Spas & Wellness Retreats in California

The Very Best in Wellness, Southern California

In today's fast-paced society, with overbooked schedules and high-demand lifestyles, now more than ever, we are in need of mindful and grounding self-care practices. Cultivating a sense of mindfulness for one’s health and happiness is a sound investment in your future. Mindfulness is a method used to bring awareness to the present moment and focus on only immediate needs, without pressure or judgment from one's self.

Without external pressures, we are better able to make sound decisions. Today there is an abundance of specialized health and wellness retreats, devoted to healing people, be it spiritual, physical, or psychological aid. Southern California is a treasure trove of reputable health and wellness retreats that are certain to provide rejuvenating day-cations or immersive week long retreats.

This insider’s guide describes the top five centers in Southern California that are guaranteed to help you feel purpose, invigorate your body and refocus your mind. Sometimes all we need to renew our sense of direction is a break from the monotony of work and home life. Each resort is unique, so we have put together a detailed overview to help you pick your next retreat. 

The Pearl Laguna Beach: Luxury Yoga, Hiking and Cleansing Retreat

21095 Raquel Road, Laguna Beach (949) 715-1674

Balance and wellness established by connecting with nature is an important mantra at the Pearl, which was established by two renowned yogis. Nestled in the canyon of Laguna Beach, overlooking miles of beautiful coastal trails, this getaway is luxurious, yet the intimacy of small groups is maintained. 

If your kindred spirit is the likes of John Muir, and you're seeking more Zen, the Pearl is the ideal, tranquil setting. The health and wellness program focuses on grounding and centering guests through a three-step process that includes a cleansing meal plan, daily fitness regime, and meditation. Yoga and hiking are the predominant forms of exercise, while daily introspection provides an opportunity to switch off the brain. Visitors can choose between a single, or a two-week program, both of which are designed to build on what you have already done. 

During a stay, each day will begin with a power yoga class, meant to awaken the body and invigorate the spirit. Also in the mornings, guided hikes around the expansive property offer an ideal mixture of fitness and relaxation. The Pearl has 20,000 acres of stunning coastal property, just waiting to be explored. Later in the day, attend a workout class at the open-air gym, or unwind with a massage (offered daily). Other ways to shed unwanted stress include relaxing in the Jacuzzi, or the infrared outdoor sauna, which clears the body of unwanted toxins. Dine on the delicious, vegetarian cuisine, which is made with the freshest local ingredients. Finally, conclude each day with a flow yoga class, focused on relaxation and deep breathing. In this class, you will do a daily meditation practice, which helps deepen the connection between the mind and body. 

If you are looking for a more personalized retreat, reserve the Pearl for you and a group. Private parties will receive programs that cater to their unique fitness goals and dietary needs. Promoting overall body healing and restorative practices, one can be assured that they will receive the complete wellness experience at Pearl Laguna Beach. Guests leave feeling stronger and healthier, with a better sense of inner balance.

Terranea: LA’s Premier Oceanfront Resort

100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes (310) 494-7891

If your perfect wellness retreat has a particular focus on relaxation and comfort, look no further than the beautiful Palos Verdes coastline, home to LA’s Terranea Oceanfront Oasis of Wellness. A private peninsula, Terranea's Mediterranean vibe beckons the simple life and invites guests to slip into a state of bliss. Guests will be rejuvenated by the healing properties of life by the sea.

The expansive grounds are designed for optimum tranquility and comfort. Terrace gardens sweep across the 102-acre refuge, and stone fireplaces will warm you both indoors and out. At the Terranea, which is a family-friendly resort, there are activities and amenities for every type of person. The historical peninsula offers a diversity of landscapes, wildlife, and culture, which has been beautifully incorporated into the resort. Explore the ocean on a paddleboard, or kayak, or take a surfing lesson with the local experts. On land, discover the flora and fauna on a guided hike, or ride horses over the breathtaking hillside. If you don't trust horses, opt for a bike tour or play golf at the nine-hole course above the Pacific. 

When the day's activities come to an end, relax by one of the four pools. Kids will have a blast on the 140-foot waterslide dubbed the "Peninsula Plunge", and the giant splash pad for the younger ones. Take in the panoramic views from the fitness and wellness center, where guests can get a massage, take a class, or simply work out at their own pace. A salon and spa are attached, for all your pampering needs. Dining choices range from healthy café fare to wood-fired pizzas to sushi. With eight different restaurants on-site, the options are unbeatable.

A retreat to the peninsula will be the stimulating blend of a holiday resort and a wellness retreat. The great thing about having so many options is that this experience is very customizable. Whether you are looking to have a fun adventure with the family or a peaceful spa getaway with the ladies, you are sure to be delighted by Terranea's Oceanfront Resort in LA. 

Omni La Costa Resort and Spa

2100 Costa Del Mar Road, Carlsbad (760) 438-9111

La Costa Resort and Spa has been significant and relied upon oasis for locals from San Diego for many years. Tucked away in the beautiful seaside city of Carlsbad, this resort is an excellent escape from the bustle of the city. A myriad of activities will keep guests entertained, and the award-winning spa is sure to revitalize the body and soul. 

Dating back to the early 1960s, Hollywood's elite have been coming to Carlsbad as a summer getaway. The spa and wellness center is famous for its cutting-edge ideas about healing and pampering. Take a leisurely stroll along the unique reflexology pathway, designed to massage and stimulate the feet. Enjoy the beautiful gardens, and explore the numerous bathing options. There is an adults only pool, as well as two pools designed with children in mind. The steaming waters of the hot tubs are sure to help relieve any muscular tension, with further relief at the massage tables. For those looking to heighten their spiritual experience, the Chopra Centre is an ideal sanctuary. World-famous holistic physicians Deepak Chopra and David Simon combined methodologies to form a special place where guest can strengthen their mind and spirit. The lushes gardens and serene environment are perfect places for meditation and yoga. The center offers yoga and fitness classes, as well as guided meditations, and guest speakers. Those looking to solve a specific issue can seek a consultation with one of the wellness professionals. 

La Costa stands out because of it's new and innovative healing methods, which have been derived from ancient practices. Aromatherapy, for example, is healing and calming the mind through certain aromas, such as lavender or pine. Guests continue to vouch for the methods at the Chopra Centre, which has helped people free their minds from stress, doubt, and fear. If holistic medicine is not your cup of tea, the two 18-hole golf courses, or the sprawling tennis courts are another great way to unwind and have some fun. 

Golden Door, San Marcos

777 Deer Springs Road, San Marcos (760) 761-4124

Based on the Japanese philosophy of "enso", the Golden Door is devoted to helping its guests renew their commitment to themselves. The central focus of empowerment provides a platform for guests to recenter, body and spirit, which in turn releases a sense of newfound freedom within. This empowering approach to health and wellness places the reigns of control back in the hands of retreat-goers, as they participate in wellness practices that cultivate mindful decisions through 5 and 7-day transformative body and mind programs. 

The Golden Door is a place of reflection, and the gorgeous facilities help instill a feeling of peace. Japanese-style buildings wind their way through rolling meadows and hillsides, which offer guests ample hiking opportunities. The combined rigor of fitness and indulgence of the spa will leave guests feeling restored and healthy. A carefully designed schedule will incorporate mindfulness sessions, fitness, nutrition, and, of course, a bit of pampering. 

The Golden Door is an excellent retreat for those really looking to work on personal growth and development. A nurturing environment and a 4 to 1-ratio of staff to guests will ensure that you are guided on a journey of relaxation and reflection. Sometimes life can become so overwhelming, a retreat is exactly what is needed. 

And there you have it. The best of the best health and wellness retreats are currently in Southern California. Each resort has a unique take on how to best relax and heal the mind, some methods tried and true, while others are more contemporary. If you want to improve your happiness and health, a retreat is an excellent way to start. The choice is yours. Enjoy the journey!

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