File:Big House @ esalen - panoramio.jpg — cc by-sa 3.0
Slates Hot Springs, also known as Big Sur Hot Springs, emerges at 122°F on the iconic Big Sur coast at just 4 feet above sea level.
The spring sits 206 feet from the Pacific Coast Highway in the Big Sur region near Carmel Valley. The dramatic coastline combines steep mountains, coastal vegetation, and ocean views, with water 60 degrees warmer than the ambient air temperature of 62°F creating a striking thermal contrast.
History of Slates Hot Springs
Thomas B. Slate filed a land patent for the site in 1882, establishing early settlement and use of this coastal thermal feature. The spring's location reflects unique geothermal activity along California's coastline where tectonic activity creates heat sources near the surface.
Access requires a short walk from the Highway 1 corridor. The coastal location means fog and moderate temperatures year-round, though winter storms can affect road access. Spring and summer offer the most reliable conditions for visiting.
Is Slates Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Slates Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 27.2 in
Annual Snow: 0.4 in
February
Air 55°F · Water 122°F · +67° contrast
December
Air 55°F · Water 122°F · +67° contrast
January
Air 56°F · Water 122°F · +66° contrast
February offers 15°F more contrast than September
Overview
Escondido Campground is one of the best kept secrets in the Santa Lucia Mountains. This family-friendly campground boasts scenic vistas that will take your breath away. Surrounded by spectacular rock formations and sprawling oaks this campground rests in a beautiful grassy meadow. The outdoor activities are endless. Hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, picnicking, and bird watching are just a few of the activities you can do while visiting this Los Padres National Forest gem.
Recrea...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Escondido Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Carmel Valley Village, CA
USGS Quad: LOPEZ POINT 7.5 · PP 492: 93.0 · NOAA: 7.0 · AMS Map: SANTA CRUZ
What is the water temperature at Slates Hot Springs?
Slates Hot Springs has a water temperature of 122°F (50°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Slates Hot Springs located?
Slates Hot Springs is located in Monterey County, California at 4 feet elevation, near Carmel Valley Village. Coordinates: 36.1230°N, 121.6400°W.
How do I get to Slates Hot Springs?
Slates Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Slates Hot Springs?
Yes, Escondido Campground is located nearby (8.3 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Slates Hot Springs?
At 122°F, Slates Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Slates Hot Springs crowded?
Slates Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Slates Hot Springs?
Essentials for Slates Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.