After 30 Years, This Historic Hot Springs Resort Has Re-Opened With Over 50 Pools
By Natasha Kayes|Published February 23, 2024
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Natasha Kayes
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I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Throughout its history, the mineral hot springs found in various parts of Southern California have been cherished and enjoyed for their physical and mental health benefits. Health and wellness spas and resorts have been built around them over the years and I just learned that one such place, the historic Murrieta Hot Springs Resort in Murrieta, CA, has just re-opened its doors after being closed to the public for some 30 years.
Quite literally an oasis, Murrieta Hot Springs has been a site of healing, rejuvenation, and wellness, beginning with Native Americans centuries ago. In 1902, the resort was first opened and brought people from across the country for a luxurious experience.
The health resort hosted some of the most recognized celebrities in Hollywood, including Marilyn Monroe. Guests not only took advantage of the renowned mineral-rich waters, but spent their days enjoying social activities including tennis, mini-golf, dancing, card games, live entertainment, and nutritious meals.
The property has been closed to the public for about 30 years, having changed hands quite a few times and being used for several different endeavors including a commune, a cancer clinic, a Christian college, and a spiritual retreat, to name a few.
In 2021, the property was again sold, with the new owners determined to once again turn the property into the wellness and vitality resort it once was, with some modern upgrades.
The geothermal pools are fed by waters hundreds of feet below the ground’s surface. The minerals in the water are known for their therapeutic properties and have been proven to soften and nourish skin, relieve inflammation, and relax muscles.
In addition, resort guests can enjoy the restored historic bathhouse, a rooftop sundeck, a mud loft, and sauna, a fitness center, a steam room, and more. Massages, body treatments, facials, yoga, mindfulness classes, and more complement the effects of the mineral waters and enhance relaxation and renewal.
In the early 1970s, a fresh-water lagoon was created on the property. Today, the lake remains a prominent feature and has a fire pit and chairs for guests to enjoy in the evenings.
For those who prefer more than just a day at the springs, luxury resort accommodations are warm, inviting, spacious, and tasteful, with modern amenities befitting this exceptional resort.
Did you know about this historic resort? Find more information, availability, etc. on the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort website or visit Murrieta Hot Springs on Facebook. As if the resort was not enough reason to visit this part of Southern California, Temecula’s gorgeous wine country is practically next door and you can spend a day exploring it on this full-day wine-tasting tour!