Best Wellness and Relaxation Spots in Monterey
There are plenty of things to do while visiting Monterey and a lengthy checklist of stops for sightseeing in Carmel. However we want to remind you that sometimes some of the best things to do on your next vacation (other than a Monterey Bay Food Tour of course!) is to simply relax.
Read on to explore the various ways we love to recharge in Monterey, whether that’s one of the best Monterey hikes or a visit to some of the best spas in the Monterey area.
Monterey Bay Coastal Rec Trail
We begin our Monterey Bay Food Tours at the convergence of the Monterey Bay Coastal Rec Trail at Fisherman’s Wharf in downtown Monterey. Why do we start here? Because this is one of the best places to connect to all of the beauty and wonders of Monterey Bay, whether that is natural, culinary, or otherwise!
The Rec Trail, as locals call it, stretches 18 miles from Castroville’s artichoke fields to the pink-carpeted trails of Pacific Grove. This trail, friendly to walkers, bikers, and pets alike, winds through our signature agricultural land and iconic coast and National Marine Sanctuary.
Use the trail to reach Monterey Bay Aquarium, grab a beer at (favorite tour stop) Dust Bowl Brewing Company, climb the rocks at Point Lobos, or explore neighboring bedroom communities of Seaside, Marina, and Sand City (and their beautiful, tucked-away beaches)! Sanctuary awaits around every corner of the Monterey Bay Coastal Rec Trail.
Vista Blue Spa
Only a short walk off the Rec Trail brings you to one of Monterey’s chicest hotel spa experiences. Vista Blue Spa is located inside the Monterey Plaza Hotel, located on Cannery Row.
Indulge in spa treatments like aromatherapy massage, vitamin C facials, waxing and nail services. Vista Blue Spa also features a panoramic sun deck, offering unbeatable views of the Monterey Bay while you relax in an upscale wellness environment.
Refuge
Tucked away off the beaten path lies Refuge spa, a unique wellness experience in Carmel Valley. Refuge Spa is part of the high-end fitness club Carmel Valley Athletic Club in Carmel Valley.
Refuge takes visitors on a “thermal cycle” through the picturesque and silent outdoor surroundings of this spa. From the first eucalyptus steam room to a cold plunge and back again, this cycle of varying temperatures helps you feel revitalized and relaxed at the same time.
Esalen
If you’re looking for a Monterey wellness experience that goes a little deeper, try the Esalen Institute in stunning, nearby Big Sur. According to the website, Esalen is a “world renowned holistic learning and leading global retreat center for guests and faculty to explore and realize their human potential through experience, education, and research.”
Esalen offers massage, yoga, and other typical wellness activities. However the beauty of this experience lies in thoughtful workshops and other programs exploring topics like plant medicine, recovering from burnout, and discovering inner tranquility.
The perfect sanctuary is waiting for you during your visit to Monterey Bay! Where is your favorite place to soak in the beauty and relaxation of Monterey, Carmel, or Big Sur? Comment below and join the conversation.