10 Best Hot Springs for Families Around the World

What better way to unwind than in a relaxing hot bath heated by Mother Nature and surrounded by her beauty? In locations spanning the globe and each with its own appeal, take a look at the 10 best hot springs for families around the world for a soothing, healthy dip.

1. Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa

Grindavík, Iceland

Iceland's Blue Lagoon is a self-described wonder of the world. As the most visited attraction in the country, this geothermal spa is very busy indeed. Reservations are a must, particularly during the summer high season. Children aged 2 to 13 may visit the Blue Lagoon free of charge with a paying adult guardian.

Blue Lagoon's biggest competitor is Sky Lagoon, an upscale geothermal pool that welcomes kids aged 12+. Discover which is best for your family with this in-depth Blue Lagoon vs. Sky Lagoon analysis.

2. Duntun Hot Springs Resort

Colorado, USA

A former abandoned mining town, Dunton Hot Springs in Colorado has been transformed into an upscale hot springs resort. Families can stay in luxuriously renovated hand-built cabins and access six naturally heated springs in a variety of locations both indoors and under the stars. Kids of all ages will enjoy lawn games outside during the summer and board games inside at Dunton Hot Springs Resort.

3. Radium Hot Springs Pools

Kootenay National Park, Canada

In Canada's Kootenay National Park, Radium Hot Springs Pools maintain temperatures between 98° to 104° F (37° to 40° C). Kids will appreciate the large swimming area in the bathing pavilion. Parents will love the on-site spa for massages and body treatments. Radium welcomes children of all ages. Operated by Parks Canada, Radium Hot Springs are open year-round.

4. Rio Perdido Hotel and Thermal River

Bagaces, Costa Rica

Rio Perdido means “lost river” in Spanish. Fortunately, the warm-flowing waters of Bagaces in the Costa Rican jungle have been found. Rio Perdido Hotel is home to eight springs of hot river pools, which are fed by volcanically heated, mineral-rich waters. A lush jungle and hooting howler monkeys surround the pools. It's possible to enjoy a nighttime soak by lamplight, as well as volcanic mud body painting. Children must be age 8+ at the time of check-in.

5. Cascate del Mulino Hot Springs

Tuscany, Italy

Near Saturnia in Tuscany, the Cascate del Mulino Hot Springs are part of an outdoor water park, heated by nature. Thermal waterfalls cascade into natural pools of travertine rock. The mineral-rich waters are fed by the dormant volcanic heat of nearby Monte Amiata. What's more, swimming and playing at Cascate del Mulino is free of charge! For a nearby overnight experience, book a stay at the luxurious Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa and Golf Resort where children of all ages are welcome.

6. Shibu Onsen

Nagano, Japan

An ancient Japanese hot spring resort town, Shibu Onsen offers nine public hot spring baths. It is considered good fortune to experience all nine during your visit. Families with children are welcome at many local traditional ryokan (inns).

Separated by gender, guests enjoy the pools in the nude. Fear not, some ryokan offer kashikiri (private) baths. Ryokan Suminoyu, for example, features open-air private baths and gets rave reviews from parents.

The biggest draw for families here is the nearby Jikodani Monkey Park where Japanese macaques have been famously photographed bathing in the hot springs. The snow monkeys soak here to keep warm during cold weather, typically from December to March.

7. Ma’in Hot Springs

Wadi Zarqa Ma’in, Jordan

Ma’in Hot Springs is a stone’s throw from the Dead Sea in Jordan. The hot springs are part of the Ma’in Oasis, located 866 feet below sea level in a lush garden-like setting. Heated by underground lava fissures, the waterfalls pour mineral-rich water into surrounding pools.

Adults and children alike swim in the natural pools and splash in the waterfalls for a day fee. Families may feel more comfortable, however, booking a room at the popular Ma'in Hot Springs Resort & Spa.

8. Pamukkale

Menderes Valley, Turkey

Pamukkale is a World Heritage Site in Turkey renowned for its travertine pools that are continuously fed by mineral waters from underground springs. It has been nicknamed the Cotton Castle for its cascade of white pools, making for a spectacular setting to enjoy a healing soak.

Although entrance is free, the hike to the falls is quite long so you should purchase a guided tour to reach Pamukkale. It's best to visit with older children since reaching the beautiful pools requires navigating a tricky landscape. Be sure to bring water shoes to protect your family's feet while soaking, too.

9. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

California, USA

Families can enjoy geothermal mineral pools at California Spa Hot Springs in Calistoga, California. In addition to a 104° F mineral pool for adults only, you'll find a 100° soaking pool, a 90° wading pool, an 80° lap pool, a whirlpool, and even a kiddie pool. Parents will appreciate mud bath treatments with volcanic ash at the on-site spa.

10. Banff Upper Hot Springs

Banff National Park, Canada

One of the oldest and most storied hot springs in Canada, Banff Upper Hot Springs is also the highest, at 5,200 feet (1,585 meters). A soak in the warm mineral water is a must-do when visiting Banff National Park. The hot springs pool overlooks the valley, with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains.

Learn More

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For a unique, nature-focused family vacation with lots of water play in France, take a look at this comprehensive CenterParcs France Trois Fôrets review.

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Which of these 10 natural hot springs for families appeals to you most? Let us know in the comments below!