Banos de Coamo

## Overview Baños de Coamo is one of the Caribbean's most storied natural hot springs, located in the southern foothills of Puerto Rico near the municipality of Coamo. Known locally as the "Fountain of Youth," these thermal waters have drawn visitors for centuries. According to local legend, early Spanish explorers — including, some say, Juan Ponce de León — believed these springs might be the mythical Fountain of Youth they sought in the New World. The Taíno people, Puerto Rico's indigenous inhabitants, are believed to have used the springs long before European contact, considering the waters to have healing and spiritual properties. The hot springs sit along the Coamo River (Río Coamo) at the base of lush tropical hills. The thermal waters are naturally heated by geothermal activity deep beneath Puerto Rico's volcanic bedrock, emerging at warm temperatures that make for a soothing soak. Historically, a grand bathhouse resort — the Baños de Coamo Hotel — operated here from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century, attracting visitors from across the Americas. The hotel was eventually destroyed by fire, but the natural pools remain and are freely accessible to the public. The springs have been historically valued for their reported mineral content, and visitors over the years have described the warm water as relaxing and rejuvenating. As with all natural springs, water quality can vary, and the springs are best enjoyed as a bathing experience rather than a drinking water source. ## Directions 1. From the town of Coamo, head south on **PR-153** toward Santa Isabel. 2. After approximately 2 kilometers (about 1.2 miles), look for signs indicating **Baños de Coamo** or **Aguas Termales** on the left side of the road. 3. Turn onto the access road and follow it to the parking area near the river. 4. From the parking area, a short walk leads down to the natural hot spring pools along the Coamo River. **GPS Coordinates:** 18.037778, -66.373897 *Note: The springs are located between the towns of Coamo and Santa Isabel. Using GPS navigation to the coordinates above is recommended, as signage can be limited.* ## What to Expect Baños de Coamo features several natural pools formed along the riverbed where warm thermal water mixes with the cooler flow of the Río Coamo. The pools are surrounded by tropical vegetation and rocky terrain, creating a peaceful, scenic setting. The warm water temperatures make for a comfortable soak, especially during cooler evening hours. The site is free to visit and open to the public. There are no formal facilities — no changing rooms, restrooms, or lifeguards — so plan accordingly. The area can be popular with locals on weekends and holidays. Footwear with good grip is recommended, as the rocks near the pools can be slippery. The tropical setting means mosquitoes may be present, particularly near dusk. The ruins of the historic Baños de Coamo Hotel can be seen nearby, adding a layer of historical atmosphere to the visit. The lush hillside backdrop and the sound of the river make this a uniquely tranquil spot on the island — a welcome contrast to Puerto Rico's busier tourist destinations.