10 Best Spiritual Resorts in the West
The Esalen Institute, Big Sur, CA
No. 2
The Esalen Institute, Big Sur, CA: Call it the cradle of West Coast civilization. Founded in the 1960s, it was here that figures like Joseph Campbell, Abraham Maslow, Fritz Perls and an Episcopal priest-turned-Zen Buddhist named Alan Watts fused eastern mysticism with modern psychology. They seeded mega-trends ranging from Gestalt Therapy to Star Wars.
If physical place is the dominant force that shapes your experience then nothing compares to Esalen. Its sandstone cliff-hanger mineral baths are fed by a spring on the beach that in earlier centuries were a healing force for the coastal Esselen Indians. Today’s baths are open all night long, and nude lounging is welcome. Entranced by the moon, stars and breakers five stories below, visitors from around the world take full advantage of both options.
Cost: $105 - $180 per night.
Fine print: Esalen is a workshop-oriented retreat but it is possible to snag a space as a one-off guest by simply booking a massage or by donating $50 to the non-profit foundation that runs the place to become eligible for “personal retreats.”
NEXT: Harbin Hot Springs
Thank you very much for choosing Harbin Hot Springs
in your Top Ten!
We have many more rooms than the domes, which are just recently opened to the public. We also offer camping accommodation, and day visits.
I wonder whether it should be mentioned that Harbin’s pool and sun-deck area is clothing optional?
Thank you for your good work – you founded a great web site !
Harbin is great! It does have computers in the Cafe… they are not verboten, but everything else you mention is. Harbin is a great place to camp in the warmer summer months, and is very affordable this way. They also have fabulous food in their restaurant, or you can cook your own meals in the communal Fern kitchen (and buy groceries at their wonderful health food store)
And yes, it is a clothing-optional resort.
SoulArts is the place you come to when desiring to honor once individual soul. It is the most nurturing and life transforming experience I have ever had. You don’t have to know or be anything…and out of that comes amazing seeing of new desires and gifts. Ronda LaRue is an extra ordinary gem in providing just what you need at that moment. It is a fantastic place. Highly recommend it!