Pohoiki Hot Springs

## Overview Pohoiki Hot Springs is a unique geothermally heated bathing area located along the coast near Pāhoa on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. Situated at the southern end of Isaac Hale Beach Park in the Puna district, these hot springs owe their existence to the volcanic activity that defines this region of the island. The springs sit where naturally heated groundwater meets the Pacific Ocean, creating warm pools that have long been cherished by locals and visitors alike. The Puna coast experienced dramatic transformation during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption, when massive lava flows reshaped the landscape around Pohoiki. The eruption filled in much of Kapoho Bay and altered the coastline significantly, but the area around the hot springs survived and has since become an even more notable destination. New black sand beaches formed from the cooled lava, and the geothermal activity in the area continues to feed warm water into tidepools and coastal pools near the shore. The water temperature at Pohoiki can vary depending on tidal conditions, rainfall, and volcanic activity beneath the surface. Some pools are pleasantly warm for soaking, while others closer to geothermal vents can be quite hot. The springs have historically been used by Native Hawaiians and local residents as a place for relaxation and gathering, and the site holds cultural significance within the surrounding community. ## Directions 1. From Pāhoa town, head south on Highway 130 (Pāhoa-Kalapana Road). 2. Turn left (east) onto Highway 132 (Kapoho Road) toward the coast. 3. Continue on Highway 132 until it meets Kalapana-Kapoho Road (Route 137), also known as the Red Road. 4. Turn right and follow the Red Road south to Isaac Hale Beach Park, located at the end of the road near the Pohoiki boat ramp. 5. The hot springs and warm pools can be found along the shoreline near the boat ramp area. Look for the black sand beach and tidepools where warm water seeps up through the volcanic rock. **Note:** Road conditions and access in the Puna district can change due to volcanic activity and weather. It is advisable to check current conditions with Hawaiʻi County before visiting. ## What to Expect At Pohoiki, visitors will find a series of warm to hot pools formed where geothermally heated water percolates up through porous volcanic rock along the coastline. The pools vary in temperature — some are comfortably warm for a long soak, while others near active vents can be significantly hotter. Ocean waves occasionally wash into the pools, mixing cooler seawater with the warm spring water and creating a dynamic bathing experience. The surrounding landscape is striking: jet-black sand beaches formed from recent lava flows contrast with lush tropical vegetation and the deep blue Pacific. Isaac Hale Beach Park provides basic amenities including parking and restroom facilities. The boat ramp area can be busy with local fishermen and surfers, especially on weekends. Visitors should be mindful that the volcanic rock can be sharp and uneven — reef shoes or water sandals are highly recommended. Ocean conditions along this coast can be rough, with strong currents and sudden wave surges, so exercise caution near the water's edge. The pools themselves have no lifeguards or formal supervision. This is a culturally significant site for the local Hawaiian community. Visitors are encouraged to treat the area with respect, pack out all trash, and be considerate of others enjoying the springs. The hot springs are free to access and open to the public as part of the beach park.