For more than a century, Murrieta Hot Springs has been defined by the allure of its mineral-rich waters. Opened in 1902 as a health retreat, it drew Hollywood stars and wellness seekers alike, eager to experience its promise of renewal. By mid-century, it was dubbed the “Catskills of Southern California,” a favored escape for Jewish vacationers from Los Angeles. But by the 1980s, its golden age had waned, and the property spent the next three decades as a private Bible college.
After a $50 million restoration, Murrieta Hot Springs Resort reopened last year with its historic bathhouse and Spanish Revival architecture meticulously revived, 46 palm-shaded acres reimagined with geothermal pools, 150 guest rooms and suites, and a renewed focus on wellness. Located just north of Temecula, an easy hour from Los Angeles and San Diego, the resort feels both surprisingly accessible and blissfully under the radar—and makes a perfect wellness-weekend escape for Southern Californians craving a slower pace without the long drive.
Soaking in History
Mineral-rich, alkaline waters—packed with potassium, lithium, sodium, and calcium—help restore skin’s pH balance while supporting overall wellness and have always been the heart of Murrieta Hot Springs Resort, where over 50 unique pools invite relaxation. From adults-only hillside retreats like Clouds in My Coffee to palm-shaded, rock-lined sanctuaries such as Bombshell and Warm Embrace. But with its restored arches and sunlit nooks, the historic bathhouse and adult-only Oasis Pool anchor the experience. Craft a personal circuit with the Kneipp Walk, hot and cold plunges, or guided aromatherapy in the panoramic cedar sauna upstairs.
At Clay Cove, Murrieta’s mineral-rich mud detoxifies and softens the skin, while twelve tubs along the Contrast Terrace provide an opportunity to try the ancient healing practice of “contrast bathing,” said to boost circulation, reduce inflammation, and help rebuild the immune system.
Alternative Wellness meets Taking the Waters
Helmed by a team of wellness experts and guided by a resident medical director, the resort strikes a thoughtful balance between the timeless ritual of “taking the waters” and modern alternative therapies. Each day brings a full slate of activities for both overnight guests and day pass holders, culminating in a 4 pm gratitude ceremony. Overnight visitors can ease into the morning with aqua yoga at 8 am, followed by a soul-soothing aqua sound bath in the Roman Pool, where the vibration of gongs and bowls being played through the water will leave you floating in every sense. Beyond the soaking and plunge pools, spa treatments—from energizing herbal wraps to restorative massages—round out the ways to recharge body and mind.
Rooms, Suites & Restful Sleep
With many of its historic structures reimagined, including the Stone Lodge and California building, the resort’s 174 accommodations range from Twin Bunk Rooms for friend groups to the Stone Presidential Suite for couples. Any overnight stay unlocks 24-hour access to the hot springs, along with exclusive wellness activities such as restorative yoga. Tucked in a quiet corner of the resort, Hillside King Soaking Suites boasts outdoor soaking tubs, hammocks, lake views, and cozy living rooms with freestanding Dyna Flame Malm Preway electric fireplaces. Across all building categories—from Spring to Lakeside—design is serene and modern, with muted earthy tones, soft woods, and textured fabrics. Complimentary Sleep Trays, created by Dr. Marcus Coplin, a Naturopathic Medical Doctor, and Medical Director for the resort, which feature earplugs, a lavender aromatherapy stick, cell phone “sleep sack,” and a bedtime ritual guide—are a small but meaningful touch that helps foster restorative rest.
Culinary Notes: Talia Kitchen
Wellness extends beyond geothermal soaks at signature restaurant Talia Kitchen, whose name means both “by the water” and “gentle dew from heaven,” in Hebrew. The casual yet elevated dining destination is led by Bay Area transplant Executive Chef Matt Steffen, who brings fresh energy to California’s farm-to-table tradition with inventive, globally inspired plates created in partnership with Director of Nutrition Sarah Goudie (M.Ed., FDN-P). Together, their seasonal, nutrition-minded menu showcases the best local produce, responsibly raised meats, and sustainably sourced seafood.
Start with “Pantry Bites” like Ronnie’s Focaccia & Whipped Fresh Ricotta, drizzled with saba reduction and topped with pine nut gremolata and macerated cherries, before moving on to Land & Sea entrees that showcase artistry and flavor: see the Nori-Crusted Hawaiian Ahi Tuna, beautifully plated with pearled mango, bamboo rice, and borage.
Talia’s drinks program is as thoughtful as the food, offering standout California wines from DAOU in Paso Robles and South Coast Winery in Temecula, alongside a refreshing roster of zero-proof cocktails and alcohol-free wines. The dining room boasts a mid-century modern aesthetic, while the trattoria-style patio is particularly lovely during golden hour.
Alongside Talia Kitchen, sip vacation-inspired cocktails at The Tortoise Shell, grab fresh wraps and salads poolside at Café Azuli, unwind with classic drinks at Guenther’s Lounge, or start the morning at cozy coffee shop Brew 1902, which serves espresso and grab-and-go fare from 7 am until 2 pm.
A Revival Worth the Wait
Whether you’re coming for a weekend of restorative soaking or simply an evening dip, Murrieta Hot Springs Resort strikes a balance between history and wellness that feels exclusive yet incredibly approachable. With a 4 pm check-in and an admittedly early 10 am checkout (it’s possible to swap overnight wristbands for a complimentary day pass on the day of departure), two nights hit the sweet spot. The first afternoon allows time to explore the property, while the whole day that follows is best spent revisiting favorite corners, booking a spa treatment, or joining one of the wellness classes. Room rates begin around $400 for a Junior King Suite. Those curious for just a taste of the waters can opt for a $99 day pass—or a $49 twilight pass that begins at 4 pm. www.murrieta-hotsprings.com.
