Avila Hot Springs
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Avila Hot Springs

4.1
·777 reviews·San Luis Obispo, United States

Relax and rejuvenate in natural mineral hot springs or enjoy a heated pool with a slide in scenic Avila Beach.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful soak

CrowdLow
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Avila Hot Springs

Avila Hot Springs

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful soak

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Relax and rejuvenate in natural mineral hot springs or enjoy a heated pool with a slide in scenic Avila Beach.

4.1
(777 reviews)

"The water is the star of the show, it keeps me going, erasing body pain, mental distress and resetting my nervous system."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Towels & Locks

You'll need to bring your own towels and locks for lockers. Showers are available. :handbag:

Embrace the Mineral Scent

The mineral water has a slight sulfur smell, but it's known for its skin-softening benefits. :sparkling_heart:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mineral Hot Springs

Mineral Hot Springs

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort

Soak in therapeutic, naturally heated mineral water in private hillside tubs with scenic views.

Heated Swimming Pool

Heated Swimming Pool

Avila Hot Springs

Enjoy a large, comfortable swimming pool with a fun slide, perfect for families and a refreshing dip.

Scenic Avila Beach

Scenic Avila Beach

Avila Beach

Explore the charming beach town, pier, and boutique shops for a quintessential California coastal experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Soaking

Beat the crowds by visiting during weekday mornings or evenings for a more serene experience. Weekends can get busy, especially with families enjoying the swimming pool and slide.

Pack Smart for Your Visit

Bring your own towels, locks, and any snacks or drinks you might want, as these are not provided. While bathing suits are required, the mineral water can leave a slight sulfur scent, so be prepared.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful soak
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Relaxing end to the day
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Family fun with pool & slide
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

enchanted getaway @Sycamore Springs #california #mineralsprings #pismo #avilabeach #travel #traveltiktok #sanluisobispo #couples
@leahfrzr
2.1K likes • 63.2K views

Bring Your Own Towels & Locks

You'll need to bring your own towels and locks for lockers. Showers are available. :handbag:

Embrace the Mineral Scent

The mineral water has a slight sulfur smell, but it's known for its skin-softening benefits. :sparkling_heart:

This is a short easy hike in Avila Beach, San Luis Obispo County. #avilabeach #avilabeachcalifornia #sanluisobispo #slocal #centralcoastcalifornia #coastalcalifornia
@cal.euphoria
1.9K likes • 60.4K views
I think I’ve found my happy place ♨️ #hotsprings #avilahotsprings #sycamorehotsprings #franklinhotsprings #pasorobleshotsprings #sunseeker
labeigh
50 likes • 454 views

Early Bird Soak Special

Consider the early session (7 am-12 pm) for a great price and fewer people. :sunrise:

Private Tubs for Romance

Sycamore Mineral Springs offers private hillside tubs perfect for couples' getaways. :couplewithheart:

It’s really is that simple! Find your happy 😊 Discover the hillside mineral hot tubs at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort in Avila Beach, California. Each private open-air tub is filled with heated, therapeutic mineral water sourced from our historic springs. Tucked into the hillside for seclusion, these soaking spots offer sweeping views and a relaxing wellness experience along California’s Centra...
sycamoresprings
344 likes • 9.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Towels & Locks

You'll need to bring your own towels and locks for lockers. Showers are available. :handbag:

Embrace the Mineral Scent

The mineral water has a slight sulfur smell, but it's known for its skin-softening benefits. :sparkling_heart:

Early Bird Soak Special

Consider the early session (7 am-12 pm) for a great price and fewer people. :sunrise:

Private Tubs for Romance

Sycamore Mineral Springs offers private hillside tubs perfect for couples' getaways. :couplewithheart:

Kid-Friendly Pool & Slide

The swimming pool is heated and features a slide, making it a hit with families. :child:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(777 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Avila Hot Springs for its relaxing mineral waters that soothe muscles and soften skin, with many appreciating the affordable pricing and friendly staff. The private hillside tubs at Sycamore Mineral Springs are a highlight for couples seeking a romantic escape. Some wish for more individual hot spring pools instead of one large one, and note the slight sulfur smell, though most find it a minor issue.

"I had a great time soaking in the hot mineral springs. The price is great, especially for the morning and evening soaks. The staff is friendly and informative. If you need a towel or a lock for your locker, you can purchase them. They have a couple vending machines for drinks and snacks. They offer massages. This is a very low key, no frills hot springs pool. Bathing suits are required. The water does make your skin and hair feel soft and silky. My sore muscles were relaxed, when I left. The water does have a little of the mineral sulfur in it; so there is the slight, "Sulfur," smell. Don't let that turn you off. They keep the water at about 104°. If you like the warmer water stay near where the water comes into the springs pool. I prefer slightly cooler water; so, I stayed at the far end. I will definitely return when I'm in the area.

One of the questions asked was, "Do they have a cold plunge pool? If you are looking for the standard 5'x5' (40°-50°) plunge pool, no, they don't.

The swimming pool is heated to 89°. It is a normal, chlorinated pool, but the chemical treatment is perfectly balanced, and you don't smell the chlorine.

*Someone on Google said that they are open until 10:00 p.m. This is incorrect. I confirmed it with the staff. They are only open until 9:00 p.m."

Harriet Krueger

"Nice hot springs that' s been open forever! I've been coming here since the 70's and my grandfather used to come here from the 1930's to the 1970's ! Established in 1907, this hot springs has a nice clean single hot pool about 2' deep. You will sit with other folks and though there is some conversation going on, it's done fairly quietly and respectfully most times, obviously you'll get some louder people so expect that on occasion. There is also a nice large comfortable temp swimming pool with a slide and area for kids, with chairs and tables to sit and relax. We went on a weekday from 12-4 and there wasn't a lot of people. Weekends are especially busy at times. There are campsites and some small cabin rentals here also. There is a large grassy area in front of building for picnicking as you can come and go as long as you have wrist band on. No food served here, with vending machines for drinks. You can bring in your own water and munchies if you want. There is what they call an early session that goes from 7am-12 noon for 18$ which is nice also."

James Kitagawa

"Love this place. You take the good with the bland and it adds up to a mellow spot to enjoy mineral water, in a man made tub, surrounded by palm trees and green oaks. The water is the star of the show, it keeps me going, erasing body pain, mental distress and resetting my nervous system. Say hi to the lifeguards, they're the best! 10+ points if you get to meet Sunny, the orange cat. ♥️"

Ava Cell

What People Like

Soothing mineral waters
Affordable pricing
Private hillside tubs

What People Dislike

One large hot spring pool
Slight sulfur smell

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Avila Hot Springs is located in Avila Beach, California, easily accessible from the 101 freeway. The drive through the green hills leading to Avila is scenic. TikTokInstagram

Yes, parking is generally available. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. Reddit

Absolutely! Avila Hot Springs is a perfect stop for a day trip or a relaxing afternoon during a California road trip. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Avila Hot Springs offers campsites and small cabin rentals, making it a great option for an overnight stay. Reddit

The drive to Avila Beach from the 101 freeway is noted for its scenic beauty, passing through rolling green hills. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Avila Hot Springs is open until 9:00 p.m. daily. The early session runs from 7 am to 12 pm. Reddit

The early session (7 am-12 pm) is $18 per person. General admission prices may vary, so it's best to check their official website or call ahead. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially for private tubs at Sycamore Mineral Springs, is recommended to guarantee your spot. Instagram

Yes, there's an 'early session' with a special rate. Private hillside tubs at Sycamore Mineral Springs offer a more exclusive experience. InstagramReddit

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa is a distinct offering within the Avila area, known for its private tubs. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

The hot springs pool is kept around 104°F, while the swimming pool is a comfortable 89°F. Reddit

Yes, Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort offers private, open-air mineral hot tubs tucked into the hillside for a secluded soak. TikTokInstagram

Amenities include a hot mineral pool, a heated swimming pool with a slide, showers, and vending machines for drinks and snacks. Reddit

You can bring your own water and snacks to enjoy in the designated picnic areas. Reddit

Avila Hot Springs does not offer a traditional cold plunge pool. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture serene moments in the private hillside hot tubs at Sycamore Mineral Springs, or fun shots by the swimming pool slide. The surrounding natural beauty of Avila Beach also offers great photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can take photos, but be mindful of other guests' privacy. The natural setting provides beautiful backdrops. TikTok

While generally allowed, it's always good practice to be respectful of others' experiences and avoid intrusive photography. TikTok

Popular shots include relaxing in the steamy mineral tubs, enjoying the views from the hillside, and family fun at the swimming pool. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can offer beautiful lighting for photos, especially with the natural surroundings. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Avila Hot Springs offers a great mix for families. The main draw for kids is the heated swimming pool featuring a slide, providing hours of fun. Reddit While the hot mineral springs are more suited for adult relaxation, the swimming pool ensures the younger ones stay entertained. Reddit Packing your own snacks and drinks is a smart move for families, and designated picnic areas are available for easy refueling. Reddit Visiting on a weekday can help manage crowds, making the experience smoother for families with children. Reddit

💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa is the prime destination for couples seeking a romantic and rejuvenating getaway. The resort's signature private, open-air hillside hot tubs provide an intimate setting with breathtaking views, ideal for shared relaxation. TikTokInstagram Soaking in the therapeutic mineral waters under the open sky creates a truly magical and memorable experience. Instagram It's frequently highlighted as an 'enchanted getaway' and a perfect 'wellness escape' for couples looking to reconnect. TikTokInstagram

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers

For travelers mindful of their budget, Avila Hot Springs presents an excellent value. The 'early session' from 7 am to 12 pm offers a significantly reduced price, making it an economical choice for enjoying the mineral waters. Reddit To maximize savings, visitors are encouraged to bring their own towels, locks, and snacks, as these are available for purchase onsite. Reddit While Sycamore Mineral Springs provides a more exclusive, private experience, the general admission to Avila Hot Springs offers a more budget-friendly way to enjoy the benefits of the mineral waters. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Healing Waters of Avila

Avila Hot Springs is celebrated for its naturally heated mineral waters, a draw since its discovery in 1907. These therapeutic springs are known to soothe sore muscles and melt away stress, leaving skin feeling soft and silky. Reddit The main hot springs pool maintains a toasty temperature of around 104°F, with areas closer to the water's entry point being even warmer. Reddit While the mineral water may have a faint sulfurous aroma, it's a sign of its natural potency and is generally well-tolerated by visitors. Reddit

For a more exclusive experience, Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa features private, hillside hot tubs. These secluded alcoves are filled with the same therapeutic mineral water, offering a tranquil setting for couples or solo travelers seeking ultimate relaxation. TikTokInstagram The open-air design allows you to soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings while benefiting from the healing properties of the springs. Instagram

Beyond the hot springs, Avila Hot Springs also boasts a heated swimming pool with a slide, making it a family-friendly destination. Reddit The combination of natural mineral soaks and recreational swimming options provides a well-rounded experience for various visitor preferences. Reddit

Exploring Avila Beach: More Than Just Hot Springs

Avila Beach offers a delightful coastal experience beyond its famous hot springs. This charming town is known for its relaxed vibe, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Instagram Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic pier, explore unique boutique shops, and savor delicious meals at oceanfront restaurants. TikTok The wide, sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves. Instagram

Adventure seekers will find plenty to do, with opportunities for hiking in the picturesque hills surrounding the town, cycling along coastal paths, and engaging in water sports like paddleboarding. TikTokInstagram The drive into Avila Beach itself is a treat, winding through lush green hills that offer stunning views. Instagram Don't miss out on local treats like shaved ice or a visit to the small, engaging coastal aquarium. TikTok

Adding to the local flavor, Avila Valley Barn provides a fun experience for families, allowing visitors to interact with farm animals and purchase fresh produce. TikTok The region is also dotted with wine tasting rooms, offering a chance to sample some of the finest Central Coast wines. Instagram

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