Pohoiki Warm Spring – Pāhoa, Hawaii – Ponds at Isaac Hale Park

The Isaac Hale Park is an area of beach that leads you to the Pohoiki Warm Spring. Thanks to the volcanic eruption of 2018, this area has become the newest black sand beach on the Big Island.

As the lava flowed throughout the area, in its wake it created many black sand beaches and Isaac Hale Beach Park is now one of the most accessible.

Warm Springs Ponds at Isaac Hale Park

Pohoiki Warm Spring Pond — Pohoiki Warm Pond. Photo: Pua Lehua

The Pohoiki Warm Spring is actually a collapsed lava tube that is heated by volcanic energy. When it rains the water will flow into the earth, rather than directly into the ocean, and is heated by magma. The water will eventually find its way back to the surface where it will mix with the incoming tide and cool enough for bathers to enjoy its healing properties.

On Isaac Hale Beach Park you will not only find the Pohoiki Warm Spring but four Natural Ocean Thermal Ponds, surrounded by the black sand from the volcanic eruption. As the tides may wash away the black sand in a few years it is now a popular destination for locals and tourists to spend a day relishing in its beauty.

Isaac Hale Beach Park Pohoiki Warm Springs — Pohoiki Warm Springs and Boat Ramp. Photo: Pua Lehua

The temperature of the water depends on the tide and time of day but is generally between 75 and 85 degrees. Although not considered a hot spring, this warm spring is still very soothing and healing. It is recommended that you do not use the warm spring if you have open cuts, as bacteria may grow in the warm water.

Along the beach you can swim, surf, and go boating. With the new black sand beach, this has become a popular spot for shoreline fishermen, campers, and those who want a relaxing picnic in a beautiful location.

Getting There

To get to the Pohoiki Warm Springs you walk a short way down the coastline from the boat ramp. About 100 feet inland from the shore, you will find a clearing where the warm spring sits, waiting to heal the next visitors. Surrounded by the natural Hawaiian jungle, with palm trees shading you and nothing man-made in sight, it is a breath of fresh air for your body and your mind.