Our Story

Tucked between the cliffs and the sea, Gorda has always been a place for wanderers.

The name “Gorda” comes from Spanish, meaning “fat” or “rich land”—a nod to the rolling hills, lush coastal terrain, and abundant wildlife of the area. In the 1800s, it was home to ranchers, loggers, and a few brave settlers carving out a life in one of California’s wildest regions.

But it wasn’t until the 1930s, with the construction of iconic Highway 1, that Gorda became more accessible. The road stitched together the coast and brought with it a steady stream of road-trippers, artists, surfers, and seekers—drawn by the sheer beauty and mystery of Big Sur.

Gorda Springs Resort was born from that spirit of adventure. Built as a refuge for travelers needing rest, supplies, and real connection, it remains a place to unplug, breathe deeply, and experience the raw magic of the California coast.