Dr Wilkinson's Hot Springs Resort
A 1950s-era spa hotel in Calistoga offering mineral pools, signature mud baths, and a charming wellness retreat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Dr Wilkinson's Hot Springs Resort
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1950s-era spa hotel in Calistoga offering mineral pools, signature mud baths, and a charming wellness retreat.
"The mud bath was truly an unforgettable experience - something I feel everyone should try at least once in their lifetime."
🎯 Book Mud Bath Early
The mud bath is a highlight! Book your session in advance to guarantee your spot.
💧 Pool Temps Vary
Enjoy pools at 80, 90, and 104 degrees. Pick your perfect temperature!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Signature Mud Bath
Spa
Experience a unique, detoxifying mud bath that suspends you in a mineral-rich, therapeutic soak.
Mineral Pools
Pool Area
Relax in three distinct mineral pools, each at a different temperature for personalized comfort.
House of Better Restaurant
Onsite
Enjoy delicious food and wellness concoctions with poolside service or at the charming restaurant.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Mud Bath Experience
Book Spa Treatments in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Mud Bath Early
The mud bath is a highlight! Book your session in advance to guarantee your spot.
💧 Pool Temps Vary
Enjoy pools at 80, 90, and 104 degrees. Pick your perfect temperature!
🚗 Avoid Roadside Rooms
Road noise can be an issue. Opt for rooms away from the main road for a quieter stay.
📱 ResortPass for Day Use
Consider ResortPass for day access to pools, cabanas, and food service.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Mud Bath Early
The mud bath is a highlight! Book your session in advance to guarantee your spot.
💧 Pool Temps Vary
Enjoy pools at 80, 90, and 104 degrees. Pick your perfect temperature!
🚗 Avoid Roadside Rooms
Road noise can be an issue. Opt for rooms away from the main road for a quieter stay.
📱 ResortPass for Day Use
Consider ResortPass for day access to pools, cabanas, and food service.
🥗 Check Breakfast Availability
Breakfast can sometimes be limited due to supply issues. Check ahead or plan for lunch.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests rave about the unique and unforgettable mud bath experience, praising the deeply relaxing mineral pools and the resort's charming, nostalgic ambiance. The friendly staff and convenient poolside service at House of Better are also frequently highlighted as positives for a rejuvenating getaway. However, some visitors noted potential road noise in certain rooms and occasional issues with food availability.
"The mud bath was truly an unforgettable experience - something I feel everyone should try at least once in their lifetime. Life is all about experiencing, isn’t it? The entire resort carries a nostalgic charm, almost as if we were transported back to the 1950s with its décor and ambiance.
The rooms were spotless and very comfortable, service staff were warm and friendly, and the mineral pools were deeply relaxing - a perfect way to unwind. Altogether, it felt like a beautiful blend of history, relaxation, and care.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique and rejuvenating getaway!"
Joan Lim
"Our stay here was amazing. The location was perfect for us. Everything that we needed was within walking distance. The service was great. We just happened to be lucky and were visiting as they were doing a wine tasting event. The best part was the spa. I would suggest trying out their mud bath."
Chris Hew
"This was an amazing gem—what a perfect vacation find! We got passes for a daybed, access to three mineral pools of varying heat, and we got poolside service for drinks and snacks that we ordered as well. The drinks were a lot of fun, and the nachos were delish. If you want to spend a day soaking up some vitamin d with the occasional dip and a little day-drinking thrown in (or wellness concoctions!) this is the place for you. Vibes for real."
Kelly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dr. Wilkinson's is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive north of San Francisco, depending on traffic. You can drive yourself, or consider ride-sharing services. The resort is located in Calistoga, making it a popular 'staycation' spot for those in the Bay Area.
Yes, the resort is easily accessible by car. Parking is available on-site. For those without a car, ride-sharing services can be used, though availability might be less frequent in Calistoga compared to larger cities.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Calistoga and explore the surrounding Napa Valley. If you prefer not to drive, consider booking a shuttle service or using ride-sharing apps, but be aware of potential limitations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book spa treatments, especially the signature mud bath and massages, well in advance, as they are very popular and can sell out.
Yes, you can often purchase day passes or cabana rentals through services like ResortPass, which grant access to the mineral pools and amenities.
Pool hours are generally from morning until evening, and spa treatment times vary based on bookings. It's best to check the resort's official website or call ahead for the most current hours of operation.
The resort occasionally offers special packages or hosts events like wine tastings. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements about promotions or themed weekends.
Day passes and cabana rentals typically include access to the mineral pools and sometimes poolside food and drink service. Specific inclusions can vary, so confirm when booking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The mud bath involves a 15-minute soak in a mineral-rich mud, followed by an individualized bath, a steam session, and being wrapped in towels. It's described as a unique and deeply relaxing detoxifying treatment.
Yes, Dr. Wilkinson's features three mineral pools at different temperatures: 80, 90, and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing guests to choose their preferred level of warmth.
The resort has a nostalgic, 1950s charm with a focus on relaxation and wellness. It's a low-key environment perfect for unwinding, with a blend of vintage ambiance and modern spa services.
Yes, many guests find Dr. Wilkinson's to be a safe and relaxing destination for solo travelers seeking R&R and a peaceful escape.
The resort sometimes hosts wellness events like sound baths and yoga, as well as wine tasting events. The associated restaurant, House of Better, offers a great dining experience. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The resort features 'House of Better,' an onsite restaurant offering delicious food and wellness-focused drinks, with options for poolside service.
Yes, poolside service is available for drinks and snacks, allowing you to enjoy refreshments without leaving the comfort of your lounge chair or cabana.
While specific menu details aren't always listed, 'House of Better' focuses on wellness, suggesting they likely offer a variety of healthy options. It's best to inquire directly about dietary accommodations.
You can enjoy classic cocktails, wine, and unique 'elixirs' or wellness concoctions, catering to both relaxation and health-conscious preferences.
Some guests have reported instances where certain menu items or supplies (like yogurt) ran out, or meals were delayed. It's advisable to check for daily specials or potential shortages.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vintage charm of the resort, the steaming mineral pools, and the lush outdoor spaces. Golden hour offers particularly beautiful lighting.
While you can capture the ambiance of the spa, it's important to be respectful of other guests' privacy. Focus on the general atmosphere rather than close-ups of individuals.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional shoots or commercial use of images may require prior permission from the resort. Always be mindful of other guests.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is excellent for capturing the ambiance, especially during golden hour or in the spa. A camera with a versatile lens can capture both landscapes and details.
Popular hashtags include #drwilkinsons, #calistoga, #napavalley, #spaday, #mudbath, and #winecountry. Tagging the resort (@drwilkinsonsresort) is also recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the resort has a nostalgic charm, it's primarily geared towards relaxation. Consider booking a cabana for a dedicated family space. Be aware that some guests find the pools can get lively with children, so if you're seeking absolute quiet, weekdays might be a better option. The mud bath is generally for adults, but the pools offer a great family activity.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for weekday visits when prices might be lower. Packing your own snacks and water bottles (if allowed) can also help manage costs. Consider visiting during off-peak seasons or looking for special promotions.
💖 Couples Retreat
Enjoy leisurely afternoons soaking in the mineral pools, perhaps with a glass of wine from the House of Better. Renting a cabana provides a private space to connect and unwind. The resort's focus on wellness and rejuvenation makes it an ideal escape for couples looking to de-stress and reconnect.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Mud Bath Experience
The process typically involves a 15-minute soak in the mud, followed by a personalized bath to rinse off. After the bath, a steam session and being wrapped in warm towels complete the experience, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and deeply relaxed. It's a must-try for anyone seeking a truly unique wellness experience in Napa Valley.
Pro-tip: Due to its popularity, booking your mud bath session well in advance is crucial to ensure you don't miss out on this iconic treatment.
Exploring the Mineral Pools
Many visitors enjoy spending hours hopping between the pools, finding the different temperatures offer distinct benefits and sensations. The poolside area is designed for calming relaxation, with ample space to spread out. You can often order food and drinks directly to your poolside spot or cabana, making it easy to spend a full day soaking up the sun and therapeutic waters.
While the pools are generally well-maintained and clean, some reviews mention that they can become less relaxing if there are many children present. If you're seeking a quieter experience, consider visiting on a weekday or during off-peak hours.
Wellness and Culinary Delights at House of Better
House of Better provides convenient poolside service, allowing guests to order snacks and meals directly to their lounge chairs or cabanas. This adds an extra layer of comfort and indulgence to a day spent by the pools. The menu features a range of dishes, from light bites like nachos to more substantial entrees, alongside a selection of 'elixirs' and other wellness concoctions.
While the food is generally well-received, some guests have noted occasional issues with food availability or service delays, particularly during busy periods. It's a good idea to check for daily specials or confirm availability if you have specific dietary preferences or time constraints.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit