The 15 Finest Destination Spas Worldwide

The demands of daily life can be exhausting. The remedy? A trip to a destination spa. Unlike conventional hotel spas, where you switch between the everyday hustle and brief moments of relaxation, destination spas envelop you in a setting dedicated to full rejuvenation. While some may offer occasional treats (care for a glass of wine?), the majority emphasize clean, healthy living through holistic experiences aimed at engaging the senses, calming the mind, and revitalizing the spirit.

In the newest edition of Dinogo’s Hotels We Love series, we’ve explored the world to uncover the 15 top destination spas. From tranquil retreats tucked away in the USA to a wellness island (yes, a whole island) in the Maldives, these havens provide more than just relaxation—they serve as a pathway to a realm of tranquility that restores both body and soul.

Luxury spa resorts across the United States

1. Canyon Ranch Tucson, Tucson, Arizona

Canyon Ranch Tucson played a pivotal role in popularizing the luxury health spa concept when it opened its doors in 1979 in Tucson, Arizona. After experiencing a personal transformation following his father’s passing, founder Mel Zuckerman purchased and revitalized an old ranch nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains to share his newfound wisdom with others.

At Canyon Ranch, you have the freedom to customize your experience according to your wellness objectives or select from a variety of camps and retreats. The all-inclusive package features healthy meals and an extensive selection of classes, workshops, and therapies designed to challenge your physical and mental limits. You can also indulge in premium treatments (such as Himalayan salt stone massages, Reiki, and age-defying facials) and receive a health assessment from an integrative physician. Accommodations consist of 165 guest rooms and suites adorned in calming desert tones. Canyon Ranch continues to expand: there’s a second location in Lenox, Massachusetts, a Canyon Ranch Day Spa in Las Vegas, a retreat in Woodside, California, and another location set to open soon in Texas Hill Country. Rates start at $1,150 per night, inclusive of all meals and daily activities (lectures, fitness classes, and more)

2. Miraval Arizona, Tucson, Arizona

Situated in Tucson’s Sonoran Desert, Miraval Arizona opened its doors in 1995 and became part of the Hyatt family in 2017. The resort offers 146 casita-style rooms, suites, and villas within adobe buildings, showcasing a modern desert aesthetic complete with wooden furnishings and private patios—some featuring tiled fireplaces.

The wellness experience here is holistic and immersive: The Miraval Equine Experience encourages guests to engage with horses, helping them recognize their personal patterns and limitations, while the Discover Your Dosha program educates visitors about their Ayurvedic constitution (dosha) and how to enhance it for better health and well-being. The resort also provides workshops focused on nutrition and sleep, both of which are supported during your stay. Miraval’s philosophy of mindful living is reflected in its programs and dedication to sustainability, including 100 percent renewable energy and composting food waste to benefit the on-site garden. This successful formula has led to Miraval expanding with locations in the Berkshires and Austin. Rates start at $859 per person per night, including meals, activities, and a $175 nightly credit for experiences and spa treatments

3. The Ranch Malibu, Malibu, California

Nestled on 200 expansive acres in California’s Santa Monica Mountains, The Ranch Malibu offers a structured program centered on fitness and weight loss, often humorously referred to as 'a luxury boot camp.' With a maximum capacity of 25 guests per week, The Ranch provides an exclusive atmosphere ideal for celebrities and wellness seekers desiring privacy.

The 21 cottages are minimalist and designed for disconnecting—featuring a neutral color scheme and no televisions. Each day begins with an early wake-up call for a two- or four-hour morning hike, followed by yoga, fitness classes, meditation, massages, and more. The dining philosophy is simple and focused on detoxing, with vegan meals prepared to nourish the body. This intentional approach to nutrition is further emphasized through weekly cooking classes, where guests can discover the secrets of the resort’s plant-based cuisine, sourced from the on-site regenerative organic garden and local farms.

Coffee was once off-limits here, but The Ranch now offers its own house-roasted blend packed with antioxidants. A new elective option is colon hydrotherapy. Overall, it’s a structured program designed to help guests step away from their hectic lives and reconnect with their health and well-being in a luxurious environment. Rates start at $7,600 per person (based on double occupancy) for a six-night stay, including meals and activities

4. Golden Door, San Marcos, California

Golden Door, affectionately referred to as “the Door,” is more than just a spa; it’s a sanctuary of peace and transformation spread across 600 acres of rolling hills and Japanese gardens north of San Diego. This exclusive retreat has served as a wellness haven since the 1950s, attracting icons like Elizabeth Taylor. The focus is on seven-day retreats, considered crucial for a complete reset, though shorter three-to-five-night stays are available when the property is not at full capacity. While primarily catering to women, there are special weeks throughout the year dedicated to men and coed guests.

Here, a harmonious balance between physical activity and indulgence is expertly curated. The retreat presents innovative culinary experiences, including a new series featuring acclaimed women guest chefs and cookbook authors, who collaborate with executive chef Greg Frey Jr. to craft nourishing, locally sourced meals.

Recently, Golden Door completed a multimillion-dollar renovation, revamping its bathhouse and pools while upgrading its 38 rooms, two villas, and gym—all while maintaining its Japanese ryokan aesthetic. With a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, Golden Door actively protects the surrounding lands and donates 100 percent of its net proceeds to charities that support abused children. Rates start at $7,200 per person (single occupancy) for a three-night stay, which includes meals, select treatments, and activities

5. Mii Amo, Sedona, Arizona

When it debuted in 2001 as a 16-room retreat connected to Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona, Mii Amo quickly gained popularity. Following a two-year, $40 million renovation, this destination spa—situated in the enchanting Boynton Canyon vortex—reopened in 2023. The newly redesigned property now features 23 casitas, a two-story movement and fitness studio, and a new signature restaurant, Hummingbird at Mii Amo.

Each guest’s journey is tailored by a “Journey Guide,” who designs a personalized itinerary filled with workshops, therapeutic sessions, and spa treatments. The resort has expanded to offer exclusive areas for Journey guests, including a relaxation lounge and a plunge pool. Mii Amo’s wellness philosophy extends to its culinary experiences, led by executive chef Beau Widener, emphasizing sustainable, garden-to-table dining that minimizes food miles and fosters strong relationships with local farmers and suppliers. The retreat’s holistic approach includes offerings like traditional massages, astrology readings, canyon meditations, vortex lectures, and various soul-nourishing activities. Rates start at $1,400 per person per night for three nights, which includes meals, classes, and a daily spa credit

6. Lake Austin Spa Resort, Austin, Texas

Lake Austin Spa Resort is a tranquil haven nestled within the rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country, yet just 30 minutes from downtown Austin. The resort emphasizes wellness and relaxation, offering a full range of activities, including water sports, cooking classes, stargazing, a cardio drumming jam session, and a leisurely wine cruise. Alternatively, you can take a peaceful stroll around Lake Austin or enjoy a swim in one of the three pools, including one located in a rustic-chic barn.

A new collaboration with Italy’s ComfortZone is launching an innovative skincare concept: an in-room Wellness Bar filled with seasonal products. The resort’s 40 guest rooms combine luxury with local charm, seamlessly integrated into the lakeside environment. Guests indulge in all-inclusive meals featuring ingredients sourced from the on-site organic gardens, including edible flowers. Lake Austin Spa Resort also emphasizes environmental stewardship through its wildlife habitats (fun fact—this area is certified as a monarch butterfly habitat), the use of local building materials, and sustainable gardening practices. Rates start at $775 per person per night, covering meals, classes, and activities

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7. Rancho La Puerta, Tecate, Mexico

Established in 1940 by Deborah and Edmond Szekely in Tecate, Mexico, as a summer health retreat, Rancho La Puerta has evolved into a renowned wellness sanctuary. As a visitor, you’re not merely attending a spa; you’re becoming part of a legacy cultivated by the Szekely family for generations. The guiding principle is “siempre mejor” or “always better,” reflecting the property’s dedication to fostering healthier and happier lives for its guests.

Guests reside in one of the 86 casitas, beautifully decorated with vibrant Mexican textiles and terra-cotta tile floors. Physical activity is central to the experience, featuring a daily schedule of optional pursuits such as hiking, qi gong, kickboxing, and cycling, all set amidst 4,000 acres of breathtaking nature. Rancho La Puerta demonstrates its environmental commitment through sustainable practices, including water conservation and eco-friendly construction. The resort continues to evolve with offerings like Mayan-style Cacao Ceremonies during full moons, specialized retreats for women focusing on menopause, and new residences for sale in a private village for those who wish to stay permanently. Rates start at $4,900 per person for a weeklong stay (based on double occupancy), which includes meals, daily fitness activities, and more

8. BodyHoliday, St. Lucia

Flexibility is paramount at BodyHoliday, a health and wellness retreat perched on a hillside along St. Lucia’s northern coast. The resort's extensive wellness programs have garnered a loyal clientele, with as many as 50 percent of guests returning each year, according to the hotel. They can choose from 155 French Caribbean-style rooms and four stand-alone villas. Here, visitors can enjoy traditional vacation activities like snorkeling, sailing lessons, and beachside cocktails alongside serious wellness pursuits at the Moorish-inspired Wellness Center, offering services ranging from Ayurveda and acupuncture to weight loss.

The all-inclusive pricing structure, which includes a daily spa treatment, is particularly appealing for newcomers eager to explore a variety of experiences; the welcoming staff make planning seamless. At the resort’s new farm-to-table dining venue, RastDinogoian, hosts guide diners through traditional medicinal practices and harvesting techniques in an on-site garden before serving a delightful vegan meal. Rates start at $532 per night per person, covering one 50-minute spa treatment per day, all meals and beverages (including alcohol), and all activities

Luxury spa resorts in Europe

9. Andronis Concept Wellness Resort, Santorini, Greece

The ancient Greeks recognized the essential connection between mind, body, and spirit. In line with this wisdom, Andronis Concept Wellness Resort, perched on a slope of the island of Santorini, offers a contemporary environment for achieving that enduring harmony. Each of the 28 spacious suites features a private heated plunge pool and a minimalist design that enhances Santorini’s natural allure.

The resort boasts three swimming pools, including a cave pool with an artificial waterfall and the longest infinity pool in Santorini. Treatments are inspired by ancient Greece, ranging from hydrotherapy to light therapy. Adhering to the principles of the Mediterranean diet, validated by a dietitian, the resort presents a culinary program crafted from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a holistic experience that nourishes both body and soul, all with the stunning Aegean Sea as a backdrop. Rates start at $520 per night for two guests, including daily breakfast

10. Palazzo Fiuggi, Fiuggi, Italy

Located an hour outside of Rome in the historic town of Fiuggi, mineral-rich waters have attracted visitors for centuries. Established in 1910, Palazzo Fiuggi was built to accommodate those seeking healing and rejuvenation in the area. Recently, it has been transformed into a modern wellness retreat, seamlessly blending its rich history with contemporary luxury.

The resort features 102 guest rooms adorned in neutral tones, each offering stunning views of the Apennine Mountains. Its grand marble-clad spa is famous for its thalassotherapy pools filled with the healing thermal waters of Fiuggi, providing a range of treatments from Dead Sea mud rituals to innovative sound healing therapies. Recently, the resort introduced new offerings, including the High Performance Method workout, immuno-boost programs, corporate retreats, and a four-night Get Fit option for those seeking shorter stays. The resort's commitment to sustainability shines through its recycling initiatives, eco-friendly products, and meals sourced from local ingredients crafted by three Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck. Rates start at $995 per night for double occupancy; wellness programming is offered separately.

11. Sha Wellness Clinic, Altea, Spain

Situated near Alicante on Spain’s southeastern coast, Sha Wellness Clinic has gained recognition as a premier destination spa that merges medical and holistic wellness approaches. Founded in 2008 by real estate mogul Alfredo Bataller Parietti, who credits his recovery from colon cancer to natural remedies, including dietary improvements, this retreat aims to address significant health issues while also offering preventative care programs.

Guests can select from five distinct wellness paths, including Detox, Optimal Weight, and Healthy Aging, all customized to fit individual requirements and featuring seasonal menus rich in plant-based and seafood options. Recently, Sha has introduced a new Sexual Health Unit, reinforcing its dedication to enhancing all aspects of health. Visitors can choose accommodations from 93 minimalist suites or 11 residences, some offering Mediterranean views, and engage in local activities such as sailing, diving, and hiking along the sun-drenched coast. Sha is expanding its luxurious clinical wellness approach to the Americas with ShaMexico, which opened in January 2024 in Costa Mujeres on the Riviera Maya. Packages start at $7,796 per person for a four-day program, which includes meals and various treatments.

Luxury spa resorts in Asia

12. Six Senses Vana, Dehradun, India

Initially launched in 2014, Six Senses Vana, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, was a secluded wellness retreat known only to a select few. However, in January 2023, Six Senses took over its management, bringing Vana into the global spotlight. Ayurvedic doctors work closely with each guest to customize treatments and meal plans according to their individual goals. The wellness team employs Ayurveda, Tibetan, and traditional Chinese medicine, offering a diverse range of treatments and activities, including sound therapy performed by talented musicians, cooking classes, crafting, and excursions to nearby Rishikesh for spiritual growth.

From the sunlit main lobby to the 66 rooms, 16 suites, and 4 casas, as well as the infinity pool, Vana boasts a modern, eco-friendly design that harmonizes with the surrounding forest. Sustainability is a key focus, highlighted by its LEED Platinum certification and eco-conscious practices, such as energy-efficient lighting and water conservation technologies, all aimed at protecting the natural landscape. In 2024, Six Senses Vana will introduce women’s wellness retreats concentrating on topics like menopause and Ayurvedic postnatal care, further indicating that this destination offers more than just physical rejuvenation—it’s a holistic path toward spiritual and sustainable well-being. Rates start at $980 per night for two (based on double occupancy), including meals, wellness screenings and consultations, activities, and one private treatment/session per guest per night.

13. Joali Being, Maldives

Joali Being is not a wellness retreat that restricts enjoyment. It’s a comprehensive well-being island—the first of its kind in the Maldives—designed to guide you on a transformative journey of personal renewal while ensuring a delightful experience. The resort's philosophy revolves around four key pillars—mind, skin, microbiome, and energy—with each aspect of your stay connected to these elements, including the delectable meals crafted by chefs well-versed in nutrition. Guests can indulge in sound therapy, personalized herbology, and a variety of treatments ranging from energy work to bodywork, including Watsu and elemental therapies.

The 68 expansive villas adhere to biophilic design principles, seamlessly merging with the natural surroundings. Yet, it’s often the simpler pleasures that evoke a soothing sense of joy, whether you're exploring the sound garden with instruments that resonate at a cellular level, cycling along palm-fringed paths, or floating in the warm, crystal-clear waters. Rates start at $2,675 per night for two sharing a villa, inclusive of breakfast. Well-being programs commence at an additional $1,693 per person for a five-night stay.

14. Como Shambhala Estate, Bali, Indonesia

The 30 terra-cotta and thatched-roof rooms, suites, and villas at the 22-acre Como Shambhala Estate feature Indonesian names that evoke earthy themes, such as “wind song” and “forest in the mist.” Nestled along the banks of the Ayung River and perched on the hillsides, they provide a tranquil escape from the bustling atmosphere of nearby Ubud.

Most guests arrive for yoga or health retreats, where every element—from farm-to-table cuisine to personalized health programs—is designed to help them achieve their wellness objectives. A team of resident experts, including a dietitian, an Ayurvedic practitioner, and a reflexologist, along with instructors in fitness, yoga, Pilates, and qigong, guide the way. Yet, it’s not all about hard work. After a day filled with outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and paddleboarding along the Ayung, unwind in your private infinity pool filled with spring water and reflect on future possibilities. Rates start at $532 per night, inclusive of breakfast.

15. Chiva-Som, Hua Hin, Thailand

Nestled along the beachfront in Hua Hin, Thailand, Chiva-Som has been a leader in health and wellness since its establishment in 1995. Spread across seven acres of lush tropical gardens with the stunning Gulf of Thailand as a backdrop, this sanctuary harmonizes regional healing traditions with modern practices. With over 200 customized treatments available—ranging from spa therapies and medi-spa services to physiotherapy and a comprehensive fitness program—Chiva-Som continues to innovate, now offering genomic testing and personalized supplement services.

The 54 minimalist rooms and suites are designed with light wood and white interiors, providing expansive views and attentive butler service. Chiva-Som is committed to sustainability, evident in its eco-friendly initiatives, such as recycling food waste into compost for the gardens and using plastic-free products. The retreat also engages in community outreach focused on environmental conservation and health education. Rates start at $900 per person per night, based on single occupancy (a minimum three-night stay is required), which includes meals, wellness consultations, and a daily treatment.

Additional reporting by Nicola Chilton, Jennifer Flowers, and Devorah Lev-Tov.