Take a blissful setting and add a wealth of healing waters and other natural resources. Throw in a flair for luxury, and you’ve got the makings of a classic California spa getaway. These eight world-class spas, listed north to south, are located at some of the Golden State’s most luxurious resorts; while you don’t need to stay overnight to unwind and recharge in delicious fashion, you’ll probably want to.
1. The Spa at Pebble Beach, Pebble Beach
In the heart of the Del Monte Forest along Monterey County’s coastline, this quiet retreat at The Lodge at Pebble Beach feels like a lavish escape any time of year. The 22,000-square-foot spa and salon has signature treatments ranging from the Pebble Massage with hot stones to the Royal Treatment—a combination mask, massage, and foot scrub incorporating honey, ginger, and royal jelly. (The Lodge at Pebble Beach)
2. The Spa at El Encanto, Santa Barbara
On a hill overlooking Santa Barbara, Belmond El Encanto is one of the coastal city’s most luxurious resorts, offering an away-from-it-all feel even though it’s just minutes from downtown. Tucked among seven acres of gardens, the spa’s design is inspired by coastal elements and features treatments with fresh botanical and tropical ingredients. Indulge in massage therapies, facial treatments, and skin-care products from A-list facialist Linda Ross.
3. Spa Ojai, Ojai
Mexican tile and artwork decorate this 31,000-square-foot spa on the lush grounds of the Ojai Valley Inn in Ventura County. Treatments incorporate locally grown produce like red wine grapes, Ojai Valley honey, and lavender. Get a sense of place with signature experiences that use vibration and sound therapy, incorporate antioxidants, and focus on harmonizing the flow of energy. (Ojai Valley Inn)
4. La Prairie Spa, Beverly Hills
Dive into tranquility at this Beverly Hills spa in the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, which is easily among L.A.’s poshest spas. The Swiss-inspired spa’s indulgent menu incorporates the luxury skin-care line in its treatments, from therapeutic massages to decadent facials, including the Rejuvenating Platinum Facial, billed as the ultimate anti-aging treatment. Amenities include a steam shower with light therapy, a eucalyptus steam room, and a serene relaxation lounge.
5. The Spa at Terranea, Rancho Palos Verdes
Spanning 50,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor oceanfront relaxation, the spa at Los Angeles County’s Terranea offers massage, hydrotherapy, and facial rituals, as well as freestanding copper soaking tubs. The menu recommends treatments according to nature and circadian rhythm, as the day moves from morning to evening, and includes some services that celebrate the ocean right outside. (Terranea Resort)
6. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Rancho Mirage
Perched in a tranquil desert-hillside setting, this Greater Palm Springs resort spa incorporates natural elements into its sleek decor, and holistic treatments are inspired from local herbs and plants. Many of the 16 treatment rooms include private terraces with valley views, and treatments and amenities range from facial and body therapies and massage to meditation spaces and plunge pools. The resort itself is one of the most luxurious places to stay in the desert.
7. The Spa at Pelican Hill, Newport Beach
Coastal California meets Italy at this Newport Beach resort, with soothing water features and a palette of colors reminiscent of Tuscany. The spa inspires natural connection, with treatments focused on three options: relax, replenish, and invigorate. Leave ample time to unwind in the Acqua Colonnade, with saunas, eucalyptus steam rooms, and saltwater soaking tubs. (The Resort at Pelican Hill)
8. The Spa at Rancho Valencia, Rancho Santa Fe
Self-care is intricately administered with herbs, flowers, oils, and minerals at this San Diego area resort that’s surrounded by gardens and olive groves. Start your visit with an organic juice, then choose from facials, massages, body therapies, and elemental wellness treatments. A popular feature is the hydrotherapy circuit, a mix of saunas, steam rooms, thermal baths, and plunge pools. (Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa)
