California's clothing-optional hot springs include Esalen, Harbin, Sierra Hot Springs, Wilbur, and many natural Eastern Sierra springs. Here's what to expect.
Yes. California has a long history of clothing-optional hot springs, ranging from world-famous retreat centers and wellness resorts to remote natural pools in the mountains and desert. Here's what to expect, where to go, and how to navigate clothing-optional soaking respectfully.
For many first-time hot spring visitors, one of the most common questions is whether nudity is allowed — or even expected — at certain California hot springs. The answer is yes. California has one of the strongest clothing-optional hot spring traditions in the United States, dating back decades through wellness communities, retreat centers, and natural hot spring culture. At some destinations, clothing-optional soaking is formally permitted and integrated into the experience. At others, particularly remote natural springs on public land, nudity exists as an informal tradition rather than an official policy.
That doesn't mean every California hot spring is clothing-optional. In fact, most commercial resorts require swimwear. However, several of the state's best-known geothermal destinations have built reputations around a more relaxed approach to clothing and body positivity.
The Short Answer
Yes, California has numerous clothing-optional hot springs. Some of the most well-known include Esalen Institute Hot Springs in Big Sur, Harbin Hot Springs in Middletown, Sierra Hot Springs in Sierraville, Wilbur Hot Springs Resort in Colusa County, certain natural springs in the Eastern Sierra, and some remote wilderness hot springs throughout the state.
At most of these locations, nudity is allowed, nudity is often common, nudity is usually not required, and respectful behavior is expected at all times. The atmosphere is generally focused on relaxation, wellness, and comfort rather than anything sexual.
Understanding California's Clothing-Optional Hot Spring Culture
Visitors who have never been to a clothing-optional hot spring often imagine a very different environment than what they actually encounter. Most clothing-optional hot spring communities emphasize relaxation, wellness, personal freedom, respect for others, and connection with nature. The experience is usually much less dramatic than many first-time visitors expect.
After a few minutes, most people stop noticing whether others are wearing swimsuits or not. The focus tends to shift toward the scenery, the water, and the overall experience. Many visitors alternate between wearing swimsuits and going without depending on comfort, location, and crowd dynamics. The key point is that clothing-optional does not mean clothing-required in either direction. Visitors are generally free to choose what feels comfortable.
Esalen Institute Hot Springs
Among California's most iconic hot spring destinations, Esalen's cliffside baths may also be the most famous clothing-optional soaking experience in the state. Located on the dramatic coastline of Big Sur, the baths sit directly above the Pacific Ocean. Steam rises from mineral-rich water while waves crash hundreds of feet below. The setting has become legendary among hot spring enthusiasts worldwide.
Historically, the baths have operated under a clothing-optional policy consistent with Esalen's broader philosophy of wellness, personal growth, and connection to nature. Today, access is generally limited to overnight guests, workshop participants, special reservation programs, and limited public soaking opportunities when available. Because demand is extremely high, reservations often fill months in advance.
Why Visitors Love Esalen
Spectacular Pacific Ocean views, historic wellness retreat atmosphere, world-famous hot spring setting, and a unique Big Sur location. For many travelers, Esalen is a bucket-list California hot spring experience.
Harbin Hot Springs
Harbin Hot Springs has been one of California's best-known clothing-optional wellness destinations for decades. Located near Middletown in Lake County, Harbin has long attracted visitors interested in hot springs, meditation, yoga, healing practices, and retreat experiences. The property was significantly rebuilt following the devastating Valley Fire in 2015 and has since reopened with updated facilities while maintaining its traditional culture.
Visitors can choose between day visits and overnight stays. Multiple soaking pools, warm pools, and meditation spaces create an atmosphere centered on relaxation rather than recreation.
What Makes Harbin Unique
Long history of clothing-optional soaking, strong wellness and retreat focus, multiple geothermal pools, and a diverse community of visitors. For many people, Harbin serves as an introduction to California's clothing-optional hot spring culture.
Sierra Hot Springs
Located in the mountain community of Sierraville, Sierra Hot Springs offers one of the most peaceful clothing-optional hot spring experiences in California. Operated by the same nonprofit organization that manages Harbin, Sierra Hot Springs combines geothermal soaking with alpine scenery and a retreat-like atmosphere. The property features several soaking areas, including the famous Temple Dome Pool, housed beneath a geodesic dome structure. Visitors often describe Sierra as quieter and more secluded than many other hot spring destinations.
Why People Visit Sierra Hot Springs
Forest and mountain setting, relaxed atmosphere, clothing-optional soaking areas, and historic geothermal facilities. The surrounding Sierra Nevada landscape adds another layer of appeal, particularly during fall and spring.
Wilbur Hot Springs
Wilbur Hot Springs offers one of the most distinctive geothermal experiences in California. Located in the rolling hills of Colusa County, the property operates entirely off-grid and emphasizes sustainability, wellness, and simplicity. Unlike many resorts, Wilbur has intentionally avoided televisions, extensive cell service, and other distractions. One of its most famous features is the Fluminarium — a long bathing structure fed by geothermal mineral water. The bathing areas have traditionally operated under a clothing-optional policy.
What Sets Wilbur Apart
Off-grid environment, historic mineral springs, peaceful atmosphere, and a strong emphasis on wellness and disconnection. Visitors often come specifically to unplug and focus on relaxation.
Are Natural Hot Springs Clothing-Optional?
This is where things become less straightforward. Many natural hot springs in California do not have official clothing-optional policies because they exist on public land rather than private property. Instead, they often operate according to long-standing local customs. In practice, nudity is relatively common at many natural springs.
Eastern Sierra Hot Springs
The Eastern Sierra contains some of California's most popular natural hot springs. Locations such as Wild Willy's Hot Spring, Hilltop Hot Springs, Crab Cooker Hot Springs, Travertine Hot Springs, and Buckeye Hot Springs frequently attract visitors who choose to soak without swimwear. This is especially common during sunrise, sunset, weekdays, and low-crowd periods. However, there is no expectation that everyone participate. Many visitors wear swimsuits, while others do not. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and accepting.
Good Rule of Thumb
If you're uncertain, bring a swimsuit. You can always decide what feels comfortable once you arrive and see the environment.
Deep Creek Hot Springs
Deep Creek Hot Springs in Southern California has historically had a clothing-optional culture as well. The pools attract a diverse mix of hikers, day-trippers, and long-time visitors. As with many natural springs, visitors will often encounter both swimsuit users and nude soakers. Respect for personal choice is generally considered part of local etiquette.
Remote Wilderness Springs
At highly remote destinations such as Sespe Hot Springs or certain backcountry springs in Northern California, clothing-optional soaking is often common simply because visitor numbers are low. Privacy tends to be greater, and cultural norms may be more relaxed. Still, visitors should always remain aware that public land regulations apply and that other visitors may have different expectations.
What If You're Not Comfortable with Nudity?
Many first-time visitors worry about whether they need to participate. The answer is simple: you don't. At nearly all clothing-optional hot springs in California, wearing a swimsuit is acceptable, wearing a towel or cover-up is acceptable, and going nude is acceptable where permitted. Personal comfort comes first. Most experienced visitors barely notice what others choose to wear. The culture tends to be far more casual and respectful than newcomers expect.
Clothing-Optional Hot Spring Etiquette
The reason these destinations work so well is that visitors generally follow a shared code of conduct. Understanding basic etiquette helps everyone enjoy the experience.
No Photography
This is perhaps the most important rule. Many clothing-optional venues prohibit photography entirely within soaking areas. Even if photos are technically allowed elsewhere on the property, visitors should be extremely cautious about capturing images that include others. When in doubt, don't take the picture.
Don't Stare
People visit clothing-optional hot springs to relax, not to be observed. A simple principle applies: treat the environment exactly as you would any other public space. Respect personal boundaries and maintain normal social behavior.
Respect Personal Space
Hot springs can become crowded, particularly at smaller pools. Avoid crowding others when alternative seating or soaking areas are available. Giving people space contributes significantly to the relaxed atmosphere.
Follow Venue Rules
Every hot spring has its own policies. Rules regarding clothing, photography, alcohol, quiet hours, reservations, and pool access may vary considerably. Always follow posted guidelines.
Be Mindful of Alcohol
Some venues prohibit alcohol entirely, while others allow limited consumption. Even where permitted, moderation is important. The combination of hot water and alcohol can increase dehydration and impair judgment.
Common First-Time Concerns
"Will I Be the Only One Wearing a Swimsuit?"
Almost certainly not. Most clothing-optional hot springs attract a mix of visitors. You'll likely see people making different choices.
"Will Everyone Be Nude?"
Usually not. Many visitors wear swimsuits, especially first-timers. The exact balance depends on the venue and the day.
"Is It Awkward?"
For most people, the initial awkwardness disappears within minutes. The atmosphere at established hot spring communities is typically calm, respectful, and focused on relaxation.
"Should I Bring a Swimsuit Anyway?"
Yes. Even if you're considering going without one, bringing a swimsuit gives you options. Most experienced visitors recommend always having one available.
Final Thoughts
Yes, California has numerous clothing-optional hot springs, ranging from internationally known retreat centers like Esalen, Harbin, Sierra Hot Springs, and Wilbur Hot Springs to informal natural soaking spots throughout the Eastern Sierra and Southern California. In most cases, nudity is welcomed but not required, and the atmosphere centers on relaxation, wellness, and respect rather than anything sensational.
If you're new to clothing-optional soaking, the simplest approach is to bring a swimsuit and keep an open mind. You may find that the experience feels much more natural and comfortable than you expected. Whether you're soaking above the Pacific Ocean in Big Sur, relaxing in an alpine pool beneath Sierra peaks, or watching the sunrise from a remote natural spring, California's clothing-optional hot spring culture remains one of the state's most distinctive and enduring traditions.
