Esalen Institute Hot Springs
Also known as Slates Hot Springs
104–119°F
Pool temperatures
Drive-up
Easy access
Paid
Fees apply
The hot springs at the Esalen Institute (historically called Slates Hot Springs) feed cliffside baths above the Pacific in Big Sur. Soaking is for overnight guests and workshop participants. Reservation-based public night bathing from 1 to 3 AM is also reported. Clothing is optional, and Highway 1 closures have repeatedly affected access.
01 · Before you go
Plan your visit
What to expect on the ground: rules, facilities and when to go.
- Clothing optionalCommon here, not official policy
- Lodging & food
- HoursPublic night bathing reported as 1 AM to 3 AM nightly. At other times the baths are for overnight guests and workshop participants.
- Reservations required
- SeasonHighway 1 through Big Sur has had repeated landslide closures. Check Caltrans and Esalen's travel advisory before going.
- FeesOvernight stays and workshops include bath access. Guides report public night bathing at about $25 to $45 per person, depending on the source and date. Confirm the current price with Esalen.
02 · Live
Conditions
Access status, weather and hazards. Closure feeds are checked automatically every morning.
Access
Check before you go
The Timber Fire (25,350 acres, 97% contained) is 9 km away. Roads and trails nearby may be closed.
Checked 14 Oct · updated daily
Esalen reopened on May 3, 2024 after highway closures, with access through Caltrans convoys on Highway 1. An Esalen page dated April 2025 still said Highway 1 to the south was closed. Check Esalen and Caltrans for current conditions, and confirm that night bathing is currently offered.
Water reportedly reaches about 119°F, so the hottest pools can be too hot for some people. The baths sit on a cliff above the ocean. Highway 1 can be closed or restricted by landslides.
03 · Route
Getting there
Nearest town: Big Sur.
- 1
The baths are on the campus at 55000 Highway 1, Big Sur, on the Pacific coast side of Highway 1.
- 2
Esalen is reached by driving Highway 1, and access depends on which sections of the highway are open.
- 3
Public night bathers need a confirmed reservation and arrive between 1 and 3 AM.
36.1230, −121.6400 · nearest town Big Sur, CA
04 · Where to stay
Stay nearby
Make a night of it. Places to stay near Big Sur, from campgrounds to cabins.
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