Gaviota Hot Springs
Gaviota Hot Springs is a primitive thermal spring listed in Santa Barbara County, California Hot Springs near Gaviota. Reported soak temperature is 99°F with a historical source temperature of 99°F — actual conditions may differ. Access is listed as free, and clothing policy is listed as clothing-optional — always confirm before visiting. Explore nearby springs with our GPS Springs Near Me Finder.
Seasonal Soaking & Best Time to Visit
While geothermal pool temperatures remain a constant 99°F year-round, outdoor ambient temperatures fluctuate significantly across California. Late spring through autumn offers the most comfortable road access.
Fact Sheet & Geothermal Specifications
| Reported Soak Temp | 99°F |
| Source Temp (Historical) | 99°F |
| Trail Access | Recorded coordinates — access unverified |
| Access Fee | Reported Free — Verify Locally |
| Clothing Policy | Reported Clothing-Optional |
| Pet Policy | Reported No Pets |
| Geothermal Data Reference | NOAA Thermal Springs List (1980 archive) |
| Check Land Status | California Land Manager (BLM) |
Verification & Sources
This record was verified against the following source(s):
Reviewed September 2026 · Treat all details as reported — verify before visiting · How we verify our data
Detailed Description
Two small sulfur pools (a WPA-era rock basin and a natural-bottom pool) in a shaded canyon in Gaviota State Park ~33 mi west of Santa Barbara — water emerges around 99°F; the milky-blue upper pool is warmer. Fee: Free; $2 trailhead parking. More warm than hot; poison oak on the final single-track; parking gate closes at sunset.
Directions & Trailhead Access
Trailhead at the end of Gaviota Park Boundary Rd off US-101; hike ~0.5 mi up the fire road then right onto single-track.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gaviota Hot Springs
Is Gaviota Hot Springs free?+
Gaviota Hot Springs is listed as free to access in Santa Barbara County, California. Fees and rules change — verify current status with the land manager before visiting.
What temperature is Gaviota Hot Springs?+
Gaviota Hot Springs has a reported soak temperature of 99°F and a historical source temperature of 99°F in survey records. Historical data may not reflect current conditions — always test water before entering.
Is Gaviota Hot Springs clothing optional?+
Gaviota Hot Springs is listed as traditionally clothing-optional in directory records. Confirm current rules before visiting, as policies change.
How do you access Gaviota Hot Springs?+
Gaviota Hot Springs is a recorded location in Santa Barbara County. Exact access, parking, and land status are not verified — check with the local land manager (BLM/USFS/NPS) before visiting.
Where to Stay Near Gaviota Hot Springs
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Community Soaker Reports
Visitor-submitted reports — not independently verifiedNo Community Reviews Yet
Have you soaked at Gaviota Hot Springs? Share your water temperature measurements, pool conditions, and road access tips to help fellow travelers!