Hawaii's active volcano has created hot springs and Ahalanui Park in Puna is a place to enjoy them. The park has a huge hot spring within a man made wall where fresh ocean water flows in. The water can get up to 90 degrees.
Locals and visitors come to the hot springs to have fun.
The ponds have easy access through several staircases leading into the water.
It is great fun to snorkle in the warm water and see the fish swim underfoot.
Fresh ocean water pours into the hot springs pools from the ocean.
The protective wall and life guards help make the pond safe for children and non-swimmers.
Don’t try swimming in the ocean on the other side of the wall though, it is ferocious.
The park is free, open daily from 7AM-7PM, and has ample parking. It has portable toilets, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and shaded areas to relax and enjoy the view of the Pacific Ocean.
Directions to Ahalanui Park:
From Highway 11, take Highway 130 south through Pahoa. The road changes name to Hwy 132/Kapoho Road. When it dead ends at Highway 137, turn right on Kapoho Kalapana Road. The Park is located on the left, just past Mile Marker #10 where the road narrows.
There are several other beaches along Hwy 137, but beware, the strong currents and huge waves have drowned many a strong swimmer and seasoned local. Ahalanui Park is one of the few places where you can admire the fury of the Pacific Ocean while being protected by a man-made rock wall.
