Designed by award-winning architect Mickey Muennig, the Esalen baths were re-built after the El Niño storms of 1998. Made primarily of board-formed concrete, sandstone, and clearstory windows, the design matches simple elegance with enduring strength.

The site, on a rocky ledge perched just 50 feet above the Pacific, is unparalleled in history and in its majestic beauty. Natural hot springs flow from the ground at 119 degrees at 80 gallons/minute. These same healing waters have been flowing for centuries, providing respite for Esselen Indians and others.

The baths’ proximity to the ocean offers rare and up close glimpses into the lives of sea creatures such as otters, seals, birds, and migratory whales with their young.

About the Baths

Coming down the hill you will see the upper level with its outdoor massage deck and “living” roof planted in native coastal grasses. Also on the upper level is a completely ADA accessible changing room, bathroom a hot tub equipped with a special lift for handicapped access.

The lower level of the baths is entered by descending steps toward a perpetual fountain. The lower level contains restrooms and two sides, a "quiet" and a “silent” side. Each side has a changing room and there is a shower room perched over the ocean. There are several tubs, both indoor and outdoor in the lower level, as well as private, claw-foot tubs. There are massage rooms on both the upper and lower levels. Towels are supplied.

A mosaic fountain (left) crafted by Elle Leonard greets you as you enter the baths. the "silent" or south side (below) features large indoor tubs.

Swimsuits are optional at the baths and nudity is common in the hot springs, massage area, and swimming pool. We encourage each individual to choose what is most comfortable, either wearing a swimsuit or not, and emphasize that the environment we strive for at Esalen is one of personal sanctuary and respect for the human body.

Three Outdoor tubs on the north side are perched just feet above the ocean.

Public Access to the Hot Springs

In addition to round-the-clock availability for Esalen guests, the Esalen hot springs are open to the general public by reservation from 1 am–3 am, for a cost of $20 per person.  Reservations are available seven days per week, although the baths may be closed during public holidays and some Esalen events.

How to Make a Reservation

An advance reservation with credit card payment is required for public night bathing. Reservations can be made between 8 am – 8 pm (except Friday and Sunday: lines close at noon) by calling 831-667-3047. Credit card reservations are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Please note:

• There is a maximum group size of 4 people and no multiple reservations are accepted.
• To preserve the experience of our bathers, we allow a maximum of 20 reservations per night.
• Group rates for educational and nonprofit groups are available upon request.

Click here to download our complete Public Bathing Information Sheet (PDF)

Bathing Guidelines

For many, the baths and Esalen are a refuge and sanctuary, a place of peace. For this reason we have developed a few guidelines to support this atmosphere.

• We reserve the right to refuse entry, or remove anyone from the property at our discretion.
• Please do not eat, smoke or drink alcohol at the baths.  Those who arrive intoxicated will not be admitted.
• Please do not bring breakable glass containers to the baths.
• Please respect other’s privacy and be mindful of noise.  Please respect the “silent” areas.
• Those with children are asked to be attentive to their safety and mindful of their behavior so as not to disturb other bathers.
• Please use caution at the baths, it is softly lit with many wet surfaces.
• Please drink sufficient water and be mindful when standing up quickly – some experience dizziness.
• For your own protection do not bring valuables with you to the baths.  Esalen Institute is not responsible for the loss or damage of any personal property.
• Silver jewelry and some other metals will tarnish in the high-mineral water.  This can usually be removed with toothpaste or any metal polish.
• For many, the baths and Esalen are a refuge and a sanctuary, a place of peace.  Behavior that violates the harmony of the surroundings or the personal boundaries of others will not be tolerated. 

The upper deck features an outdoor massage area and a living roof planted with native grasses. In the background is a massage room, changing area, and bathroom which are designed for people with disabilities.