10 Must-Visit Hot Springs in California with Epic Scenery

There’s no better way to unwind after a day on the road than by soaking in a hot spring. California offers a wealth of options, each with stunning panoramic views. Whether you prefer the serene backdrop of mountains, forests, deserts, or ocean views, there’s a thermal pool waiting for you. If you’re planning a road trip through The Golden State, don’t miss these ten incredible hot springs, where you can relax and take in the epic scenery.

1. Esalen Hot Springs

Imagine watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean while you soak in a natural hot spring bath, listening to the waves crash against the rugged rocks along the coastline. If this sounds rejuvenating, I recommend adding a stop at Esalen Hot Springs in Big Sur to your California road trip itinerary. For an extra dose of tranquility, you can also get a massage or visit the meditation hut during your visit, but only if you’re part of an organized retreat.

Otherwise, Esalen offers visits to outsiders passing through, but they’re in the middle of the night.

2. Deep Creek Hot Springs

Located in the northern Mojave Desert section of the San Bernardino National Forest, the Deep Creek Hot Springs (DCHS) are natural hot springs that you can hike to. It’s a steep and rocky 1.85-mile hike up to the hot springs, but it’s worth the climb. As you soak in the hot mineral water, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the desert foothills along a creek. You can also pay to stay at the campground during your California road trip!

3. Travertine Hot Springs

If you’re looking for a natural hot spring on your California road trip that requires no hiking but still has striking mountain views, look no further than Travertine Hot Springs. Located near Bridgeport outside of Yosemite National Park, you can enjoy views of the snow-covered Sawtooth Ridge as you unwind in the thermal pools. The hottest of the pools is only a few steps from the parking area. While you relish the warm temperatures, take note of the contrast of the orange rock textures against the blue water.

4. Wilbur Hot Springs

Located 2.5 hours north of San Francisco, Wilbur Hot Springs sits on an 1800-acre nature preserve in the Coast Range foothills. Its remote location offers opportunities to enjoy hiking and biking trails during your stay. Reservations are required at this off-grid, natural mineral spring with peaceful views of hills and meadows.

5. Orr Hot Springs

After you visit Wilbur Hot Springs, you can get to Orr Hot Springs in less than 2 hours. This small and serene hot springs resort is down a country road between Mendocino and Ukiah on the west side of Clear Lake. As you soak, you can admire views of the surrounding forest and hills.

6. Harbin Hot Springs

One of the oldest hot springs in California, Harbin Hot Springs has stunning views of the valley below. It’s in the Mayacamas Mountains near Middletown, about a 30-minute drive from Napa Valley. The Heart Consciousness Church runs this rustic hot spring as a non-profit. There’s a hot pool, warm pool, and cold plunge for guests to enjoy, along with 1700 acres filled with canyons and creeks surrounding the retreat.

7. Saline Valley Hot Springs

If you’re already planning to stop by Death Valley National Park during your California road trip, you should check out the Saline Valley Hot Springs while you’re there. These hot springs are located inside the national park and are free to visit with park admission. You need a high-clearance vehicle with 4×4 to access these hot springs, though, as the 35-mile road is rugged and often inaccessible during winter. Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with views of the desert and mountains while you soak.

8. Mono Hot Springs

If you’re in central California in Fresno County, drive to Mono Hot Springs. It’s a summer cabin resort, campground, and hot springs all in one, making it an excellent place to spend a few nights. You’ll find views of alpine lakes and granite peaks at this hot spring located in the Sierra National Forest. After hiking, swimming, trout fishing, boating, or horseback riding, you can enjoy a long soak in the hot springs and mineral baths.

9. Sespe Hot Springs

Multiple hot springs exist in the Los Padres National Forest near Ojai, and Sespe Hot Springs is one of them. You can only access these hot springs by foot or horseback, but it’s at least a 7-mile journey one way. The best time to visit is spring, as the rest of the year tends to be too hot or rainy. As you relax in the thermal springs, you’ll enjoy views of the Topatopa Mountains and the surrounding Sespe Wilderness.

10. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort

The Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort sits near Avila Beach, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, vineyards, and the surrounding hills. This hot springs spa and resort is a unique, peaceful environment designed to benefit your well-being, health, and inner self. Guests of the resort get a private hot mineral spring tub to enjoy on their balcony or patio.