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The Golden State of California is far more than picturesque scenery and vibrant cities. Boasting the San Andreas Fault, it’s one of the most geothermally active spots in the US.
And where there’s geothermal activity, there is bound to be some magical natural hot springs to take your breath away. Buckle up because you’re in for a real treat of the best California hot springs, from Los Angeles to San Francisco and everything in between.
I don’t know about you. But the idea of a road trip across the Golden State and relaxing in some of the best California springs is my idea of heaven.
A wellness trend that’s taken California’s hot springs scene by storm lately: contrast therapy. You’ll now find cold plunge pools at several spots on this list, and honestly, alternating between icy water and mineral-rich hot springs creates this incredible tingling rush that’s completely addictive. If you’re visiting somewhere like Wilbur, Harbin, or Two Bunch Palms, ask about their cold plunge offerings — it’s become a must-do experience alongside the traditional soaking.
Quick heads up before you start planning: California’s hot springs scene has gotten way more popular over the past few years, and lots of places now require reservations — even for day visits. Spots like Drakesbad Guest Ranch book out months in advance during peak season, while some of the free hot springs near Mammoth Lakes now have parking restrictions to manage crowds. The move? Book resort stays as early as possible, and for the free springs, plan to visit on weekdays or arrive early morning to snag a spot.
25 Best Hot Springs in California
Admiring a sensational California sunset while soaking in a natural mineral bath is everyone’s dream, right? So take your pick from 25 of the best hot spring resorts California offers.
1. Doctor Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort
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Kicking things off, you have arguably the best hot springs in Calistoga‘s Napa Valley. Doctor Wilkinson’s — now rebranded Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs after a full renovation — is a resort that considers luxury a must in anyone’s life, and as you walk through the fairy-light-lit space, you’ll quickly see why.
There are still three distinct hot springs pools, now heated to 85°F, 95°F and 104°F (29°C to 40°C), so the original temperature range holds up well. Before hopping into the geothermal wonderland, why not experience one of the perfected 70-plus-year-old detoxifying thermal mud baths — now joined by a reimagined spa menu with eight new mineral baths, CBD and aromatherapy add-ons, and a new on-site restaurant, House of Better.
If there was ever a place to indulge yourself, it’s at Doctor Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort.
⇒ Read more reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now
2. Wild Willy’s Hot Springs
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Why not enjoy the Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, a free spot near Mammoth Lakes? It’s roughly a 7.2 km (4.5-mile) drive from Highway 395, where a short 0.4 km (0.25-mile) walk awaits.
The walk to the springs is breathtaking in and of itself, as the wooden boardwalk leads to a hidden oasis of hot springs. There are two pools you can dip your feet into. The first you’ll come across is fairly shallow, while the second has an unmistakable heart shape and is much deeper. As with several of the free Eastern Sierra springs, expect informal parking restrictions during peak summer weekends as this area manages growing crowds — arriving early or on a weekday is your best bet.
3. Vichy Hot Springs Resort
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Established in 1854, Vichy is one of the oldest and best hot springs in North California, and it’s still operating today. It’s only about two hours from San Francisco in the Mendocino region, with lush vegetation and stunning mountain views.
They’re also a set of natural springs that have been around for roughly five million years. You can admire the age of these springs in their travertine onyx deposits while soaking in the refreshing and rejuvenating baths.
I recommend hopping into the refreshing Olympic-sized swimming pool and then the hot springs. It gives a unique tingling sensation to your skin.
You might enjoy reading my article onFacts about California.
4. Wilbur Hot Springs
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Ever want to admire the constellation of stars while soaking up all the natural minerals of a magical hot spring? You can do that at the 24-hour Wilbur Resort just outside of Williams.
Three long flumes provide irresistible bathing temperatures averaging between 37°C and 42°C (100°F and 109°F). These are also non-chlorinated springs, so you can enjoy all the benefits of minerals such as carbonic acid and boron. A cold plunge pool is part of the setup too, if you want to try the contrast-therapy circuit that’s become so popular across California’s hot springs scene.
You can also enjoy many healing practices, from myofascial release treatments to authentic CranioSacral Therapy. What’s not to love?
5. Beverly Hot Springs Spa
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In the heart of LA, Beverly Hot Springs Spa is easily the most accessible spot on this list. From massages and cool plunge pools to fantastic saunas and a man-made hot springs waterfall, this is the perfect place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
They have designated men’s and women’s hot springs, each offering a tranquil experience in dimly lit spaces. The artesian well naturally pumps the pools up to temperatures between 35°C and 40°C (96°F and 105°F).
6. Orr Hot Springs Resort
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Ukiah is a small town well-known for its geothermal activity. And the best place to enjoy the town’s best drawcard is Orr Hot Springs Resort. Enjoy everything this pristine coastal woodland oasis offers, from the large hot spring-fed pool to the mystical steam rooms.
An undeniably breathtaking spot to relax is on the sundeck, and you can always venture below the deck to enjoy a private hot spring bath. The 27-acre property is also laden with authentic redwood cottages, which are perfect for a few nights.
You might enjoy reading my articles on Utah hot springs, hot springs in North Carolina, Hot Springs in Wyoming and hot springs in Arizona.
7. Esalen Spa Hot Springs
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How about admiring the rustic beauty of the Pacific Ocean from Esalen, a hot spring paradise hidden within Big Sur? It’s roughly three hours from San Francisco and offers one of the state’s most unique hot springs experiences.
It’s a place that offers a variety of experiences, with loads of naturally heated rock pools to pick from. From the farm and garden space to the meditation hut and the Conley Bookstore, there’s no shortage of unique spaces for you to enjoy.
Top Tip: The Esalen Institute regularly hosts on-site conversations and work-live programs, and public access is still primarily via their workshop programs and limited public bath nights — access policies here have historically been tighter than most resorts on this list, so check their current schedule directly before planning a visit.
8. Crab Cooker Hot Springs
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Can you picture the White Mountains surrounding a mesmerizing round-shaped plunge pool in the Eastern Sierra? There may only be one pool to enjoy, but you won’t find a more dramatic setting than the Crab Cooker, roughly 20 minutes from Mammoth Lakes.
The waters hit a toasty 40°C (105°F), and considering it’s only 0.3 km (0.2-mile) from the parking lot, this is a must-visit hot spring.
It’s open 24/7 and is free, so you can visit anytime. But remember, it’s a popular spot, so try to visit later at night. Besides, admiring the starlit sky is an unforgettable site.
9. Two Bunch Palms
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A hot spring resort California can’t do without is Two Bunch Palms, in Desert Hot Springs. This adults-only wellness retreat sits across 77 acres of desert landscape, infused with 600-year-old lithium-rich mineral waters that flow through five outdoor mineral pools, a grotto, and hot-tub row.
The property was fully reimagined in recent years, with 67 newly redesigned guest rooms (including 13 suites with private patios), 19 indoor and outdoor spa therapy rooms, a yoga dome hosting sound baths, and a cool plunge pool for contrast therapy alongside the warm mineral soaks. The mineral pools stay open through the night except for a short daily cleaning window, so you can soak under the stars.
And if you want to spend a couple of nights at one of the best hot springs resorts California has, you can look at their available rooms.
10. River Oaks Hot Springs Spa
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Wine and inviting hot springs pair up to offer one of the best “me time” experiences. And there’s no better place for this perfect pairing than at the River Oaks Hot Springs Spa.
It’s a wellness spa that offers all the classics, from facials to Swedish massages. To make things better, they offer unique packages, from a private wine-tasting hot tub experience to a chocolate-filled private soak and massage combo — worth checking their current package menu directly, as these tend to shift seasonally.
You might enjoy reading my article on Solo Travel in California.
11. Glen Ivy Hot Springs
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The stunning Temescal Valley is a bit more special, thanks to the Glen Ivy Hot Springs. With around 19 unique pools, both indoor and outdoor, you can relax in authentic style. Glen Ivy has also been one of the more proactive resorts on accessibility, with zero-entry pools and accessible pathways for guests with mobility considerations — worth calling ahead to confirm the specific features you need.
Indulge in a magical array of four dining spots between your mineral-soaking exploits. Their natural hot springs are well known to help with joint pain and soften the pores of your skin.
12. Harbin Hot Springs Retreat
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Just around seven minutes from the wine hotspot of Middletown, you’ll discover the picturesque Harbin Hot Springs. This is one to know before you go: Harbin was devastated by the 2015 Valley Fire, which destroyed most of the resort’s buildings, and it’s been rebuilding ever since. The pools themselves were undamaged and reopened in 2019, and the site has continued adding back facilities since, including a cold plunge alongside the main pools.
The main soaking pool runs around 114°F, with cooler and hotter pools nearby for that tingling contrast sensation. Access has changed too: Harbin now requires all guests 18 and over to hold a membership ($15/month or $35/year) plus a reservation — walk-ins aren’t accepted, and the whole property remains clothing-optional. The sauna and sundeck are lovely spots to relax, and the retreat’s yoga sessions and Watsu aquatic bodywork are also worth booking ahead for, since good practitioners fill up days in advance.
13. Deep Creek Hot Springs
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If you want the ethereal combination of a desert landscape and inviting hot springs, venture to the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. Here, you’ll find five all-year-round natural hot pools along the Deep Creek fork of the Mojave River.
Hike the challenging four km (2.5-mile) Bowen Ranch Trail to the cascading pools. Or, you can enjoy the more scenic 9.6 km (six-mile) Pacific Crest Trail. No matter the route, you’ll end the trek with a refreshing dip in some natural hot pools.
Note: You can only use the trails and pools during the day, and San Bernardino National Forest has periodically introduced day-use restrictions here to manage crowding — check current conditions before you set off, since access rules at this spot shift more than most.
14. Gaviota Hot Springs
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Good news: Gaviota Hot Springs is open again after previously being closed. Roughly 40 minutes from the stunning city of Santa Barbara, you’ll find the hidden hot springs in Gaviota State Park, open for day use from 7am to sunset (there’s a small parking fee at the trailhead, so bring cash).
You’ll find this hidden oasis about half a mile off the trail leading to Gaviota Peak, with roughly 400 feet of elevation gain along the way. It’s surrounded by vegetation, and the milky blue water is oh-so inviting. There are two small pools rather than one, and it’s a genuinely rustic, no-frills experience — think sulfur smell and cloudy water rather than a polished resort — but it’s relatively quiet and unknown, and worth combining with the hike up to Gaviota Peak itself.
15. Remington Hot Springs
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Overlooking the Kern River’s majestic beauty, this series of three man-made pools is the perfect escape during your LA to San Francisco road trip. From the sound of flowing water and birds chirping to the lovely 40°C (104°F) waters, you’ll quickly fall in love with this part of the world.
As they are open to the public all day and night, you can venture to this little slice of heaven whenever you like, though it’s worth checking recent trail reports before you go, since access to popular free springs like this one can shift with seasonal maintenance.
16. Onsen California
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Pamper yourself with a weekend away in Desert Hot Springs’ Onsen Hotel and Spa. Like the other resort-style hot springs on this list, its pool and hot tub are perfect for soaking up those natural minerals.
The hotel and spa are still only accessible for adults over 21 years, so if you want peace and quiet, this is the spot for you.
⇒ Read more reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now
17. Tecopa Mud Hot Springs
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Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the natural mud baths near theTecopa Hot Springs Resort. It’s roughly an hour and a half from Las Vegas and just outside Death Valley National Park.
Using pelotherapy (fancy word for mud bath), enjoy a detoxifying experience in the 37°C (100°F) water. They’re free to visit, and if you want to clean up afterwards, the Tecopa Hot Springs Resort is a stone’s throw away. The wider Tecopa area has continued building out its small-scale wellness tourism infrastructure over the past couple of years, so it’s worth a browse for newer bathhouses before you go.
PS: Make the experience truly spectacular and walk the resort’s seven-circuit Yaga Labyrinth.
18. Saline Hot Springs
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Explore Saline Valley’s three hot spring pools if you’re one for an adventure. They nestle in the heart of Death Valley National Park, so it’s a two to four-hour dirt road drive from Lone Pine.
This means they’re best visited with the intention of camping in the area for the night. And as they are free to visit at any time of the day, you can admire a genuine night sky with the Milky Way on full display.
Note: Road accessibility to the hot springs can be affected by weather conditions — this remote route can wash out after storms, so check current Death Valley National Park road status before setting off, as this is not a drive to attempt on a whim.
19. Agua Caliente Springs Park
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Roughly two hours from San Diego and nestling within the greater Anza Borrego Desert State Park, you’ll find three magical hot spring pools.
They fall within the 910 acres of protected land, offering up magical desert hikes and, best of all, heated pools. The park has many lodging options, from rustic campsites to lovely family-friendly cabins.
The pools also have independent access times, so you’ll want to keep track of that on the park’s official website, which is also the best place to confirm current hours before you go.
You might enjoy reading my article on the best things to do in Palm Springs.
20. Bashford’s Hot Mineral Spa
With six mineral baths, a heated pool, and a hot spring jacuzzi, you can enjoy views of the Chocolate Mountains in style at Bashford’s. It’s also close to Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park, making it the perfect stop during your Wild West adventure.
While you’re undoubtedly going for the hot pools, you can also visit the nearby mud pots heated with the same geothermal pockets. Note that this is a smaller, lesser-documented operation than the other resorts on this list, so it’s worth calling ahead to confirm current hours before making the trip.
21. California Hot Springs Resort
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If you plan on exploring Sequoia National Park, the California Hot Springs Resort has long been a popular gateway stop. Not only is it the gateway to the park, but it also offers some of the best-heated pools in the state.
With its low sodium content and crystal clear purity, the hot spring has produced one of the best swimming spots since 1882. It’s particularly beautiful in winter, as the snow settles on the surrounding trees of the forest.
Note: This one’s genuinely unclear right now. The resort has been listed as “temporarily closed for renovations” for some time, and that’s still the status on record with several booking and review sites — but its own business listing on Google/Yelp reads as if it’s actively operating again. I’d treat this as unconfirmed and call ahead or check the resort website directly before planning a trip around it.
22. Delights Hot Spring Resort
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This resort’s name says everything from indoor baths with stunning landscape paintings across the walls to majestic outdoor pools. Enjoy the delights (get it) of four private hot pools, hitting a comfortable 40°C (104°F).
As part of the Tecopa Hot Springs area, you can enjoy free access to the mud baths and Death Valley National Park. And if you book a room, you can use the hot pools all night.
⇒ Read more reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now
23. Drakesbad Guest Ranch
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If you’re looking for a hidden getaway in the Lassen Volcanic National Park, book a room at the Drakesbad Guest Ranch. As far as hot springs go, there is just the main pool, which offers geothermally heated bliss.
This one’s worth planning around carefully: the ranch operates a short season (roughly June through October, weather permitting) and rooms routinely book out months in advance for peak summer weekends, so this isn’t a spontaneous trip.
But that’s not all this pine-forest paradise holds, with home-cooked meals included, majestic horseback rides, and much more. It may be a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Redding, but you won’t find better views from a hot spring-fed pool of Lassen Peak anywhere else.
24. The Oasis at Death Valley
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For a destination of the highest order, The Oasis is the premier lodging destination for all Death Valley adventurers. It’s a luxury five-star resort offering perfect 30°C (87°F) water to make you feel like you’re floating on air.
While the hot springs are a perk, it’s also home to the world’s lowest-elevation golf course — Furnace Creek — and many dining opportunities. But alas, why worry about all that when you soak up the beneficial minerals and admire the views from the resort’s luxury heated pools?
⇒ Read more reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now
25. Holtville Hot Springs
If you’re returning from a Mexican vacation, stop in Holtville, roughly two hours from San Diego. With a large pool hitting temperatures around 41°C (106°F) and the smaller pool being slightly cooler, this is the ideal stop to loosen those muscles after a long drive.
The main soaking spot is lined with palm trees, so you’ll feel surrounded by nature. The smaller pool is better for kids, with a water feature pumping into the pool that the younger ones will love playing with. This is one of the harder venues on this list to verify online, so treat any specific details as worth double-checking with recent visitors or local sources before you go.
You might enjoy reading my article on the best boutique hotels in Palm Springs.
Planning Your Hot Springs Visit: Accessibility
Something worth knowing: more California hot springs are becoming genuinely accessible to everyone. A handful of resorts have added zero-entry pools, pool lifts, and accessible pathways to their facilities over the past couple of years. If you or someone in your group has mobility considerations, spots like Glen Ivy and some of the Calistoga resorts (including Dr. Wilkinson’s, following its recent renovation) have led the way with more thoughtful accessible design. It’s still worth calling ahead to confirm specific accessibility features before booking, since not every pool or pathway at a given resort is necessarily accessible.
FAQs About Hot Spring Resorts in California
Are There Natural Hot Springs in California?
Yes — California is one of the most geothermally active states in the country, thanks largely to the San Andreas Fault and its position along the Pacific Ring of Fire. That activity has produced dozens of natural hot springs across the state, from resort-style soaks in Calistoga’s Napa Valley to remote, free wilderness pools in the Eastern Sierra and Death Valley backcountry. Whatever kind of hot springs experience you’re after — luxury spa day, rustic hike-in soak, or something in between — California has it.
Must You Wear Clothes in California Natural Hot Springs?
This really depends on the location you’re visiting. So check if it’s clothing necessary or a nudist accepting hot springs before going.
What Should You Not Do in Hot Springs in California?
Don’t use soap or any bathing products in a hot spring, as it’ll reduce all the benefits of the natural minerals in the water. It can also contaminate the water — even biodegradable soaps — so keeping things natural is best.
When Should You Avoid Hot Springs?
If you have deep cuts or wounds, it’s best to avoid hot springs as they can easily get infected. It’s also best to avoid hot springs on a hot day, as they can quickly dehydrate you if you’re not careful.
hot-springs-lassen-volcanic-national-park
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Quick Reference: Free vs Paid, Access & Difficulty
| Hot Spring | Free or Paid | Clothing | Getting There |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor Wilkinson’s | Paid resort | Required | Easy (in-town) |
| Wild Willy’s | Free | Optional | Easy walk from parking |
| Vichy Hot Springs | Paid resort | Required | Easy (drive-up) |
| Wilbur Hot Springs | Paid resort | Optional | Easy (drive-up) |
| Beverly Hot Springs Spa | Paid spa | Required | Easy (urban LA) |
| Orr Hot Springs | Paid resort | Optional | Easy (drive-up) |
| Esalen | Paid, limited access | Optional | Easy, but access restricted |
| Crab Cooker | Free | Optional | Easy, short walk |
| Two Bunch Palms | Paid resort | Required | Easy (drive-up) |
| River Oaks Hot Springs Spa | Paid spa | Required | Easy (drive-up) |
| Glen Ivy Hot Springs | Paid day spa | Required | Easy (drive-up) |
| Harbin Hot Springs | Paid, membership required | Optional | Easy, but reservation-only |
| Deep Creek Hot Springs | Free | Optional | Moderate–hard hike |
| Gaviota Hot Springs | Free (parking fee) | Optional | Moderate hike |
| Remington Hot Springs | Free | Optional | Easy |
| Onsen California | Paid resort | Required | Easy (drive-up) |
| Tecopa Mud Hot Springs | Free | Optional | Easy |
| Saline Hot Springs | Free | Optional | Hard (remote dirt road) |
| Agua Caliente Springs Park | Paid (park entry) | Required | Easy (drive-up) |
| Bashford’s Hot Mineral Spa | Paid | Required | Easy (drive-up) |
| California Hot Springs Resort | Paid (status uncertain) | Required | Easy (drive-up) |
| Delights Hot Spring Resort | Paid resort | Required | Easy (drive-up) |
| Drakesbad Guest Ranch | Paid, guests only | Required | Moderate (remote) |
| The Oasis at Death Valley | Paid resort | Required | Easy (drive-up) |
| Holtville Hot Springs | Free | Optional | Easy |
Final Thoughts on the Best Hot Springs California Has to Offer
So there you have it, a dip into the best California hot springs to help you have a magical Golden State vacation. This melting pot of dramatic deserts, jagged mountains, and vibrant coastlines is sure to have you loving life.
And why not make your time in the land of the free that bit more special by discovering all the top North American landmarks? And you might enjoy reading my post on Hot Springs in Utah and Wyoming Hot Springs.
I covered all the costs of writing this post on hot springs in California. However, this post does contain affiliate links. That means if you click through on some of the links in this article and make a purchase I may receive a small commission.
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.