Overview
Southern California’s classic “spa day” built around mineral water
Glen Ivy is the opposite of a wilderness soak. You book a spot, show up with a bag, and spend the day rotating between mineral-water pools, shaded lounges, and the resort’s signature add-ons. If your search is “hot springs near Los Angeles for a day trip” or “best hot springs spa in Southern California,” this is the version that feels turnkey.
Why it stands out in California
Most California hot springs require either a drive deep into the mountains or a comfort level with rustic conditions. Glen Ivy sits near the freeway corridor, yet it still feels tucked against the hills. The experience is curated and social. You can keep it simple with soaking and a meal, or build an entire itinerary around treatments and quiet downtime.
Know the vibe before you commit
This is an adults-only property, and swimwear is required in public areas. Phones are discouraged for a more “heads up” atmosphere, and reservations matter because capacity can fill. If you want silence, pick a quieter weekday. If you want a lively friend day, weekends make sense (and feel more like an event).
Location & Access
Where it is
Glen Ivy Hot Springs is in Temescal Valley near Corona, at 25000 Glen Ivy Rd, close to the Santa Ana Mountains. It’s positioned for easy access from much of Southern California, which is a big part of its appeal.
By car
Driving is the practical way to do this. You’re minutes off major routes, then on a short access road to the entrance and parking. Plan for weekend traffic in the broader Corona area, plus extra time if you’re arriving around typical check-in waves.
Reservations and arrival
This is a capacity-managed day spa. In practice, you want a reservation, not a “maybe we’ll swing by” plan. Arriving early helps you settle in, stow your things, and start soaking without feeling rushed.
What to pack
Bring a swimsuit you can move in, sandals with grip, and a water bottle. A hat and sunscreen matter in warm months. A light layer is useful for breezy afternoons, even when the water is warm.
Timing
Weekdays feel calmer. Summer can be hot on the deck, while cooler months often deliver the best contrast between air and water.
Suitability & Accessibility
Best for
Glen Ivy is a strong match for travelers searching long-tail terms like “adult-only hot springs near LA,” “day spa hot springs in California,” or “mud bath hot springs experience.” It works for friend groups, couples, and solo visitors who want an easy wellness day without backcountry logistics.
Not the right fit if you want wilderness
If your ideal is a creekside soak with silence and stars, this will feel too managed. The tradeoff is convenience, amenities, and predictability. You are paying for structure and comfort.
Accessibility notes
The resort is designed for a wide range of mobility needs, but you should still plan. Paths can be wet, surfaces can vary, and the property is large enough that pacing matters. If you use a wheelchair or mobility device, coming with a companion is smart. Think of this as “accessible with planning,” not “effortless in every corner.”
Crowd and sound
Some days feel quiet, other days feel social. In practice, weekday mornings are the easiest time to find a mellow rhythm. If you want to read and drift between pools, choose a low-demand time window and treat it like a slow day, not a checklist.
Safety & Etiquette
Heat management
Mineral pools can feel deceptively intense, especially on hot days. Keep your first soak short, cool off between rounds, and drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty yet. If you are heat-sensitive, build in shade breaks and avoid stacking long sessions back-to-back.
Slip awareness
Wet decks are normal at any hot spring facility. Walk, don’t rush. Sandals with traction help, and they also make transitions more comfortable when surfaces are warm or textured.
Swimwear and personal space
Swimwear is required in public areas. Keep things low-key: no loud music, no sprawling across walkways, and be mindful of shared space in smaller pools. This is a relaxation setting, and the best days here come from everyone cooperating with that baseline.
Phones and photos
People come here to unplug. If you need your phone, keep it quiet and out of the way. Avoid photos that include other guests, even accidentally. If you want a keepsake shot, do it quickly and respectfully in an empty corner, or skip it.
Wildlife and environment
The resort sits in a natural landscape near open hills. Bees and insects are part of the scene in warm months. Don’t swat at everything. Stay calm, move slowly, and step away if something is bothering you.
FAQs
Is Glen Ivy Hot Springs adults-only?
Yes. Admission is for guests 18 and older, and you should expect ID checks. If you are planning a California hot springs trip with teens or kids, you’ll want a different style of property, like a state park pool complex or a family resort.
Do I have to wear a swimsuit?
Yes. Appropriate swimwear is required in public areas. If you are specifically searching for clothing-optional hot springs in California, this is not that kind of place.
Do I need a reservation?
In practice, yes. Capacity fills and walk-ins are not a reliable plan. Booking ahead also lets you pick your preferred arrival time and avoid turning a relaxing day into a logistics scramble.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Many areas are designed to support mobility devices, and the resort describes ramps and accessibility features. Staff may not be able to provide physical transfer assistance, so bring a companion if you need help moving in and out of a chair or navigating wet areas.
What’s the best time to go?
If you want calm, aim for a weekday morning or a lower-demand season. Weekends can be more social and can feel like an event day. Both can be good, it depends on what you want from the soak.