Winter Staycation At Dr. Wilkerson’s Hot Springs

It was the end of January and I had burned through the recharge I got from my last hot springs visit. My restlessness took me to Resort Pass where I searched for the closest source of hot water. I’m very familiar with California hot springs by now, but I was hoping to not drive too far.

I landed on Calistoga - a cute little town just past Napa wine country. A place called Dr. Wilkerson’s Resort caught my eye with a day pass for about $80. If you have Marriott Rewards you can also use them here now.

Driving through Calistoga you may never know there would be a hot springs here. Luckily they had put up a big sign where the entrance was - though clearly Golden Haven Resort was having none of that! And as you can see above, you’ll know it by the green cadillac parked on the front lawn.

Pulling into the drive there was plenty of parking on this weekday escape. They even have few chargers if you have an electric vehicle - sadly they are not free, so I parked in a normal spot. Oh, and they love being funny on their signs, as you will see later in this post.

I followed the signs to the front office, where I was greeted by a friendly staff person. I was a little worried they would be weird about coming for a Resort Pass, but they were very friendly and I was quickly on my way with a key card to access the pools. Note, with a day pass you have to change in the bathrooms, or your car. And no, this is not one of the many clothing optional hot springs found in California.

I followed the signs, closely tracking my steps, to find all of the cutesy design elements. They have art therapy and gratitude boards you can create. And I loved the colors and beautiful butterflies.

If you have kids there are lots of fun games like life size chess or hammocks to relax in.

Now let’s get to the waters. That’s why you all are here! The water contains traces of minerals that will help you relax like Magnesium, Potassium, Calcium, Silica, Boron, Sodium, Chloride, and Bicarbonate.

This is a developed hot springs, so they are more pool like. Dr. Wilkerson’s has three hot pools. There is a larger swimming pool that’s 85F. Next to it is a smaller swimming pool that is a warmer 95F.

These are next to each other and are in the open sun. There are plenty of free chaise lounges, but if you want a day bed and more shade, you can rent out the cabanas. I was happy to read my book while soaking up the sun in the chaise.

Now for the hotter pool you have to leave this gated area and go to the next, across the sidewalk. This area is adults only and offers a pool at temperatures of 104F. There are nice little couches and table to relax at in a lush planted area.

This leads to the large round hot pool. This is also one of the areas where you could get massages and have special baths. The only downside of this pool is that it is covered, so you will not be able to relax under the stars.

If you want to go all out, I suggest trying the famous volcanic mud baths, one of many mud baths you can find near hot springs across the world. You start out with a hot mineral bath. You then move into a steam room to open up the pores and prepare for the mud. The mud bath is just that - a mud filled tub opens your pores and cleanses your skin, leaving you refreshed.

I stayed through the night - the day pass lasts until 10 pm, so I took full advantage of that pass. I loved the beautiful lights scattered around the resort, the fire pits I could sit in front of and the quiet.

They had a range of foods and drinks, but I went with a tea. The Earth and Ocean was quite lovely and with winter at my heels I thought an immune boost was a good idea. They also have a range of local and mexican foods available.

• Water Quality: 5 stars. Pure, natural, and chemical-free, with a beneficial mineral composition. There’s no chlorine smell and the range of minerals in the water is sure to make you relax.

• Ease of Access: 5 stars. Walkable to all of the shops in Calistoga and a plus that you can come and go with the resort pass.

• Ability to be Alone: 3 stars. There were only a few people there on a winter weekday, but can imagine this place fills up in the summer.

• Water Temperature: 5 stars. The water ranges from 85 - 105 F - perfect for all levels of relaxation.

• Health Benefits: 5 stars. Documented therapeutic benefits from the rich magnesium and potassium content, actively promoted for pain relief and circulation.

• Nearby Amenities: 5 stars. Very close to wineries, restaurants, and other activities in Calistoga and close to Napa.