My partner and I recently did a "personal retreat" here. We stayed in one of the Point Houses. It was quite an experience, some great, some not-so PROS - gorgeous setting. The grounds are perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific. Truly stunning views everywhere. The gardens are beautiful - flowers and vegetables, lots of hummingbirds. The Point House was... more

My wife and I experienced the late night baths/hot springs. As others have written, you arrive just before 1am, the Esalen security guy is waiting at top of steep hill. He checks you in, walks you and group (20 or so) down to a 2nd check in point where you actually sign in. Then you walk to the change room... more

Beautiful drive down the coast to Esalen, about 10 miles south of Big Sur. Got instructions and directions to the baths from the young man at the gate. While there were not any staff at the baths, it was not hard to figure out the process. Communal dressing area and fantastic showers open to the ocean. A wide variety of... more

There are some really beautiful things about this place, but you have to get past the obnoxious staff, unbelievable crazy rules, total breakdown of communication, inconstant information. Basically a total lack of service. And if you can jump through the maze of hoops they set up, you have to still surf this weird elitist, "we are so much better than... more

The massage was very good and the setting, and sunset, and the sound of crashing waives, all these features were pretty spectacular. The sulphur baths were a good place to relax prior to the massage. And I understand the whole setup of a serene and free-thinking environment, the whole 60's era; however, I do not understand the totally dingy, see-through,... more

Awe inspiring drive from So Cal. On the ocean side of Hwy 1. Natural hot springs, world class massages, healthy meals included, various accomodations, some with views. Sit out on the same lawn that Hendrix played on. Pool and hot tubs-nude, never saw an optional suit, took about fifteen minutes to get used to that, saw just about every body... more

If you can't make it to a retreat at esalen, the night time hot spring hours are the next best thing. Sitting in amazing tubs overlooking the ocean by moonlight, the experience simply has to be experienced to be appreciated! Do be aware that most bathers do not wear swim suits, but towels, etc are provided. Changing rooms and showers... more

This is one of the very few things in life that you must do . Although difficult to get a reservation you should try hard .For an hour before and after your massage ( very good ) you can sit and relax in Hot Springs overlooking the Pacific Ocean .With rain and at some point hail coming down hard the... more

We arrived at night to a lodge filled with young, white hippies/hipsters. Dinner was chaos, not a seat to be found in the lodge...aka mess hall. We went to the sulfur tubs at night. By the way, clothing optional means don't you even think about coming out here with a bathing suit on. The tubs are set on a cliff... more