On your next Hawaii vacation to the Big Island, plan on relaxing in a natural pool of warm volcanically heated water at Ahalanui Pond, also known as the hot pond in Kapoho. Located along the Puna coast, this inviting geothermal pool where the temperature tends to hover around 90 degrees, is a mixture of hot water from thermal springs and cold ocean water. Ground water is heated as it moves through magma hot rocks on its way to the ocean and then mixes with the cold water of the sea and forms a naturally heated hot tub. Give thanks to Madame Pele (Hawaiian Fire Goddess) for showing her soft side with this wonderful healing spot.
The pool's water may look dirty to you at first, but it is considered a clear brackish water. A small inlet separates the pool from the ocean. We go there when people come to visit us from off island. Last time we swam there, my girlfriend was freaked out when a little fish brushed up against her leg!
The natural Ahalanui Pond is partially man made for the beach goers convenience. A cement walkway surrounds the calm water pool and there are steps and ladders leading to the water. The elderly and children can also enjoy this pool. A lifeguard is on duty during the day.
Ahalanui Park is located in Kapoho where it is always sunny and hot. Tall coconut trees surround the pool and there is a wonderful view of the Pacific ocean. The cool and gentle ocean breezes caress your face as you float on the water releasing any stress you may have had.
Ahalanui Pond located in Ahalanui Park is free and open to the public. The park has restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and free parking. A word to the wise, park on the ocean side (where the park entrance is located) of the street. Do not park across the street because cars frequently get "ripped off" or broken into when they park there.
To get to Ahalanui Park, take Highway 130 south from Pahoa town. When it dead ends at Highway 137, turn right. The Park is located on the left, just past Mile Marker #10.
See more photographs and information on Ahalanui Pond and Ahalanui Park.
Neat recommendation! I'll have to put that on the list of places to see on my next trip to the Big Island.
Posted by: Sheila | September 18, 2007 at 04:47 PM
Hi Sheila,
I thought we were going to do that together when you come to the Big Island:)
Posted by: HawaiiVacationGifts | September 23, 2007 at 08:33 PM