If you are looking for a great spa vacation in the southern Californian city, consider visiting one of the many natural hot springs and hotels located throughout the city. These spas and hotels offer a wide variety of experiences, from mud baths to outdoor showers. You can even camp at these hot springs if you’d like. But if you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, consider a trip to Glen Ivy Hot Springs, located in the middle of LA and Palm Springs. This spa offers 19 natural hot spring pools and classes.
Avila Hot Springs
One of the best ways to get to Avila Hot Springs and Hotels in San Diego is to take public transportation. The nearest subway station is at San Diego International Airport, which is 9.1 miles (1.6 kilometers) away. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa is a short walk from the hot springs and features free WiFi in public areas. You can also use the hotel’s free valet parking service. You can also use the hotel’s train pick-up service to reach Avila Beach Golf Resort.
This fun family destination is a great place for groups or couples to relax. The hot springs are only 2 miles from the beach, and its setting in the foothills of oak trees provides a shady respite from the morning fog during the summer and dazzling views of the surrounding area throughout the year. Reservations are required one week prior to the first day of a swim session. You will also need to pay a $12 reservation fee.
Near the border between the US and Mexico, this hot spring resort features a large public tub with a temperature of 102-104 degrees. The water flows into a smaller lagoon and into the main pool. The resort also has camping areas for long-term visitors that allow for seven months of stay. In addition to the spa, guests can relax in the pool or enjoy a meal at the Tepary Southwest Grill.
Steep Ravine
If you are considering a family vacation to San Diego, you might want to consider staying at one of the many hotels or resorts near Steep Ravine Natural Hot Springs. This San Diego attraction is located near a waterfall, and its pools vary in temperature. To avoid the crowds, visit the hot springs during low tide. It is best to plan your visit during off-peak hours and avoid the weekend.
Guests can rent a cabin at Steep Ravine Cabins & Campgrounds, located on the mountainside of Mount Tamalpais. These 1940s cabins are equipped with wood stoves and benches, primitive toilets, and firewood. While staying in a cabin, you can hike to nearby beaches and enjoy the expansive ocean views. You can also opt for camping at Steep Ravine Cabins & Campground, which offers primitive toilets, firewood, and picnic tables.
The hot springs are accessible only during low tide and are under a massive boulder. Depending on the time of year, there is room for up to 25 people. Both Steep Ravine and Mt. Tam offer camping and are a great day trip from the city. It’s also possible to rent a car and camp in the area. There are also plenty of hotels in San Diego, so you can spend a few days relaxing and enjoying a spa day.
Harbin Hot Springs
In the heart of Lake County, you can find the Harbin Hot Springs, a unique retreat center. With on-site cabins and camping trailers, or rent a freestanding cottage and enjoy the spa. The geodesic domes add a unique touch to the setting. While it’s best to plan your stay ahead of time, you can also pitch a tent if you’re traveling as a group. There are eight pools to choose from, including the hot pool, which is 115 degrees. While it’s impossible to spend much time in the water, you will surely enjoy the massages and spa services.
The Harbin Resort has beautiful rooms with high ceilings, sculptural woodwork and a peaceful atmosphere. It was once the home of the famous Watsu massage, and has been reopened as a yoga and meditation center. It also features an organic restaurant and yoga classes. The resort has a policy of not allowing alcohol in its rooms or on its grounds, so it’s a good place to go if you’re looking for a relaxing atmosphere.
Harbin Hot Springs offers several outdoor mineral pools. You can also take a cold plunge in one of them. The Harbin Hot Springs is one of the hippest hot springs in San Diego, and the birthplace of the art of Watsu, which is an aquatic bodywork practiced for deep relaxation. In the heart of the Harbin Hot Springs, you can experience the benefits of Watsu, an ancient water massage based on shiatsu techniques. The water temperature is perfect for meditative soaks. The hot and cold pools are separated by manzanita-mullioned stained glass.
Esalen
The Esalen Natural Hot Springs are perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Set in central California’s rugged Big Sur coastline, the resort offers visitors the soothing benefits of hot mineral water and views of the ocean and sunset. The retreat also offers a wide range of activities and services, including yoga, meditation, and other holistic therapies. Esalen also offers accommodation ranging from individual rooms to suites, including oceanfront accommodations.
The hot springs at Esalen have a temperature of 119 degrees and flow at 80 gallons per minute. The pools are separated into two areas, the upper level with a special lift for handicapped guests. A wheelchair-accessible changing room is available at the upper-level bath. There are several baths on the lower-level level, which includes restrooms and a glass wall overlooking the ocean.
The Esalen Institute is another great location for a spa retreat. Its tubs overlook the Pacific Ocean. During the day, these tubs are reserved for workshops, but are available to the public by reservation between midnight and three in the morning. Guests can also relax in the peaceful communal tubs. Located about 10 miles from Esalen, the Skyes Hot Springs is a secluded area that requires a ten-mile hike.
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
With a prestigious reputation, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is one of the best spa resorts in Northern California. Built in 1926 in the style of a Spanish mission, the hotel was recently renovated and now boasts plush junior suites, signature suites, heritage rooms, and luxurious fireplace rooms. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, you’ll be delighted with the spa’s extensive list of services and facilities.
With a 40,000-square-foot spa and several outdoor pools, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is an ideal place to relax. Its renowned spa is one of the best in the country and boasts 50 different wines. While you’re here, try one of the many fitness classes and hikes that are available daily. You’ll be glad you did.
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Wit & Wisdom, is run by celebrity chef Michael Mina. It’s the first of its kind in Wine Country. The restaurant features hearth-fired dishes and a craft beer list. There are also private cottages for guests to choose from, which allow maximum privacy and luxury. A short walk away from the main hotel, the cottages are ideal for those seeking privacy and tranquility.
Holiday Inn Bayside
The holiday inn is adjacent to the Point Loma Naval Base, an expansive military complex with diverse attractions. Families and business travelers alike are drawn to this San Diego hotel, as is yachting culture. The hotel features earth-tone colors and airy common areas. The two main buildings of the hotel have different looks, so if you’re visiting with children, be sure to book a room that looks out over the bay.
This San Diego hotel is near the America’s Cup Harbor. It is only a short walk to Fisherman’s Landing, where you can rent a boat or take fishing trips. There’s a fast-food restaurant at the Holiday Inn, and the hotel offers free airport shuttle service. The hotel is close to Downtown San Diego, which is a 15-minute drive away. SeaWorld is a 40-minute drive north, and is also within easy walking distance.
