55000 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Beginner$$-$$$
Tucked against the rocky cliffs overlooking the northern California Pacific Coast of Big Sur is the legendary retreat center, Esalen. Jack Kerouac used to frequent this institute and wrote an entire book, Big Sur, about his experience. Esalen was my very first retreat and it proves to be a great beginners choice. There is an extensive year long catalog of workshops offered that vary from deep psychological work to yoga and massage. The choice of accommodations is just as varied with the possibility of sleeping bags in communal areas to an ocean view private room for you and your guest. They have a farm onsite and the food in the cafeteria is incredible – freshly baked bread, and an extensive buffet served three times a day filled with healthy and delicious offerings.
If I could go to Esalen and just eat and soak in the hot springs, I would be up there a lot more often. They used to offer this under the booking ‘personal retreat’ but as of this writing, this is no longer possible and a stay at this gorgeous place will require your participation in a workshop. The workshops are all either 5 or 3 days and are taught by leading professionals in the industry. Each retreat I have attended has been emotional work coupled with delicious food and a magical environment.
There is not cell phone reception and no place close enough to walk so once you arrive, you stay. There is a computer to use that has internet and designated wifi zones so you aren’t completely disconnected from the outside world. In addition to your workshop there are usually other activities offered like morning yoga or hiking. There is also beer and wine served at the cafeteria so if being on retreat without abandoning your worldly pleasures sounds great, Esalen is the place for you. A perfect entry to the retreat life
