Esalen Guide for First-Timers: What to Know, What to Pack, and Why It’s Magic

I just got back from a workshop at Esalen, and I don’t say this lightly—it was one of the most incredible and healing weeks of my life. This was my first time at Esalen, and I am so grateful I took myself on this solo adventure. As soon as I arrived, I understood why spiritual seekers have been drawn to this land for generations. It holds something sacred—an energy, something that has no words. Esalen is magic.

A Bit of Esalen History

Tucked along the cliffs of Big Sur, Esalen has been a sanctuary for thinkers, feelers, creatives, and healers since the 1960s. It was born out of the human potential movement and quickly became a haven for free spirits, philosophers, hippies, and those looking to explore consciousness beyond the ordinary. The legacy is real—and you feel it the second you step onto the land.

“Here between the worlds, the veil feels thinner.”

Getting There

I flew into Monterey Regional Airport—a small, super easy airport—and rented a car. From there, I took the iconic Highway 1 down to Esalen, winding through the cliffs of Big Sur. Let me just say: the drive alone is worth the trip. It is one of the most beautiful stretches of road I have ever experienced.

Pro tip: Make yourself a Big Sur playlist before you go and soak in the views, the sea breeze, and the Big Sur vibes.

There’s very little cell service once you hit Big Sur, so I recommend downloading your maps and directions ahead of time (thank you Google Maps offline!

The Property

Esalen sits on 100 acres of dramatic coastline—crashing waves below, redwoods and mountains above. There are gardens, wildflowers, open lawns, hidden paths, and the kind of stillness that invites deep reflection.

The Rooms

Rooms range from budget-friendly sleeping bag spaces and bunk bed rooms to more modern options with queen and king beds. There are even a few private houses on the property you can rent—probably what I would do next time when I take my fiancé Ryan. I stayed in one of the premium king plus rooms, which I highly recommend. Not only was it beautiful, but it also had WiFi (which many rooms don’t). Just note that there are no blackout curtains—so bring an eye mask—and the floors can get chilly, so cozy socks or slippers are a must.

The Hot Springs

One of Esalen’s most iconic features is the clothing-optional hot springs. (Ps. I did not see one person wear clothing) Perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Pacific, they are open 24/7 and truly magical. I loved soaking at 11pm to see the stars. Going in naked felt freeing. For first-timers, there is a more secluded upper tub and shower where you can ease into the experience (that’s where I started).

The Workshops

Esalen offers both 3-day and 5-day workshops on everything from meditation to movement, writing, art, etc. You can check them out HERE

I joined Entering Your Creative Universe, led by my mandala teacher Paul. We spent the week painting from morning until late at night. It felt like adult art camp meets spiritual boot camp—in the best way. Everyone was on their own creative journey, and the group dynamic was warm, loving and supportive.

The Meals

Meals are made from scratch and served three times a day, buffet-style, with a focus on organic, local, and nourishing food. There are always gluten free, vegan, and meat options, and the produce is often from their own farm and garden. In between meals, fruit and snacks are available, but I brought some of my own just in case.

The Gardens and Farm

One of the most grounding aspects of Esalen is the relationship to the land. You can walk through rows of vegetables, herbs, and flowers, and often see staff and volunteers tending to the soil with care.

The Meditation Hut

Tucked near the freshwater spring, the meditation hut was originally built in the 1950s. It’s a quiet, sacred space where you can sit, meditate, read, or journal. It’s always open and always peaceful—a perfect place to ground yourself.

Going Solo: The Best Decision I Didn’t Know I Needed

I will admit, it felt a little nerve-wracking at first to travel to Esalen alone but I am so happy that I did. There is something beautiful about showing up solo. You move at your own rhythm, you connect more deeply with yourself, and you attract the exact right people and conversations. I think it is really important that everyone takes a solo trip in their lives.

I loved meeting folks from all walks of life—many of whom have been coming for decades—and yet I never once felt out of place. If you’re feeling called to go solo, do it. It is the best feeling.

My Overall Personal Tips for First-Timers

• Bring toiletry items as they are not provided.
• Pack layers—weather can shift quickly. It rained almost every day I was there: sunny mornings, moody afternoons. A raincoat is a must.
• There’s only WiFi at the main lodge and they turn it off during meal times to encourage connection. You can upgrade to newer premium king plus rooms that have WiFi (which I did and loved).
• Bring an eye mask (no blackout curtains), and cozy socks/slippers for cold floors at night
• Meals are hearty and served three times a day. Fruit and snacks are available between meals, but I also brought a few of my own just in case.
• Bring a reusable water bottle—or stop at the General Store on your way in to grab water bottles like I did
• The hot springs are clothing optional and most people go nude. It’s freeing. If you’re shy, try the upper hot spring and shower area first.
• Book a massage—they’re pricey but heavenly. Just note: they’re in a shared space, so embrace the communal vibes. I booked with Sabina, who has been there over 20 years and is incredible.
• Conley Bookstore – I picked up a few pieces of Esalen merch and some inspiring reads from the bookstore—highly recommend stopping in. It’s small but thoughtfully curated with books on spirituality, wellness, creativity, and personal growth.

Esalen is more than a retreat center—it’s a portal. If you feel the nudge to go, trust it. The land will meet you exactly where you are.

“At Esalen, people don’t just visit—they return to themselves.”