Esalen Institute

About Esalen Institute

Esalen Institute is a non-profit educational retreat center and intentional community founded in 1962 on the Big Sur coast of California. It offers workshops, residencies, and research in psychology, somatics, arts, ecology, and spirituality, hosting scholars and seekers from around the world. The organization operates the historic Hot Springs, farm and garden programs, and the Center for Theory & Research, while stewarding 120 acres of coastal land. Guided by humanistic values and a mission of personal and social transformation, Esalen provides immersive learning experiences aimed at integrating mind, body, heart, and spirit.