Need to unwind? Chill out with a dip in geothermally heated waters. California’s geologically active landscape pushes mineral-laden springs to the earth’s surface, creating liquid nirvana in steaming pools. Immerse your body and evaporate your stress in these soak-worthy springs, which are just a sampling of California’s abundant collection.
Vichy Springs Resort, Ukiah
Located two hours north of San Francisco, the bubbly springs at the nearly 165-year-old Vichy Springs Resort have the same carbon-dioxide-rich makeup as the famous carbonated waters of Vichy, France. Book an overnight stay in one of the cottages, then parcel out your time in the 104°F hot pool, Olympic-size swimming pool, and 90°F carbonated mineral baths. A half-hour walk leads to Chemisal Falls, where you can plunge into the creek’s chilly pool. Famous Vichy Springs soakers have included Teddy Roosevelt, Mark Twain, and Jack London.
Sierra Hot Springs Resort & Retreat Center, Sierraville
At the 700-acre Sierra Hot Springs resort in an alpine valley north of Truckee, hot mineral water flows into pools and private tubs ranging in temperature from 85°F to 110°F. The hottest pool is enclosed in a large geodesic dome with stained glass and skylights, and the sand-bottomed “meditation pool” is perfect for stargazing. Summer is the most popular season, but soaking on a crisp winter day is glorious. Therapists offer various types of massage, including Watsu water massage. Pitch your tent on the property or book a room at the historic 1870s lodge.
Wilbur Hot Springs, Williams
East of Clearlake, Wilbur Hot Springs is an 1,800-acre nature preserve with naturally occurring hot mineral springs that were used by Native Americans for thousands of years. The water emerges at approximately 145°F, where it’s channeled into a Japanese-style “flumarium”—three long flumes with temperatures that averaging between 98°F and 109°F. Water flows continually through the flumes, so there’s no need for chemicals. Reserve a cabin, hotel room, or bunk room, and cherish the fact that you can’t get cell service. A highlight is waiting for the gurgling Fountain of Life geyser to erupt, which it does every 45 minutes.
Indian Springs Resort and Spa, Calistoga
Visitors have been “taking the waters” at this down-to-earth Napa Valley town since its founding in the mid-19th century. One of Calistoga’s oldest mineral water emporiums, Indian Springs has been delivering detoxifying treatments since 1861. The signature mud bath has you submerged to the neck in warm mud made from volcanic ash, then left to bake. If that doesn’t appeal to you, opt for a few laps in the Olympic-size mineral-water pool, constantly refilled by on-site geysers. Sam’s Social Club Restaurant serves classic wine country cuisine indoors and on its patio, and you can spend the night in a cottage, bungalow, or 1930s-era lodge rooms.
The Inn at Benton Hot Springs, Benton
At this sagebrush-covered desert oasis east of Mammoth Lakes, soothe your aches and pains under the shade of cottonwood trees. Nine outdoor tubs—some redwood, some fiberglass, and one made of stone—are equipped with hot and cold taps, so you control the temperature. Campers should reserve in advance to secure a site with a private tub. Bed-and-breakfast rooms are also available. Benton is an old mining outpost, but the region turned out to be much richer in mineral water than silver.
Beverly Hot Springs, Los Angeles
At L.A.’s only natural mineral spring spa, the 105°F artesian water was discovered by accident in the 1920s by drillers looking for oil. What they found was sodium-bicarbonate-rich H2O, ideal for drinking and bathing. Start by immersing yourself in the large hot pool, then move on to the cold plunge, sauna, or steam bath. The bamboo fusion massage is a worthy indulgence—your therapist will knead away your stress with heated bamboo sticks. Leave your phone in the car; the “no talking” rule is strictly enforced.
The Spring Resort and Spa, Desert Hot Springs
In this unpretentious Coachella Valley town, crystal-clear waters rise from underground at 170°F, filling The Spring’s three sparkling mineral pools with smooth-as-silk aqua pura. Visit for a day of watery bliss or spend the whole weekend at this intimate, palm-tree-lined resort (reserve in advance to score one of nine rooms by the pool). It’s tempting to soak all day, but allow time for the Finnish sauna or a full-body salt scrub, and you can kiss your impurities good-bye.
