Discover the best hot springs in California, from the natural wonders of Northern California to the luxurious resorts of Southern and Central California. Experience ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation in these stunning destinations.
Best Hot Springs in California
California is home to some of the best hot springs in the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing soak or an adventurous getaway, the Golden State has something to offer. In this section, we will explore the top hot springs in Northern California, Southern California, and Central California.
Northern California Hot Springs
Northern California is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of hot springs. Here are some of the must-visit hot springs in this region:
- Calistoga Hot Springs: Located in the charming town of Calistoga, these hot springs offer a rejuvenating experience. The mineral-rich waters are known for their healing properties, making them a popular destination for wellness enthusiasts. Soak in the warm waters while surrounded by picturesque views of the Napa Valley.
- Harbin Hot Springs: Nestled in the Mayacamas Mountains, Harbin Hot Springs is a hidden gem. This clothing-optional retreat is a haven for relaxation and self-discovery. The hot springs here are fed by geothermal energy, providing a unique and therapeutic experience. Unwind in the natural pools and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
- Sierra Hot Springs: Tucked away in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sierra Hot Springs is a peaceful oasis. The hot springs here are known for their healing properties and are believed to have spiritual significance. Immerse yourself in the natural hot pools and let the stress melt away. The serene surroundings and rustic ambiance make this a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Southern California Hot Springs
Southern California is famous for its sunny beaches, but it also boasts some incredible . Here are a few hot springs that should be on your radar:
- Deep Creek Hot Springs: Located near the San Bernardino Mountains, Deep Creek Hot Springs is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The hot springs here are nestled along the Deep Creek Canyon, providing a scenic backdrop for a relaxing soak. The pools are naturally fed by underground springs, and the water temperature can vary depending on the season.
- Glen Ivy Hot Springs: Just a short drive from Los Angeles, Glen Ivy Hot Springs is a luxurious retreat. This expansive spa offers a variety of hot spring pools, each with its own unique features. From mineral baths to mud baths, there are plenty of options to choose from. Indulge in a spa treatment or simply relax in the warm waters while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
- Miracle Springs Resort and Spa: Located in Desert Hot Springs, Miracle Springs Resort and Spa is a desert oasis. The resort features a variety of hot spring pools, each with different temperatures and mineral contents. Whether you’re looking for or therapeutic benefits, you’ll find it here. The stunning desert landscape adds to the overall experience, providing a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
Central California Hot Springs
Central California offers a diverse range of hot springs, each with its own unique charm. Here are a few hot springs worth exploring in this region:
- Tassajara Hot Springs: Nestled in the Ventana Wilderness, Tassajara Hot Springs is a serene retreat. Accessible only during certain times of the year, this remote hot spring offers a truly immersive experience. The hot springs here are surrounded by towering redwoods, creating a magical atmosphere. Disconnect from the outside world and soak in the natural beauty of this hidden gem.
- Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort: Located in Avila Beach, Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort offers a blend of relaxation and luxury. The resort features hot tubs that are fed by mineral-rich springs, providing a therapeutic experience. The private tubs offer a secluded retreat, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate in peace. The resort also offers spa services, making it the perfect destination for a wellness getaway.
- Avila Hot Springs: Situated in San Luis Obispo County, Avila Hot Springs is a family-friendly hot spring destination. The hot springs here are naturally heated and offer a range of temperatures to suit different preferences. In addition to the hot springs, the resort also features a swimming pool, picnic areas, and a recreational area. It’s the perfect place to spend a day with family and friends, enjoying the healing waters and beautiful surroundings.
Northern California Hot Springs
California is home to some of the best hot springs in the country, and the northern region of the state is no exception. The Northern California hot springs offer a unique and rejuvenating experience for visitors. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous , these hot springs have something for everyone.
Calistoga Hot Springs
Located in the heart of Napa Valley, Calistoga Hot Springs is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and wellness. The hot springs in Calistoga are known for their healing properties and are rich in minerals such as sulfur, which can be beneficial for the skin and overall health.
At Calistoga Hot Springs, you can soak in the warm, natural mineral waters while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. The therapeutic benefits of these hot springs are well-known, and many visitors come here to relieve stress, soothe sore muscles, and detoxify their bodies.
In addition to the hot springs, Calistoga also offers a range of spa treatments and wellness programs. You can indulge in a massage, mud bath, or facial to enhance your relaxation experience. The town of Calistoga itself is charming and picturesque, with plenty of wineries, restaurants, and shops to explore.
Harbin Hot Springs
Nestled in the Mayacamas Mountains, Harbin Hot Springs is a hidden gem in Northern California. This secluded retreat is known for its healing waters and serene atmosphere. The hot springs at Harbin are fed by natural geothermal sources, which means they are rich in minerals and have therapeutic properties.
One of the unique features of Harbin Hot Springs is its clothing-optional policy, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature. The hot springs are surrounded by lush vegetation and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
In addition to the hot springs, Harbin also offers various workshops and classes focused on wellness and personal growth. From yoga and meditation to holistic therapies and creative arts, there are plenty of opportunities to nourish your mind, body, and soul at Harbin Hot Springs.
Sierra Hot Springs
Located near the town of Sierraville, Sierra Hot Springs is a tranquil oasis in the Northern California wilderness. The hot springs here are nestled in a forested valley, offering a serene and picturesque setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Sierra Hot Springs is known for its natural hot pools, which range in temperature from warm to hot. Each pool has its own unique mineral composition, providing different therapeutic benefits. Whether you’re looking to soothe tired muscles, improve circulation, or simply unwind, there is a pool at Sierra Hot Springs to suit your needs.
In addition to the hot springs, Sierra Hot Springs offers a variety of accommodations, including rustic cabins and camping sites. The surrounding area is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the nearby lakes and forests.
Visiting the hot springs in Northern California is a truly immersive experience. Whether you choose Calistoga, Harbin, or Sierra Hot Springs, you’ll find yourself surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility. Soak in the healing waters, indulge in spa treatments, and embrace the serenity of these remarkable destinations.
Southern California Hot Springs
Southern California is known for its beautiful beaches and warm weather, but it is also home to some incredible hot springs. In this section, we will explore three of the best hot springs in Southern California: Deep Creek Hot Springs, Glen Ivy Hot Springs, and Miracle Springs Resort and Spa.
Deep Creek Hot Springs
Deep Creek Hot Springs, located in the San Bernardino National Forest, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and refreshing hot spring experience. To reach the hot springs, visitors must embark on a scenic hike through the stunning Mojave Desert landscape. The hike itself is an adventure, filled with desert flora and fauna, and provides an opportunity to connect with nature.
Upon arriving at Deep Creek Hot Springs, visitors are greeted with a series of natural pools, each with its own temperature and charm. The hot springs are fed by a natural underground spring, which creates a soothing and mineral-rich bathing experience. The water is warm and inviting, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
One of the highlights of Deep Creek Hot Springs is the freedom to choose your own adventure. Whether you prefer a quiet and serene soak or a more social experience, there is a pool to suit your preference. Some pools are tucked away in secluded spots, offering privacy and tranquility, while others are more open and allow for mingling with fellow hot spring enthusiasts.
Glen Ivy Hot Springs
Glen Ivy Hot Springs, located in Corona, is a luxurious oasis nestled in the heart of Southern California. This sprawling hot springs resort offers a wide range of amenities and activities, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Upon entering Glen Ivy Hot Springs, guests are greeted with lush gardens, tranquil pools, and breathtaking views. The resort features a variety of hot spring pools, each with its own unique temperature and therapeutic properties. Whether you are seeking a hot soak to soothe tired muscles or a cool plunge to invigorate the senses, Glen Ivy has you covered.
In addition to the hot springs, Glen Ivy offers a range of spa treatments and wellness activities. Guests can indulge in massages, facials, and body treatments, or participate in yoga and meditation classes. The resort also features a full-service restaurant, where guests can enjoy delicious and nourishing meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
Miracle Springs Resort and Spa
Miracle Springs Resort and Spa, located in Desert Hot Springs, is a desert oasis that offers a unique and rejuvenating hot springs experience. This resort boasts a wide range of amenities and accommodations, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
The hot springs at Miracle Springs Resort are known for their healing properties and mineral-rich waters. The resort features a variety of pools, ranging in temperature and size, allowing guests to find their perfect spot for relaxation. Whether you prefer a hot soak to soothe tired muscles or a refreshing dip to cool off from the desert heat, you will find it at Miracle Springs.
In addition to the hot springs, Miracle Springs Resort offers a range of spa treatments and wellness activities. Guests can indulge in massages, body wraps, and facials, or participate in yoga and fitness classes. The resort also features a full-service restaurant and bar, where guests can enjoy delicious meals and refreshing drinks.
Central California Hot Springs
Central California is home to some of the most beautiful and rejuvenating hot springs in the state. From the tranquil Tassajara Hot Springs to the luxurious Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and the family-friendly Avila Hot Springs, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this region.
Tassajara Hot Springs
Tassajara Hot Springs, nestled deep in the Ventana Wilderness, offers a truly immersive and tranquil hot springs experience. Accessible only via a narrow and winding mountain road, this remote retreat is worth the journey. The natural hot springs at Tassajara flow from a mineral-rich source, providing visitors with a soothing and therapeutic soak. The serene surroundings, with towering redwoods and the gentle sounds of nature, create a peaceful ambiance that allows guests to unwind and reconnect with themselves.
At Tassajara, you can choose from a variety of accommodations, including rustic cabins and traditional Japanese-style guest rooms. The retreat also offers meditation and yoga classes, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both physical and mental relaxation. After a refreshing dip in the hot springs, you can indulge in delicious vegetarian meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Tassajara Hot Springs is a hidden gem that offers a truly rejuvenating experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort
Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, located near the charming coastal town of San Luis Obispo, is a haven of relaxation and wellness. This resort boasts a collection of private hillside hot tubs, each filled with mineral-rich water sourced from their own natural spring. The therapeutic properties of the mineral water are said to help detoxify the body and soothe sore muscles.
One of the highlights of Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort is the opportunity to stay in one of their unique and cozy hillside cottages. These cottages are equipped with private hot tubs, allowing guests to enjoy the healing benefits of the mineral water in the privacy of their own space. The resort also offers a range of spa treatments, such as massages and facials, to further enhance your relaxation experience.
In addition to the hot springs and spa facilities, Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort offers a variety of activities to keep guests entertained. Explore the nearby hiking trails, take a dip in the heated swimming pool, or simply unwind in the peaceful gardens. With its serene atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort provides a truly rejuvenating escape.
Avila Hot Springs
For those seeking a hot springs experience that the whole family can enjoy, Avila Hot Springs is the perfect destination. Located near the coastal town of Avila Beach, this family-friendly hot springs resort offers a range of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages.
The main attraction at Avila Hot Springs is the large outdoor pool, filled with natural mineral water that is heated to a comfortable temperature. The pool is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a tropical oasis where families can relax and have fun together. There are also several hot tubs available for a more intimate and soothing soak.
In addition to the pool and hot tubs, Avila Hot Springs offers picnic areas, barbecue grills, and volleyball courts, making it an ideal spot for a day of outdoor recreation. The resort also has a campground where you can pitch a tent or park your RV, allowing you to extend your stay and fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Avila Hot Springs is not only a place for relaxation and recreation but also a hub for community events. Throughout the year, the resort hosts various festivals, live music performances, and wellness workshops, adding an extra layer of entertainment and cultural enrichment to your visit.
In conclusion, Central California is home to some remarkable hot springs that offer unique experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you seek solitude and serenity at Tassajara Hot Springs, luxurious pampering at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, or a fun-filled family adventure at Avila Hot Springs, you are sure to find the perfect hot springs getaway in the heart of California. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to immerse yourself in the healing waters of Central California’s hot springs.
