Esalen Institute

“I try to get here for a retreat at least once a year if I can. At minimum, I can’t recommend strongly enough booking a Esalen massage or volunteering and visiting on a day pass. Watching the otters play from the cliff side hot spring baths is a spiritual experience.”

“I make a pilgrimage to Esalen every few months — sometimes for a workshop, other times to volunteer, soak in the legendary baths, enjoy a massage, or simply remember what it feels like to slow down. There isn't another place quite like it: no cell service, breathtaking Big Sur cliffs, and the rare convergence of mountain water, natural hot springs, and the Pacific Ocean. It's easy to understand why this land has long been considered sacred. My entire body relaxes within minutes of arriving. And if you're in the mood, there's almost always someone interesting to talk to.”