• healthy spa cuisine that emphasizes protein, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and nutritional education
• a full program of fitness and stress reduction classes
• therapeutic spa treatments including massage
• educational lectures that teach you how to bring your healthy habits back home

Destination spas usually require that you stay at least two or three nights to get the full benefit. Some require a longer stay. Prices at destination spas usually include all meals, classes and some spa treatments.

How Destination Spas Differ From Resort Spas?
Traditionally, resort spas offer spa treatments alongside leisure activities like golf and tennis. They offer some spa cuisine menu options and limited health and wellness classes, usually at extra charge.  Recently, though, the lines have been blurring. Some resorts and inns are calling themselves “destination spas” even though they don’t match all the traditional criteria, like extensive fitness programming and education. Other resort spas are taking on the characteristics of destination spas, like offering classes at no extra charge. Your best bet is to decide what you’re looking for and see who offers it.

The People At Destination Spas.
Destination spas have a spirit of camaraderie. You’re with like-minded people who share your interest in health. Many have a small number of guests at any one time and you can get to know people even if you go by yourself. Small groups go on hikes, take exercise classes, and share tables together. There is usually a high staff-to-guest ratio, and staff is enthusiastic.

The Food At Destination Spas.
Destination spas serve healthy food exclusively, but there are different philosophies. Some destination spas are geared towards weight loss, with restricted calories and strict portion control. Others have an all-you-can-eat philosophy. Many don’t serve alcohol, while others serve wine with dinner. While destination spas emphasize healthy, whole foods, it might not necessarily be organic.

Below are a few spas we recommend, but first here is our FEATURED Destination Spa:

SIX SENSE DESTINATION SPA

Six Sense Destination Spa in Thailand

The first wellness retreat created by Six Senses, brings together fifteen years as a global leader – to create the premier destination spa of the 21st century.  Multi-day integrated health programmes focus on preventative wellness, helping to enrich lifestyles through complete immersion into healthy and mindful living. They provide the feeling of wellbeing in a sustainable learning environment that inspires lifestyle choices, creating harmony through nourishing products, transformational treatments and passionate service.

Aquaterra Spa at the Surf and Sand Resort
In Laguna Beach – Skin care, massage (signature, therapeutic, soothing sea, head to toe, back, shoulder and neck, reflexology, maternity, couples), hydrotherapy, and body treatments

Montage Resort & Spa
In Laguna Beach – 20,000 sf oceanfront spa, salon, lap pool, fitness room, yoga/aerobics studio, boutique, 21 treatment rooms, separate locker rooms with indoor/outdoor relaxation areas, fireplaces, shower, steam, sauna, Jacuzzis, cold plunges. Services include herbal and hydrotherapy body treatments, fitness consultation and classes such as aerobics, beachside yoga and Tai Chi.

Spa Xanadu
Voted “Top 10 Spa In LA” Best day spa in San Gabriel Valley

Golden Door
Golden Door in Escondido, Calif., is a women-only spa that serves no more than 40 guests. Wooden walkways link a series of serene garden courtyards inspired by the ancient inns of Japan. It has 377 acres of Japanese gardens, orchards and waterfalls and a Japanese bathhouse. This spa emphasizes individualized service and guiding guests toward a balance of mind, body and spirit. Men are welcome during men-only weeks.

The Oaks at Ojai, Ojai, California
This is a converted inn right on Ojai’s main drag, with a real weight-loss focus. It’s about a 90 minute drive from Los Angeles. 800-753-6257

Hopefully you’ll find your perfect destination spa. Next week we will have more.  If you’re looking for a destination spa in another city/town, please don’t hesitate to drop us a question, we’ll be happy to suggest the right place for you.