Avila Hot Springs sits at the gateway to Avila Beach in San Luis Obispo County, right next to the Bob Jones Bike Trail. Discovered in 1907 by oil drillers and developed by the Budan family, this natural artesian spring has welcomed travelers for over 100 years.

You get a 20' x 20' hot mineral pool at about 104°F, a big heated freshwater swimming pool with double slides, a simple tent and RV camping, and on-site massage.

If you're after a relaxed California hot springs day with family-friendly fun, a bike-to-beach path, and budget-friendly access, you'll find it here. The location is easy off US‑101 with plenty of parking and mellow valley breezes.

Avila Hot Springs Hot Springs Experience

At Avila Hot Springs, mineral water naturally rises from an artesian well at about 130–135°F (54–57°C). For soaking, it’s cooled to a relaxing 104°F (40°C). The soaking pool measures 20 by 20 feet, is approximately two feet deep, and features a steady flow of mineral-rich water containing bicarbonate, sodium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, and silica.

The main highlight is the 104°F mineral pool on the deck, but guests can also enjoy a large 50 by 100-foot heated freshwater swimming pool that’s chlorinated and tested daily. Two water slides add to the fun, usually open on weekends from noon to 5 p.m.

Swimwear is required, and children must be at least eight years old to use the hot mineral pool. Safety is a priority, with Red Cross–certified lifeguards and an ADA pool lift available.
The atmosphere is relaxed and sunny, as nearby oak-covered hills keep away the morning fog. With its expansive deck, warm water, and plenty of space, the freshwater pool is the perfect spot for daytime swimming and play.

Once you soak, you can make a full day of it with sun, slides, and a mellow ride to the beach.

On the property, you'll find Wally's Bike Rentals (cruisers, tandems, trailers, 4‑seaters, and mountain bikes), group picnic and BBQ areas for parties and team events, and massage services (Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, mother‑to‑be, chakra tuning, spa facial); spa services include a complimentary day pass.

Nearby, you can visit:

Avila Beach — 2 miles away for swimming, pier walks, and sunset views.

Bob Jones Trail — a paved, family‑friendly 2.5‑mile path right from the lot to the beach.

Cal Poly SLO, downtown San Luis Obispo, and Edna Valley wineries — all within 5–20 minutes.

Sycamore Mineral Springs — private hillside tubs just up the road for a different soaking style.

Want a simple plan? Soak, slide, bike to the beach, grab a cone, then roll back for a second soak at sunset.

Location: 9 miles south of San Luis Obispo • California • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Mineral soaking pool, heated swimming pool, slides
Clothing: Mandatory
Amenities & Services: Picnic/BBQ areas, massage, bike rentals, parking yoga, restaurant, gift shop, dog-friendly rooms

Hiking distance: Short
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use: Yes

Elevation: 40 ft (12 m)

Water T° (source): 130–135°F (54–57°C)
Water T° (hot pool): 104°F (40°C)
Odor: Odor-free, clean mineral water
Chemical used: Minimal chlorine (freshwater swimming pool only)

Minerals: Bicarbonate, sodium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, silica