Aerial view of Santa Maria

Outdoors

Hot springs near Santa Maria

6 named hot springs within 100 miles, nearest first, with a map and directions.

Hot springs within 100 mi

6

Closest

33.3 mi

Gaviota Hot Springs

Worth the drive

Big Caliente Hot Springs
Big Caliente Hot Springs57 miPhoto: snapper from Ventura County, CA, USA, CC BY 2.0
Willett Hot Springs
Willett Hot Springs82.6 miPhoto: Nudeturtle at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0

Map

Map of 6 places loads as you scroll.

All hot springs, nearest first

  1. 33.3mi
    Gaviota Hot Springs

    About ↗Directions ↗

  2. 45.5mi
    Franklin Hot Springs

    Directions ↗

  3. 48.8mi
    Paso Robles Hot Springs

    About ↗Directions ↗

  4. 54.2mi
    Little Caliente Spring

    Directions ↗

  5. 57mi
    Big Caliente Hot Springs

    About ↗Directions ↗

  6. 82.6mi
    Willett Hot Springs

    About ↗Directions ↗

Straight-line distance from the center of Santa Maria; driving and trail distances are longer.

Before you go

Keep your head above water

Warm fresh water can carry a rare brain-eating amoeba. Don’t dunk your head or let water go up your nose.

Test before you soak

Natural springs can be scalding near the source. Many thermal areas, like geyser basins, are off-limits to soaking.

Pack it out

Primitive springs have no trash service. Leave no glass or soap, and respect clothing-optional customs where posted.

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Questions

What is the closest hot spring to Santa Maria?

Gaviota Hot Springs, about 33.3 miles from the center of Santa Maria.

How many hot springs are near Santa Maria?

6 named hot springs are within 100 miles.

Are the hot springs near Santa Maria free?

It depends. Resort and spa springs charge for entry, while primitive springs on public land are usually free but may need a hike or a parking pass.

Sources: Wikidata and OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), checked 2026-11-08; photos from Wikimedia Commons under the licenses shown. Access, fees and conditions change; check before visiting.

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