Nothing beats soaking in the therapeutic experience of geothermally hot waters. Thanks to California’s dynamic topography continually forcing natural and mineral-rich springs up to the Earth’s surface, the Golden State is full of great sites to enjoy a natural hot spring experience.

With approximately 163,000 square miles of broad and sweeping topography, California is the third-largest state in the United States. From its mountains and valleys to its wealth of public and private natural hot springs, California is one of the country’s most geographically rich states. There are many natural resources in the state, including these relaxing hot springs. From its springs in the north to those in the south, this guide has everything a traveler needs to explore the best hot springs in California.

What To Know About California's Hot Springs

California’s hot springs provide a wide range of services regarding what travelers like and what they can fit into their travel budget. Although spending is an expectation of travel, it is wise to consider budgeting and get a cheaper promo package.

To provide travelers interested in California’s hot springs with the best possible guide, we have included listings of the average trip cost for solo and group travelers.

The price range for hot spring trips varies depending on accommodations, travel tours, flight expenses, and food. The number of travelers impacts the expenses as well. The more people on the trip, the more expensive the travel is. Below are the average trip costs to California’s hot springs for solo travelers, couples, and families.

Average Hot Springs Trip Cost for Solo Traveler

  • Food and Sightseeing: $87 to $170 per day
  • Flight Expenses: $385 to around $674 for economy within the United States
  • Accommodation: $103 to $298 per night depending on the place preference

Average Hot Springs Trip Cost for Couple

  • Food and Sightseeing: $175 to $340 per day
  • Flight Expenses: $770 to $1350 for economy within the United States
  • Accommodation: $103 to $298 per night depending on the place preference

Average Hot Springs Trip Cost for Family of 4

  • Food and Sightseeing: $350 to $680 per day
  • Flight Expenses: $1,540 to $2,696 for economy within United States
  • Accommodation: $210 to $290 per night depending on the place preference

These budgets are costly, but travelers can always opt for cheaper trips.

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Hot Springs In California That Are Open To The Public

There are numerous hot springs in California. Aside from the trip cost, they vary in size, outlooking views, and historical stories. Not only are these naturally heated waters great for sites and therapeutic dips, but they also provide services such as luxurious spas with mud baths and massages that are good for the skin and body. Below is a list providing all the hot springs in California.

NORTH CALIFORNIA

  • Esalen Institute
  • Harbin Hot Springs, Middletown
  • Indian Springs Resort and Spa
  • Tassajara Zen Mountain Center
  • Vichy Springs Resort
  • Wilbur Hot Springs

SOUTH CALIFORNIA

  • Beverly Hot Springs
  • The Spring Resort and Spa Desert

EAST CALIFORNIA

  • Sierra Hot Springs Resort
  • Travertine Hot Spring
  • The Inn at Benton Hot Springs
  • Wild Willy’s Hot Spring

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

  • Mono Hot Springs Resort
  • River Oaks Hot Springs Spa
  • Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort Spa

Why Are The Springs In California Hot?

Geothermal Background

Geothermal heat is the warmth radiating from the Earth’s interior, and it is what heats these Californian hot springs. The water here moves within the Earth’s interior, coming in contact with scorching rocks heated by magma. The waters then meet with volcanic fractures and fault lines which push it back up towards the surface.

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Hot Springs Safety Precautions

In visiting these hot springs, it is important to note that one must prepare well since many of these hot springs locations are far from civilization. It is also imperative to carry water, sunscreen, and other necessities during travel.

Things To Remember

Do not use soap and shampoo in hot springs.

Hot springs in California are different from commercial hot springs with improved facilities. The hot springs are entirely for swims and dips, not for bathing with cleansing agents. These products can potentially pollute the natural flow of the waters.

Clean As You Go!

A responsible traveler must never forget to clean as you go. This habit saves time and effort for the keepers of the hot springs. Leaving the place in better shape is a rewarding experience to maintain the cleanliness of these springs for many travelers to come.

California is rich with natural resources, and these hot springs are the best in providing a therapeutic and relaxing experience. These might need some planning and careful budgeting, but with many options to choose from and a geothermally heated water experience, it’s worth the adventure!

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