Best Spas in California

California is a spa lover's paradise, with more hotel and resort spas found here than in any other state.

This list represents my top picks for the best spas in California overnight. It includes both hotel and resort spas, where you can sample as little or as much of the spa experience as you want, and destination spas, which offer a complete immersion experience with an emphasis on transformation and self-improvement. Many resort spas welcome clients on a day spa basis.

Best California Spas

By Golden, Escondido. The ultimate in intimate luxury, Golden by Escondido is a woman-only spa that serves no more than 40 guests. Wooden Walkways link a series of serene garden courtyard inspired by the ancient inns of Japan. Men are welcome during only one-weeks. Type: destination spa

Cal-A-Vie, Vista. This elegant weight-loss spa is set on 200 rolling acres north of San Diego. Its 24 guest cottages are decorated in elegant European style. Type: destination spa

Spa Montage at Montage Resort, Laguna Beach. This ocean front spa is the only five-star winner. It's known for its "Surrender" experience, where the therapist prescribes the ideal treatment or series of treatments to Heal and address individual needs. "Surrender" can be booked for as little as two hours or as long as a full day. Type: spa resort

The Peninsula Spa, the Peninsula Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills. The Peninsula Spa has a rooftop garden oasis. A 60-foot lap pool is surrounded by at Cabanas with private views of the city. Type: Day Spas resort

The Beverly Hills Hotel Spa by La Prairie, Beverly Hills. The famed "Pink Lady" is home to The Polo Lounge and has a luxurious but pricey spa. Type: spa resort

Ojai Valley Inn & Spa Ojai Valley Inn & Spa is a luxury spa resort that has it all: a gorgeous Moroccan-inspired spa, challenging golf, and beautiful new rooms in a Shangri-La setting. Great shopping is just a Ramble away in the charming, historic village of Ojai. Type: spa resort