the Pohoiki Hot Springs are heated in a different way: the abundant rainfall on the east side of the island, which can reach up to 300 inches annually, seeps into the ground. When this water encounters a barrier of salt water (which is heavier than fresh water), it is forced to rise, flowing through rocks heated by underground magma. This process results in the hot water returning to the surface and flowing into the ocean, creating warm pools.

How long will the hot springs Big Island offers last?

Now, you might be wondering how long these hot springs will last. The truth is, scientific research is still ongoing, but geologists predict they could remain warm for several years, and maybe even decades. This, of course, is barring any new eruptions or lava flows that might alter the landscape. According to scientists, the temperature of these hot springs is predicted to continue rising!

We recommend making the most of these hot springs while you can, soaking in the warm water while surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of the Big Island.

Closed hot springs Big Island used to offer

Why is Ahalanui park closed?

While the Big Island still offers some stunning hot springs for you and your partner to explore, there were a few more before the 2018 Kilauea eruption. One such place was Ahalanui Park, which was built around the Ahalanui warm pond. Prior to 2018, it was a popular spot with a picnic area, showers, and toilets. However, the 2018 eruption caused the lava from Fissure 8 to cover the area, destroying the beloved , leading to its permanent closure. We remember the serenity of the place, and it’s a shame visitors can no longer experience it.

Kapoho hot ponds

In addition to Ahalanui Park, the Kapoho hot ponds, also known as champagne ponds, were also victims of the 2018 eruption and were covered on June 4, 2018. These beautiful but somewhat hard-to-reach tide pools were heated by warm water flowing through lava rocks. The rich, fragile coral they housed was an underwater spectacle. The memory of these lost natural wonders serves as a poignant reminder of the transient and ever-changing nature of our planet. So, while exploring Hawaii’s remaining hot springs, we recommend cherishing the experience, as nature’s marvels are sometimes ephemeral.

What happened to the hot springs on the Big Island?

Big Island used to be the go-to place for three publicly accessible hot springs; the Pohoiki Hot Springs, also known as the “Pohoiki Warm Springs”, the Ahalanui Warm Pond, and the Kapoho Tide Pools. Each one offering unique experiences and charm.

However, in 2018, two of these disappeared. The Kilauea Volcano erupted along its Lower East Rift Zone, covering most of the Lower Puna coastline, including the Ahalanui Warm Pond and the Kapoho Tide Pools with thick, inexorable lava. Actually, the Kilauea Volcano errupted again in 2020 so we’re never too sure how long the hot ponds are going to be around for. At the time, the lava barely missed the Pohoiki Hot Springs. So they almost disappeared too.

Following the eruption, ocean currents led to the accumulation of sand and other sediments along Pohoiki Bay, which created the new black sand beach we now know and that is now loved by surfers. New warm tide pools emerged along the beach. If you are looking for alternatives to Punalu’u Beach, we recommend this black sand beach. The surf is great, and the warm tide pools offer a unique relaxation experience.

Alternative to Pohoiki hot springs on the Big Island: Ali’i saltwater pool

If you and your partner are looking for alternatives to the Pohoiki hot springs on the Big Island, we recommend checking out the Ali’i Saltwater Pool. Located on the Kona side of the island, just south of Kailua, this unique spot offers a different kind of hot springs experience.

What Is the Ali’i Saltwater Pool?

The Ali’i Saltwater Pool, also known as Rivi’s Saltwater Pool, is a large, man-made pool built right next to the ocean. Despite its man-made origins, it offers an authentically refreshing experience. The pool is clean and though it doesn’t boast amenities such as lifeguards, showers, or bathrooms, its unique positioning ensures that when the surf is high, the waves crash over the pool, naturally keeping the water clean. This means the water can get stagnant and turn green when the surf is low, but fish can also get into the pool, adding an interesting natural element.

Access to Ali’i Saltwater Pool

Keep in mind the pool lacks a sandy beach and has an uneven terrain, but a paved area surrounds it. It’s important to be cautious when navigating the steps down to the pool. The pool’s access is quite easy to spot, with a “Public Beach Access” sign visible between a hotel and condos. There’s limited free parking across the street on Ali’i Drive, but you can also park in the shopping area in front of Casa de Emdeko Condominiums.

You and your partner will love this charming spot. It’s free to enter, and its unique position next to the ocean offers an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the natural spectacle of the waves crashing over the pool, and immerse yourselves in this unique Hawaiian hot springs alternative.

Do we recommend the hot springs Big Island offers?

In short, it depends!

These naturally heated pools offer a truly romantic and unique experience that you and your partner will cherish. Immersing yourselves in the jungle hot springs is particularly relaxing. It’s intimate, with a cool vibe that’s both relaxing and invigorating. We wouldn’t pass on an outdoor free spa-like date. Spending time in the hot springs can also be a wonderful way to add a little extra excitement to a beach day with your partner. These natural pools are still somewhat under the radar, providing a unique experience away from crowded tourist spots.

That said, we also encouraged staying vigilant and safe. There has been a few warnings from local authorities saying the waters have high levels of bacteria. other locals have tested them with water test kits (whether these are reliable is another question) and reported similar results.

Our take is that there are safer places in the Big Island to bath in so if you are not sure about the state of the water, then skip it. If you notice other visitors with visible cuts or sores, or if there are apparent issues with the water, we recommend steering clear for health reasons. If you have cuts yourselves, then also steer clear as they could get infected.

As always, prioritize your safety and wellbeing. But if all is well, these hot springs offer an unforgettable moment of relaxation and connection amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of the Big Island.

Final thoughts: The best hot springs Big Island offers

As a conclusion, and for an unforgettable experience of Hawaii’s unique geothermal features, the hot springs of the Big Island come highly recommended. The most notable is the Pohoiki Hot Springs, located in Isaac Hale Beach Park, which boasts several pools and a captivating black sand beach, courtesy of recent volcanic activity.

Although not traditional hot springs, the naturally heated tide pools offer a relaxing soak amid stunning natural beauty. These attractions, while still relatively under the radar, provide a memorable addition to your Big Island adventure, offering a chance to connect with nature’s power in a uniquely Hawaiian setting. We recommend this experience!

The best hot springs Big Island offers FAQs

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