Hot Springs in Southern California: 15 Hot Springs That You Should Visit

I am sure that hot springs in southern California are not the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions California. But you should know there’s more to California than beaches and renowned landmarks such as the Hollywood Sign and Golden Gate Bridge.

Southern California has some of the best hot springs to relax and rejuvenate your spirits. Keep reading to find out where precisely you can locate them, water temperature, opening hours, and cost of admission. Let us take a look at the 15 hot springs in southern California.

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1. Deep Creek Hot Springs in Southern California: The Best Natural Springs for Urban Escape

Explore the Deep Creek fork of the Mojave River in the rain-shadowed desert foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. It has both hot and cold pools.

• The natural hot pools, with their verdant surroundings of willows and other trees, feel like they take you to another world.
• The Mojave River’s cold waters offer welcome relief, and a nearby sandy beach attracts sunbathers.

Deep Creek Hot Springs is a non-profit thermal spring in the splendid San Bernardino National Forest. It is approximately 2.5 hours away from the urban center of Los Angeles and situated 8 miles to the north of Lake Arrowhead.

I was looking for peace and tranquility and the therapeutic benefits of mineral waters, and I found all these in Deep Creek hot springs in southern California. Formerly a somewhat obscure oasis, Deep Creek Hot Springs now welcomes many individuals who have become aware of its existence. Here is what you should know before visiting.

You can get to the geothermally heated waters through:

• The northern route- The most popular Bowen Ranch Trail.
• The Western Route – Pacific Coast Trail.
• The Southern Route – Bradford Ridge Trail.

Ensure you carry your drinking water and avoid drinking the spring water.

2. Gaviota Hot Springs: Also Called “Las Cruces Hot Springs”

While traversing Highway 101 and passing through the Gaviota Tunnel west of Santa Barbara, one can remain oblivious to natural hot springs within one mile of the road. I was tired of walking, but Gaviota hot springs were a good diversion to bathe my legs. I wouldn’t call Gaviota hot springs hot because its waters are warm.

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• The springs are 0.5 miles from the trailhead and 0.1 miles from the Gaviota Peak route.
• The milky blue water is kept heated by the sulfur bubbles.
• The Gaviota Hot Springs is relatively tiny in size, and the overall appeal of the water might be enhanced by improving its circulation.

Nevertheless, I highly recommend visiting this hot springs location en route to or returning from Gaviota Peak. When undertaken independently, this activity entails a hike over a distance of one mile, accompanied by an elevation increase of 400 feet.

Before visiting Gaviota Hot Springs, you should know the following:

Do not forget to carry your swimsuit to enjoy this hot spring.

3. Remington Hot Springs: Commonly Known as Lake Isabella Hot Springs

Remington Hot Springs consists of four pools. Three beautiful man-made tubs, which the residents look after, and the other is called Miner’s tub and is situated fifty feet above the other pools. The hot baths are located on the banks of the Kern River, not far from Lake Isabella.

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You can visit the Remington Hot Springs whenever you choose. But in the summertime, the heat here rises quickly. I visited Remington Hot Springs during winter, and all I can tell you is the experience was UNFORGETTABLE! The site was covered by thick blankets of snow, thus making the surrounding area around the Hot springs a winter paradise.

Wear hiking shoes, as the trail has steep climbs and Dusty terrain. Also, remember nudity in this Southern California hot spring is not allowed.

4. Sespe Hot Springs: The Hottest Natural Hot Springs in Southern California

This Southern California hot spring was formed differently from other hot springs. For decades, locals have relied on the soothing waters of the Sespe Hot Springs for its therapeutic value. They are in a secluded desert region in the Los Padres National Forest, northeast of Santa Barbara.

As it emerges from the ground, the water is a warm 194 degrees. The water cools as it flows through the creek and arrives at the big springs.

You can use three rugged hiking trails to get to Sespe Hot Springs.

• Johnson Ridge Trail;
• Sespe River Trail;
• Alder Creek Trail.

Do you want to have the best experience? Visit Sespe Hot Springs during the spring months and see the hot waterfall and an old-school rock sauna.

5. Montecito Hot Springs: Also Known As Hot Springs Canyon

Montecito Hot Springs has seven pools and can be found in the Los Padres Mountains. A moderate three-mile round-trip hike will bring you to the hidden waters in a canyon. As I made my way through the trail, I came across the remnants of an 1800s health resort. Here is what you need to know.

Amazingly, the blue tint of the water here is caused by bacteria. But there’s no need to be scared, as it is harmless. You are not permitted to camp; remember to pack your hiking shoes. Clothing in Montecito hot springs is optional, and if you want to go nude, no one will ask you.

6. Willett Hot Springs: A Secluded Hot Spring

Willett Hot Spring is situated North of Ojai in the Sespe Wilderness. If you love hiking, you will love Willett Hot Spring. Why am I saying this? You will appreciate the scenic wildness of Southern California as you walk along this trail that follows Sespe Creek. And the prize for completing this hot springs hiking excursion is a geothermal hot spring that is 100 degrees.

The following is the important information you need to know before going.

Prepare ahead of time and have enough materials for Willett Hot Springs. Situated 15.5 miles distant are the Sespe Hot Springs. Cooking over open flames or in a stove requires a permit. I brought my dog along, and no one asked me. If you plan to bring your dog, ensure it is leashed on the trail.

7. Whitmore Hot Springs: Best Southern California Secret

Whitmore hot springs are situated near Wild Willy’s Hot Spring and other thermal pools within the Long Valley/Mammoth Lakes region of the Eastern Sierra. The Inyo National Forest encompasses it.

According to geological records, the hot springs are believed to have originated from volcanic processes that occurred approximately 760,000 years ago.

Do you want to relax in a hot spring that is not overcrowded? Whitmore Hot Springs will not disappoint, as it is considered among the best-kept secrets in Southern California.

8. Wild Willy’s Hot Springs: Naturally Heart-Shaped

Wild Willy’s Hot Spring stands out among the several hot springs in Mammoth Lakes due to its distinctive feature of providing a natural hot spring experience. Additional springs in the vicinity that feature artificially constructed pools that are supplied with geothermal hot water through a piping system are:

• Rock Hot Tub;
• Crab Cooker.

The journey continues through the breathtaking Alabama Hills and into the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains, beginning at Death Valley, the lowest point in North America. It is truly one of the most picturesque drives I have ever experienced.

I highly suggest taking a road trip if you happen to live nearby so that you may see the Mammoth Lakes, hot springs, and all the other breathtaking locations in the region. There are two pools:

• The heart is shaped, which is the bigger one.
• Smaller pool accommodating 2 to 3 people.

The optimal period for visiting Wild Willy’s and its environs is most likely during the spring season. I visited Wild Willy’s in early May and enjoyed my time there. The weather was nice, there weren’t many bugs, there was light snowfall on the peaks of the Sierra Nevadas… the view was just AMAZING!

9. The Spring Resort and Spa: In Desert Hot Springs

Emerging from the earth at 170 degrees, mineral spring water is rich, warm, and restorative. The three glistening pools of hot mineral water are perfect for a relaxing soak.

Guests have access to three pools—two outdoor and one indoor—maintained at various temperatures and made available at all hours of the day and night. When I was at the Spring Resort and Spa, I got to unwind and enjoy the majestic views of Mount San Jacinto.

Even if it’s tempting to stay in the tub all day, you can rid yourself of toxins by scheduling some time in the full-body salt scrub or Finnish sauna.

10. Miracle Springs Resort and Spa: Natural Hot Mineral Water Resort

It is situated in Joshua Tree National Park’s foothills. Miracle Springs Resort offers a variety of classy spa services and cosmetic procedures in an opulent hot springs resort setting with breathtaking views of the mountains and therapeutic waters.

Eight naturally heated mineral water pools and hot tubs open around the clock are surrounded by a lushly manicured acre of spacious suites and rooms.

Savour delicious meals both inside and outside at The Capri Restaurant & Bar. There are:

• Three villas with three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
• A Presidential Condo Suite with two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

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11. Beverly Hot Springs Spa

Drillers searching for oil in the 1920s accidentally found the 105°F artesian water at Los Angeles’s only natural hot spring mineral spring spa. They discovered water rich in sodium bicarbonate, making it perfect for showering and drinking.

Soak in the huge hot tub first, then cool down in the plunge pool, sauna, or steam room. I tried the bamboo fusion massage, in which the therapist uses hot bamboo sticks to knead away stress, and I recommend you try it, too. Beverly Hot Springs takes the “no talking” policy very seriously, so please put your phone in the trunk.

12. Holtville Hot Springs

Nestled slightly outside El Centro, Holtville Springs is on the US/Mexico border. Initially heated to 125 degrees, the water drops to 110 degrees in the larger of the two cement pools and 104 degrees in the smaller as it makes its way into them.

After a long bath, you can relax in the hot spring-fed shower. There is also a 90-degree pond on the property with a sandy bottom and a cooler temperature. Here is the basic information you ought to have before going there.

This hot spring is the most convenient to reach out of all the ones in Southern California. If you do not enjoy hiking, then you will love this. Why? The springs are conveniently located on a paved road. This means you will not trek to this beautiful southern California hot spring.

13. Aqua Soleil Hotel and Mineral Water Spa

Situated near the San Jacinto and San Bernardino mountains, this Aqua Soleil hotel and mineral pools is conveniently located at:

• 16 miles from Indian Canyons in Palm Springs.
• A distance of 2 miles from Cabot’s Pueblo Museum.

Before going to Aqua Soleil Hotel and Mineral Pools, you should know the following.

The mineral waters of Desert Hot Springs is famous, and you may relax in the comfort of your suite as you enjoy it.

14. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa

Nestled peacefully on a hillside shaded by trees, the property boasts 24 naturally heated mineral spring hot tubs accessible outside. Each hot tub is encircled by a gorgeous fence made of rich wood with a lattice design, offering stunning views and a tranquil setting while guaranteeing seclusion from other visitors.

Where exactly can you find Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort?

You can reserve Avila Hot Springs public Hillside Hot Tubs for your group or reserve them privately for your entire event. Making reservations is strongly advised.

15. Agua Caliente County Park Hot Springs

Located near the southern edge of Anza Borrego Desert State Park, this desert oasis is just 910 acres and not too far from the main road. There are three hot springs pools for day and overnight guests to enjoy in Agua Caliente County Park.

In addition, there are plenty of hiking, camping, and relaxation opportunities. Below is the vital information you should know.

If you’re looking for a place to soak, you can choose from two outdoor pools and one indoor pool that features natural mineral hot springs. Family fun is guaranteed at the outdoor pools. Indoor therapeutic spas with glass walls are only for adults.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There you have it! Those are the hot springs in Southern California that you should visit to relax. Among the most famous man-made and hot mineral springs in Southern California are Willett Hot Springs, The Spring Resort and Spa, Beverly Hot Springs, and Remington Hot Springs.

I had an unforgettable time here enjoying the beautiful scenery and hot water, so I highly recommend you try them too. It worth mentioning, that there are that Northern California is also reaching for Hot Springs, like Benton Hot Springs, Sierra Hot Springs Resort, and Glen Ivy Hot Springs. I will tell you more about them in my next article. So stay tuned for updates.

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