Public Showers in California

Do you need to take a shower in California? Here is the public shower database for the ‘Golden State,’ which we are constantly updating. There are many free and paid places available.

Select a city:

Anaheim

Pearson Park Pool

Outdoor public pool that has many showers available and free access during select times. Check their website for accurate dates and times. You must register on the website before arriving. Hot water, clean, overall a great place to wash up.

Arcata

Finnish Country Sauna & Tubs

A truly unique and wonderful place to relax and wash up. Set in a gorgeous courtyard with tables and chairs are several private hot jet tubs to relax in. Afterwards, you can use the outdoor hot shower to clean up. Although it’s expensive, most people think that it’s well worth it.

Bakersfield

Speedway/Shell Gas Station

Small gas station with two private shower stalls that are relatively affordable when compared to Pilot, Love’s, TA, etc. Clean place, very hot water, and friendly staff. Towels are provided.

Barstow

Cora Harper Community Center

Communal open stall showers available for a cheap daily rate at the Cora Harper Community Center. Not much in the way of privacy but the water is hot and the pressure is wonderful. Relatively clean and bonus amenities such as a basketball court, sauna, etc.

Flying J Travel Center

Very large Flying J truck stop with 15 private shower rooms available to rent. No time limit, unlimited hot water, and spacious stalls. Facility is clean and tidy with friendly employees. Towels and soap dispensers are complimentary.

Bass Lake

Miller’s Landing Resort

Although it’s closed during winter months and typically only open from the end of March until the beginning of October, this is a nice spot to shower. The water is hot and plentiful with good pressure. Stalls are private but not always clean (it depends on when you go.) Tokens can be purchased inside of the store.

Berkeley

West Campus Pool

This is a nice swimming pool operated by Berkeley College that has an inexpensive day pass for access to the entire facility. However, during certain hours (typically around 7:15 to 8PM) you can access the showers-only for free. Call ahead to check for current hours. Clean communal stalls (no privacy) but ample hot water and pressure.

Big Bear

San Bernardino National Forest Serrano Campground

Small campground with five private shower stalls available for anyone to use; you do not need to be staying at the campground to use it. Pay at the entrance station. Water is hot but non-adjustable. You must press the button every 20 seconds to have it spray water out. Not always very clean so wear your sandals.

Big Pine

Hi Country Market & Hardware Chevron

Hot showers located in the motel lot near the gas station. Get your token and door code from the clerk inside the gas station and you’re good to go. Not always very clean but water is hot and pressure is great. No towels or soap provided so plan on bringing your own.

Big Sur

Gorda General Store

Private showers located at this very small General Store along Highway 1. Clean and plentiful hot water with good pressure. Soap and towels are not provided so plan on bringing your own.

Bishop

The Hostel California

Small but nice hostel located near the heart of Bishop that has a single shower room available to the general public. Very hot water and super clean, albeit a bit small and cramped. Towels and soap are provided.

Borrego Springs

Holmes Camp

Coin operated showers in a small private building. Easy to access and somewhat clean with a spacious stall that has a locking door. Water is hot and pressure is decent.

Ocotillo Wells

Small building with four coin-operated showers inside private stalls with locking doors. Stalls are spacious but a little dirty at times. Water is fairly hot and pressure is excellent.

The Courts Anza-Borrego

A unique experience with tennis courts, a pool, hot tub, and of course; showers. The stalls are private and the water is hot. Towels are provided and the entire facility is very clean. Hours can differ based on seasons so call ahead before visiting.

Boulevard

Boulevard / Cleveland National Forest KOA Holiday

Three individual private shower stalls open to the general public inside of this nicely appointed KOA campground. Water is hot and the facility is very clean. Excellent pressure and friendly staff. No need to be staying in the campground to use; open to all.

Brawley

Pilot Travel Center

Standard Pilot truck stop with two private shower rooms available. Water is very hot and there’s no time limits. Each room has a toilet, sink, mirror, etc. Towels are complimentary and extras are available.

Calexico

Herber Dunes State Vehicular Recreational Area

Very nice and updated coin operated showers that are private and spacious. There are two showerheads in each stall and endless hot water with amazing pressure. Doesn’t seem to be used that often.

Calistoga

Calistoga Community Pool

Nice and hot showers located in the Calistoga Community Pool that are open for anyone to access. Clean and modern facility with friendly staff.

Cambria

San Simeon Creek Campground

Token operated hot showers (cold water is free) inside of the State Park campground. Public allowed to use even if you aren’t staying at the campground. There’s a token machine on-site for exchanging bills for tokens.

Capitola

Esplanade Park

Free cold water showers located near the restrooms at Esplanade Park. Pressure is excellent but there’s no privacy so it’s best to bring your swimsuit. Busy are but nearby parking is usually available.

New Brighton State Park

While you do need to get into the State Park to access this facility, there are a couple of cold water showers located near the restroom building along the beachfront.

Carlsbad

Alga Norte Aquatic Center

Extremely nice pool with perfectly hot showers in individual private stalls. Benches, hooks, and soap dispensers abundant. Very upscale and clean facility with pool access included in your day pass.

Carpinteria

Carpinteria Community Pool

Nice community pool with showers accessible with a day pass for the entire facility. No shower-only pass available. Clean, hot water, friendly staff. Water temperature is not adjustable but it’s decently hot. Hours can be random so check their website or give them a call to check before you visit.

Carpinteria State Beach

While these token-operated showers are typically only for campground guests, anyone can easily use them. Token machine on-site. Stalls are private and somewhat clean. If you don’t have any luck using the indoor “warm” showers, there are free cold showers located next to the beach.

Castaic

Castaic Sports Complex Aquatic Center

Open stall communal showers that are typically free to use if you ask nicely. Otherwise, you may have to pay for a day pass which is under $10 per person. Clean with warm water (not hot) but good pressure. Nice facility that’s more upscale than most pool centers in the area.

Chester

Chester Laundromat

Conveniently located on the way to Lassen National Park is this small laundromat that has public showers for anyone to use. They even have dog washing stations! The facility is a bit dirty and the water isn’t always very hot, but it’s one of the only places around here to wash up.

Collins Lake

Collins Lake Campground

Coin operated showers open for anyone to use; you do not have to be camping at the campground to use them. Many private stalls in a small building. Hot water is plentiful although the pressure could be better. No change machine on-site, so plan ahead and bring your quarters.

Coronado

Center Beach Restrooms

Cold (warmish) water showers located both inside and outside of this public restroom. Facility tends to be clean but heavily used. No mirrors or benches, but easily accessible with good pressure.

Coronado Community Center

Really nice community center with wonderful hot showers with full privacy and locking stalls. Many amenities such as an outdoor pool and gym. Showers provide very hot water, good pressure, and there are even hair dryers and shampoo.

Coulterville

Horseshoe Bend Recreational Area – Lake McClure

Inside of the day use area you will find a shower building with several stalls within. The water temperature is not adjustable but kind of warm with OK pressure. Doesn’t seem to be used all that often, so don’t expect much company.

Crescent City

Fred Endert Municipal Pool

Spacious open stall showers (no privacy) located within this small indoor pool facility. The water pressure is amazing and the temperature is hot. Clean and modern facility with soap dispensers and benches. No shaving is allowed, so please take note.

Life Fitness

Small but nice gym with a couple hot water shower stalls that are accessible with a day pass. Privacy abundant with friendly staff in a clean facility.

Death Valley

Badwater Saloon

A couple of private shower stalls located in Stovepipe Wells. Water is warm, not hot, but there’s no time limit and they do provide towels for you to use. Typically a little dirty but not too bad. If the showers are broken or out of order, they’ll let you shower inside of an empty hotel room.

The Ranch at Death Valley

Access to both showers and a beautiful outdoor pool for the price of admission. The shower stalls are private and relatively spacious with ample hot water and pressure.

Desert Hot Springs

Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel

This is a unique experience where you can have access to 8 mineral pools and of course; private shower stalls. Water is very hot and the pass is good for all-day use so you are free to re-enter if needed. Water is clean, hot, and there’s no time limits. Very nice place!

Dunlap

Gena’s Sierra Inn and Restaurant LLC

Four outdoor but fully enclosed and private, spacious shower stalls that provide amazing hot water and excellent pressure. Pre-payment is advised through their website (link above.) Towels, wash cloth, and soap are provided complimentary.

Dunsmuir

Castle Crags State Park Campground

Although technically you need to be staying at the campground to use them, there are a few public showers that are easy to access. Each one is equipped with a coin-operated timer, but currently they are out of order, and hot water emits without putting in any quarters. Old and a bit run-down but a good spot to wash up.

Elk Grove

Barbara Morse Wackford Community & Aquatic Complex

This is a nice pool and rec center that has many private showers located within each of the locker rooms. Spacious and clean with plenty of hot water. Open swim hours change frequently so call ahead or visit their website for more-accurate times.

Encinitas

Moonlight State Beach

Free cold outdoor showers located near the beachfront. Beautiful setting although quite busy at most times. These are in the open so there’s no privacy, so plan on wearing some swim trunks.

Fort Bragg

C.V. Starr Community Center

Nice facility with many amenities such as a pool and fitness room that are all open for public use. The shower stalls are clean, private, and the hot water is plentiful. Staff is very welcoming.

Garberville

Richardson Grove RV Park

This is a small campground that offers public showers to anyone passing by. There are two small private stalls inside of the men’s and women’s restrooms. The campground is a bit outdated and somewhat run-down, but the staff is super friendly and accommodating. Water temperature is very hot, pressure is good, and there’s no time limits.

Grass Valley

Gold Country YMCA

Communal open stall showers located at this smaller (but nice) YMCA facility. Excellent water temperature and pressure with no set time limits. Day pass gains you access to the showers but also the rest of the amenities. Clean and updated place with friendly staff.

Groveland

Yosemite Lakes RV Resort

Hot showers available at this Thousand Trails campground. Ample hot water, good pressure, private stalls. Not the cleanest but it works! You do not need to be staying at the campground to use this place.

Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging

Several private showers located near the swimming pool. Water is hot, pressure is decent, and the facility seems to be quite clean. No time limits!

Hawthorne

Hawthorne Pool

Outdoor community pool with showers within each of the locker rooms. Warm water that’s not super hot but it’s clean with good pressure. Private stalls with friendly staff. Check website for the latest hours.

Hayward

East Bay Regional Park

Several cold water showers dispersed amongst this gated park. Showers are not very private but have good water pressure. Facility is somewhat dirty but it does work well for a quick wash up.

Independence

Valero Gas Station

Small gas station with pay showers open to the public. While there is no official time limit, they do ask that you keep your showering under 20 minutes in order to conserve hot water for everyone. No towels provided.

Indio

Indio Community Center

Although you’re only allowed to use the showers between 6 and 9:30AM, they provide good pressured hot water with no time limit. There are stalls but no curtains; semi-private. Cleaned often but no towels provided so plan on bringing your own.

Inverness

Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center

Free cold water showers located near the visitor center and Drakes Beach. In the open so don’t expect any privacy. Water pressure is good but not heated. Typically meant for rinsing off sand, but you could theoretically use them to wash up.

Point Reyes Beach North

More free cold water showers located near the beach parking area. Easy access but in the wide open so do not expect any privacy. Commonly used to rinse sand, but anyone can use them to clean up and fully shower.

Inyokern

Grumpy Bears Retreat

Typically used by PCT hikers to wash up, they have a free outdoor shower that is relatively warm. The temperature is pre-configured to a single setting but the pressure is great.

Isla Vista

Camino Pescadero Park

Cold showers located at this quaint park. Good water pressure but not private whatsoever. Relatively simple access but parking can be tough to come by during mid-day hours.

Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

Hot showers open to anyone but with some limitations. You are only allowed on the property for 30 minutes. If you stay any longer you must pay a day use fee. Closed to non-campers before 2PM. However, water is hot and place is clean.

Kelseyville

Kelsey Creek Campground

Token operated showers located within Clear Lake State Park. There’s a building near the boat ramp and also one within the campground that anyone can use. Tokens can be purchased at the ranger station/entrance gate and each one gets you 2 minutes. Hot water, private locking stalls, great pressure, and quite clean!

Kernville

Kern River’s Edge Campground Retreat

In the center of the campground is a restroom and shower building with 3 private stalls in each of the men’s and women’s rooms. Water is hot and plentiful. Although the facility is a bit outdated, it seems to be kept clean and tidy.

Klamath

Klamath’s Camper Corral

Located at the camping area are a couple private shower rooms with very hot water and extra space to shave, use a mirror, toilet, etc. The stalls are a bit small and not always very clean, but the water is extremely hot and there’s no time limit.

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach High School & Community Pool

Open stall warm showers located at the community pool. Not much for privacy but it’s very inexpensive and there’s no time limit. Check their website for accurate dates and times for access as it seems to change frequently. Self-payment and registration available.

La Jolla

Restroom Near Ellen Browning Scripps Park

Free semi-warm showers located within the large restroom building near Ellen Browning Scripps Park. Walls between stalls but no doors so it’s semi-private; wear swim shorts. Relatively clean but quite busy at most times.

Lee Vining

Mono Vista RV Park

Token operated showers located within the Mono Vista RV Park. Tokens can be purchased at the front office but please note that the machine will not take quarters; tokens required for hot water. Cold water is free, but it’s very chilly, so be advised. Open 7 days a week from 9AM to 11:30AM and 1PM to 5PM. Clean and private with friendly employees!

Little River

Van Damme State Beach

Simple cold water shower located at the parking lot near the beach. Wide open so no privacy, but very good water pressure. Perfect for rinsing off the black sand, but you can easily use it to fully wash up.

Lodi

Flying J Travel Center

Truck stop style shower rooms with privacy. Water is very hot and there’s no time limit. Towels and soap are provided at no additional charge. The fee covers the room so you can bring a guest if you want to shower together to save a few bucks.

Loleta

Bear River Recreation Center

Very nice, modern rec center with several showers open to the general public. For the price of a day pass, you get access to the showers as well as all of the other luxuries such as the sauna, pool, gym, etc. There is even a private shower room with its own toilet, sink, etc. Super hot water, no time limit, friendly staff.

Lone Pine

Whitney Portal Hostel & Hotel

Perfect place to stop for a shower. Private room with a sink, bench, and shower stall. Soap and towel are provided at no extra cost. Water pressure is great and very hot; no set time limits.

Long Beach

Belmont Plaza Pool

Nice public pool facility with many private shower stalls available. Door code for locking doors is available at the pool’s office. Located between the pool and the plaza building inside individual trailers. Very unique but clean and tidy with wonderfully hot water and excellent pressure without any sort of time limits.

Los Angeles

Echo Park Pool

Community pool with cheap day pass that grants you access to their showers. Stalls are private but the water is not entirely warm and you must press the button every 10 seconds to keep water coming out. Not very clean and the pressure is a bit intense.

Hollywood Pool

Several clean showers located within the locker rooms at the Hollywood Pool. Hours can be random so check their website or call ahead for accurate times to visit. Cheap entrance fee with full access to the entire facility. Water is hot and pressure is great!

Westwood Recreation Center

Nice community center with inexpensive access to several private shower stalls. Clean and plentiful hot water. Staff is friendly but like most places, bring your own towels. Check website or call ahead for accurate times to visit.

Los Gatos

Addison-Penzak JCC in Los Gatos

This is a very large community center that has a steeply priced day pass. However, some have reported that you can enter for free if you ask nicely. Must show your ID and register. Sauna and steam rooms available to anyone who buys a full day pass. Place is cleaned often and water is very hot with amazing pressure.

Madera

Pilot Travel Center

Typical Pilot truck stop with 11 private shower rooms for rent. Anyone can use them; you don’t need to be a trucker. Water is very hot, no time limit, free towels to use. Cleaned after each guest.

Malibu

Surfrider Beach

Located on the side of the blue lighthouse is a shower pole that anyone can use to wash up. Not private and the water is cold but the pressure is decent. Easy access in a busy area.

Zuma Beach – Bathrooms (Tower 4)

Cold outdoor showers located right next to the beach and the parking area. Good pressure but wide open and not private. Easy access with not many people around as most beaches in the area.

Mammoth Lakes

Convict Lake Resort

Located behind the camp store are two private room showers that provide excellent hot water with amazing pressure. Relatively clean and open year-round.

Mammoth Mountain RV Park

A few private shower stalls, each with their own curtain with a nicely tiled interior and easy access. No time limit and endless hot water. Very clean but they do not provide towels or soap, so bring your own.

McGee Creek RV Park & Campground

Although it’s closed in the winter months, the McGee Creek RV Park is a great place to get a hot shower. Facility is very clean and there’s no time limits. Great water pressure and plentiful hot water that seems to last forever.

Twin Lakes General Store

Although only open seasonally from June through September, this is a simple and clean shower that is easy to access. Ample hot water, no time limit, good pressure. Private stalls with friendly staff.

Mendocino

Mendocino Sports Club

Nice hot showers that are accessible to the public for a one-time day pass fee. Good pressure, friendly staff, nice facility. It’s a small place but the place is tidy.

Sweetwater Inn and Spa

This is a small but nice place to soak in a hot tub and shower afterwards. Not really a place that you’d want to shower-only at, but clean and well kept. The soaking tubs are shared but the showers are private. Plentiful hot water and good pressure coming from the showerheads.

Mill Valley

Mill Valley Recreation

Very large rec center with an upscale interior and clean throughout. The showers are communal and in the open so don’t expect any privacy. Water is hot and pressure is wonderful. Hours can be random so call ahead or check their website for specifics.

Rodeo Beach Coastal Trailhead Restrooms and Showers

Free outdoor cold showers located on the outside wall of the restroom building. No privacy but water pressure is wonderful, albeit quite chilly. Conveniently located next to a parking lot for easy access.

Mi-Wuk Village

Mi Wuk Wash & Dry

Located around the back of the building are two private showers that anyone can use. Change machine on-site and functional as of early 2025. Small stalls but ample hot water and relatively clean. They are open to use 24 hours a day!

Monterey

Coast Guard Pier

Located on the right side just before the actual pier, you will find a public restroom with two coin operated showers within. Hot water is plentiful with good pressure. Not always the cleanest but probably a better spot that the Veterans Memorial Park.

Monterey Veterans Memorial Park

Located at the public restroom are a couple of showers available. Fill out a self-pay slip or check with the camp host to make your payment. Water temperature is set and tends to be warm but not very hot. Not the cleanest but it works in a pinch. They do ask you to limit your shower to around 10-20 minutes, so keep that in mind.

Morro Beach

Morro Rock Beach

Coin operated showers located at the public restroom building. These are outdoor, open-air with virtually no privacy. Water is barely warm but pressure is OK. Change machine is broken so bring your own quarters; plan ahead.

Mt Laguna

Burnt Rancheria Campground

Located within this National Forest operated campground is a small building that has four private shower stalls within. The water is hot and pressure is good. Relatively clean and roomy, each one has a bench. They ask you to keep your shower under 15 minutes to conserve water for all guests. You do not need to be staying in the campground to use this facility.

Oceano

Grand Ramp Restrooms

Located next to Grover Beach and the Oceano Dunes Natural Preserve State Park, there is a small restroom building with a couple of cold showers on the outside. While these are in the wide open, they’re more-private than others in the area.

Oceano Campground

Coin operated showers that are open daily from 8AM to 6PM. Water is warm but not hot but pressure is good. The stalls are private and there’s also a locking changing area with space for your belongings.

Oceanside

Buccaneer Beach

Small public beach with a couple of cold outdoor showers for anyone to use. Directly across the street from Buccaneer Cafe. Park in the lot and cross the street; the showers will be in plain sight. No privacy but great water pressure.

Oceanside Beach Showers

Another cold outdoor shower in the wide open that is completely free to use. Very busy area with easy access.

Oceanside Public Restroom Showers

Another good option for outdoor showers; these seem to be a bit warmer than the others, although it’s still technically cold. Good pressure and easy access although parking costs around $15.

Olancha

TA Express Travel Centers Of America

Large truck stop with several private shower rooms available. Unlimited hot water and super clean stalls. Towels are complimentary.

Old Station

OLD STATION FILL UP Laundromat @ Showers and JJ’S Cafe

Token operated public showers located in-between the gas station and the restaurant. Go to the gas station to purchase your tokens for $1 each. Relatively clean with six individual private stalls and wood slats on the floor to allow water to drain through. Each stall has its own private dry area to place your towel and belongings while you use the shower.

Orick

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground

Located within the small white building are a couple of private stall showers that are open to campers, but can be discreetly used by anyone if you’re sneaky. You may not be able to get into the area after May 15th without being registered, but many people simply park at the day use area and walk over. Water is hot, pressure is good, and they seem to be kept nice and clean.

Pacifica

Pacifica Community Center

Nice modern facility with with a fully stocked gym, cardio machines, weights, and two private showers located within the restrooms. Water is very hot and pressure is good. Each restroom appears to be cleaned often.

Pacifica State Beach

Cold water outdoor shower pole located near the Taco Bell and the restrooms. Pressure is good, but ground puddles and does not drain very well.

Rockaway Beach

Located behind the restrooms, you’ll find a couple of cold water showers that are free for the public to use. Good pressure but not private at all.

Paicines

Pinnacles Campground

Free hot showers located to the right of the Pinnacles Campground Store with easy access. Very nice facility that isn’t locked and can be access by anyone. Clean and spacious with body wash, shampoo, and conditioner dispensers located within. Please note that this is inside of Pinnacles National Park so you will need your National Parks pass to get here.

Palm Desert

Palm Desert Aquatic Center

Warm showers (not hot) located within each of the locker rooms. They do not allow showers-only so you need to buy a full day pass. Luckily, it’s cheap. They ask for you to keep the time under 20 minutes in order to conserve water for everyone. Temperature is set and cannot be adjusted.

Palm Springs

Pilot Travel Center

Standard truck stop with five shower rooms available. Each one has a toilet, sink, and towels are provided. Endless hot water with good pressure. Very clean place with friendly staff.

Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach Athletic Club

Several showers available with the purchase of a day pass to the Pismo Beach Athletic Club. Lots of amenities including a gym, weight room, pickleball, pool, sauna, etc. Showers are wonderful; private and incredibly hot water with amazing pressure.

Pismo Beach Pier Restroom

Located right before the pier is a restroom building that has two open air cold water showers for the public to use. Not much for privacy but the pressure is good and the setting is beautiful.

Playa Del Ray

Dockweiler Picnic Area

Free cold water shower poles in the open near Dockweiler State Beach and close to LAX. Not as busy as most areas in Los Angeles but no privacy to speak of.

Pleasanton

Dolores Bengtson Aquatic Center

Several private shower stalls located within this indoor swimming center. Plenty of hot water with great pressure. Cleaned often and very tidy. Call ahead to check on the status of the showers since many of them seem to be under construction.

Point Arena

Point Arena Fishing Pier

Two large sized shower stalls within the cement (gray) building at the beginning of the pier. Tokens only; they can be purchased at the cafe. Truly very hot water and amazing pressure.

Red Fir

Lodgepole Market & Grill

Several hot showers open to the public at the Lodgepole Market and Grill on the way to Sequoia National Park. Although it’s typically closed during the winter months, it has easy access. Stalls are private and cleaned regularly.

Redondo Beach

Torrance Beach

Free cold outdoor showers located right next to the beach at the end of each pathway from the parking lot. The water is cold but the pressure is good. Busy area and open showers so don’t expect any privacy.

Rialto

Rialto Fitness & Aquatic Center

Nice rec center with private shower stalls located on the fitness side of the facility; the pool area does not have showers in their locker rooms. Ample hot water and good pressure. Relatively clean.

Ridgecrest

Kerr McGee Community Center

Nice community center with shower-only passes available to the public. The stalls are private and large/roomy and there’s no shortage of hot water, although it may take a while to heat up. Clean facility with friendly staff. Limited to 1 hour of use.

Ripon

Flying J Travel Center

Standard truck stop with private shower rooms for rent. Massive facility with 15 individual showers, all with their own toilet, sink, bench, etc. No time limit and very hot water that just keeps coming with excellent pressure. Towels and soap dispensers are complimentary.

Salinas

Pilot Travel Center

Typical truck stop style showers with private clean rooms and no time limits. Endless hot water with amazing pressure. Complimentary towels and soap dispensers provided. You are allowed to shower with your partner at no extra cost since they charge by shower and not by person.

San Clemente

San Clemente Beach Trail Restrooms

Free outdoor (cold) showers located next to the public restroom building near the railroad tracks and across the bridge. Relatively clean but no privacy to be expected.

San Clemente State Beach Parking

Outdoor beach showers with cold water but amazing pressure. Semi-private with a half-wall in-between and a bench to place your belongings on. Located right outside of the restroom building.

San Diego

Bonita Cover Restrooms

Cold showers located at the restroom. While these are in the open and not private, they’re more private than other outdoor showers in the area as they face the water and not the parking lot.

Bud Kearns Memorial Swimming Pool

Communal open stall showers at this outdoor public swimming pool. Not much in the way of privacy but the water is hot and unlimited with excellent pressure.

Mission Point Beach Restrooms

Two free cold water showers located just outside of the public restroom building. In the open so not private, but decent water pressure. Although typically used to rinse off sand after spending time at the beach, anyone can use these to fully wash up.

Pilot Travel Center

Conveniently located off of I-805 is this Pilot truck stop with 9 private shower rooms available to the public. Although the price is steep, they charge per shower and not per person, so you can bring a partner at no additional cost. Very hot water, spacious stalls, and very clean. Towels are provided.

San Francisco

Coffman Pool

Communal showers located within the restrooms at the Coffman Pool. Do not tell the front desk that you’re only there to shower, otherwise they may not let you in. You need exact cash/card; no change is given. Water is hot and pressure is great. Facility is generally clean but well used.

Crissy Beach Changing Rooms

Several free outdoor cold water showers located in the middle of the parking area. Very busy area and not much in the way of privacy, but it works for a quick wash up.

Public Restroom Near Golden Gate Bridge

Located on the side of the tan and green trim building you will find a couple of cold water showerheads that are open for public use. Not much privacy but a very good view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Pressure is good, but very chilly.

Sava Pool

There’s a communal shower located in each locker room with many showerheads but no privacy to be had whatsoever. However, there’s a single stall available with a locking door if desired. They ask that you keep your shower to 3 minutes, but this is not enforced. Plenty of hot water but not always the cleanest place.

Stonestown Family YMCA

Although the day pass price is quite steep, the showers are private and very clean. Ample hot water with great pressure. There is a rumor that you can acquire a free day pass on your first visit, but most visitors cannot confirm this. It’s worth asking about.

San Jose

Crunch Fitness

Anyone can get a free day pass if you go to their website and register. It only takes a few minutes and will gain you access to the entire facility, which includes many private shower stalls. Water is hot, stalls are clean and roomy, and the staff is very friendly.

San Luis Obispo

Coastal Gateway Multi-Purpose Room

Coin operated showers located in the tan building across the street from the large parking area. There are three showers; the one on the right is nearly useless (don’t use it.) The other two emit hot water but take a couple minutes to warm up. Pressure is fairly poor but it works for a quick wash up.

Santa Barbara

El Capitán State Beach

Token-operated showers located within the State Beach just West of Santa Barbara along Highway 101. Private stalls, each with their own bench and soap dispenser. Token machine on-site. Water is hot!

Leadbetter Beach

Free cold water outdoor showers in the open near the restroom building. Not private but the water pressure is good. While the showers are free, you’ll likely have to pay to park here which costs $3.50 per hours or $22 for a full day. Easy access in a busy area.

Los Baños del Mar Pool

Community pool that has showers that you are able to access with your standard pool day pass. They frown upon people only-showering so act like you’re going to swim if you don’t want to use the pool. Clean and tidy with plenty of hot water.

Santa Barbara Parks & Rec Department

Several private shower stalls within a historical but recently renovated gym. Stalls are very clean with their own curtains. No time limits and very hot water. Wonderful place to wash up and a better option than most outdoor cold beach showers around here.

Santa Cruz

Cowell Beach

Free outdoor (cold water) showers located right next to the beach at the public restroom building. Parking is very limited but access is generally pretty easy. Out in the open so don’t expect to get any privacy.

Lighthouse Field State Beach

More free cold water showers located next to the restroom building at the parking area. Busy area with no privacy, but the pressure is good.

Pleasure Point Park

Another good spot to get a cold shower in. Not private and in the wide open but the water pressure is good.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica Pie

Many outdoor cold-water showers located next to the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Obviously very busy and not private but it’s an OK spot to wash up.

Santa Monica Swim Center

Open stall communal showers available to the public at the Santa Monica Swim Center. Water is warm and shouldn’t be considered “hot” but the pressure is great and the facility is clean. Bring your own towels!

Santa Nella

Petro Travel Center

Standard truck stop showers with private rooms and no time limits. Water is hot and facility is cleaned regularly. Towels and soap are provided complimentary. They charge per shower; not per person, so you can bring a guest for free.

Santa Rosa

Finley Aquatic Center

Nice pool with communal showers located within each of the locker rooms. Not much privacy but the water is hot and the pressure is great. You also get access to the pool, which is a nice bonus.

Ridgway Swim Center

Communal showers with plentiful hot water and great pressure. No privacy but clean and tidy. Rumor has it, if you ask nicely, you could possibly use the showers (without the pool) for free, but it depends on who is working.

Santa Ynez

Cachuma Lake Restrooms

Several different restroom buildings with private shower stalls located within each one. Water is warm (not hot) but the facilities seem to be cleaned regularly.

Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA

Very nice YMCA with free passes available on your first time visit. Show your ID and register at the front desk and they’ll direct you where to go. You get access to the pool, weight room, and all other amenities. Showers are private and hot and very clean. Super friendly staff!

Scotts Flat

Scotts Flat Campground

Quiet camping area with a couple of showers that are open for public use. You are not required to be camping here in order to use them. Coin operated but no change machine on site so be advised. Stalls are private, clean, and the water is very hot!

Shingletown

Manzanita Lake Camper Store

At the Manzanita Lake Campground, you can purchase a shower even if you aren’t staying the night at the campground. Go to the camp store to pay and get the door code; they will direct you to where the showers are located. Not the cleanest, and the water takes a while to get hot, but there’s no time limit.

Sierra City

Sierra City Picnic Area And Public Restroom

Two free cold showers for the public located inside of each of the men’s and women’s restrooms. Private stalls, good pressure, but do know that the water is NOT heated. Relatively clean with easy access.

South Lake Tahoe

Camp Richardson Campground

Private shower stalls located within the Camp Richardson Campground that are open to all; you do not need to be staying here to use them. Tokens can be purchased in the hotel lobby, and the shower building is located near the roundabout (click the address above and it will take you right to it.)

South Lake Tahoe Parks & Recreation Center

Although this rec center is a bit more outdated that other facilities around here, there are many hot showers available. They are open stall and communal so don’t expect any privacy unless there is nobody else around. Water is hot, no time limits. Soap dispensers located within the showers.

Stinson Beach

Restroom at Stinson Beach

Cold water showers located on the side of the tan and brown building. The water pressure is good, but it’s in the open so do not expect any privacy. Only use biodegradable soap as the water does not drain and runs off into the ocean.

Tahoma

Meeks Bay Resort

Token operated showers located within the Meeks Bay Resort on the west shores of Lake Tahoe. Tokens can be purchased from the camp store. Hot water, good pressure, relatively clean.

Thermal

Chevron Gas Station

One private shower room available to rent with no time limit. Unlimited hot water and great pressure in a fairly clean facility. Pressure is great and towels are provided at no additional charge.

Traver

RJ’s Travel Center

Small truck stop with a few showers available to the public. Water is hot and while there is no time limit, it seems to get cold after about 10 minutes. Towels are provided at no extra cost. Relatively clean facility with easy access.

Truckee

Truckee-Donner Community Swimming Pool

This is a very large and modern indoor swimming facility with shower-only passes available to the general public. There are both communal open stall showers as well as a few private shower stalls within each locker room. Water is hot, no time limit, great pressure.

Tulare

Evolutions Fitness & Wellness Center

Large gym with free showers upon signing a waiver. Ask nicely and they’ll let you wash up without paying anything. Water is hot, stalls are moderately sized and the place is very clean.

Twentynine Palms

29 Fitness

Small but well-rounded gym with day passes available to anyone that stops by. Affordable when compared to other places in the area. Water is hot, staff is friendly. Women’s stalls have privacy but men’s do not.

Total Fitness

Nice gym with 24-hour passes available to the general public. While there are only a couple of showers available, they are clean, private with ample hot water and pressure.

Vacaville

In-Shape Fitness

Large gym with 24 hour walk-in passes for the general public to take advantage of. There are several private shower stalls but also many amenities such as a sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi. The 24 hour pass is nice to have since it means you could theoretically use it the next day (if time permits.)

Ventura

Hobson Beach Park

Coin operated showers located in this small campground that’s right on the beach. Typically meant for campers who are staying here but you can easily walk-in and use them without anyone batting an eye. Hot, private, and clean.

Surfers Point at Seaside Park

Free (cold) outdoor showers on the back side of the public restroom building. Located next to a large pay parking area but you can easily park on the street and walk-in. Not private so wear some shorts.

Ventura Aquatic Center

Nice facility with private “family sized” shower rooms that are open to the public during lap swim hours. Check their website or call them to check which hours they currently allow this. Must make a reservation so plan ahead. Water is very hot and the place is clean but they do limit you to 20 minutes, so be prepared!

Whiskeytown

Oak Bottom Beach

Although you do need to pay the entrance fee to the NPS, anyone can use these coin operated showers located right next to Oak Bottom Beach. Each shower is private and behind its own locked door. Water is very hot and the entire facility is cleaned often and well kept.

Winterhaven

T.K. Jones Campground

Two separate buildings with four shower stalls in each. Tokens-only but there is a machine on-site. Well maintained and very clean that seems to be seldomly used. Water is very hot and pressure is great.

Yosemite Valley

Curry Village

Located within the campground are several free showers for anyone to use. Simply ask for a shower at the front desk and they will point you in the right direction. Unlimited time, no door code/key, easy access. Water is very hot and pressure is amazing.

Housekeeping Camp

Several private shower stalls, each with their own locking door. Stalls are a bit small but they are cleaned frequently. Water is hot and pressure is good.

Yosemite Valley Lodge Pool

Open daily from 11AM to 7PM, you can walk-in and access the showers without paying any sort of fee. When you’re at the pool, walk past the towel shelf, go down the stairs, and you’ll find the restrooms which have showers in them. Private and clean with unlimited hot water.