Esalen Hot Springs

Esalen Hot Springs

Big Sur, California

4.8(2,156)resortEasyClothing Optional

Click thumbnails to view larger photos • Photos from Google Maps

🌡️Temperature119°F
🏊Typeresort
🥾DifficultyEasy
💰Price$40-$235
📅Best SeasonYear-round
👥Crowd LevelModerate

About Esalen Hot Springs

Perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Esalen Hot Springs offers one of the most awe-inspiring soaking experiences on Earth. The mineral-rich waters cascade into stone tubs carved into the clifftop, where bathers soak beneath the Milky Way during late-night public access hours. A cornerstone of the human potential movement since the 1960s.

Access

Short walk

🏕️

Overnight

Yes

👙

Clothing Optional

Yes

Features

Ocean cliff poolsNight bathingMassage servicesWorkshop retreatsOrganic garden

Water Minerals

SulfurLithiumCalciumMagnesium

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the water temperature at Esalen Hot Springs?
The water temperature at Esalen Hot Springs is 119°F.
How much does Esalen Hot Springs cost?
Esalen Hot Springs costs $40-$235 per person.
Is Esalen Hot Springs clothing optional?
Yes, Esalen Hot Springs is clothing optional.
What minerals are in the water at Esalen Hot Springs?
The water at Esalen Hot Springs contains Sulfur, Lithium, Calcium, Magnesium.
How difficult is it to get to Esalen Hot Springs?
Esalen Hot Springs has a easy difficulty level with short walk access.

Recent Google Reviews

Stefani Soychak• Google Review

"I have dreamt of visiting Esalen for years. The 5Rhythms program with Lucian Horan was incredible! I would absolutely come back again. Property, bath house, massage and food were all wonderful. My on..."

10/30/2025
Shery Lady• Google Review

"The property itself is 10/10, but the people who come… maybe 2/10. Old, judgmental hippies — that’s how I’d describe them. Super loud during meals (isn’t this supposed to be a retreat center?), gossip..."

9/22/2025
Paulytenor• Google Review

"I booked the month long retreat and had high expectations as a massage therapist. The land is absolutely magical, the flora and fauna providing as close to a Garden of Eden as I’ve ever experienced. ..."

8/14/2025