Puna Rainforest Retreat Hotspring Rainbow Cottage

## Overview The Puna Rainforest Retreat Hotspring Rainbow Cottage is a geothermally heated spring located in the lush Puna district of Hawaii's Big Island, near the 96778 zip code area (Pāhoa). The Puna region sits along the East Rift Zone of Kīlauea volcano, one of the most volcanically active areas on Earth, and this geothermal activity is responsible for naturally heating groundwater to create warm and hot springs throughout the district. The area is blanketed in dense tropical rainforest, with towering ʻōhiʻa lehua trees, giant ferns, and a rich canopy that creates a secluded, jungle-like atmosphere. Puna's hot springs have long been cherished by Native Hawaiians, who regard geothermally warmed waters as sacred and healing. The tradition of bathing in naturally heated pools in this region stretches back centuries. Today, several private retreats and residences in the Puna subdivision offer access to warm spring-fed pools, and the Rainbow Cottage appears to be one such property — a small retreat built around a natural geothermal spring on private land. The name "Rainbow Cottage" likely references the frequent rainbows that arc across the Puna sky, a result of the region's abundant rainfall mixing with tropical sunshine. Puna receives some of the highest annual rainfall in the state, which continuously recharges the underground aquifers that feed its geothermal springs. ## What to Expect Visitors to the Puna district can expect a warm, humid tropical environment with frequent rain showers. The geothermally heated spring water in this area is typically warm to hot, though exact temperatures can vary depending on volcanic activity and seasonal rainfall. The surrounding landscape is quintessential Hawaiian rainforest — verdant, dense, and teeming with birdsong and the sound of rain on broad leaves. Because this location appears to be situated on private or retreat property, access may require advance arrangements, a reservation, or permission from the property owner. The GPS coordinates (19.4444, -154.9505) place it within the residential subdivisions of lower Puna, an area characterized by unpaved roads, off-grid homes, and a strong back-to-the-land community culture. A few things to keep in mind when visiting the Puna area: - **Volcanic activity:** The region experienced significant lava flows during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption, which reshaped parts of lower Puna. Some roads and landmarks may have changed. It is wise to check current conditions before visiting. - **Road conditions:** Many roads in the Puna subdivisions are unpaved and can become muddy, especially after rain. A vehicle with good clearance is recommended. - **Water quality:** While geothermal springs in Puna have historically been used for bathing and soaking, water quality can vary. The water has not been independently verified as safe for drinking. Geothermally heated water may contain elevated levels of minerals or gases. - **Insects:** Mosquitoes are common in the Puna rainforest. Bring repellent. - **Respect for the land:** Puna holds deep cultural significance for Native Hawaiians. Visitors are encouraged to treat the area and its waters with respect, following the Hawaiian value of mālama ʻāina (caring for the land).