When you first visit this park, you will see a tall chain link fence at the south side of Hawaii State Route 137. When you enter the parking lot, there isn’t much parking so if you visit on the weekend, you may not find a spot to park. If you are able to visit during the week, you should have no problem finding a spot. Many people arrive in their swimsuits but if you can stand the smell, you can change in the ample porta-potty stalls doting the parking lot.
The highlight of this park is a series of natural thermal pools where you can take a warm swim no matter what the season. A concrete barrier blocks the direct flow of the ocean but does allow for some water inflow to keep the water circulating in the pool. The temperature in the pool is very comfortable and definitely much warmer than the than the open ocean water flowing into the pool. The often unpredictable nature of the Pacific makes it unsafe to swim in at this site so the quiet pool offers a great alternative to the strong ocean currents in this area. While the water does have some circulation to keep it fresh, bacteria warnings are posted in the area. This is due to the build up of bacteria from thermal activity, sea life and bathers entering the warmed pool. If you have any cuts or open wounds on your skin, you may not want to enter the water.
The water has its share of fish and other marine life including eels. Take heart though, if you don't bother the eels, they probably won't bother you either. Be sure to wear beach shoes in the pool as the bottom is rocky. Because of the shallow nature of much of the pool, a flotation devise helps prevent scraped knees. This is a relaxing and fun-filled spot especially in winter months when the Pacific waters are a bit brisk. You can find these thermal pools in the Puma district of the Big Island. From HWY 11 take HSR 130 and then south HSR 132 to HSR 137 turn right and it will be on your left in a couple of miles. There are several pools but the one nearest the ocean seems to be the most popular with bathers.
