Article

The 10 Best Spa Resorts in the United States

Explore a curated selection of the United States' most distinguished wellness resorts, offering diverse approaches to rejuvenation, from bespoke programs in desert oases to immersive experiences in natural landscapes.

Desert Oases and Personalized Pathways

Building on the legacy of its Arizona flagship, Miraval extends its philosophy of understated luxury to the East Coast. Nestled in the serene woodlands of Lenox, Massachusetts, this retreat, established in 2020, offers a refined approach to wellness. Director Jacqueline Berry describes its ethos as "luxury without being overly lavish," a standard upheld by its Life in Balance Spa. Here, innovative treatments, often termed "rituals," include the Vasudhara, a warm-water float enhanced by calming underwater sound, and the Naga, a guided stretch-massage utilizing suspended silks for deep compression.

On the Hawaiian island of Lana’i, Sensei presents an exclusive fusion of island tranquility and Japanese aesthetic. This adults-only destination, favored by an elite clientele, emphasizes comprehensive well-being and longevity through individualized programs guided by highly trained Sensei practitioners. The vision of Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, who acquired a significant portion of the island, Sensei Lana’i operates in conjunction with Four Seasons, offering a 96-room wellness-focused experience distinct from a conventional spa. Guests engage in meticulously designed programs, whether seeking gentle introspection or rigorous physical optimization.

In Palm Springs, Larry Ellison's former private estate, Sensei Porcupine Creek, invites guests to engage in a data-driven approach to well-being. The retreat centers on three pillars—movement, nourishment, and rest—to optimize personal health. While structured programs are available, the serene environment also accommodates those who prefer a more leisurely pace, combining spa therapies, poolside relaxation, and gourmet dining. The estate maintains an intimate atmosphere, characterized by an exceptional staff-to-guest ratio, creating a secluded haven just a short distance from urban life.

Situated amidst 77 acres of palm groves near Palm Springs, Two Bunch Palms draws upon centuries of natural healing. Its mineral-rich hot springs, revered by the Indigenous Cahuilla tribe, remain a central attraction. Today, the resort offers a comprehensive array of modern treatments, healing workshops, and wellness experiences, embodying what owner Erica Chang terms "uncomplicated wellness." Beyond offerings like Reiki and adaptogenic body wraps, the thermal baths provide a profound connection to the earth's restorative properties, all within a discreet setting on the edge of the Coachella Valley.

In the dramatic landscape of the Utah desert, Amangiri stands as a testament to minimalist luxury and profound serenity. Recognized with three Michelin keys, its architectural integration with the otherworldly environment creates an unparalleled experience. Beyond its celebrated spa, the resort offers an immersive journey into tranquility, attracting a discerning global clientele seeking both exceptional service and a deep connection to nature's grandeur.

Cultivating Vitality in Natural Landscapes

Less than an hour from San Diego, Cal-a-Vie transports guests to a meticulously crafted French countryside estate. Comprising 32 private villas and expansive grounds, this retreat distinguishes itself from austere health spas by blending rigorous activity with indulgent comforts. Guests might enjoy a salted caramel smoothie between interval training and trapeze yoga. The philosophy embraces personalized schedules and treatments, offering a range of amenities from two pools and beauty salons to pickleball courts and an orange grove, fostering a "luxury summer camp" ambiance where well-being is pursued without coercion.

Nestled within Sedona, Arizona's Boynton Canyon, Mii Amo has cultivated a devoted following over two decades, celebrated for its profound connection to the region's iconic red rocks and perceived "energy vortexes." Following a significant renovation in 2022, this desert oasis, designed with red concrete, stucco, and adobe structures that harmonize with its surroundings, offers a sanctuary for inner journeys. As the spa-focused sister property to the larger Enchantment Resort, Mii Amo provides a serene counterpoint to more active outdoor pursuits.

In the foothills of Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Farm offers an elevated escape where guests immerse themselves in a refined pastoral setting. Established in 1976, this expanded estate provides myriad activities, from hiking and yoga overlooking the trees to fly-fishing and spa treatments. Its sister property, Blackberry Mountain, offers a more explicitly activity-driven wellness experience. Guests are encouraged to embrace outdoor pursuits like rock climbing and paddleboarding, complemented by an on-site art studio, all within an atmosphere that is both casual and exquisitely refined.

The New York outpost of the renowned The Ranch Malibu, The Ranch Hudson Valley, offers intensive three- or four-day programs designed for a vigorous reset. Replacing the Pacific views with the vibrant forests of the Hudson Highlands, particularly stunning in autumn, the core wellness philosophy remains consistent: demanding physical activity, clean nutrition, and a focus on mind-body-spirit integration. Daily massages, colon hydrotherapy, and journaling workshops are complemented by a 30-day pre-arrival regimen, preparing guests for a transformative experience.

Beyond Conventional Wellness: The Esalen Institute

Distinct from traditional spa resorts, the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California, functions as a pioneering center for human potential. Rather than offering luxury amenities, Esalen provides multi-day workshops focused on healing, intellectual expansion, and inspiring new thought. Renowned for its diverse programs, from yoga retreats to leadership development, Esalen is particularly famous for its role in pioneering Gestalt therapy in the 1960s. This form of psychotherapy emphasizes personal responsibility, present-moment awareness, and emotional exploration through experiential methods, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Big Sur coastline. It represents a journey not of pampering, but of profound inner work.

#OnTheLUXELIST: The evolution of wellness into a deeply personalized and transformative journey underscores a broader cultural shift towards intentional living and profound self-investment, exemplified by institutions like Esalen.

Stay in the loop!

Subscribe to our weekly update.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
we're on instagram @LUXE LIST
© 2025 LUXE LIST, Inc. All rights reserved. Developed by Flow Cubo Studio.
LUXE LIST Premium

Plans

The is the Premium Dose Of LUXE LIST

Become a LUXE LIST Premium insider to get access to exclusvei Dose of Luxe newsletter content

View Plans
Or login if you already are a Premium insider
Login