Are there hot springs in Santa Barbara?
Montecito Hot Springs
Santa Barbara is home to several hot springs. One of the most popular hot springs in Santa Barbara is Montecito Hot Springs. The Montecito Hot Springs are an abandoned hot springs resort from the 1800s, but are now open to the public thanks to the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County.
This hidden gem is tucked away in the hills, but it is well worth the walk. Getting to the hot springs from the Hot Springs Trailhead requires about a 45-minute hike to the hot springs. Coming downhill from the hot springs requires about a 25-30 minute walk back to the trailhead. You can access the hot springs all day, although it is best to go during the day when it is light.
Temperatures at the hot springs remain consistent, reaching 112 degrees in many parts. There are seven pools at the hot springs, all ranging slightly in temperature. Bring water and dress in layers since the hike can make you build up a sweat. Dogs are not allowed at the hot springs, and there is no camping allowed. Clothing is optional.
Directions: If you’re heading from Santa Barbara, take US-101 to Hot Springs Rd in Montecito for 3.4 miles. Continue on Hot Springs Rd. Then, drive to E Mountain Drive for 1.6 miles.
Gaviota Hot Springs
In the other direction from Santa Barbara, the Gaviota Hot Springs are another great option for taking a soak. Located between Lompoc and Goleta, the Gaviota Hot Springs gives way to sweeping ocean views and is a spectacular soaking spot.
The main trailhead is located right off Highway 101 in Gaviota State Park, and the hot springs themselves are only located a half mile from the main trailhead, making them accessible from the park. To get to the hot springs, enter the main trailhead for Trespass Trail, which is off US-101, and hike up the main fire road to the junction with Trespass Trail. Take a left onto Trespass Trail and hike up to the next junction, where you will find a creek. Turn right and follow the creek until the hot springs. About a tenth of a mile up, you’ll find the hot springs.
Directions: From Santa Barbara, get on US-101 N from Anacapa St, E Cota St, and Garden St. Then, follow US-101 N. Take exit 132 from US-101 N. Drive to Gaviota Park Boundary.
What about cold springs?
Santa Barbara also offers access to cold springs, for when the weather is warm, and you want to take a dip in a cool body of water that is not the ocean. Located off Cold Springs Road in Montecito, within Gould Park, the Cold Spring Trailhead will bring you to various pools and cold streams.
The trail is scenic, with sandstone formations and spectacular views of the coastline. Hiking shoes are recommended, but the trail itself is moderate. The trail begins at the Cold Spring Trailhead, which is along E Mountain Drive. Reaching the Cold Spring Trailhead is easy from Santa Barbara.
Directions: from Santa Barbara, take US-101 south to Olive Mill Road. Turn left onto Olive Mill Road, which will become Cold Springs Road. Proceed to E Mountain Drive and then turn right. The trailhead is close to the creek crossing, and there is parking available along E Mountain Drive.
