Did you know that the term “wellness” was actually popularized in California during the 1970s? The Golden State is the home of wellness in the USA and it’s got the retreats to prove it. This famously health-conscious state is the perfect place to discover what wellness means to you.

Since US citizens are pretty limited in where we can travel right now, there’s never been a better time for a domestic trip. I don’t know about you, but I’ve never needed a luxury escape more! So without further ado, here are the best luxury wellness retreats in California.

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Cal-a-Vie Health Spa, Vista

I already talked about this idyllic Mediterranean-themed retreat in my article on the best luxury wellness retreats in the USA. It’s so amazing that I have to mention it again. 

The views at Cal-a-Vie alone will help to restore your sense of wellbeing. It’s hard not to feel incredibly content when you’re gazing over the sun-drenched Vista hills. Each day at Cal-a-Vie begins with a sunrise hike to allow you to really soak in these stunning views. 

The program strikes a careful balance between physical and mental wellbeing. There are lots of invigorating exercise classes on offer to help you improve your strength and fitness. On top of that, there are plenty of spa treatments, yoga practices and sleep therapies so that you can find your zen. In fact, a three night stay includes six spa sessions – what’s not to love? 

Cal-a-Vie has seen its fair share of celebrity guests over the years, including Natalie Portman and Oprah Winfrey. If it’s good enough for them…

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The Ranch, Malibu 

In 2020, Conde Nast named The Ranch the number one wellness resort in the world. Wellness retreats in California really don’t get any better than this. The Ranch is a weight loss retreat that detoxes you both physically and digitally – no cell phones allowed. It’s probably the closest you’ll ever come to being reborn. 

The Ranch serves only the finest nutritionally-dense and plant-based food. You’ll need top quality fuel for all the exercise that you’ll be doing. Trust me when I say that this resort does a lot more than pay lip-service to fitness. You’ll emerge in better shape than ever thanks to the carefully optimized training programs which are tailored to suit your specific health goals.

This wellness retreat has multiple packages on offer for different group sizes and lengths of stay. You can also combine the retreat with a more relaxing stay at the Four Seasons Westlake Village. Whichever program you opt for, you’ll receive diagnostic tests to give you a picture of your overall health. 

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Golden Door, San Marcos 

Golden Door is a famous name in the wellness world. If you’re seeking a secluded transformational experience, you’ll fall in love with this all-inclusive wellness retreat. With a 4:1 staff to guest ratio, the service here is second to none. Attentive doesn’t even begin to cover it.

You’ll enjoy a personalized itinerary during your stay here, tailored to your specific needs and goals. Plus, you’ll enjoy a daily massage from the comfort of your serene, Japanese-inspired room. 

As for food, Golden Door is committed to farm-to-table dining and bio-intensive farming. You’ll have the option to participate in educational activities including bee tours and cookery classes where you can learn more about how Golden Door sources and prepares its fresh, local ingredients. 

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VeraVia at Park Hyatt Aviara, Carlsbad 

The VeraVia health and wellness retreat at the Park Hyatt Aviara aims to address the root cause of your concerns in order to create lasting lifestyle changes. Some wellness retreats in California feel like a quick fix, but VeraVia focuses on long-term behavioral changes. 

VeraVia combines eastern philosophies with western medicine to heal your mind, body and soul in a sumptuous five-star setting. You can tailor your program around your goals, whether you want to lose weight, manage stress or deal with specific medical issues. I love that VeraVia offers an Executive Health program which offers practical help on how hard-working individuals can incorporate wellness into their busy lives. 

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We Care, Desert Hot Springs

If you’re a bit of a hippy at heart, We Care is definitely for you. We Care is a detox wellness program that’s been around since 1986 and has garnered many A-list devotees along the way. With guided fasting, colonics and liquid-only nutrition, this retreat is not for the faint of heart but true wellness devotees will love it. We Care will challenge you, but given the state-of-the-art spa services, tranquil desert setting and luxurious accommodations, it will also wow you, too. 

Click here to find out more.

For more on wellness, check out the best medspas in Thailand and this guide to caring for your mental wellbeing.