The 3 Best Hot Springs in Big Sur

Sykes Hot Springs

Sykes Hot Springs is the only natural backcountry hot spring in Big Sur. Unfortunately, the 2017 Soberanes Fire damaged the 18.9-mile Pine Ridge Trail that reaches it, but the trail reopened in April 2021. The Pine Ridge Trail is a strenuous hike with a maximum elevation gain of about 1,000 feet that ends at the springs and a designated camping area. It takes about four hours to hike it one way. Current trail information can be obtained through the Ventana Wilderness Alliance.

Sykes is home to two original two stone-lined natural pools, but the area can get quite crowded, sometimes housing up to 200 campers on a given weekend. If you do venture to the springs, there may still be a way to bask in the 102-degree F, and maybe even by yourself.

Tassajara Zen Mountain Center Hot Springs

The Tassajara Zen Center is a Japanese-style Zen monastery located in the Ventana Wilderness, just inland from Big Sur. It is the first Soto Zen training monastery on the West coast offering daily meditation, retreats, classes, lectures, and workshops. The 16-mile road to the monastery is closed during the winter, and only residents remain at the site. But during the summer, it's "guest season" from May through mid-September when the facilities open to visitors. You can book a day trip to the monastery to enjoy their hot springs baths, practice meditation in their provided quiet space, access their scenic trails, and enjoy a gourmet vegetarian lunch in the dining room overlooking the creek. Bring your own towel and pack a lunch if you choose not to dine on-site.

Esalen Institute Hot Springs

The Esalen Institute offers a retreat space for artists, writers, dancers, theologists, sociologists, and anyone wanting to disconnect from a fast-paced life and reconnect with the natural world. The property, situated on the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean, has spring-fed hot tubs, ample lodging accommodations, including private houses and suites, a working farm, a restaurant, and an art barn. To access their on-site hot springs, you must attend a workshop and be staying on the property.

The Esalen springs are situated on two levels with an outdoor massage deck and a living succulent garden. The minerals found in the springs themselves are said to heal many ailments, attracting tourists and local visitors.

Currently, the Esalen Institute hot springs can only be accessed by those staying on-site. Please check with the retreat center, as they may be open to the public again in the future.