Natural hot spring · California

Fairview Hot Spring

Orange County, California · 1.6 miles north of Costa Mesa, CA

Last updated

Type
Natural Natural hot spring
Water temperature
97°F (36°C) at the source
Cost
Not recorded
Hours or season
Not recorded
Clothing
Not recorded
Nearest town
Costa Mesa, CA (2 mi / 3 km)
Coordinates
Pools or sources
1
Safety notes
  • Historical record only: this spring has not been confirmed on the ground since 1981 and may be on private land.

About Fairview Hot Spring

Fairview Hot Spring is a natural hot spring in Orange County, California, about 1.6 miles north of Costa Mesa, CA.

The temperature at the source has been recorded at 97°F (36°C). That puts it in the "warm" range. Comfortable for long soaks, like a warm bath that has cooled a little.

It is a natural spring with little or no development. Some natural springs have rock pools you can sit in, while others are too hot, too shallow or on land where soaking is not allowed.

This spring comes from the US federal Thermal Springs List compiled in 1981. Nobody has confirmed it on the ground for this directory since, so treat the details as historical. Many springs on that list sit on private ranch land, so never visit without permission.

Water temperature

97°F36°C temperature at the source
60°F98°F104°F140°F180°F

Warm. Comfortable for long soaks, like a warm bath that has cooled a little.

Readings come from the NOAA thermal springs list, and other public sources. Temperatures change with season, flow and pool design. See our soak temperature guide for safe soaking times.

Map and directions

Red marks Fairview Hot Spring. Other colored dots are nearby springs in this directory. Coordinates: 33.66400, -117.91300.

Location of Fairview Hot Spring in California

Getting there

  • Nearest town: Costa Mesa, CA. The spring is about 1.6 miles (3 km) north of town in a straight line.
  • Planning from a city? See hot springs near Santa Ana, CA.
  • Use the directions buttons above for a driving route. Final roads to many springs are unpaved, seasonal or closed in winter, so check road conditions before you go.

Weather forecast

Live forecast for this exact spot from the US National Weather Service.

Hot springs near Fairview Hot Spring

Before you go

  • Check the operator, land manager or park website for current hours, fees and closures. Details in any directory can go out of date.
  • Pack out everything you bring, including food scraps. Do not use soap in natural pools.
  • Keep your head above water. Warm fresh water can carry Naegleria fowleri, a rare but deadly amoeba that enters through the nose.
  • Drink water, limit soaks to 10 to 20 minutes at a time in very hot water, and skip alcohol.
  • Read our hot spring etiquette guide and safety guide.

Frequently asked questions

How hot is Fairview Hot Spring?

The temperature at the source has been recorded at 97°F (36°C), which is warm. Comfortable for long soaks, like a warm bath that has cooled a little.

Where is Fairview Hot Spring?

Fairview Hot Spring is in Orange County, California, about 1.6 miles north of Costa Mesa, CA. The GPS coordinates are 33.6640, -117.9130.

Can you soak at Fairview Hot Spring?

Natural springs vary. Some have pools built by visitors, others are too hot or shallow, and some are on private land or in areas where bathing is banned. Check local rules and test the water before you get in.

What hot springs are near Fairview Hot Spring?

The closest listed spring is San Juan Hot Springs, about 24 miles east. Glen Ivy Hot Springs is about 25 miles away.

What should I bring to a hot spring?

Water to drink, a towel, sandals with grip, a bag to pack out trash, and warm layers for after your soak. At primitive springs bring a headlamp and tell someone where you are going.

Sources and corrections

This listing combines the NOAA NCEI Thermal Springs List. Data last refreshed August 2026. Source 1

Visited recently? Send a correction, such as a temperature reading, fee, closure or photo. If you look after this spring and want it removed, see removal requests.