In a world where the 9-to-5 workday has extended to 24/7 and the line between “home” and “office” has sometimes disappeared, it’s no wonder we seek the travel equivalent of a reset button. Thankfully, the options for wellness travel in California are richer and more diverse than ever before. Whether you’re in need of some animal therapy, a healing sound bath, or simply a nice, relaxing massage, you can find a restorative escape that perfectly suits. Here are six ideas, listed north to south, where a blissful change of scenery is just the beginning.
Also: Please check with each facility for the latest information on pandemic-related restrictions and reopenings.
For some llama therapy…
Head to Little River in Mendocino County to enter an enchanting little slice of California’s North Coast. At Glendeven Inn & Lodge you’ll find 15 acres of private gardens where free-range llamas and chickens survey the surroundings. Get a llama “kiss,” and check for availability of amenities such as cottage massages, private yoga sessions, or the Forest Bathing Package that includes the practice of shinrin-yoku.
For redwood-dotted luxury…
One of the biggest names in high-end health, Canyon Ranch recently opened a new outpost just 30 miles south of San Francisco. Retreat to one of Canyon Ranch Woodside’s 38 guest rooms nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains to spend a few days of meditative water drawing, mountain biking, and labyrinth walks.
For a total-body reset…
The Ranch Malibu is designed to be a mind-body gamechanger. The immersive, seven-day program, located on ocean cliffs in Los Angeles County, combines plant-based cuisine and a rigorous fitness regime with super-luxe accommodations. Try the Ranch 4.0 if you’d prefer a shorter, four-day stay, due to re-open late summer 2020.
For a one-of-a-kind sound bath…
In 1954, aeronautical engineer Van Tassel began to build what would be the Integratron, a wooden parabolic dome in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Tap into what Tassel felt was strong geomagnetic energy during a 60-minute sonic healing session. Stay the night at Sacred Sands in nearby Joshua Tree to keep the positive desert vibes flowing.
For posh privacy…
Spread over 172 sprawling acres that overlook the Pacific, the grounds of the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club in Orange County’s Dana Point could not offer a more dramatic setting. Get a sense of serenity at the private beach club and find your center at Waldorf Astoria Spa, where you can explore New Age offerings such as Abhyanga massage, aerial yoga, and crystal meditation.
For a sustainable retreat…
In 2019, the Inn at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, just north of San Diego, became the world’s first WELL-certified hotel. This certification indicates a building’s ability to improve health and human experience through design, and through measures such as air and water purification—just walking through the lobby is good for you. Enhance your experience with a WELL Balanced package, which includes the clearing of your room with Palo Santo, a fresh flower bouquet, and a customized massage.
Before you explore any of these locations, be sure to visit our Responsible Travel Hub, which includes helpful Travel Updates.
