Hot Springs Creek Beach At Esalen Institute

Located below Hot Springs Canyon, Hot Springs Creek Beach at Esalen Institute—also known as Esalen Beach—is a narrow rock-and-sand beach in the Big Sur region. The beach and the area around it are part of a private property owned by the Esalen Institute, which is a retreat center and academic establishment focused on self-introspection and spiritual rejuvenation. Esalen Hot Springs is also a fantastic place to relax and feel spiritually calm, with amenities like a hot tub adding to the experience.

The Esalen Institute frequently organizes spiritual, philosophical, and academic programs, including internships, lectures, and conferences. The institute has many facilities for accommodation and recreation for guests and participants of these programs, including a pool, a spa, a bookstore, a farm, and a garden. Additionally, there's an art barn where visitors can engage in creative activities, and a meditation hut for quiet reflection. The institute, named after the Native American Esselen tribe, offers a unique environment for exploring the human potential.

For those who want to stay at Esalen, the institute offers various types of accommodations, including private rooms and other cozy lodging options, ensuring a comfortable stay. If you prefer a more relaxed outdoor experience, there is a picnic area where you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

If you are looking for a beach with unrestricted recreational access, Limekiln State Park has an idyllic, easily accessible beach that is only a 20-minute drive from here

Unfortunately, Hot Springs Creek Beach at Esalen Institute is currently inaccessible as the blufftop area above it is fenced off. Additionally, the bluff sides around the beach are very steep and rocky, making any attempt to access the beach dangerous. The Esalen Institute is located near 55000 Pacific Coast Highway, a convenient location for those traveling from San Jose or other nearby cities.

There are many attractions near Hot Springs Creek Beach at Esalen Institute within a 25-minute drive. The New Camaldoli Hermitage has lush public gardens that offer an incredible view of the Pacific Ocean. The Henry Miller Memorial Library, dedicated to the memory of the renowned author Henry Miller, also serves as a gallery and performance space. It hosts many exciting events throughout the year (particularly between May and October), including film screenings, live music performances, the Big Sur International Short Film Screening Series, and the Esalen Gazebo School Benefit.

For another nearby attraction, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is situated at the base of the Santa Lucia Mountains and has a variety of hiking trails that offer a memorable way to explore the vibrant flora and fauna of the Big Sur region. If you're looking for a beach with unrestricted recreational access, Limekiln State Park has an idyllic, easily accessible beach that is only a 20-minute drive from here.

Esalen offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual retreats, and educational programs, making it a perfect destination for those looking to rejuvenate their mind and body. Whether you are interested in artistic endeavors at the art barn, seeking solitude in the meditation hut, or simply enjoying the serene environment, Esalen provides a holistic experience that caters to a wide range of interests and needs.

If you get hungry, there are many great restaurants near Hot Springs Creek Beach at Esalen Institute within a 20-minute drive. Nepenthe is a renowned upscale restaurant that offers a dining area with a pleasant view of the Big Sur coastline and serves delicious California cuisine with Mediterranean influences. In addition, the restaurant has hosted a number of famous actors, writers, and artists including Ernest Hemmingway, Clint Eastwood, and Man Ray. Lucia Lodge Restaurant was awarded TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice award in 2020 and offers a pleasant oceanfront dining experience. In addition, the restaurant also serves great seafood and sandwiches. If you are looking for another good and affordable restaurant near Hot Springs Creek Beach at Esalen Institute, the modestly priced Big Sur Deli offers excellent sandwiches served in generous portions.

If you are looking for a hotel near Hot Springs Creek Beach at Esalen Institute, there are many great options within a 25-minute drive. The 5-Star Ventana Big Sur offers many amenities including a restaurant, a clothing-optional pool, a sauna, a fitness center, a spa, complimentary breakfast, wine-and-cheese receptions, and yoga and tai-chi classes. A more affordable hotel is the 3-Star Big Sur Lodge, which offers many amenities including a pool, a bar, a general store, a coffee shop, and a restaurant. If you are looking for another good hotel near Hot Springs Creek Beach at Esalen Institute, the modestly priced 2-Star Lucia Lodge offers many amenities including a restaurant, a deck, a patio, complimentary breakfast, and a seasonal convenience store with a gift shop.