California continues to attract travelers seeking wellness getaways, offering a variety of destinations that emphasize natural settings and holistic experiences. From the forests in the north to the beaches in the south, several regions provide opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.
In Humboldt County, visitors can engage in “forest bathing,” an activity rooted in Japanese tradition, within Redwoods National and State Parks. The area also features local attractions such as Humboldt Herbals and the interactive “All Happy Now” sculpture at Humboldt Botanical Garden. Each June, the Arcata Bay Oyster Festival highlights local seafood.
Mt. Shasta is recognized for its reputed healing properties and spiritual significance. Environmentalist John Muir once said, “my blood turned to wine, and I have not been weary since.” The region offers sites like Panther Meadow and Sacramento River Headwaters, both important to Indigenous communities. Guided tours are available through Mt. Shasta Retreats, while accommodations range from campgrounds to cabins at Pneuma Institute Retreat Center.
Mendocino County has a long history of welcoming those seeking wellness through its natural hot springs such as Vichy Springs and Orr Hot Springs in Ukiah. The Madrones resort provides retreats among redwoods, while Little River Inn’s Wellness Package includes massages and access to Mendocino Botanical Gardens along with sessions with a doctor of Chinese medicine.
Lake Tahoe combines outdoor activities with luxury amenities. Winter sports enthusiasts can visit Palisades Tahoe or Northstar California Ski Resort, while summer visitors might try ropes courses or sailing on Lake Tahoe itself. Spas like The Ritz-Carlton offer treatments such as hot stone massages.
Sonoma County is widely known for its vineyards but also offers alternative wellness activities including Russian River floats and hiking trails along Sonoma Coast State Park. Cultural options include walks at di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art in neighboring Napa County. Local restaurants focus on farm-to-table cuisine.
Monterey County’s resorts cater to those looking for rest near the coast with options ranging from boutique inns to established locations like Esalen Institute or The Lodge at Pebble Beach. Visitors often bike along Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail or kayak near sea otters in Elkhorn Slough.
Laguna Beach encourages relaxation through sunset views from Top of the World Trail, visits to farmers’ markets, spa treatments at Chakra Spa, and laughter therapy sessions on the beach provided by Laguna Laughter Club.
Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors interested in nature-based wellness experiences including hiking up Ryan Mountain or Keys View as well as attending sound baths at the Integratron structure during seasonal openings between late January and early February.
San Diego emphasizes laid-back coastal living with surf lessons available from Surf Diva or Ocean Beach Surf School and plant-based dining options across vegan-friendly restaurants like Kindred or Donna Jean. Holistic health services are accessible throughout Del Mar, La Jolla, and Hotel del Coronado’s spa facilities.
