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Anaheim · Los Angeles & Orange County
Shin / Pure Land In person Newcomer guidance Family program
A Shin Buddhist temple where listening to the Dharma and family community life are central.
Gatherings Sunday service at 10 am; check the calendar for holidays and special services.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 909 Dale Avenue, Anaheim. Getting started The “I’m New” guide introduces the temple and its services. No meditation experience is needed. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Sunday and most other services are in English; ask about specific access needs. Official schedule / information ↗ · First-visit guide ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Arcata · Northern California
Zen In person + online Newcomer guidance
A Soto Zen community with regular sitting, Dharma talks and orientations for people new to Zen.
Gatherings Daily zazen and Sunday programs; consult the calendar for upcoming introductory orientations.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 740 Park Avenue, Arcata. Getting started Choose a new-student orientation and check how to join local or online sitting. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Avila Beach · Central Coast
Multiple Buddhist traditions In person + online
A community drawing on several Buddhist traditions, with meditation, visiting teachers and study groups.
Gatherings Sunday hybrid gatherings and daily online sits. The Sunday meeting time is under review; use the current event listing rather than an older schedule.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 6615 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Village, Avila Beach. Use the meeting address, not the mailing box. Getting started Choose a current meditation group and check whether it meets at the center, online, or both. Cost / dāna Community membership is free; check each program’s donation or fee details. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official event calendar ↗ · Meeting location and directions ↗ · Sunday schedule update ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Berkeley · Bay Area
Zen In person + online Newcomer guidance
A neighborhood Soto Zen practice community with daily zazen, Saturday programs and introductory instruction.
Gatherings Weekday sitting and Saturday programs; beginner instruction Saturday at 8:40 am.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 1929 Russell Street, Berkeley; enter through the gate between 1929 and 1933. Getting started First-time visitors can attend Saturday instruction. Membership is not required for zazen. Cost / dāna Zazen is free. Retreats and special programs may have fees. Language & access Chairs and benches available; the FAQ describes wheelchair access to the zendo and community room. Fragrance-free practice. Official schedule / information ↗ · First-visit FAQ ↗ · Current announcements ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Berkeley · Bay Area
Insight / Vipassanā In person + online
A local insight meditation community with James Baraz, Eve Decker and guest teachers.
Gatherings Thursday 7:30–9 pm Pacific, in person and on Zoom. Check the event page for the teacher and any location changes.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Berkeley Buddhist Monastery, 2304 McKinley Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94703. Getting started Follow the current event listing for meeting details and online access. The host monastery and this Thursday insight group have distinct programs. Cost / dāna Teacher dāna is invited; the official donation page identifies recipients. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Weekly practice and location ↗ · Teacher dāna ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Berkeley · Bay Area
Cross-tradition contemplative center In person
A nonprofit community learning and event space with Buddhist meditation among a wider program of movement, inquiry and creative arts. Its scope extends beyond Buddhism.
Gatherings Meditation classes, workshops and special events; days and teachers vary. Consult the current calendar.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 2820 Seventh Street, Berkeley. Map location is an approximate Berkeley postal area. Getting started Choose a meditation event and check its registration and experience requirements. This listing is for community events; it does not advertise residential retreat accommodation. Cost / dāna Check the individual event for its price, registration and donation arrangements. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official community description and address ↗ · Current events ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Escondido · San Diego County
Plum Village In person Newcomer guidance
Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village tradition of mindful living, with public Days of Mindfulness led by the monastic community.
Gatherings Days of Mindfulness on selected Sundays; dates, registration and occasional closures are on the calendar.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 3 Mindfulness Road, Escondido. Getting started Register for a listed Day of Mindfulness and read its arrival guidance; overnight retreats use a separate process. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Types of visits ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Fresno · Sacramento & Central Valley
Shin / Pure Land In person + online Newcomer guidance Family program
A Shin Buddhist temple with services, introductory study, meditation and programs for young people.
Gatherings Sunday services at 10 am; meditation on selected Sundays and Thursdays. Buddhism 101 usually first Monday, 7–8:30 pm, in person and online.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 2690 E Alluvial Avenue, Fresno. Getting started Read the “I’m New” guide and check the calendar. Contact the organizer for the online Buddhism 101 link. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Programs and address ↗ · Newcomer introduction ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Long Beach · Los Angeles & Orange County
Multiple Buddhist traditions In person + online Newcomer guidance
Meditation and Dharma teaching drawing on Buddhist traditions, with guiding teacher Roshi Jokai Blackwell.
Gatherings In-person and online programs throughout the week; use the calendar for the current class and format.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Bay Shore Community Church, 5100 E The Toledo, Long Beach. Getting started Choose an introductory or public community offering; registration and online access vary by class. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access The center describes an ADA-accessible venue and gender-neutral restrooms. Official schedule / information ↗ · Community and venue ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Los Altos · Bay Area
Insight / Vipassanā In person + online
Insight and concentration practice associated with Shaila Catherine, with local gatherings and online courses.
Gatherings Monthly Saturday programs alternate between Los Altos and Los Gatos. Consult the current event list for online courses.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Venues vary between Los Altos and Los Gatos; obtain the event’s actual meeting address. The Menlo Park mailing box is not a venue. Getting started Register when the event asks you to; check prerequisites for concentration and in-depth courses. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Los Angeles · Los Angeles & Orange County
Zen In person Newcomer guidance
A Zen community offering introductory classes, sitting practice and retreats.
Gatherings Beginner classes and ongoing practice; consult the current class calendar for dates.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 1651 S Gramercy Place, Los Angeles. Getting started Start with the beginner-class information and confirm registration and arrival requirements. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Los Angeles · Los Angeles & Orange County
Zen In person + online Newcomer guidance
A Soto Zen community offering zazen, Dharma study and a structured introduction for new practitioners.
Gatherings Introductory Part 1 sessions on Sundays, in person or online; Part 2 on Saturdays in person. Regular practice also runs during the week.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Los Angeles center; the introduction page provides registration and arrival information. Getting started Begin with the two-part introduction. Follow the center’s guidance before joining the regular sitting schedule. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Community and schedule ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Monterey · Central Coast
Zen In person + online Newcomer guidance
Zen sitting and study in Monterey and Carmel, with introductory instruction and some online participation.
Gatherings Monterey: Monday/Thursday 7:15–8:30 am and Friday 12:15–1:15 pm. Carmel: Tuesday evening practice from 6:30 pm.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Monterey: McGowan House, St. James, 381 High Street. Carmel: Carl Cherry Center, northwest corner of 4th and Guadalupe. Getting started First-Tuesday instruction in Carmel at 5:30 pm; third-Thursday instruction in Monterey at 8:15 am. Confirm the current calendar. Cost / dāna Donation-supported practice; consult the program for any retreat fees. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Calendar and welcome ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Mount Shasta · Northern California
Zen In person Newcomer guidance
A Serene Reflection Meditation monastery offering introductory visits, Sunday practice and retreats.
Gatherings Scheduled Sunday orientations and Meditation Sundays; arrangements must be confirmed with the Guestmaster.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Shasta Abbey, Mount Shasta. Use the visitor instructions for Gate 4 and the correct meeting time. Getting started Contact the Guestmaster in advance. This is not a general drop-in tour; arrival times vary by Sunday program. Cost / dāna No fee for religious services or retreats; donations are welcome. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
North Hollywood · Los Angeles & Orange County
Theravāda / Thai Forest In person Family program
A Thai Theravāda temple with chanting, ceremonies, alms offerings and community education.
Gatherings First-Sunday alms offering 8:30–10 am and other temple ceremonies; see the current event notices.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 8225 Coldwater Canyon Avenue, North Hollywood. Getting started Contact the temple about your intended visit and the language of the program. Temple opening hours are not a meditation-class schedule. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Thai-language cultural and Buddhist community offerings; ask which programs provide English guidance. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Oakland · Bay Area
Multiple Buddhist traditions In person + online
Buddhist practice and social engagement, including groups for LGBTQIA+ practitioners, people of color, and people living with disability or illness.
Gatherings Recurring practice groups and scheduled classes. Check each group’s audience, meeting format and registration requirements.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 285 17th Street, Oakland; online options are identified on individual program pages. Getting started Select a group whose stated audience fits you; affinity groups have specific participation guidelines. Cost / dāna Gift-economics model supported by generosity. Language & access Consult each group’s accessibility and participation details. Official schedule / information ↗ · Community, practice groups and address ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Pasadena · Los Angeles & Orange County
Shin / Pure Land In person + online Newcomer guidance Family program
A Jodo Shinshu temple with family Dharma services and community activities.
Gatherings Sunday family services on the calendar, with selected services streamed on YouTube.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 1993 Glen Avenue, Pasadena. Getting started Check the current service calendar and visitor information; families and new visitors are welcome. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Welcome and service announcements ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Redwood City · Bay Area
Insight / Vipassanā In person + online Newcomer guidance
An established insight meditation community with meditation instruction, talks, classes and family offerings.
Gatherings Sunday morning sitting and talk, 9:25–10:45 am, with livestream; Monday evening practice and other groups on the calendar.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 108 Birch Street, Redwood City. Getting started Most regular programs do not require registration; special events may. Read the newcomer guide before attending. Cost / dāna Programs are freely offered and supported by dāna. Language & access Wheelchair access, chairs and hearing assistance are described in the newcomer guide; fragrance-free space. Official schedule / information ↗ · Newcomer and accessibility guide ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Redwood Valley · Northern California
Theravāda / Thai Forest In person Newcomer guidance
A Thai Forest monastery in Ajahn Chah’s lineage with daily practice and public Dhamma talks.
Gatherings Saturday evening chanting, meditation and talk from 7 pm. Daily practice changes around lunar observances.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Monastery near Redwood Valley; follow the official directions and day-visit guidance. Getting started Check the calendar and monastery etiquette. Day visits and overnight stays have different arrangements. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Community and calendar ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Sacramento · Sacramento & Central Valley
Shin / Pure Land In person + online Newcomer guidance Family program
A Jodo Shinshu community with public Dharma services, Dharma School and family participation.
Gatherings Sunday and Wednesday services; consult the calendar for times, livestreams and special dates.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 2401 Riverside Boulevard, Sacramento. Getting started Public services welcome newcomers. A children’s room offers quiet activities with service audio. Cost / dāna Public services are free; donations are optional. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Sacramento · Sacramento & Central Valley
Multiple Buddhist traditions In person + online Newcomer guidance Family program
A community hosting teachers from insight, Zen and Tibetan traditions, with meditation and Dharma discussion.
Gatherings Sunday meditation and talk, with hybrid participation; Tuesday 7 am online sitting. Family Sangha meets on the fourth Sunday.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Sacramento Dharma Center, 3111 Wissemann Drive, Sacramento. Getting started Read the newcomer introduction and check the current teacher and format. Family Sangha has its own participation details. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Newcomer guide ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Sacramento · Sacramento & Central Valley
Insight / Vipassanā In person + online Newcomer guidance
Insight meditation, Dharma talks and courses at the shared Sacramento Dharma Center.
Gatherings Thursday meditation and Dharma talk, 7–9 pm; in-person and online participation is identified in each listing.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Sacramento Dharma Center, 3111 Wissemann Drive, Sacramento. Getting started Choose the weekly sitting or an introductory course and check joining instructions. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Meeting location ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Sacramento · Sacramento & Central Valley
Zen In person Newcomer guidance
A Soto Zen sangha offering meditation, Dharma study and an introduction to Zen.
Gatherings Monday evening practice; Introduction to Zen on the second Monday. Check the program for times and format.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Sacramento Dharma Center, 3111 Wissemann Drive, Sacramento. Getting started The second-Monday introduction is a starting point for new practitioners; confirm attendance details. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
San Diego · San Diego County
Shin / Pure Land In person Newcomer guidance
A Jodo Shinshu temple offering Dharma services, Buddhist learning and community activities.
Gatherings Sunday Dharma services and other events on the temple calendar.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 2929 Market Street, San Diego. Getting started Read “To Our Visitors” for what to expect at a service; confirm the date and time on the calendar. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Visitor introduction ↗ · Temple and location ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
San Diego · San Diego County
Multiple Buddhist traditions In person + online Newcomer guidance Family program
A cross-tradition Buddhist community with introductory teaching, meditation, family practice and engaged service.
Gatherings A full weekly calendar of in-person and virtual classes; open the individual listing for its format.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 4144 Campus Avenue, San Diego. Getting started Choose Introduction to Buddhism or a beginner meditation class. Check the calendar rather than gift-shop opening hours. Cost / dāna Classes are offered free; donations support the temple. Language & access English offerings and a Spanish-language Buddhism/meditation program; check the specific listing. Official schedule / information ↗ · Location ↗ · Programs and approach ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
San Diego · San Diego County
Zen In person + online Newcomer guidance
Zen sitting, practice discussion and talks with opportunities to attend locally or online.
Gatherings Wednesday 6:30–8:15 pm and Saturday morning, in person and online; weekday dawn sitting 6–6:50 am online only.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Christ Lutheran Church, 4761 Cass Street, Pacific Beach, San Diego. Getting started Read newcomer orientation guidance and check for sesshin: retreats can replace the ordinary weekly schedule. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Location and orientation ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
San Francisco · Bay Area
Zen In person + online Newcomer guidance
The urban practice community of San Francisco Zen Center in Shunryu Suzuki’s Soto Zen lineage.
Gatherings Regular zazen, Saturday programs and introductory offerings. Check the daily schedule for closures and online sessions.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 300 Page Street, San Francisco. Getting started Choose an introductory orientation or public program and follow the current arrival guidance. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Visitor information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
San Francisco · Bay Area
Tibetan Buddhism In person + online Newcomer guidance
An FPMT center offering Gelug Tibetan Buddhist study, meditation and community practice.
Gatherings Tuesday guided meditation 6–7 pm online; third-Sunday community practice 10:30 am–noon in person.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 302 Jules Avenue, San Francisco. Getting started Register for the Tuesday online group. The third-Sunday community group does not require registration; advanced teachings may have prerequisites. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Community and participation details ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
San Jose · Bay Area
Shin / Pure Land In person Newcomer guidance Family program
A Jodo Shinshu temple with Dharma services, Dharma School and intergenerational community life.
Gatherings Sunday morning services and Dharma School; use the calendar for exact times and Japanese-language services.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 640 N 5th Street, San Jose. Getting started Read the temple’s first-service information; newcomers can join public services without prior Buddhist knowledge. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access English and Japanese offerings; check the service listing for language. Official schedule / information ↗ · Location and visitor links ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Santa Barbara · Central Coast
Tibetan Buddhism In person + online Newcomer guidance
A Tibetan Buddhist practice community guided by Dawa Tarchin Phillips, with facilitated meditation for all experience levels.
Gatherings Tuesday 6–7 pm meditation, in person and online.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 3815 State Street, Suite G129, La Cumbre Plaza; across from Pottery Barn. Getting started Follow the Tuesday event page for attendance and online joining details. Cost / dāna Tuesday meditation lists a suggested $5–15 donation. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Santa Barbara · Central Coast
Shin / Pure Land In person Newcomer guidance
A Jodo Shinshu community centered on services, listening to the Dharma and shared community life.
Gatherings English-language service on the second Saturday at 10 am, followed by lunch and discussion. Check special dates.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 1015 E Montecito Street, Santa Barbara. Getting started The church welcomes newcomers; its website includes an “I’m New” introduction. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access English-language service; ask the church about physical access and seating. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Santa Barbara · Central Coast
Multiple Buddhist traditions In person + online Newcomer guidance
Buddhist meditation and psychology with Radhule Weininger and fellow teachers. Local practice and an active online community.
Gatherings Monday 7–8:15 pm in person; online meditation Monday–Friday 7:30–8 am and Sunday 10–11:15 am.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Monday group: Yoga Soup, 28 Parker Way, Santa Barbara. Getting started Choose a current group on the meditation page. The Isla Vista Tuesday group is suspended; do not use its older listing. Cost / dāna Free offerings supported by donations. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Community and teachers ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Santa Barbara · Central Coast
Zen In person + online Newcomer guidance
Sitting practice and visiting-teacher talks in the Soto Zen tradition.
Gatherings Second and fourth Sundays; arrive at 9:45 am. Follow the events page for the particular program and online option.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Hospice of Santa Barbara, 2050 Alameda Padre Serra, Unit 100. Getting started New and experienced practitioners are welcome; check the event listing before your first visit. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · About the community ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Santa Cruz · Central Coast
Insight / Vipassanā In person + online Newcomer guidance
Insight meditation, teacher-led talks and community groups, including Rainbow and BIPOC offerings.
Gatherings Multiple weekly sits and talks. The calendar distinguishes on-site, online and hybrid programs.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 740 Front Street, Suite 240, Santa Cruz. Getting started Start with the welcome information and select a current sitting or introductory offering. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Welcome, teachers and location ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Santa Cruz · Central Coast
Zen In person + online Newcomer guidance
A Soto Zen community with daily sitting, Dharma talks and introductory classes.
Gatherings Daily sitting in person and online. Wednesday 6 pm sitting and 6:40 pm talk; see the calendar for practice breaks.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 113 School Street, Santa Cruz. Getting started A free Introduction to Zen is usually held on the third Saturday. Verify its date before coming. Cost / dāna Introduction to Zen is free; other offerings have their own donation or registration guidance. Language & access Online participants must display a name; if the camera is off, post your name as the center requests. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Santa Monica · Los Angeles & Orange County
Insight / Vipassanā In person + online Newcomer guidance
Insight meditation and mindfulness courses, with local practice communities and online offerings.
Gatherings Select a current Santa Monica or online group from the full calendar; locations and formats vary.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Santa Monica Center for relevant local programs; other events meet in Benedict Canyon or online. Use the address in your event confirmation. Getting started Register for the specific offering. The center sends the venue or online joining information after registration. Cost / dāna Both donation-based and fee-based programs are listed; check the selected event. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Santa Paula · Central Coast
Zen In person Newcomer guidance
A Serene Reflection Meditation (Soto Zen) temple with sitting, chanting and Dharma discussion.
Gatherings Sunday 11 am–1 pm; Tuesday–Saturday 7–8 am; first and third Thursdays 7–8:30 pm.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 812 Loma Vista Place, Santa Paula. Getting started Meditation instruction is available 30 minutes before gatherings or by appointment. Cost / dāna No fixed charge; supported by dāna (generosity). Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Soquel · Central Coast
Tibetan Buddhism In person + online Newcomer guidance
An FPMT center with guided meditation, Tibetan Buddhist study and public practice in a redwood setting.
Gatherings Sunday 9–10 am drop-in meditation; canceled September 20, 2026. Online weekday guided meditation 6:30–7 am.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 5800 Prescott Road, Soquel. Getting started Use the beginner-accessible guided meditation listing. Some advanced courses have prerequisites; check the particular class. Cost / dāna General day entry: $20, or $10 low-income, per car/pedestrian/bike. Entry waived for pre-registered students; program fees may apply. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Gate, fees and access ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Talmage · Northern California
Chinese Mahāyāna In person Newcomer guidance
A Chinese Mahāyāna monastic community with chanting, ceremonies and intensive practice sessions.
Gatherings Daily ceremonies and scheduled practice sessions. Grounds are ordinarily open 8 am–6 pm; consult visitor and session guidance.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where City of Ten Thousand Buddhas, Talmage, near Ukiah. Follow the official visitor directions. Getting started Read the dress, food and conduct guidance. Retreat-session registration and overnight arrangements are separate from a day visit. Cost / dāna General entry is free; check arrangements for meals, sessions and overnight visits. Language & access Ask about the language and translation available for the specific ceremony. Official schedule / information ↗ · Community and current programs ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Valley Center · San Diego County
Theravāda / Thai Forest In person Newcomer guidance
A Thai Forest monastery associated with Thanissaro Bhikkhu, where day visitors can participate in monastic daily life.
Gatherings Daily morning alms at 8:30 am; consult the day-visitor page for meal and practice participation.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 13560 Muutama Lane, Valley Center. Follow the monastery’s visitor directions. Getting started Read the five-precept and etiquette guidance. Overnight stays require a separate inquiry; they are not a drop-in option. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access Ask the organizer about language, seating and step-free access before attending. Official schedule / information ↗ · Location and contact ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Ventura · Central Coast
Insight / Vipassanā In person Newcomer guidance
An early-Buddhist-oriented community offering meditation, discussion and sutta study, open to people of any or no religion.
Gatherings Monday 7–8:30 pm; Wednesday outdoor sit 11:30 am; Thursday practice group 3 pm. See the schedule for other meetings.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Monday/Thursday: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3290 Loma Vista Road, classroom 13. Wednesday: Arroyo Verde Park, 5000 Foothill Road. Getting started Drop-ins need no experience. Arrive by 6:45 pm Monday or 2:45 pm Thursday; the classroom gate locks at the start. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access A ramp is available at St. Paul’s. Bring your own chair or cushion for the outdoor group. Official schedule / information ↗ · Welcome and approach ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Ventura · Central Coast
Multiple Buddhist traditions In person Newcomer guidance
A Vietnamese Buddhist temple offering Vietnamese services and English meditation evenings with Theravāda monks.
Gatherings Monday and Thursday meditation at 7 pm; Vietnamese Dharma service Sunday at 10 am.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where 901 S Saticoy Avenue, Ventura. Getting started Meditation evenings include a discussion period where questions are encouraged. Confirm holiday changes. Cost / dāna Check the specific program for fees, registration and donation guidance. Language & access English meditation evenings and Vietnamese Sunday service; ask about physical access. Official schedule / information ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.
Woodacre · Bay Area
Insight / Vipassanā In person + online Newcomer guidance Family program
Insight meditation teaching with local and online drop-in groups, day programs and family offerings alongside residential retreats.
Gatherings Monday 6:30–8:30 pm, mainly online with occasional in-person dates. Wednesday 10 am–noon online; other affinity and recovery groups have separate schedules.
Check schedule & join ↗ Plan your first visit Where Spirit Rock’s lower campus in Woodacre. Follow official driving and arrival directions; the upper retreat campus has restricted access. Getting started Choose a beginner-accessible drop-in. Check carefully for an in-person date: most drop-ins are online. Campus visiting hours do not imply a class is taking place. Cost / dāna Program-specific fees or donations; consult the listing for financial assistance. Language & access Online drop-in groups offer closed captioning. Check each affinity group’s intended audience. Official schedule / information ↗ · Visit and access information ↗ · Programs and family offerings ↗
Official sources checked 2026-09-19 . Confirm the particular session before traveling.