Ahalanui Pools - Pele's Bathtub

If you find the strong tides and crisp waters of the Pacific a bit too brisk for you, consider a trip to Ahalanui Tide Pools located on the southern end of the big island at the end of Hwy 137 past the 10 mile marker. This pool, fed by both hot spring water flowing from beneath the pool as well as ocean over-spill coming across the rocks at the end of the pool, is a great place to take a relaxing dip. The Kapoho eruptions of 1955 and 1960 caused the springs flowing beneath the pool to be volcanically warmed to about 90-95 degrees year-round. Surrounded by gracefully waving palm trees and tucked back off of the main ocean access, the pool is gentle enough for children and families to enjoy. There are stairs leading down into the pool so access is easy even for older individuals. Beach shoes as well as flotation devices are recommended as the bottom is rocky and some parts tend to be rather shallow depending on the over-spill coming into the pool. This is not a problem for children but as an adult, I have scraped a knee or two on the rocks in the shallow ends of the pool as I swam about in the pool. The pool does contain some fish as well as the occasional eel but if you don't poke around in the rocky crevices, the small eels won't bother you. The pool is closed on Wednesdays. Weekends can be very busy so arrive early to get a parking place here if you visit on the weekend. There is a fresh water shower, port-a-potties and picnic tables in the area so bring your lunch for a great day romping and playing in the water.