Tassajara Zen Mountain Center - Carmel Valley, California

Philip Epstein

One of the most magical, transformative places I've ever been. The nature, the quiet, the contemplative life guided by Zen rituals and wisdom - it's all amazing. Most important are the people living and working and studying there, practicing an ancient lineage for the benefit of all life.

It's less accessible to the public than it used to be but if you make some connections to the San Francisco Zen Center community you can find out how you can attend practice sessions and retreats there

Jennifer Griffin

I’ve been to Tassajara numerous times, with my most recent visit in August 2024. While pre-Covid visits always provided an out-of-this-world reset—complete with rejuvenating baths and delightful meals—this time felt different. The meals were heavily carb-centric, leaving me craving more wholesome options and fresh veggies.

Despite this, I believe Tassajara will bounce back and regain its former magic. I look forward to returning and experiencing the wonderful ambiance and restorative offerings that I’ve loved in the past!

Linda Hubbard Lalande

Great retreat center. Beautiful hot Springs very clean. Very good people and service and food.

Jo C

Finally made it to Tassajara. Just a day visitor, but hope to return soon. The hour-plus drive one way on Tassajara Road over the mountains is spectacular, with scenic views and wildflowers, but it’s a rough, rutted road. We stayed in first gear much of the way, and stopped frequently to cool our brakes. The shuttle is only available for overnight guests, so it was our only way to visit. || Tassajara is a peaceful reward, well worth the bumpy road. We felt welcomed by the monks and guests in multiple ways. Lunch (an extra charge) was simple: black bean soup, cornbread, salad, and a selection of cold teas (hibiscus, ginger, chai, etc), served in a lovely room above the river. || Tassajara has a swimming pool, a few swimming holes in the river, and plenty of hiking trails, but the best part: the baths, separate for women’s and men’s. Clothing optional, with an indoor deep soaking pool, outdoor shallow soaking pool, natural steam room, and steps to the chilly, rocky river, where you can cool off. || Magical place, Tassajara.

J W

This place in the Santa Lucia range is a Buddhist monastery and school for the six winter months. During the rest of the year they are open to guests as a way to raise funds. It is not easy to get to; I suggest taking the 4 wheel drive stage for the last 14 miles on dirt road.||||Here is what I found here: Friendly and helpful staff. Simple, yet clean and comfortable cabin with private toilet. Fresh, creative, gourmet, healthy vegetarian food served family style. The world's best bread. Great coffee and teas. Soothing hot mineral spring baths. Miles of hiking trails with beautiful vistas. Clear sky with more stars than I have ever seen. Peace and quiet beyond description. An ever flowing creek through the entire property. Opportunities for meditation and prayer in the zendo (but certainly not expected or required of guests). Other like-minded, friendly, and interesting guests.||||This place is off the grid so there is no cell service or wi-fi. They generate their own electricity by solar for minimal low wattage LED lighting. There are no electrical outlets. It is not for everyone, but offers a peaceful spiritual alternative.

Claudia S

I have stayed at the Zen Center twice as a student. Working with the Monks and other summer student practitioners to serve full paying guests of the retreat. Work is part of Zen practice. It is a practice of staying in the moment and also learning a job the way Tassajara workers achieve the task. It can be very humbling and there is much time to examine you reactions to life inside a monastery. An amazing award winning kitchen serves up delicious vegetarian food. Surrounded by nature and natural sulfur spring Japanese style baths complete the day of hard work. Your day off can be filled with hiking or relaxing by the pool.

Rick F

Stayed here for a three day yoga/meditation retreat. This is a very spiritual place, with resident zen practitioners and guests living in an amazingly peaceful and beautiful setting. ||Morning and evening meditation, gourmet vegetarian food, and pleasant hikes and swimming. Also, a traditional Japanese bath house with amazing baths, and sauna. ||Fantastic place to return to your breath, relax, and gain perspective. ||A truly unique experience.

Kerry S

It has been a long time ( 10 years) since I have been here and this was a wonderful return visit with friends. We decided to take the stage from Jamesburg this time as in the past our cars have been beat up ( lost muffler - once a flat tire on Toyota truck).||It was convenient & worry free and worth the cost.||We were lucky enough to share the Stone Suite- a favorite location - sleeps 4 -6. It is cool a beautiful with a deck along the river- very restful at night!||Many improvements have been done- new paint, curtain & roofs on cabins. And electricity - although our room still had kerosene lanterns, which I love!!!||Dining room improved- new ceiling with lights & fans. ||Outdoor guest refrigerator - stored our white wine :)||The pool was clean & refreshing- bug nets over a few chairs & new bathroom with cold water shower at pool!||Food was excellent vegetarian as always- some meals better than others, but all carefully prepared & presented.||Mineral baths wonderful & clean. At night you felt so relaxed!||New was Iced Latte to drink along with usual tea. A real afternoon treat!||Tassajara has a special place in my heart and I hope to return next year.