Giving Peace a Chance at the Ultra-Private Philosophical Retreat

"Reader, I dropped trou."

Arkin Tilt Architects worked with the Esalen Institute in renovating their revered, but well-used lodge – the heart of the campus in which all staff, work scholars, and seminarians gather 3 times a day to share meals. In addition to the kitchen and dining facilities, the lodge houses an important event space and retail and office functions. The Lodge functions continued during construction, resulting in a complex, phased project.

One of Big Sur’s top attractions, a bath at The Esalen Institute, is best experienced after midnight (clothing optional).

Explore this California destination: Big Sur. Located around 300 miles up the coast from Los Angeles, this idyllic, picturesque stretch of land is one of the Golden State’s biggest treasures. Want to share your California-inspired adventures with us? We're currently taking submissions!

Explore the features of our oceanside campus and retreat center in Big Sur, California, including our famous hot springs, farm-to-table dining, bookstore, Art Barn, and more.

Make like a monk and unplug from your hectic, always-connected life with a Zen retreat this New Year. Learn how to meditate, fine-tune your yoga practice, or just spend quiet time communing with nature. Here are five great spots to immerse yourself in a day or weekend of reflection and relaxation so...

A couple sit by the sea at Big Sur Folk Festival, Esalen, CA, September 13, 1969.

Part school, church, spa, inn and monastery, Big Sur's famed Esalen Institute was set up in the 1960s, built by hand by the people who lived, worked and studied there. Since its inception over 50 years ago, those in search of spiritual healing have been making the pilgrimage to this Pacific coastline spot where they can benefit from Esalen’s rich programme of lectures, workshops and healing arts.