Avila Hot Springs - Hot Springs in California

This is one of the hot spring resorts created by the failure of oil drilling.

Despite its excellent accessibility, it retains its old-fashioned atmosphere.

Good Old Hot Spring Resort

The drive to San Luis Obispo on the southern Central Coast is about a three-hour drive on Route 101 from Los Angeles.

It was uplifting, like going to a resort along a scenic highway by the sea.

Avila Hot Springs is located just off Exit 195.

Alpaca

Really close.

Don't pass by.

Capybara

Straight down Avila Beach Drive is the famous Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa.

The history of Avila Hot Springs dates back to 1907.

A well drilled for oil field development failed to strike an oil vein, and the geothermal water gushed out instead.

Using the hot water, the spa resort began operating under the name Ontario Hot Springs at the time.

Although renovations have naturally taken place over its long history, the area around the pools retained the atmosphere of a good old hot spring resort.

Today, Avila Hot Springs offers day trips in addition to lodging options in campgrounds, RV sites, and cabins.

All pool areas required clothing, and there were separate changing rooms for men and women.

Strong Sulfur Smell

There were only two outdoor pools.

The larger pools do not use natural hot springs but are heated by geothermal water.

There was a water slide, suitable for children.

Swimming lessons were also offered.

Around the row of showers was a small 20-foot-square pool.

This pool appeared to be covered by a roof, but it was full of gaps and did not serve as a sunshade.

The water looked slightly bluish in the light and had a strong sulfur smell.

No odor of chlorination was detected.

Water was added to the flowing hot water at 135 degrees F, which was 104 degrees F.

I enjoyed the freshness and satisfying heat of the water at the far end.

Summary

Official website