Soak In and Heal With These Natural Hot Springs
The thought of soaking in a natural hot spring may sound relaxing and pure fun. However, there are also health benefits, according to a group that advocates for the benefits of natural mineral waters. “Natural mineral waters are different from other types of waters” as they supply many of the minerals that the human body needs, says the Balneology Association of North America. These minerals commonly found in natural springs include calcium, magnesium iron and potassium. So if you’re looking for a healthy and relaxing natural spring soak, check out the following.
Beverly Hot Springs
308 N. Oxford Avenue, Los Angeles 90004 Info
https: beverlyhotsprings.com
Located in Koreatown, the Beverly Hot Springs calls itself “Los Angeles’ only 100% Natural Hot Springs Spa.” The 96- to 105-degree water that feeds the spa comes from an artesian well that was found in 1910 by Richard S. Grant. A chemical analysis in 1933 found that the water contains “silica, iron and aluminum oxides, magnesium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, sodium sulfate and sodium chloride.”
The spa is open every day except Tuesday, which is reserved for private bookings. Access to the hot springs pool, cold plunge, steam room and dry sauna is $50 with a two-hour limit.
Deep Creek Hot Springs Pacific Crest Trail, Apple Valley 92308 Info
bit.ly/3kxixwo
There are usually 6-7 geothermal pools at Deep Creek. The primary pools range in temperature from 100 to 105 degrees, according to CaliHotsprings.com. Most will only handle 1-2 people, but the most popular one at the top has enough room for about a dozen potters, or those that enjoy the hot springs.
The U.S. Forest warns not to drink the hot springs water as it contains a fatal disease called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. So don’t submerse your head.
Secret Los Angeles says that “the dappling thermal waters of this outdoor oasis absolutely need to be on your list.”
Gaviota Hot Springs
Gaviota State Park 1595 US-101, Goleta 93117 Info
www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=606
This state park is located in southern Santa Barbara County and should be included to your next trip to the area, say all. The spa is accessible by a quick one-mile hike from the parking area and is surrounded by rich greenery. Parking is $2.
Include the Gaviota Hot Springs in your next trip to Santa Barbara. It’s about 30 minutes west. Check the website before going there. It has been temporarily closed since early January due to severe flood damage and debris cleanup. However, hikers have reported making it to the hot spring.
According to Calihotsprings.com, the best time to hike to Gaviota Hot Springs is in late spring to be able to also take in the wildflowers.
Little Caliente Hot Springs
(temporarily closed until March 14) 3505 Paradise Rd. Santa Barbara 93105
Info www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf
Heads up, this area is temporarily closed until March 14, due to extreme winter weather earlier. In addition, the 10-mile strenuous hike to the springs is downhill meaning, the return is uphill all the way. If you enjoy the backcountry, this spring is nestled in the Los Padres National Forest and is a secluded, clothing-optional spring location.
Be also warned that there are reports of quicksand in the area. The springs can be accessed 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Bring lots of water and a map.
Montecito Hot Springs
1217 E Mountain Dr, Montecito 93108 Info
bit.ly/3slmqgy
Montecito Hot Springs is a deserted hot springs resort from the 1800s, according to Secret Los Angeles. The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County manages the property in the coastal San Padres mountains. The only remnants of the resort are stone ruins.
The hot springs is a cascade of seven rock-lined pools of various temperatures ranging from 60 to 112 degrees. The pool at the top is the hottest.
Calihotsprings.com says the best time to visit is April, May, October and November. “These months have the clearest days with the most comfortable temperatures. They are also months with fewer tourists.”
If you want to hike, soak in the hot springs and then take a dip in the Pacific Ocean, CaliHotsprings.com recommends you go in October.
Sespe & Willett Hot Springs
Piedra Blanca Trailhead, Rose Valley Rd, Ojai, 93023
Info
bit.ly/3zip7vr
Calling all backpackers interested in a truly gratifying trek to Ojai’s off-the-beaten-path hot springs. The trail, located at the end of Sespe River Road, guides you down just over a 20 mile path (roundtrip).
The light at the end of the tunnel comes in the form of two hot springs: Willett and Sespe (the latter of which is furthest and thus more secluded), according to Timeout.com. They recommend you take you time and make it a weekend getaway by staying at on of the various campsites along the way.
Go at your own pace and turn the hike into a weekend getaway with nights at various campsites along the way.
For more information, visit secretlosangeles. com/best-hot-springs-socal, www.tophotsprings. com, timeout.com or Finding Hot Springs at bit. ly/3scwxyl.