One of my favorite ways to relax is by going out and breaking a sweat or soaking in one perfect hot spring near San Diego. Ranging from remote desert havens to plush spa resorts, the springs offer an array of experiences for those needing relaxation or simply a scenic day out. As someone who has been to many hot springs in Southern California, I wanted to narrow down some of my favorite natural hot spring locations close by San Diego. Read the finest points to plan your next escape,
Jacumba Hot Springs Spa and Resort (71.4 miles)
Just over an hour from San Diego, Jacumba Hot Springs Spa and Resort offers a truly tranquil desert oasis. This property in Jacumba Hot Springs feels a million miles away from it all, surrounded by mountains and offering quiet mineral-rich hot spring pools. With these features, visitors can relax under the sun at a large mineral hot spring-fed pool and jacuzzi (by reservation). Mimicking Spanish architecture and surrounded by palm trees, you would not believe Jacumba the desert hot springs is a place to come for relaxation.
If you are not staying overnight there is day passes which makes it an easy day trip. Restorative hot springs happen to be a little higher on your bucket list, and as one of the hottest in our nation, they attract so many people from visitors constantly looking for ways to soak up some geothermal goodness. Pool temperatures are hot enough that you can stay in and soak for a while without getting overheated. The resort also provides a spa treatment and massages for those who wants to go the whole nine yards with it.
Jacumba Hot Springs Spa and Resort is set in a beautiful natural environment. The desert is spacious and wide, which as well a gives natural view because the landscape where takes place in very pretty. You can also opt for nearby trails if you love to hike and take a dip in the hot spring afterwards.
Elm Hot Springs Resort in Aguanga (80 miles)
Elm Hot Springs Resort (Aguanga) Escape to nature just 80 miles away from San Diego. Nestled at the foot of Palomar Mountain, this idyllic sanctuary boasts not only breathtaking scenery along with mineral-rich hot springs. The resort offers three natural hot spring tubs that are filled by the waters of underground springs with a high mineral content.
Elm Hot Springs offers indoor and outdoor soaking to visitors year-round. The hot waters have been believed to reduce stress and serve as a relaxation therapy which makes it desirable for an ideal retreat. An Perfect Weekend Getaway Every single hot spring tub, is planned to discreetly combine with the natural scenery of nature ensuring a peaceful connective setting.
Whether you simply want to make it a day trip, or even overnight were available Elm Hot Springs is offering. It offers cool mountain vistas and a temperate atmosphere, making it the perfect getaway from busy city life. Read a book or enjoy the beautiful views as you soak in the warm water.
Glen Ivy Hot Springs, Temescal Valley (89.1 miles)
Glen Ivy Hot Springs in Temescal Valley is a chic wellness resort that happens to be only 89 miles away from San Diego. The resort here is famous for its mineral baths, mud bath and spa services providing complete relaxation. The mineral-enriched hot springs, heated naturally to 104°F, provide relief for sore bones and muscles while lifting the spirit.
Glen Ivy offers so much more than just hot springs. The resort also has multiple outdoor and indoor pools, including Club Mud where you can cover yourself head to toe with mineral-rich red clay mud. Other pools to enjoy include the Mineral Baths and Hot Pool, both offering specific health benefits. The resort has peaceful places to lounge, as well as landscaped grounds that are perfect for relaxing in between dips.
If you want to spend the whole day there, don’t fret—the resort has plenty of on-site dining and spa treatments. Their treatments range from massages to facials so that you can step out feeling ready and revitalised. Those options, when combined with its picturesque setting and luxury accommodations establish it as one of Southern California’s premier hot springs destinations.
Julian — Agua Caliente County Park (93.5 MILES)
Just under two hours from San Deigo, Agua Caliente County Park is a great destination for hot spring aficionados and nature lovers alike. Located in the mountainous desert of Julian, you can enjoy soaking and relaxing at three thermal pools which includes one indoor tub supplied with spring mineral water. The peaceful natural surroundings make it the perfect place for somebody who wishes to escape from a chaotic environment.
Keen to spend more than a day at this station, with camping and hotel options available D’Aguilar is ideal for quick weekend escapes. I was able to enjoy the outdoor hot springs during the day and then relax around a campfire at night. There are different temperatures in each of the park pools so you feel a very revitalized after soaking at every side. The indoor pool is a standout, and guests can choose to enjoy their soak away from the elements.
In addition to the hot springs, Agua Caliente County Park features hiking trails and desert wildlife. Showing off the wild beauty of its natural surroundings, these trails have something for hikers at every level. So, whether you are here for the springs or come to hike through its landscapes from this park we hope that one way or another they allow you a moment of escape and spiritual reconnection with nature.
Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa
Just a short jaunt away from San Diego, Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa offers guests looking for mineral-rich waters the opportunity to take advantage of their natural spring water spa. In the heart of Carlsbad, though, you will find this spa that includes water from nearby mineral seasonings which is extremely high in minerals and it ayurvedic services. While seeking a no fuss soak to an all encompassing immersion, Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa is the perfect low pressure environment.
Services at the spa range from private mineral baths to massages and body treatments that incorporate spring water’s healing powers. This was created in mind with relaxation and restoration, making it a popular option among both locals and out-of-towners. The mineral water is renowned for its healing effects on the body — it also relieves stress and improves general well-being.
This is an example of a family-friendly spa called Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa that you also consider if visiting with loved ones. It’s perfectly situated as well, meaning you can easily make a day of it exploring other areas in Carlsbad such as Legoland California or the local beaches. It is, however, the perfect short but rejuvenating getaway.
Deep Creek Hot Springs
Background: Deep Creek Hot Springs is a beautiful natural hot spring found in the San Bernardino National Forest about 90 miles from San Diego. Deep Creek is popularly known as the place that requires work to get there and then sits serene in its jungle-like setting with natural pools only minutes from savage ping-ponging beach-breaks unsullied by developers. This spot is perfect for outdoor lovers who want to hike a bit before taking their dip.
These springs have various pools with different temperature, so you can enjoy the heat at your comfort level. Certain pools are situated along the creek and have a distinct thermal character where cold stream water mixes with hot spring burst, while others nest in private coves. The pools are natural and in their undisguised original state, though the area around them is lovely making it as a fount of repose for nature-birds.
You do need to bring copious amounts of water and your suntan lotion, as well as good hiking shoes because this is not a developed trail like some other hot springs. The hike is not without its challenges, especially in the summer months when the heat increases a few degrees with every step. Surrounded by high desert, soak in a hot spring and hike on wild trails at Deep Creek.
Final Thoughts
Need some time away from the fast-paced life in San Diego? Visiting natural hot springs close to San Diego is a fantastic way to relax, reconnect with nature and benefit from mineral waters. Experience all-day graze-style farm-to-table dining as you explore the property at Glen Ivy Hot Springs or luxuriate in a natural spring surrounded by Giant California oak and cottonwood trees with its associated bathing pools — Deep Creek covers two different types of spas appealing to exploring travelers who need their hot springs fix! Whether you’re in need of a quick daycation or are hoping to enjoy the improving weather for an extended weekend, these hot springs offer just what we’ve all been craving after city living.