Bathe and reconnect in Australia’s most beautiful natural hot springs.
The revival of bathing culture is more than a trend, it’s a return to a timeless wellness ritual. Across Australia, hot springs are bubbling up as tranquil places to ease aches, unwind stress, and reconnect with nature, loved ones, or simply yourself.
From tropical thermal pools and luxury spa resorts to remote outback oases, these are the best hot springs in Australia for a calming, soul-soothing soak.
VICTORIA
Peninsula Hot Springs
Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Peninsula Hot Springs is one of Australia’s most renowned geothermal wellness destinations. With more than 70 bathing experiences—including hilltop pools, cold plunge baths, cave springs, and reflexology paths—this coastal retreat is ideal for couples, families, or solo wellness seekers.
Metung Hot Springs
Set along the shores of the Gippsland Lakes, Metung Hot Springs combines tranquil outdoor geothermal baths with lake views, barrel soaking tubs, and on-site glamping. A perfect blend of nature and wellness, this boutique retreat offers a quieter alternative to its Mornington Peninsula sister site.
Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
In the heart of Daylesford, Hepburn Bathhouse has welcomed visitors since 1895. Surrounded by mineral-rich springs and lush countryside, it offers modern spa treatments alongside traditional European-style communal mineral bathing.
Deep Blue Hot Springs
Located in Warrnambool, this coastal sanctuary offers geothermal open-air pools, sensory caves, and waterfall showers. Guests can stay on-site at the Deep Blue Hotel for a full restorative experience.
Alba Thermal Springs & Spa
A newer entry to Victoria’s bathing scene, Alba features 22 open-air pools set amid landscaped gardens. With a sleek, minimalist aesthetic and onsite dining, it’s ideal for those seeking design-led wellness in a natural setting.
QUEENSLAND
Talaroo Hot Springs, QLD
This 65-million-year-old geothermal site in Gulf Savannah country is managed by the Ewamian Traditional Owners. Featuring private pools, guided cultural tours, and a boardwalk over bubbling mineral formations, it offers a unique blend of history, healing, and connection.
Innot Hot Springs, QLD
Once bottled and shipped to Europe for its reputed healing properties, these springs flow through Nettle Creek and the local health park. Soak for free in the creek or pay for access to temperature-controlled pools in this quirky, historic town.
Cunnamulla Hot Springs, QLD
One of Australia’s newest thermal destinations, these artesian-fed pools opened in 2023 beside the Warrego River. Designed for relaxation and stargazing, they offer a unique outback wellness experience with all the comforts of a boutique retreat.
Cardwell Spa Pools, QLD
A stunning natural pool 2.5 hours south of Cairns, Cardwell’s waters change colour throughout the day, shifting from turquoise to milky blue. Best visited in the months after the wet season, it’s a favourite for road-trippers and photographers alike.
NEW SOUTH WALES
Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool, NSW
Located in Kosciuszko National Park, this natural spring-fed pool remains a steady 27°C year-round. Accessible by a short bushwalk, it offers panoramic views and a unique alpine soaking experience.
Lightning Ridge Bore Baths, NSW
This free, open-air thermal soak is a beloved ritual for visitors to Lightning Ridge. With artesian waters flowing at 40°C+, it’s ideal for stargazing and easing travel-weary muscles after a day of exploring opal mines.
Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre, NSW
Located in one of Australia’s most famous inland spa towns, this family-friendly complex offers mineral-rich hydrotherapy pools, a day spa, and waterslides—a great all-ages destination on the Great Artesian Drive.
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Mataranka Thermal Pool & Bitter Springs, NT
Tucked within Elsey National Park, these two stunning springs offer crystal-clear waters beneath lush palm canopies. Mataranka is more developed, while Bitter Springs is perfect for floating gently downstream in a wilder, more natural setting.
Katherine Hot Springs, NT
Located on the banks of the Katherine River, these thermal pools are ideal for a family-friendly soak. The top pool is closest to the spring source, with temperatures around 25–30°C and amenities like the Pop Rocket Cafe nearby.
TASMANIA
Hastings Thermal Springs, TAS
A serene pool set within a forest glade near Hastings Caves. Heated to a pleasant 28°C, the spring is perfect for families or nature-lovers combining a soak with a cave tour and bushwalk.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Dalhousie Springs, SA
Situated on the edge of the Simpson Desert in Witjira National Park, these sacred springs have been used by Aboriginal people for thousands of years. With over 120 springs at temperatures up to 43°C, Dalhousie is rich in cultural history and home to rare aquatic species.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Zebedee Springs, WA
A tropical oasis in the Kimberley, Zebedee Springs features a chain of natural thermal pools surrounded by prehistoric palm trees. Open to the public in the mornings only, it’s a magical place to begin your day in El Questro Wilderness Park.
Bonus Trails & Bathing Journeys
Great Victorian Bathing Trail, VIC
A growing network of hot spring experiences connecting wellness destinations across coastal Victoria—from Geelong to Gippsland. It’s poised to become one of Australia’s most iconic wellness road trips.
Great Artesian Drive, NSW & QLD
Follow the trail through inland spa towns across the Great Artesian Basin. Stops like Moree, Lightning Ridge, and Cunnamulla offer everything from classic bore baths to brand-new spa experiences.
Whether you’re floating in a rainforest spring, relaxing in a luxurious spa, or soaking under desert stars, these are the best hot springs in Australia to soothe your nervous system, recharge your body, and reconnect with the natural world. Pack your swimsuit, leave your schedule behind, and dive into the warmth.
Discover more about bathing in nature HERE.
