Why You Should Visit the New Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel

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Before there was Palm Springs, there was the desert town of Jacumba. Situated on the outskirts of San Diego County, California, Jacumba Hot Springs, pronounced “Huh-KOOM-buh,” thrived as a resort town in the 1920s. However, it eventually fell into a state of near disrepair. Recently, this charming town has seen significant changes, including a new and attractive hotel.

Known for its natural mineral-rich hot springs and picturesque surroundings, Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel invites visitors to unwind in its therapeutic waters and explore its rustic allure. With offerings like hiking trails, live music, and a tranquil lake, Jacumba Hot Springs provides a unique escape from city life. It’s gaining attention as an exciting new destination, often likened to that of Joshua Tree. Continue reading to find out everything you need to know to plan your visit before it becomes too popular.

Where is Jacumba Hot Springs?

Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel is located in a small desert community located along Old Highway 80 in the southeastern part of California. It’s just an hour’s drive from San Diego and is close to the Mexico border. So close, that you can see the border fence on your drive into the area.

Jacumba Hot Springs is situated in the Sonoran Desert, which spans parts of California, Arizona, and northwestern Mexico. The town is surrounded by desert landscapes, offering stunning views of rugged mountains, expansive desert terrain, and clear skies. The area is known for its natural hot springs, which have been a draw for visitors seeking relaxation and therapeutic benefits for many years.

History of Jacumba Hot Springs

In the 1920s and 30s, Jacumba Hot Springs, known then as Jacumba, was a thriving community. With the introduction of a railway, it became a sought-after destination for celebrities and the affluent, drawn to its lavish resorts, spas, and health facilities.

However, by the mid-20th century, shifting travel trends, economic changes, and the construction of Interstate 8 caused a decline in Jacumba Hot Springs’ popularity. Many of its resorts fell into disrepair, leading to a period of decline for the area.

In 2012, Dave Landman acquired most of the town, renovating one of the few remaining hotels. Despite Landman’s efforts, the town didn’t fully realize its potential under his ownership. Just before the pandemic, Landman put up for sale everything he owned in the area – from shops along the main street to remnants of an old gas station, a damaged bathhouse, a dried-up lake, and a significant amount of land.

In 2020, a hospitality group comprising three partners purchased the entire area and commenced a revitalization project. They transformed the nearby lake into an inviting oasis complete with rope swings and kayaks, established a monthly flea market catering to locals, repurposed the old bathhouse into a music venue, and began ambitious plans to convert the old hotel into something truly exceptional.

The Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel

The newly revamped Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel is pure magic. It began welcoming guests in August 2023 and will continue to open in phases, including the introduction of a third hot pool in July 2024. Featuring 20 chic rooms, a delightful restaurant (that has great food!), relaxing hot pools, and an elegant bar, the hotel exudes an ambiance that captivates from every angle.

Everywhere you turn, you’ll find exquisite details that captivate the eye. There’s an exotic touch but the hotel stays true to its surroundings. It’s a beautiful blend where no single style dominates, yet traces of Moroccan and American Southwest influences emerge.

Many of its doorways are hand-carved and sourced from Morocco and India while Turkish chandeliers hang in the bar. Native plants and materials are effortlessly incorporated and cacti dot the property. It all works together to create a unique and intriguing atmosphere.

The Jacumba Hot Springs 

The pools at Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel are completely natural, free from chemicals, and directly fed by underground sources. These mineral-rich waters have long been known for their therapeutic benefits. They contain Alkaline properties with a pH level of over 10 and consist of Hydrogen Sulfide, Bicarbonate, Silica, Sodium, Lithium, Manganese, and other beneficial minerals. These elements make it effective in treating various conditions such as inflammation and skin issues.

The pool temperatures vary throughout the year based on the seasons. Currently, there are two pools available: an outdoor pool and an indoor soaking tub called The Echo Room. An additional outdoor pool (The Solstice Pool) is scheduled to open in March 2024. During the winter, the outdoor pool is approximately 90-95 degrees Fahrenheit, while The Echo Room maintains a temperature between 99-101 degrees Fahrenheit.

How to Visit Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel

Book a Hotel Room

Every detail at Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel has been carefully considered and radiates beauty. Different options are offered including double and king rooms, along with a few suites and private casitas. The casitas, located just around the corner from the hotel, come with private hot pools, making them a great choice for small-group getaways.

For larger groups, the hotel provides a couple of offsite properties within town. Although these properties don’t include pool access, they comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests. Day passes are available for access to the hotel’s rejuvenating hot pools.

Guests must be 21+. Children are allowed in the restaurant and off-site accommodation.

Make a Restaurant Reservation

A great way to experience the hotel is by making a reservation at the restaurant. The restaurant offers both indoor seating and a lovely, spacious patio. They serve a fantastic menu that features ingredients from local farms and seafood from Baja. They have plenty of vegan options and gluten-free dishes. I loved their fresh guacamole and nopales tacos.

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner from Thursday to Sunday and offers brunch on weekends. Additionally, they have a special $5 discount on items from the bar menu as well as an all-day happy hour on Thursdays. Hours may be extended in the future.

Purchase a Hot Springs Day Pass

To enjoy the hot springs at Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel, you can buy a day pass (subject to availability.) The pass is $35 and should be purchased in advance. This pass grants access to the outdoor pool and changing room between 11 am and 6 pm. It also includes a towel and sun care. Pool chairs are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Upon its opening, cabana rentals will be offered at The Ritual Pool. Additionally, memberships will become available, which will be great for locals seeking regular access.

Other Things to Do in Jacumba Hot Springs

Explore the Town of Jacumba Hot Springs

Although much of the main street along Old Highway 80 is currently vacant, it is an enjoyable spot for a walk. You’ll find a men’s vintage shop offering a great selection of cowboy boots and an old gas station that comes alive with neon lights after dark. Don’t forget to peek at the hotel’s monthly calendar; it features community events like a vintage flea market and live music at the bathhouse, adding to the town’s charm.

Go for a Walk at Jacumba Lake

Jacumba Lake, a charming man-made lake, has recently been cleaned up and transformed into a delightful oasis. During the summer, it’s an ideal place for a picnic or a refreshing swim. The hotel has added rope swings and kayaks for visitors to enjoy, while designated areas around the lake offer opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

The beautiful natural surroundings make Jacumba Lake a peaceful spot for those seeking a tranquil escape. Nearby, though located on private property, the abandoned train cars can be spotted.

Nature and Hiking Trails

Jacumba Hot Springs boasts an array of scenic hiking trails and nature walks that call to nature enthusiasts. The most popular are:

Boulder Park & Desert View Tower

Boulder Park offers a fun walk along a pathway carved amid sizable boulders. This spot has been a part of Jacumba since the 1930s. Among the rocks, you’ll find carvings and paintings resembling animals, adding to its charm.

Adjacent to Boulder Park is the Desert View Tower. While the inside may no longer be accessible, you can still catch stunning views of the surrounding landscape from its exterior.

Smuggler’s Cave Trail

This moderate to challenging trail takes hikers through rocky terrain to a fascinating rock formation with historical significance. It’s about 3.5 miles round trip and offers glimpses of local flora and wildlife. This natural cave-like structure earned its name due to its rumored use for smuggling contraband during the Prohibition era. It’s rumored that the cartel still currently uses the area, so I’d advise not visiting alone and only during daylight hours. There is a road to drive up part of the way but a 4×4 is necessary.

Bankhead Springs Ghost Town

Bankhead Springs is a quick drive down Old Highway 80 from the hotel. Once a bustling resort, much like Jacumba, it thrived in the early 20th century. Today, it’s a ghost town, keeping stories of its old grandeur alive. Visitors can wander among abandoned buildings and crumbling walls, offering a peek into California’s history—a fun little glimpse into the past.

Visit the Candy Cottage

The Wisteria Candy Cottage, located just a 5-minute drive down the highway from the Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel, is a charming little candy shop. From classic candies to homemade fudges and chocolates, the cottage offers a wide assortment of sweets.

This charming candy cottage has been in business since 1921 and has remained a family-run establishment for the last 100 years. The friendly staff adds to the warm atmosphere, making it an inviting stop for locals and visitors alike.

Have you visited Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel? What did you think? If you’ve enjoyed this post, please leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Interested in exploring more of the Southern California desert? Continue to my post, “10 Weird Things to Do in Joshua Tree“.