State guides
Big Sur Hot Springs: Esalen, Sykes and Tassajara
Last updated October 22, 2026 · 2 min read
Popular searches:Big Sur CA Hot Springs · Esalen Hot Springs · Esalen Baths · Big Sur Hot Springs Hike · Slates Hot Springs Big Sur · Esalen Baths Photos · Esalen Resort Hot Springs
Big Sur has only a few hot springs, but they are among the most famous in the United States. Each takes some planning: one is part of a retreat center, one is a backpacking trip, and one sits at the end of a long dirt road.
Esalen Institute hot springs
The Esalen hot springs are cliffside mineral baths above the Pacific, on the Big Sur coast south of the Bixby Bridge area. The property was once known as Slates Hot Springs. Today the baths belong to the Esalen Institute, and you reach them by booking a workshop or an overnight stay. Bath hours, rules and any public bathing programs change, so check Esalen’s own website rather than old blog posts.
Sykes Hot Springs
Sykes Hot Springs, in the Ventana Wilderness, is a small set of pools beside the Big Sur River about 10 miles up the Pine Ridge Trail from Big Sur Station. It is a backpacking trip, not a day soak. The trail and campsites have been closed for long periods after fires, storm damage and overuse. Check current Los Padres National Forest alerts, carry a bear-proof food container and pack out all waste.
Tassajara
Tassajara Hot Springs is inland from Big Sur, reached by a steep dirt road from Carmel Valley. It is a Zen monastery that welcomes paying guests during its summer season. The source is very hot; the bathhouses cool it for soaking.
When to go
Highway 1 through Big Sur closes from time to time after landslides. Check Caltrans road status before you drive, and book Esalen or Tassajara well ahead, especially for weekends. Spring and fall bring clearer days and fewer crowds.
More California soaks
For free natural springs, the Eastern Sierra is better: see our Mammoth Lakes hot springs guide and California hot springs guide, or browse the California map.
Springs in this guide
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the Esalen hot springs without staying?
Generally no. Esalen's baths are part of the retreat center, and access comes with a workshop or overnight stay. Check Esalen's website for current programs and any public bathing options.
What were Slates Hot Springs?
Slates Hot Springs is the historic name of the springs on the Esalen property, used before the Esalen Institute was founded there in 1962.
Is Sykes Hot Springs open?
Sykes, reached by a 10-mile hike on the Pine Ridge Trail, has been closed or restricted for long periods after fires and storms. Check Los Padres National Forest alerts before you go.
Are the Esalen baths clothing optional?
Yes, the baths are traditionally clothing optional. Follow the posted rules and the center's guidelines for quiet and privacy.