Waiwelawela Point Spring

Hawaii County, Hawaii · Near Pahala
19.2010°N, 155.3840°W
90°F Open Hike National Park Service

Waiwelawela Point Spring emerges at 90°F along Hawaii's remote south coast, flowing at sea level where Kilauea's slopes meet the Pacific in a landscape of dramatic cliffs and rugged lava flows. The spring sits 16.5°F above ambient temperature.

Location

The spring discharges its warm water in a rugged coastal setting of weathered lava formations and ocean spray. Visitors encounter towering sea cliffs, crashing waves, and the stark beauty of Hawaiʻi's youngest volcanic landscape meeting the ocean after substantial hiking.

Access requires 3.6 miles of challenging hiking from the road through rough lava terrain. Waves and coastal conditions can be hazardous. Visit during calm ocean conditions, and start early to ensure adequate daylight for the exposed coastal route.

History of Waiwelawela Point Spring

Waiwelawela Point's thermal spring results from geothermal heat circulating through coastal volcanic rock. The subsurface heat source reflects Kilauea's influence extending to the coast, where groundwater heated deep underground rises to emerge at this dramatic shoreline.

Monthly Climate
70°
Jan
70°
Feb
71°
Mar
72°
Apr
73°
May
74°
Jun
76°
Jul
77°
Aug
76°
Sep
76°
Oct
74°
Nov
72°
Dec
Annual Precip: 48.6 in Annual Snow: 0.0 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 70°F · Water 90°F · +20° contrast
February Air 70°F · Water 90°F · +20° contrast
March Air 71°F · Water 90°F · +19° contrast
January offers 6°F more contrast than October
Current Conditions
49°F
NE 12.4 mph 87% Good soaking weather
Thursday 83° Low 71° Mostly Sunny 12% precip
Spring is +7° warmer
Friday 80° Low 70° Mostly Sunny 11% precip
Spring is +10° warmer
Saturday 81° Low 70° Mostly Sunny 11% precip
Spring is +9° warmer
Sunday 81° Low 69° Sunny 11% precip
Spring is +9° warmer
Monday 82° Low 69° Sunny 11% precip
Spring is +8° warmer
Where to Stay

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Temperature
90°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 90°F (32°C)
Avg Air Temp 74°F
Above Ambient +17°F
Warm air, warm water May
Access
Open
Road Access Hike
Distance to Road 3.6 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency National Park Service
Designation National Park
Unit Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
Manager National Park Service
Protection 2 - Permanent protection, some use allowed
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Waiwelawela Point Spring?
Waiwelawela Point Spring has a water temperature of 90°F (32°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Waiwelawela Point Spring located?
Waiwelawela Point Spring is located in Hawaii County, Hawaii, near Pahala. Coordinates: 19.2010°N, 155.3840°W.
How do I get to Waiwelawela Point Spring?
Waiwelawela Point Spring has Hike road access (3.6 mi from the road).
Is Waiwelawela Point Spring free to visit?
Waiwelawela Point Spring has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Is it safe to soak at Waiwelawela Point Spring?
Waiwelawela Point Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Waiwelawela Point Spring crowded?
Waiwelawela Point Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Waiwelawela Point Spring?
Essentials for Waiwelawela Point Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.