Esalen offers family-oriented workshops throughout the year designed to include children under 18 years of age. However, all other Esalen workshops have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old. Children under 18 must be attended by an adult at all times during their Esalen visit for their safety. Esalen is located in a remote and rugged area of Big Sur, with the nearest medical facility located 45 miles away.
Fees for Children Enrolled in Family Workshops
Fees for children 10 and under enrolled in a family workshop at Esalen are $150 for weekend workshops and $300 for five-day workshops. Fees for children ages 11-15 are $420 for weekend workshops and $675 for five-day workshops.
A Time to Reflect / Friends of Esalen Retreat
Children not attending workshops may be housed with two full paying adults in premium or standard rooms for a meal charge of $25 a day per child ($10 for children under six). Any child not enrolled in a workshop must be attended by an adult at all times.
Childcare Services
Esalen does not offer childcare services. Please contact Esalen Guest Services for a list of local, seasonal childcare options. The Big Sur Park School, a nature-based early childhood program for ages two to five, is located at Esalen and is open Monday through Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. To learn more, visit www.bigsurparkschool.org.
Hot Springs and Pool
Esalen is home to hot springs that flow at a rate of 80 gallons per minute and emerge at a temperature of 119 degrees Fahrenheit. These waters possess deeply rejuvenating properties, and the Esalen baths are a place of refuge, reverence, healing and contemplation that is honored by a “quiet” side and a “silent” side for seminarians. Children curious about the baths should be accompanied by an adult at all times. Please note that the baths, along with the pool adjacent to the Lodge, are clothing optional areas. There is no attendant or lifeguard at either locations.
If you have any additional questions regarding children at Esalen, please contact our Guest Services team at 888-837-2436.