7 Hot Springs Near Santa Barbara, California
Do you need a break from the hustle and bustle of life in California? Are you looking for a place to relax and soak in some natural beauty? If so, then Santa Barbara’s hot springs may be the perfect destination for you!
Hot springs are a great way to connect with nature and relax your body and mind. With the natural minerals and therapeutic waters, they are a great way to relieve stress and feel rejuvenated. Santa Barbara is home to many hot springs, so you don’t have to go far to experience the healing power of nature.
In this article, we’ll explore the best hot springs near Santa Barbara, California and discuss the various benefits of soaking in these natural wonders. So get ready for a journey of relaxation and rejuvenation, as we explore the best hot springs near Santa Barbara!
Montecito Hot Springs Club (Hot Springs Canyon): 25 miles – 30 minutes
When it comes to hot springs near Santa Barbara, California, the Montecito Hot Springs Club is a must-see. Symbolically, the ruins of the Montecito Hot Springs Club represent freedom and relaxation. To get to the hot springs, you’ll need to take a short hike down Power Line Road. As you make your way down the path, you’ll come to a picnic table and a set of stone ruins that are all that remain of the original Montecito Hot Springs Club.
From the picnic table, you’ll have to continue down the path to find the hot springs creek. Here, you’ll find several pools that are fed by a hot springs creek. The top pool is the hottest and is surrounded by rocks, while the other two pools are a bit cooler. Each pool has its own unique temperature and level of relaxation, so you can choose the one that’s right for you.
The Montecito Hot Springs Club is a special place that offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a place to soak up some sun, these hot springs are sure to provide the perfect setting. So, the next time you’re looking for a hot springs destination near Santa Barbara, be sure to check out the ruins of the Montecito Hot Springs Club.
San Ysidro Trail: 30 miles – 30 minutes
If you’re looking for a hot springs experience that’s closer to the Santa Barbara area, then the San Ysidro Trail is a great option. Located just a short 30 minute drive away, this single track trail is one of the most popular hikes in the United States.
Starting at the trailhead, the 1.5-mile loop trail takes you through a variety of terrains, from dense woodland to open hillsides. Along the way, you’ll get incredible views of the Santa Barbara area, as well as the California coast. As you make your way up the trail, you’ll eventually reach the top of the peak, where you’ll find a series of bubbling hot springs.
The hot springs are perfect for a dip in the afternoon, or for a refreshing post-hike soak. They’re scattered around the peak, so you can find one that’s ideal for your needs. Just remember to be careful in wet weather and to use caution when getting in and out of the hot springs.
Whether you’re looking for an easy way to relax or a challenging hike, the San Ysidro Trail has something for everyone. And with its close proximity to Santa Barbara, you can easily make a day trip out of your hot springs experience. So if you’re in the Santa Barbara area, don’t miss out on this unique opportunity–head to San Ysidro Trail and take in the beauty of the hot springs.
Big Caliente Hot Springs: 35 miles – 30 minutes
For those looking for a longer, more strenuous hot springs experience, Big Caliente Hot Springs is a great option. Located 35 miles from Santa Barbara, the 7-mile roundtrip hike is definitely worth the effort. As you make your way up the trail, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Santa Barbara mountains and coastline. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a serene hot spring oasis.
Once you reach the hot springs, you’ll find two pools. The Upper Pool is the larger one, and it’s about 87°F. It’s perfect for soaking in and enjoying the peace and tranquility that the surrounding nature offers. The Lower Pool is smaller, and it’s around 103°F. It’s great for warming up after a long hike.
It’s important to note that Big Caliente Hot Springs is on land that was once part of the Mexican-American War. This is an important historical site, and visitors should be sure to respect the area.
Big Caliente Hot Springs is an incredible place to explore. With its stunning views and relaxing hot pools, it’s no wonder why it’s become such a popular destination. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure in the great outdoors, Gaviota Hot Springs Trail is the perfect place to go.
Little Caliente Hot Springs: 40 miles – 35 minutes
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure near Santa Barbara, California, then look no further than Little Caliente Hot Springs. This natural hot springs is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its stunning scenery, tranquil waters, and a parking lot nearby, Little Caliente Hot Springs is an ideal destination for a weekend escape.
To get to Little Caliente Hot Springs, you’ll need to take a short trespass trail that leads to the hot springs. The trail is just a mile long, so it’s perfect for a quick hike. You’ll also need to purchase an Adventure Pass, which you can get at the parking lot before you begin your journey.
Once you reach the hot springs, you’ll be greeted by a tranquil setting. The water is a warm temperature, perfect for soaking in the natural hot springs. You can also explore the nearby Hot Springs Canyon Trail, offering spectacular views of the canyon.
Little Caliente Hot Springs is the perfect destination for a weekend escape. Whether you’re looking for some relaxation or an outdoor adventure, the hot springs offer something for everyone. With its natural beauty and tranquil waters, it’s easy to see why Little Caliente Hot Springs is a popular destination for visitors near Santa Barbara, California.
Las Cruces Hot springs in Gaviota State Park: 40 miles – 45 minutes
If you’re looking for a hot springs adventure near Santa Barbara, California, Gaviota State Park is an ideal destination. Located at the base of the Santa Ynez Mountains, this park is home to a variety of natural wonders, including hot springs, redwood groves, and a beautiful beach.
Gaviota State Park is situated between Los Padres National Forest and the Pacific Ocean and offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The Gaviota Peak Fire Road is a popular hike that leads to the summit of Gaviota Peak, offering breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Valley. Another great hike is the Main Trail, which runs along the edge of the Santa Ynez Mountains, providing stunning views of the ocean.
The park also offers plenty of places for swimming and relaxing, including Wilbur Curtiss Beach and Las Cruces Hot Springs. Wilbur Curtiss Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, while Las Cruces Hot Springs is perfect for taking a soak in natural hot springs. For a more adventurous trip, visitors can embark on the Mile Loop Trail, which takes the hiker through a variety of habitats, including chaparral, redwood groves, and oak woodlands.
Gaviota State Park is a wonderful destination for those who want to explore nature and take in some stunning views. However, visitors should keep in mind that the park is a fragile ecosystem and it is important to practice water conservation and refrain from littering or damaging the environment. Additionally, visitors should be aware that the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including mountain lions, so it is important to stay on the trails and to be aware of one’s surroundings. Visitors should also avoid the Power Line Road, which is not open to the public.
TIP: For a more secluded experience, consider visiting the Las Cruces hot springs, which can be accessed via the Mile Loop Trail. This hot springs is a great spot to relax and take in the beauty of the park.
Gaviota Hot Springs Trail: 40 miles – 45 minutes
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure near Santa Barbara, California, then you won’t want to miss out on the Gaviota Hot Springs Trail. This trail is an excellent way to explore the Santa Ynez Mountains and take in some of the stunning scenery that the area has to offer.
The trailhead is located off Hot Springs Road, just a short drive from Santa Barbara. From here, you’ll follow the dirt road up to the P Bar Flat area, where you’ll find the Gaviota Peak Fire Road. This winding road takes you up to the top of the mountain, where you’ll find an old-growth forest and a natural hot spring. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the coastal town of Gaviota, as well as the islands off the coast.
The hot springs are a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The warm waters of the spring can be a refreshing escape after a long hike, and they offer a great way to relax and unwind. Just be sure to be mindful of the area, as the springs were damaged during a forest fire in 2019.
The Gaviota Hot Springs Trail is a great way to get out and explore the beauty of Santa Barbara’s natural landscape. The trail has plenty of beautiful sights to see, and the hot springs are a great way to enjoy the warm waters and stunning views. So, if you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience near Santa Barbara, then the Gaviota Hot Springs Trail is definitely worth a visit.
Red Rock Hot Springs: 60 miles – 60 minutes
For those looking to explore some of the more remote hot springs near Santa Barbara, California, Red Rock Hot Springs is a must-see destination. Located just off the Channel Islands, Red Rock is nestled in the hills of Los Padres National Forest. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, with its tranquil atmosphere and views of Los Angeles in the distance.
The hot springs are surrounded by lush trees and shrubs, providing a much-needed shade from the warm California weather. The main trail leading to the springs is lined with an array of vibrant wildflowers and cacti, adding a sense of grandeur to the area.
The water at Red Rock Hot Springs is constantly flowing, allowing visitors to enjoy a natural hot spring experience. To preserve the area, there is a strict water conservation policy in place. Visitors should be aware that the hot springs are only available during the day, with no overnight camping allowed.
When visiting Red Rock Hot Springs, be sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Although the conditions can be hot, the area is also prone to sudden weather changes, so it’s important to come prepared.
With its breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere, Red Rock Hot Springs is one of the best hot springs near Santa Barbara. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or a spot for an adventure, this iconic hot spring is sure to be a memorable experience.
Bottom line
Santa Barbara is home to some of the most beautiful hot springs in California. From the natural pools of Hot Springs Canyon to the serene waters of Rincon Beach, these hot springs offer a unique and calming experience that is perfect for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Whether you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city or a spot to enjoy some time in nature, Santa Barbara’s hot springs have something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to take a dip in the natural pools or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach, the area offers plenty of options to suit your needs.
Santa Barbara’s hot springs are a great way to take advantage of the area’s stunning scenery and enjoy some much-needed relaxation and serenity. With something for everyone, these hot springs are some of the best places to unwind in the area.