Let your hair down, put on your bikini, and take a break from your everyday routine at the Golden State’s must-visit hot springs. There’s nothing like immersing yourself in the healing waters of a geothermal spring—you let go of stress and let a sense of serenity descend upon you. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of hot springs resorts in California, especially in the northern region. If you’ve been wanting to connect with nature and escape reality for a weekend, a healing experience for your body and mind might just be what you need. So the next time you plan a getaway, head over to these Northern California hot springs to unwind and recharge.

The 9 best hot springs in northern California

1. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

Location: 1006 Washington Street, Calistoga

Renovated guest rooms, mineral pools, mud baths, massage services—everything about Calistoga Spa Hot Springs is irresistible. This incredible destination for Northern California hot springs is within easy reach of the beautiful Napa Valley. With scenic views of lush vineyards and the Palisades, the relaxing hotel and spa offers a serene setting for your weekend escape. Take a dip in the geothermal mineral pool of your choice, and then revitalize your senses with a volcanic ash mud bath. Thanks to the full-service spa and beautiful scenery, you get the chance to rejuvenate and connect with your surroundings here.

2. Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort

Location: 1300 Washington Street, Calistoga

Another Calistoga favorite is the Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort. This Northern California hot springs resort boasts a villa setting—flower-filled patios, bubbling fountains, and serene sun-filled areas await you. Providing an out-of-this-world escape, the rejuvenating resort offers multiple pools and hot tubs filled with natural geothermal mineral water directly from the source. With the Palisades Mountains as your backdrop, there’s nothing to stop you from enjoying this reinvigorating experience, especially if you treat yourself to a transformative aromatherapy massage, too. 

3. Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa

Location: 100 Boyes Boulevard, Sonoma

Located in the heart of Wine Country, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa is the ultimate Northern California hot springs resort, providing exceptional accommodations with guest rooms that suit every taste. Blessed by the natural mineral hot springs in Northern California, this unforgettable retreat boasts multiple spa pools and a hot tub open year-round. (The resort is also home to the championship Sonoma Golf Club, a treasured relic of the golden age of golf architecture.) The ancient geothermal waters of Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa are bound to soothe your soul and body, so indulge in the outdoor pools at the Bathhouse while admiring the immaculate grounds around you.

4. Travertine Hot Springs

Location: Jack Sawyer Road, Bridgeport

One of the free hot springs in Northern California is none other than Travertine Hot Springs. Overlooking the Sierra Nevada Mountains and breathtaking rock formations, the geothermal mineral springs have multiple pools, whose water temperatures are controlled by diverting the flow through stepped channels. The hot springs are located on California State Park land and attract visitors of different interests; the area has several campsites, which are found off of a short dirt road leading to the springs. Since Travertine Hot Springs are among the easiest to reach, they’re also the most popular hot springs in Northern California, so you might want to plan your visit on a weekday. Bathe in the mineral springs as striking views of the Sierra dazzle you.

5. Orr Hot Springs Resort

Location: 13201 Orr Springs Road, Ukiah

Nestled deep in the undulating mountains of the Mendocino Range, Orr Hot Springs Resort is a 27-acre hot springs resort with quite a rich history. Pomo Indians used to stop here frequently during their trading expeditions, and over the years, the place became the go-to spot for city-dwellers looking for peace and serenity. With private Victorian porcelain tubs, communal baths, and stargazing tubs, the resort offers a one-of-a-kind retreat in a unique location. From creekside camping to family-style cottages, your accommodation options are plentiful. Soak in the spring-fed swimming pool and treat yourself at the spa while the spectacular scenery soothes your body and soul. 

6. Sierra Hot Springs

Location: 521 Campbell Hot Springs Road, Sierraville

Situated at the cusp of a forest and an alpine valley, Sierra Hot Springs is a nonprofit establishment run by its residents, whose mission is to preserve the sacred land. This Northern California hot spring has been regarded as a blessed healing place by Native Americans for centuries. With healing waters, the sanctuary is the ideal spot to relax your soul and renew your spirit. The main pool area consists of the sand-bottomed Hot Pool, which features stained glass and skylights. But there’s so much more to do than just soak in the hot springs at this destination spanning more than 700 acres—go on a hike, attend a yoga class, or get one of the signature massages.

7. Buckeye Hot Springs

Location: Toiyabe National Forest, Bridgeport

Buckeye Hot Springs is tucked between the banks of Buckeye Creek and a steep sidewall—a wonderful surprise when exploring the Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest. This free hot spring in Northern California features pools and hot mineral waters cascading over a cave; the sight alone brings peace to your mind. Attracting locals and tourists, it’s one of the best places to enjoy a soak with marvelous natural wonders enveloping you. Once you’re done immersing yourself in the warm pools, take a dip in Buckeye Creek to cool off.

8. Wilbur Hot Springs

Location: 3375 Wilbur Springs Road, Williams

Escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with yourself at Wilbur Hot Springs, a solar-powered resort offering exceptional opportunities to quiet the mind. Being one of the best Northern California hot springs resorts, it allows for peace and solitude amidst a natural setting. Self-care is taken seriously here—you’re completely off the grid, so your tech devices won’t work. It goes without saying that the main highlight of the resort is the natural hot mineral pools. Renowned for their healing properties, the therapeutic spring waters have healed many people over the years. A few minutes spent in the hot springs yield relaxation and long-lasting detoxification. 

9. Piedmont Springs

Location: 3939 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland

Serving as an urban oasis in Oakland, Piedmont Springs is a wellness spa dedicated to giving guests peace of mind. A retreat at this luxurious spa is precisely what’s missing from your life. Equipped with outdoor hot tubs, a private Finnish sauna, and an exclusive steam room, it has everything you need to rejuvenate yourself. The most coveted area at this Northern California hot springs destination is the Combination Room—it features a sauna and an outdoor two-person tub. Throw in a therapeutic massage or skincare treatment, and you can pamper yourself to the max here.