The 9 best hot springs in California

Hot springs destinations in California are starting to heat up just as the weather begins to cool down. From the naturally warm waters of Williams, to the spiritual pools of Calistoga, to SoCal’s hot and trendy Greater Palm Springs resorts – here are some of the best hot springs destinations to relax and rejuvenate in the Golden State.

Indian Springs Calistoga

Spread out across 17 acres, this spiritual resort embodies the true essence of connectedness between the earth and soul. There are four onsite thermal geysers supplying a constant stream of mineral waters which are fed directly into the mineral pool, steam rooms and the Buddha Pond. The all-ages Main Pool is an Olympic-sized mineral water pool filled with 300,000 gallons of water, dating back to 1913. It ranges in temperature from approximately 92–102 degrees Fahrenheit. The Adult Pool is smaller and more intimate, kept at cooler temperatures of around 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

An empty pool surrounded by palm trees — The Watsu pool at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa © Courtesy of Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is built on its own geothermal hot springs waters. Water is pumped out of the ground from 1300ft below the surface at 113 degrees and cooled to feed the pools and jacuzzis. This European-style, boutique-y feeling resort offers a luxurious stay. For a unique experience, those who immerse themselves beneath the surface of the Watsu pool will hear calming spa music piped underneath the water.

A spa lobby with a sign reading — Dr. Wilkinson’s was established in 1952 © Courtesy of Dr. Wilkinson’s

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs

This iconic resort and spa destination was originally founded in 1952 by pioneering wellness experts “Doc” and Edy Wilkinson, and became a classically known retreat back in the day. It has recently undergone an extensive renovation and slated to unveil revitalized updates onsite in early December of 2020, including three geothermal mineral pools, eight mineral baths, and a reimagined "spa garden."

An empty pool surrounded by palm trees and a blue sky — Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort is a perfect weekend getaway © Courtesy of Tyler Chartier

Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort

Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort is a quiet oasis in downtown Calistoga known for the three onsite natural geothermal pools, renowned for their restorative properties. This property is an approachable destination for travelers of all backgrounds and ages to embark on a romantic weekend journey, family reunion, girlfriend’s trip or solo getaway.

An empty pool with lounge chairs on a sunny day — Expansive Solage has multiple heated soaking pools © Courtesy of Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection

Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection

Situated on 22 sweeping acres and surrounded by panoramic mountains and picturesque vineyards of Northern Napa Valley, the lavish Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection offers an expansive 20,000 sq ft of health and wellness space. The bathhouse hosts multiple geothermally heated soaking pools ranging in temperature from icy cold – which improves lymphatic circulation -- to a warmer, comforting 98 ° F, and upwards toward a relaxing 103 ° F.

A beautiful pool surrounded by trees — In 2019 Two Bunch Palms became the first carbon-neutral resort in the US © Courtesy of Greater Palm Springs CVB

Two Bunch Palms

Located on 77 lush acres in Palm Springs, the adults-only Two Bunch Palms is an award-winning retreat that first opened in the 1930’s – but the healing waters of the property itself have been flowing underneath the earth 600-plus years. This property recently completed a renovation in 2019 and has since become the first carbon-neutral resort in the US. It’s a trendy and contemporary wellness escape just outside of LA that was rumored to have once been the hangout of Al Capone.

A hot springs pool with a Moroccan vibe — If you're looking for something with a Moroccan flare, go to El Morocco Inn & Spa © Courtesy of El Morocco Inn & Spa

El Morocco Inn & Spa

El Morocco Inn & Spa whisks guests away to a Moroccan-inspired oasis. Its pools of warm, natural spring-fed mineral waters source the swimming pool and hot tub which are open 24 hours a day. Glowing lanterns, lounging hammocks, Moroccan poufs, and daybeds piled with pillows accompany sheer fabrics and an outdoor fireplace and fire pit to add to the enchantment and laid-back ambiance of the property and to offer a place to relax in the shade in-between soaks.

A bubbling hot tub with trees in the background — Situated on California's Central Coast, Sycamore Hot Springs is a destination itself © Molly O’Brien / Lonely Planet

Sycamore Hot Springs, Avila Beach

On the picturesque Central Coast of California’s Avila Beach, the Sycamore Hot Springs is a charming spa and destination resort that offers a selection of relaxation amenities. From the hillside mineral springs hot tubs, to the beautiful spa, the labyrinth, private hillside balcony hot tubs, meditation gardens, and a wide selection of mind-body classes onsite – this resort spans more than 100 acres and is open to renewing and restoring the mind, body and spirit.

A woman in a steamy room — Disconnect at Wilbur Hot Springs © Courtesy of Wilbur Hot Springs

Wilbur Hot Springs

Wilbur Hot Springs is a solar-powered off-the-grid, geothermal spring and nature preserve located in Williams, California. “It’s a very simple place, combining the healing feeling of the waters with the beauty and quiet of nature,” says Greg Hagin, onsite General Manager. The property is a tech-free, adults-only space with a bathing area that’s clothing-optional. In the hotter summer months the pool is filled with cool, clear spring waters, and in the colder winter temps it’s filled with the hot mineral waters which appear a beautiful greenish hue. There’s no food service, so guests should come prepared with provisions for their stay.