Unwind at the best hot springs in NSW

Looking for the ultimate way to relax and rejuvenate?

We know just the ticket! Natural hot springs in NSW offer a unique escape where you can literally soak your stresses away in rejuvenating mineral-rich, therapeutic waters.

Whether you’re craving a wellness retreat, an off-grid adventure, or a luxurious soak to reconnect with nature, NSW hot springs have something for everyone.

And best of all, you’ll get to travel to some extraordinary off-the-beaten-path places to experience them.

Your next relaxing escape awaits!

If you’re ready to soak up the best hot springs in NSW? Pack your bags, plan your route, and prepare for an immersive escape like no other. Whether you’re after a romantic getaway, a solo retreat, or an adventure-filled road trip, these natural hot springs are waiting to welcome and rejuvenate you!

Nature's spa: Why visit natural hot springs in NSW?

Hot springs aren’t just about a warm dip–no siree!–They’re packed with more health benefits than you think. These mineral-rich waters can ease muscle tension and reduce joint pain, improve circulation and eliminate toxins, trigger happy endorphins that may help with stress relief. Imagine soaking in a steaming pool while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Now that’s an experience like no other!

Health benefits of hot springs

Courtesy of the National Library Of Medicine

• Muscle relaxation – Perfect for post-hike recovery or easing tension.
• Improved circulation – The minerals in the water help promote better blood flow.
• Stress relief – The combination of warmth, nature, and stillness helps reduce anxiety and stress. Floating in warm water has been linked to improved sleep.
• Skin nourishment – Silica, sulphur, and other minerals can leave your skin feeling soft and refreshed and reduce common skin inflammation complaints like eczema, psoriasis and acne.
• Immune system – Minerals like magnesium and lithium may help strengthen the immune system and stimulate the body’s natural defence mechanisms.
• Breathe clearer – Steam from hot springs can help open blocked airways alleviating congestions from common conditions like colds and allergies.

Top hot springs in NSW you need to experience

If you’re hooked on the idea and ready to plan your ultimate hot springs getaway, here are the best hot springs in NSW you need to bookmark:

Lightning Ridge Bore Baths: outback of Northern NSW

Tucked away in the heart of the outback, the Lightning Ridge Bore Baths offer a rustic, naturally heated soak straight from the Great Artesian Basin.

The water here sits at a balmy 40-50°C, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring this quirky opal mining town. Although the baths are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the experience is particularly magical under a starry night sky.

Moree Artesian Baths: Moree Plains Shire, northern NSW

A visit to Moree Artesian Baths is like stepping into a natural spa. Renowned for their healing properties, these artesian hot springs in NSW are rich in minerals that can soothe joint pain and enhance relaxation.

Moree is known as the "Spa Capital of Australia," so you’re in for a special treat and luxurious soak when visiting this vibrant rural community. The centre also offers gym and aquatic facilities.

Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool: Snowy Mountains NSW

Hidden within Kosciuszko National Park, the Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool is a true oasis. Surrounded by lush bushland, this naturally heated pool stays at 27°C year-round, making it a perfect stop for a warm dip after exploring the nearby limestone caves.

The blend of adventure and relaxation makes this one of the best hot springs in NSW for nature lovers and is best experienced combined with a picnic, bushwalk or cave tour.

Blue Mountains Japanese Bath House

Ever dreamt of soaking in an authentic Japanese onsen? Well, now you can, at the only Japanese Bath House hot spring in New South Wales, offering a traditional experience with spectacular mountain views.

Perfect for those looking to pair relaxation with a touch of cultural immersion, this retreat also offers herbal steam baths and treatments. There’s even a tea room!

Planning your ultimate soaking adventure

Why stop at just one? If you’re up for a scenic NSW hot springs road trip, consider this itinerary:

• Start your road trip in the iconic Blue Mountains at Japanese Bath House for a culturally-inspired soak and massage. Explore local hiking trails and the Hassans Walls Lookout (highest lookout in the Blue Mountains, no biggie) with stunning views, before settling in for a serene onsen experience then spending the night onsite in a traditional Japanese inspired accommodation.
• Head north and consider stopping for a night at Dubbo, where the Taronga Western Plains Zoo offers a uniquely Australian open-range zoo experience. For space enthusiasts, a further three hours north, you’ll reach the CSIRO Australia Telescope Compact Array Visitors Centre where you can enjoy the view and take a look at the astronomy exhibition.
• Moree Artesian Baths is your next destination where there’s a therapeutic dip just waiting for you. Relax and make the most of the gym and pool facilities onsite before exploring the town. Art lovers will enjoy the Bank Art Museum Moree (BAMM) showcasing Indigenous and contemporary art.
• Next stop, head west towards Lightning Ridge for an outback-style hot spring experience, and soak under the stars if you desire. Afterwards, check out the famous opal mines and enjoy other surreal and unique attractions like The Bottle House and Mining Museum and Bevan’s Cactus Nursery–one of the largest of its type in the Southern Hemisphere. If you’re looking for a unique stay, nothing beats Ridges Castle.

Along the way, explore charming country towns, visit national parks, and indulge in Australia’s wholesome local food and wine offerings.

Hot tips for hot springs: How to make the most of your visit

Before you dive in, here are a few tips to enhance your hot spring experience:

• Pack smart: Bring a swimsuit, towel, water bottle, and sunscreen.
• Time your visit: Early mornings or evenings provide the most peaceful soaking experience.
• Mind your manners: Keep noise levels down, respect nature, and follow the hot spring guidelines.
• Upgrade your wellness: Pair your soak with yoga, meditation, gentle stroll, or a massage for maximum relaxation.

Hot Spring Etiquette 101

• Rinse before entering – Some springs require a quick rinse to keep the water clean.
• Limit your soak time – Prolonged soaking can lead to dehydration, so take breaks and remember to drink plenty of water.
• Respect the quiet zones – Many hot springs are designed for relaxation, so keep conversations soft.

Wellness meets adventure: Activities beyond the soak

Turn your hot springs getaway into a full-fledged adventure by exploring nearby attractions:

• Blue Mountains Japanese Bath House: Take a scenic bush walk–Grand Canyon Walk (Blackheath)–one of the best bushwalks in Australia, passing through lush rainforest, waterfalls, and sandstone cliffs. Visit the stunning Wentworth Falls with great trails and breathtaking lookouts, and Scenic World (Katoomba) features the world’s steepest passenger railway and stunning Cableway.
• Moree Artesian Baths: Check out the Trawalla Pecan Farm tour to witness one of Australia’s largest pecan farms alongside the Guided Cotton Farm Tour where you can see how cotton is picked and packed firsthand. There’s also Moree’s Street Art & Heritage Trail that should not be overlooked for a self-guided tour of the town.
• Lightning Ridge Bore Baths: Discover opal mining history by exploring the Chambers of the Black Hand, a fascinating underground sandstone gallery featuring hand-carved sculptures, from Egyptian gods to pop culture icons alongside. It’s right by the Australian Opal Centre showroom, where you can see highlights of their opal collection.
• Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool: Explore fascinating caves like South Glory Cave and Jillabenan Cave, perhaps grab your hat, sunscreen and plenty of water and hike through the Yarrangobilly River Walk or Bluff Lookout for breathtaking views of the Limestone gorge and river below.