Meditation Mount, Ojai

Situated in the beautiful hills of Ojai, Meditation Mount offers tranquil grounds to walk, meditate and practice inner peace. Founded in 1971 as a nonprofit Center for Planetary Service, these stewards of the land welcome registered guests to experience three different meditation experiences. The path in the International Garden of Peace encourages a meditative walk beginning at the Portal and winding around the property and through a plant garden to the viewpoint overlooking the Ojai valley. For a guided audio meditation, Universal Principles and Pathways, which are the foundation for a New Civilization and the mission of Meditation Mount, can be seen engraved on boulders throughout the garden. A map and your smartphone help you along the journey. And finally, join a group creative mediation in the panoramic auditorium.  

Esalen Institute, Big Sur

A spiritual haven for learning, discovery and natural splendor since 1962, the Esalen Institute is considered the epicenter of the human potential movement. A space for leaders in mindfulness, yoga, meditation and more, the non-profit holistic retreat offers a weekly calendar of workshops devoted to exploring mind, body and soul. Each workshop package includes accommodation and meals, plus the added benefit of exploring the breathtaking property overlooking the coast. There are also incredible massage appointments available, and modesty aside, the famous, ocean-view sulfur baths with a clothing optional policy. 

Spirit Rock, Woodacre

Dedicated to meditation practice and Buddhist teachings, this spiritual training institute about 45 minutes from San Francisco gets its name from an iconic rock nestled against a tree. Offering both in person and online retreats, workshops and classes, Spirit Rock welcomes meditation practitioners of all levels. Set among 411 acres of oak woodlands and rolling hills, this refuge for a bust life wants you to discover “it’s truly possible to quiet the mind, soften the heart, and see life in a new way.”