Are you looking for the best hot springs destination worldwide?

Escape the stresses of daily life and immerse yourself in the therapeutic waters of the world’s most spectacular natural hot springs. 

Whether in old Roman baths or natural volcanic pools, these relaxing destinations are ideal for wellness travelers and those who like being close to nature.

So, whether you’re for luxury spa experiences or hidden gems off the beaten path, these geothermal wonders rejuvenate both body and soul.

In the following, PlaninGo breaks down the details of the world’s hot springs, including natural ones and famous restorations. It provides information like the best time to visit, the hotels you can book, and their special features.  

Best Natural Hot Springs in the USA.

1. Yellowstone National Park Hot Springs, Wyoming

Located in America’s first national park, these natural hot springs showcase Mother Nature’s incredible power through colorful geothermal features and therapeutic waters.

• Best Time to Visit: May through September for optimal weather 
• Accommodation: Old Faithful Inn, Grant Village Lodge 
• Special Features: Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs terraces, over 10,000 geothermal features

2. Conundrum Hot Springs, Colorado

To get to these beautiful, secluded hot springs, you’ll need to walk about 8.5 miles. You’ll enjoy stunning views as you walk through tall mountains surrounding the area.

• Best Time to Visit: July through September
•  Accommodation: Camping only (backcountry permits required) 
• Special Features: 102°F natural pools, spectacular mountain views, authentic wilderness experience

3. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

America’s smallest national park features different bathhouses and soothing thermal waters that people have long visited.

• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, spring, and fall are ideal 
• Accommodation: The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa, Quapaw Baths & Spa 
• Special Features: Historic Bathhouse Row, 47 natural springs, urban national park setting

Hot Springs Restore in Japan

Hakone Onsen, Japan

In this traditional wellness travel destination, visitors can enjoy wondrous views of Mount Fuji, access to the Japanese hot spring system, and indulge in ryokans.

• Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November 
• Accommodation: Gora Kadan, Hakone Ginyu, traditional ryokans 
• Special Features: Mount Fuji views, sulfur springs, traditional kaiseki cuisine, Lake Ashi proximity

Beppu Onsen, Japan

Known as Japan’s hot spring capital, Beppu features eight distinct onsen districts and unique therapeutic experiences, including sand baths and natural hot springs.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March for comfortable temperatures 
• Accommodation: Hotel Shiragiku, Suginoi Hotel
• Special Features: Eight different onsen areas, sand baths, “Hells of Beppu” geothermal attractions

Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma Prefecture

This area is renowned for its hot and acidic springs and ancient yumomi (water-cooling) dances, making it the best symbol of Japanese onsen culture.

• Best Time to Visit: December to February for winter illuminations 
• Accommodation: Nishi-no-Kawara Open-Air Bath, Hotel Ichii 
• Special Features: Yubatake hot water field, traditional yumomi shows, skiing nearby

Luxury Hot Spring Resorts Worth Booking

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Grander Spa is a famous geothermal spa built in a beautiful volcanic area. It mixes luxury services with the benefits of mineral-rich geothermal seawater.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March for Northern Lights viewing 
• Accommodation: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland, Silica Hotel
• Special Features: Milky blue geothermal waters, silica mud masks, in-water spa treatments, Michelin-starred dining

Pamukkale Thermal Pools, Turkey

The huge white travertine steps surrounded by mineral-rich waters at this famous natural hot spring make it one of Turkey’s most photographed natural hot springs. 

• Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November 
• Accommodation: Doga Thermal Health & Spa, Richmond Pamukkale Thermal 
• Special Features: UNESCO World Heritage site, ancient Hierapolis ruins, cotton castle formations

Banff Upper Hot Springs, Canada

The hot springs here, located among the Canadian Rockies, allow you to relax and enjoy marvelous views of the mountains.

• Best Time to Visit: December to March for winter scenery 
• Accommodation: Fairmont Banff Springs, Rimrock Resort Hotel 
• Special Features: Rocky Mountain views, historic 1930s architecture, year-round operation

Best Hot Springs for Winter Relaxation

Jigokudani Monkey Park, Japan

Jigokudani is a fantastic spot to see snow monkeys relaxing in hot springs. It’s a wonderful place to visit during the winter for a memorable wildlife experience.

• Best Time to Visit: December to March for snow monkey viewing
•  Accommodation: Korakukan Ryokan, nearby Yudanaka onsen hotels 
• Special Features: Wild Japanese macaques, snowy mountain setting, traditional onsen experience

Chena Hot Springs, Alaska

The geothermal pools, 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, never get cold and are a great place to see the Northern Lights in winter.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March for Aurora viewing 
• Accommodation: Chena Hot Springs Resort 
• Special Features: Aurora viewing, ice museum, renewable geothermal energy, dog sledding

Secret Lagoon, Iceland

• The oldest swimming pool in Iceland is a more secluded spot than the famous Blue Lagoon. Many visit Iceland to enjoy its stunning winter landscapes and warm natural hot springs.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March for Northern Lights 
• Accommodation: Hotel Geysir, nearby guesthouses in Flúðir 
• Special Features: Historic significance, active geysir nearby, less crowded than Blue Lagoon, authentic experience

Planning Your Hot Springs Adventure

When planning your wellness travel journey to these incredible, relaxing destinations, check when the best season is, what kind of accommodation is available, and learn about their local traditions.

Most hot springs, especially luxurious ones and popular Japanese onsen, must be booked in advance (reservations). Wear or bring a swimsuit, and if the ground is rough or has sharp objects, wear water shoes to protect your feet. Follow local rules while enjoying the area, and remember to take care of the environment. 

Whether you choose a luxury spa resort or venture to hidden wilderness pools, these natural hot springs destinations promise unforgettable memories and profound relaxation.