Australia is home to several natural hot springs. Indeed, Australia is rich in natural wonders and its hot springs are no exception. Visiting a hot spring during your free time can help you to relax and unwind from the daily routines. What is special about hot springs in Australia is no other than the waters that are often said to be beneficial for skin conditions, arthritis, and muscle aches. Moreover, the temperature also varies, ranging from warm to very hot. This allows visitors to choose a pool that is comfortable for them. Wait no more, here are 10 of the best hot springs in Australia you must visit at least once in a lifetime.

The Peninsula Hot Springs, located on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia, is undeniably the most popular natural hot spring and day spa destination in the country, for both locals and tourists. It offers a range of thermal mineral pools, bathhouses, and spa treatments, set in a beautiful coastal environment. It's a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation, boasting a variety of bathing experiences amidst stunning natural beauty.

The Peninsula Hot Springs features over 20 pools. You can choose for your own taste, from varying temperatures, mineral compositions, and settings. With luxurious bathhouses, private pools, reflexology walks, and even on-site restaurants, it's a complete spa experience. They offer glamping tents if you want to extend your stay here. Feeling hungry after relaxation? Don’t worry, The Peninsula Hot Springs provides on-site restaurants to recharge your energy.

The Mataranka Thermal Pool is another popular hot spring in Australia. It is located within Elsey National Park in Australia's Northern Territory. The thermal pool is known for its natural springs, which maintain a constant temperature of around 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit) year-round. The crystal-clear water of the pool is rich in minerals and is claimed to have therapeutic properties, making it a popular spot for swimming and relaxation.

If you’re on a family vacation, the Mataranka Thermal Pool is a great spot for families with children because of its calm and shallow waters. If you want to extend your stay, Elsey National Park provides campgrounds and other accommodation options nearby. The best thing about this hot spring is it doesn’t cost a penny for the entry.

The Innot Hot Springs is one of the best hot springs in Australia. The hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties. For instance, the mineral-rich water is believed to have health benefits such as improving circulation and relieving muscle pain. Just like any other hot trips in Australia, the Innot Hot Springs also offers several pools with varying temperatures. The water in the pools comes from underground springs.

If you want to extend your stay, there are caravan parks and cabins ready to pamper you. Moreover, there are also rainforests and waterfalls near the hot spring if you’re looking for more outdoor activities in Queensland. Unlike some hot springs, Innot Hot Springs offers free public access. You can simply park your car, follow the path, and enjoy the natural pools without any entrance fees. However, please keep in mind that there are no changing rooms, showers, or shops. Be prepared to come in your swimsuit and bring any necessary supplies

Katherine Hot Springs is located on the banks of the Katherine River near Katherine Township in Australia's Northern Territory. The hot springs are located in the middle of lush greenery along the Katherine River. Katherine Hot Springs is known for its lukewarm water, ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). However, the water flow and temperature might fluctuate slightly depending on the season. During the dry season, the water and temperature might be slightly cooler.

There is no entrance fee for Katherine Hot Springs. So, it can be a perfect budget-friendly option for travelers. Make sure to prepare any necessary supplies since this hot spring doesn’t provide changing rooms, showers, or shops.

Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs offer a unique combination of adventure and relaxation. Located in Tasmania, Australia, the spring water maintains a year-round temperature of around 28°C (82°F), offering a soothing and refreshing soak. It's a perfect destination for families, adventure seekers, and those wanting a relaxing escape.

The thermal pool area features changing rooms, toilets, showers, picnic tables, and even BBQ facilities. The hot springs have Newdegate Cave, the largest dolomite cave in Australia. For your information, access to the thermal pools and cave tours require separate ticketed entry.

Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool is a natural spring-fed pool located in the Kosciuszko National Park, near the town of Tumut in New South Wales, Australia. This hot spring is known for its natural spring that is rich in minerals. The water is heated naturally by the Earth’s core, maintaining a comfortable temperature of around 27°C (80°F) year-round.

Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool is perfect for a family getaway. The main pool has an approximately 2.5 meters (8 feet) depth, with no shallow end. A smaller and shallower wading pool makes it more enjoyable for families with young children. Worry no more, there are changing rooms, toilets, and picnic areas available for visitors. There is an entrance fee to access the pool area.

Another gem in New South Wales, Lightning Ridge Bore Baths is ready to pamper you. The hot springs and baths offer a unique blend of history, relaxation, and a taste of the local culture. It is a historic pool built in the 1890s, making it one of the oldest operating hot springs in Australia. The hot springs are fed by the Great Artesian Basin, one of the world's largest underground water systems. The water maintains a constant temperature of around 41.5°C (106°F), offering a warm and therapeutic soak.

Entry to the Lightning Ridge Bore Baths is completely free. They are open 24/7, except for a few hours during cleaning on weekdays. However, there are no changing rooms, showers, or shops at the Lightning Ridge Bore Baths. The water flow and temperature might fluctuate slightly depending on the season. During summer months, the water and temperature might be hotter.

The Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre, also known as the Moree Hot Springs, is a modern and family-friendly hot spring experience in New South Wales, Australia. Moree is famous for its artesian hot springs. There are several public and private pools offering a range of temperatures and mineral compositions. The water is believed to have therapeutic benefits for various health conditions.

Visitors can choose their favorite pool, from Large Artesian Hot Pools, Program Pool, to Children's Splash Pad. Unlike other hot springs, Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre even provides Gym and Wellness Centre, Day Spa, and 50m FINA Standard Pool. There are entrance fees depending on the package you want, whether it is for family passes or multi-entry passes.

Located in the El Questro Wilderness Park in the Kimberley region, Zebedee Springs are a hidden gem. The spring water maintains a constant and comfortable temperature of around 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F) year-round. One of the unique features of Zebedee Springs is the series of cascading pools. You can choose from shallow areas or climb higher for deeper pools.

Their vibrant greenery and clear blue water create a picturesque setting that will reconnect you to nature. The Zebedee Springs and El Questro Wilderness Park are generally open from May to September, coinciding with the dry season in the Kimberley region. However, during the wet season (October to April), the park may be inaccessible due to heavy rains and flooding. There is a general park entry fee required to access El Questro Wilderness Park, which includes Zebedee Thermal Springs.

The Eulo Mud Baths offer a unique experience that combines a traditional soak with the added benefit of the mineral-rich mud. Located in the heart of outback Queensland, Australia, the Eulo Mud Baths will definitely be a perfect place to relax your body. Their naturally occurring mud is rich in silica, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Visitors will be pampered by soaking in warm artesian water baths infused with clay.

Located in a small town, the Eulo Mud Baths allows you to experience a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Opening hours and entry fees can vary depending on the season and operator. Eulo provides limited accommodation options, such as caravan parks and guesthouses. It's recommended to book your stay in advance, especially during peak season.