There is little better after a long hike than jumping into the ocean for a quick swim – except maybe slipping into a steaming hot spring fed by the expansive Pacific Ocean and warmed geothermally by flowing lava deep beneath the surface. Ahalanui Hot Pond, found on Hawaii’s Big Island near Pahoa, and surrounded by green grass and palm trees, is the ultimate retreat.
Visitors and locals alike exploring the Big Island’s eastern coast may desire to take a break from checking out the island’s awesome volcanoes to relax, and soak in the epic hot springs of Ahalanui Park.
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Though it is obvious that the cement walls that surround the pond are man-made, the pool itself is naturally geothermal, and its waters are heated volcanically to a balmy 90 degrees. Lava located beneath the park’s surface warms the fresh water that flows in from surrounding terrain.
Lindley Ashline/Flickr
The pool is roughly the size of two Olympic-sized swimming pools, and the surface is relatively calm. The bottom of the pond is made up of sand, mud, and small rocks, and has been contoured to provide a shallow area for children to play. Ladders have also been added to make the pond more accessible.
Bismo Beerbelly/Flickr
A small inlet separates the pool from the ocean, and allows fish to come and go as they please.
Lindley Ashline/Flickr
Though the water is brakish – a combination of river water and seawater – you will still find plenty of sea life in the pond, and snorkeling is allowed.
Bismo Beerbelly/Flickr
Lindley Ashline/Flickr
Although Ahalanui is not necessarily a tide pool, the water level does fluctuate with the ocean tide; waves from the Pacific actually clean the pool as they swell in and out, and during high tide, the water temperature drops as cooler water flows in.
Pua Lehua/Flickr
Facilities at Ahalanui include picnic tables, restrooms, barbeque grills, free parking, and on-duty lifeguards during daylight hours. The pond is a popular hangout spot for locals, especially on the weekends, so if you can, it is advised that you visit early in the morning during the week for the calmest experience.
Lindley Ashline/Flickr
So, tell us, are you already planning your trip to check out this incredible hot pond in Hawaii? Because I know I am.
Lindley Ashline/Flickr
Bismo Beerbelly/Flickr
Pua Lehua/Flickr
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