Esalen Institute Hot Springs

## Overview The Esalen Institute Hot Springs are a legendary set of natural hot springs perched on a dramatic cliff edge overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Big Sur, California. Located at the renowned Esalen Institute — a pioneering retreat center founded in 1962 by Michael Murphy and Dick Price — these geothermal springs have drawn visitors for centuries. Long before the institute existed, the indigenous Esselen people considered these mineral-rich waters sacred and used them for healing and ceremony. The springs are named after this Native American tribe, whose ancestral homeland encompasses the rugged Big Sur coastline. The hot springs emerge from the earth at temperatures typically ranging from around 110°F to 120°F (43°C–49°C) and are channeled into a series of concrete and stone soaking tubs built into the cliffside, roughly 150 feet above the crashing surf below. The mineral content has historically been noted to include sulfur, lithium, and other trace minerals, giving the water a slightly sulfurous scent that many visitors associate with natural therapeutic springs. The water has long been regarded by locals and visitors alike as having restorative properties, though no medical claims should be taken as established fact. The Esalen Institute operates as a nonprofit educational retreat center focused on humanistic psychology, meditation, and personal growth. Access to the hot springs is generally limited to registered workshop participants and overnight guests, though Esalen has historically offered late-night public bathing sessions — often referred to as "night bathing" — typically available by reservation from 1:00 AM to 3:00 AM. Availability and policies for these sessions can change, so checking directly with the institute before planning a visit is strongly recommended. ## Directions 1. From Monterey or Carmel, head south on **California Highway 1 (CA-1)** along the Big Sur coast. 2. Continue approximately **45 miles south** of Carmel, winding along the scenic coastal highway. 3. The Esalen Institute is located at **55000 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920**, on the ocean (west) side of the road. 4. Watch for the Esalen Institute entrance sign and gatehouse on your left (if heading south). The driveway leads down toward the property. 5. From San Luis Obispo, head north on CA-1 approximately 65 miles. The entrance will be on your right. 6. **Note:** CA-1 through Big Sur is a winding two-lane road with limited cell service. Landslides and road closures are common, especially during winter and spring. Check **Caltrans road conditions** before departing. 7. GPS coordinates: **36.1237, -121.6357** ## What to Expect Visitors to the Esalen hot springs are treated to one of the most spectacular natural soaking experiences on the West Coast. The tubs are set into the cliff face with unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean — at night, the experience of soaking under the stars while listening to waves crash far below is unforgettable. The bathing area includes several tubs of varying sizes, from private two-person tubs to larger communal pools. The tradition at Esalen is clothing-optional bathing, and the atmosphere is quiet and contemplative. Conversation is generally kept to a minimum, especially during the late-night public sessions. The surrounding landscape is classic Big Sur: steep coastal mountains covered in chaparral and redwood forest plunging into the Pacific. Wildlife sightings — including sea otters, migrating whales, and California condors — are possible from the springs area. For those attending the late-night public bathing sessions, expect to check in at the gatehouse and follow staff directions to the bath house. Bringing your own towel is recommended. The path from the parking area to the springs involves some walking and stairs, so wear appropriate footwear. Big Sur's weather can be cool and foggy even in summer, with temperatures dropping significantly at night. Winter months bring rain and the possibility of road closures on Highway 1. The springs themselves remain warm year-round, making a soak in cooler weather particularly enjoyable. Reservations for public night bathing sessions and workshop registration can be made through the Esalen Institute's official website or by phone.