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

What a place. I stayed here for a few nights with a friend who has an "in" and it was really unique. In order to stay I believe you either have to be a member, or attend one of their new-age courses.The drive up from LA was great and it must be one of the most spectacular coastlines in the... more

I'm not a particularly new-agey kind of person and you don't have to be to love Esalen. It's spectacular visually - the ocean, the immaculate lawns, the unbelievable massages right over looking the ocean and the garden. You immediately feel at home and at ease here. The food is pretty good, very healthy. The massages are unbelievable - it's the... more

My boyfriend and I spent five nights at Esalen in Room 14 in March of 2006. It was bliss and I cried when we had to leave. No TV, radio, newspapers, cell phone service and two computers with 80's style inop dial up internet. Being from L.A. one forgets about the billions of stars in the sky available at Esalen.... more

We stayed here on a "personal retreat" in one of the standard room accomodations, which are basic motel type rooms with two double beds and a private deck. The rustic wood panel walls are thin so you may hear your neighbors. Bear in mind that this is a retreat center and not a resort (you have to make up your... more