Esalen has reopened effective Monday, March 27! CalTrans is authorizing local residents and registered guests of Esalen to pass through the Road Closed sign as a “soft” closure is still in place to the north of us, while crews complete road work. A hard closure boundary, meaning no public traffic permitted, is still in effect just south of Esalen.

Please plan to arrive between 2:00pm and 5:00pm. You will need to notify the CA Highway Patrol officer at the closure barricade that you are staying at Esalen Institute. All workshops and programming will continue this week as scheduled.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we manage through these weather challenges, and look forward to welcoming you to Esalen!

Driving to Esalen via Nacimiento-Fergusson Road

Nacimiento-Fergusson Road is a rural, mountain road that connects Highway 101 to Highway 1 and is an approximate hour-long drive. At some points the roadway narrows to one lane and a half, so please drive with caution.

Also be advised that cellular service is unreliable once you exit Highway 101, and non-existent while driving over Nacimiento Road.

Please note: this route may be impassable during winter months and may be closed at other times of year.  


From the North


From the South


All Travelers


Entrance to Fort Hunter Liggett Army Base

A photo of a  highway checkpoint with green fields on both sides. A sign reads Point Hunter Liggett, US Army.


Turn onto Nacimiento-Fergusson Road

A photo of a two-lane paved road leading over a small bridge, with trees to either side.