Explore Montecito Hot Springs in Santa Barbara

Amazing spot. Found it on a whim last new years. I've been hunting hot springs ever since and this place is second to none for me now that hobo campground has been DESTROYED by the park rangers. Small parking lot. 45-60 min hike up to the springs. About 6 pools cascade down a ravine, each pool a little cooler then the last, with another spring in the middle to keep all the pools pleasantly warm. The place started to get packed with parties and booze around 4/5PM so me and the hubby bounced. Good for them! Just not our scene. Lots of naked hippies so cover your children's eyes! Great spot over all and I can't wait to go back.

A friend took me here and it was one of the best hikes ever! I went late in the day and stayed for a few hours until night fell. Remember to bring a lantern and enjoy the vibes.

Intense hike. Not for beginners. You need to have hiking experience. I am a hiker and this got my ticker tickin’. Lots of rock climbing in multiple places of the trails. Will take a couple of hours to complete the shorter trails. You’ll get over 1,500 FT in elevation.

Relatively short hike to these mostly “urban” hot springs. Some steep and rocky sections but overall moderate to easy hike. Went on a Sunday afternoon and it was quite busy. Not a lot of space to dip in the pools. Expect to share stories and space. The further up the hotter. If confortable you can bath in the nude. Some people were..not me :). At the end of the day we are all humans with the same body parts, so not a big deal. Would have preferred more remoteness and solitude to be able to relax. Reason for my 4 stars.

Amazing trail! Despite going on a rainy day, the springs/pools were very crowded, but the crowd was a good energy. Family friendly (lots of kids) and clothing optional, so if you are opposed to nudity, don't go. Also, a huge plus for me, DOG FRIENDLY! This trail had it all, beautiful green nature, slightly challenging terrain, flowing water throughout the whole trail, and HOT SPRINGS! The pools are muddy so don't bring a bathing suit you care to not get dirty. We packed a towel so we could use as a screen to change in and out of our clothes and that worked great for us. Bring water, trail is not long but has some challenges! I gave 4 stars because parking is not great at all and I saw someone getting towed which always bums me out so be aware of that! Otherwise Happy hiking Fam!