Hot Springs Atlas

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Ranking ·

2026 Best Hot Springs in California

We prioritized water quality, booking experience, and crowd management. Every pick links to a full schema-ready soaking guide.

13Verified in state
3Free / wild
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  1. #1

    4.9
    95°–112°F9 pools · drive up
    ResortResortClothing optional

    Esalen Institute Hot Springs

    Big Sur, CA

    Clifftop tubs cantilevered over the Pacific where sulfur water gushes from a seaside spring. Esalen's baths mix meditation decks, stone tubs, and massage tables with only the sound of waves below.

    View soaking guide →

  2. #2

    4.7
    95°–114°F9 pools · drive up
    ResortDay passClothing optional

    Harbin Hot Springs

    Middletown, CA

    Rebuilt after the Valley Fire, this iconic retreat blends meditation decks, yoga domes, and terraced soaking pools fed by 114°F mineral water. Silent soaking zones keep the focus on rest and hydrotherapy.

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  3. #3

    4.7
    90°–108°F6 pools · drive up
    ResortDay passClothing optional

    Orr Hot Springs Resort

    Ukiah, CA

    A century-old retreat tucked in redwoods with clawfoot tubs, Japanese-style soaking pools, and stargazing decks along Orr Creek.

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  4. #4

    4.7
    95°–107°F4 pools · short walk
    Wild & RemoteFreeClothing optional

    Travertine Hot Springs

    Bridgeport, CA

    Calcium-lined tubs perched over the Bridgeport Valley with Sierra views. A small upper cement tub feeds several travertine-lined pools carved into the hillside.

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  5. #5

    4.7
    98°–112°F3 pools · drive up
    ResortDay passClothing optional

    Wilbur Hot Springs

    Williams, CA

    A solar-powered nature reserve where rustic hotel rooms and tent platforms overlook the south fork of Cache Creek.

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  6. #6

    4.6
    102°–108°F11 pools · drive up
    PrimitiveDay passClothing optional

    Benton Hot Springs

    Benton, CA

    A historic 1850s stagecoach stop reborn as a desert campground with individual cedar tubs plumbed into each site. No hookups, no light pollution, just steaming water and views of Boundary Peak.

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  7. #7

    4.6
    100°–120°F3 pools · moderate hike
    Wild & RemoteFreeClothing optional

    Buckeye Hot Springs

    Bridgeport, CA

    A cliffside hot spring cascades over colorful mineral deposits into stone-lined pools along Buckeye Creek. Nearby primitive campsites make it a favorite for overlanders.

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  8. #8

    4.6
    92°–102°F2 pools · drive up
    ResortResort

    Indian Springs Calistoga

    Calistoga, CA

    Historic Calistoga property with Olympic-length mineral pool, adults-only soaking grotto, and signature mud baths using geyser-fed water. Palm-lined decks and Art Deco details make it feel timeless.

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  9. #9

    4.6
    95°–110°F4 pools · drive up
    ResortDay passClothing optional

    Sierra Hot Springs

    Sierraville, CA

    Nonprofit retreat blending geothermal pools, massage workshops, and forested campsites minutes from Lake Tahoe’s north shore.

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  10. #10

    4.5
    99°–104°F23 pools · drive up
    ResortDay pass

    Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa

    San Luis Obispo, CA

    A 100-year-old resort just off Highway 101 with 23 cliffside tubs, soaking suites, and a full-service spa. Mineral water is piped up from the Avila Valley aquifer and drained between guests.

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  11. #11

    4.5
    95°–103°F2 pools · short walk
    PrimitiveFreeClothing optional

    Wild Willy's Hot Springs

    Mammoth Lakes, CA

    Boardwalks lead to heart-shaped soaking pools in Long Valley with panoramic views of the Glass Mountains. Natural caldera heat keeps the water comfortable even during winter storms.

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  12. #12

    4.4
    95°–104°F6 pools · drive up
    ResortDay pass

    Mono Hot Springs Resort

    Lakeshore, CA

    Historic Forest Service cabins, a cafe, and natural granite tubs sit along the upper San Joaquin River near Kaiser Wilderness trailheads.

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