The Spa at Santaluz

San Diego Spa Getaways
Most everyone who visits San Diego declares something along the lines of, "If I lived here, I wouldn't need to take a vacation." Which begs the question, where do San Diegans go to clear the mind and restore the body and spirit? Aside from hopping on a plane destined for an island with white sand beaches and clear blue water, there are a number of relaxing day spas, and even a weeklong retreat, that are sure to further pamper an already sunny spirit and restore any body and mind in need of a little R and R.

The Spa At Four Seasons
Resort Aviara
Recently named the #1 resort spa in Southern California by Conde Nast Traveler, The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Aviara is a newly-renovated 15,000-square-foot European-style spa, equipped with indoor and outdoor private treatment rooms, an indoor solarium lounge area, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, and an on-site Jos? Eber Salon, among other amenities

In addition to a multitude of pampering treatments, new offerings also include the Lavender Escape treatment and the Couple's Suite Package. "The Spa at Aviara prides itself on innovative and unique treatments that take guests to a spa experience beyond anything they've ever encountered," says Kevin South, spa director. The Lavender Escape is a 50-minute treatment that features a neck, back, and shoulder massage accompanied by the floral fragrance of lavender. An Essential Oil Cleansing Ritual is followed by a head and scalp lavender conditioning treatment, and a complimentary lavender gift amenity concludes the service. The Couple's Suite Package features two 50-minute massages in the romantic couple's suite and includes chocolate-covered strawberries and a bottle of Champagne. Couples are also offered a private den with fireplace and a Swiss shower, a secluded outdoor courtyard with whirlpool, and all the while a personal attendant caters to every need. (760/603-6800, www.fourseasons.com)

The Spa Rancho Valencia
The Spa Rancho Valencia, set to open next month at Rancho Valencia Resort, is a 10,000-square-foot retreat that sits on a 2.5-acre site and features three therapeutic pools of different temperatures, a Watsu therapy/massage pool, lap pool, sauna and steam rooms, private gardens, ten treatment rooms with private patios (five with soaking tubs), a Vichy and private steam room for state-of-the-art hydrotherapies, and two couple's rooms with fireplaces, private patios, outdoor showers, and tubs for two.

"The unique value of the hand-crafted European tiles laid throughout, attention to architectural detail, and overall beauty of the spa will set it apart from anything in the area," says Tracy Lee, director of spa development and operations for Auberge Resorts and consultant to The Spa Rancho Valencia. "Ultimately, though, it's the quality of technicians and results-oriented treatments that will make it a world-class destination for mind and body wellness." Rather than the basic facial and massage offerings, the majority of services available will feature a layering of treatments such as an Avocado & Grapefruit Body Hydration with Massage or a Tangerine Sea Salt Body Polish & Orange Blossom Massage. For a romantic couple's treatment, try the Terra Cotta Clay Bake, a restful soak in a private outdoor garden tub that is followed by an application of detoxifying terra cotta clay on one another using paintbrushes, and concludes with a re-hydrating in-suite massage. The spa will also feature its own line of products infused with citrus extracts like orange blossom and tangerine, as well as healing agents from the ocean, avocado, and grape seed. (800/548-3664, www.ranchovalencia.com)

The Spa At Santaluz
The Spa at Santaluz, a private club spa limited to 250 memberships, is part of Santaluz Club, a 3,800-acre golf village adjacent to Fairbanks Ranch and Rancho Santa Fe that boasts a Rees Jones-designed championship golf course. The spa was designed by world-renowned consultant Cary Collier, and spans the upper level of the 35,000-square-foot Santaluz Clubhouse (which also includes 5,000 square-feet of covered outdoor patio) and blends Eastern and Western influences in six distinctive private spa villas, each with its own garden courtyard, and some with a fireplace, indoor-outdoor shower, or relaxing lounge.

Membership with The Spa at Santaluz also includes dining and use privileges at the Santaluz Clubhouse, as well as access to the Hacienda Santaluz, which offers a pool; fitness center (that features state-of-the-art equipment and a number of classes); six lighted tennis courts; and Camp Santaluz, which provides sports, recreation, art, and educational programs to members' children. (858/759-3160, www.santaluz.com)

SK Sanctuary
SK Sanctuary medical day spa, founded by cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon Stephen M. Krant and his wife, Lyn Tisdale Krant, blends the cosmetic surgery services offered at SK Clinic with the soothing benefits of a day spa. Surgery patients enjoy calming and rejuvenating treatments before and after procedures. SK Sanctuary also administers all pre-operative regimens including therapeutic treatments, manual lymphatic draining, follow-up skin and image consultations, and pre- and post-operative vitamin programs.

In a Tuscan-style building, spa services include facials, peels, scrubs, massages, wraps, relaxing baths, and makeup application. Twelve treatment rooms feature Vichy showers, a private pedicure room, as well as hair and makeup stations; private treatments are also offered on an outdoor landscaped terrace. Medical treatments include Botox, noninvasive laser treatments, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, ALA/PDT treatment for acne and pre-cancerous actinic keratosis, Endermologie, personalized pre- and post-surgery skin care, and Fraxel laser treatment - a noninvasive laser technology that repairs aging and sun-damaged skin.

As if SK Clinic and SK Sanctuary were not enough, the Krants also developed the nonprofit SK Institute, providing spa nights once a month that offer free seminars and spa services to cancer patients and survivors. This month's spa nights are on June 13 (Prostate Cancer Night) and June 27 (Breast Cancer Night). (858/459-2400, www.sk-sanctuary.com)

La Jolla Spa MD
La Jolla Spa MD, founded by Mitchel P. Goldman, MD and his wife, Dianne York-Goldman, also combines the art and science of the latest medical procedures with advanced rejuvenation techniques in a relaxing day spa. Spa services include massages, facials, body treatments, high-tech procedures including Ionithermie, Endermologie, and Tri-Active anti-cellulite treatments, as well as waxing, laser hair removal, makeup application; and special packages for rejuvenation, bridal parties, couples, and students. (The spa is also the official spa of the San Diego Chargers.)

La Jolla Spa MD's state-of-the-art medical center offers injectable treatments such as Botox, Restylane, and Collagen; cellulite reduction therapy; hair transplantation; and laser treatments like IPL PhotoFacial, photo dynamic therapy, micro laser peels, and laser resurfacing. A surgical center houses top surgeons and offers procedures such as tumescent liposculpture, cosmetic surgery including breast augmentation and reduction, facial plastic surgery, and general plastic surgery.

The spa also features an extensive boutique that carries skin care products, York-Goldman's DYG mineral makeup and her active/loungewear line, plush blankets and hoodies, candles, handbags, and more. (858/459-6868, www.spa-md.com)

The Spa At Estancia
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa features The Spa at Estancia, a 9,000-square-foot full-service day spa that offers 11 rooms (seven indoor, four outdoor, and two manicure and pedicure stations), a modern fitness center, relaxation areas with whirlpools and steam rooms, an outdoor fireplace, heated pool and Jacuzzi, as well as six cabanas equipped with televisions, telephones, and wireless Internet access.

Indoor and outdoor massage treatments use only natural, organic products. Natural nail care and skin care services are also available. Notable treatments include the Garden Stone Massage and garden rain treatments - scrubs that are combined with a "rain bar" treatment, utilizing adjustable pressure point massage jets to rain relaxation over the entire body. For the ultimate experience in pampering, try the Garden of Eden Package, which includes overnight deluxe accommodations for two in a garden-view guestroom; breakfast in bed including: protein shake, egg white omelet with fresh veggies, a bran muffin, and seasonal fruit; a full day of spa treatments; Spa Bento Box lunch for two; and a gift of plush Estancia La Jolla spa slippers and robe per person from the Spa at Estancia Boutique. (858/550-1000, www.estancialajolla.com)

The Spa At L'Auberge
The Spa at L'Auberge, located within L'Auberge Del Mar Resort and Spa, is full-service European spa offering treatments that combine ocean and botanical healing themes with advanced spa treatments from Europe. Signature services include Red Clay Renewal (a warm wrap rich in copper, zinc, and magnesium that soothes and relaxes), Emerald Frappuccino Body DeLight (a slimming and firming body wrap that reduces inches and smoothes the dimpled look of cellulite), and Serenity Soother - Green Tea & Water Lily Wrap (a body-quenching wrap that has the moisturizing qualities of the white water lily, the anti-aging properties of green tea, and the calming benefits of chamomile), to name a few.

New and noteworthy at The Spa at L'Auberge is D'vine Wednesdays, a monthly program that is all about women, wine, and wellness. Women enjoy discounted Chardonnay, complimentary hors d'oeuvres, Chardonnay Vitalit? teaser spa treatments with Le Vin by Olivie spa products, and live flamenco guitar music. Each guest receives a goodie bag including Chardonnay Le Vin antioxidant hand cream, Chardonnay chocolate covered truffles, and a discount voucher for a full 105-minute Chardonnay Vitalit? treatment. The next D'vine Wednesday will be held on June 28. (858/259-1515, www.laubergedelmar.com)

Bella D'ora Spa
Bella D'ora Spa in Carlsbad attracts locals in search of lunchtime pampering, most becoming regulars due to the level of service they receive. Spa services include signature massages and facials, body treatments, sunless tanning, hair design and coloring, sugaring, waxing, lavish lash extensions, personal training, fitness classes, nutritional programs, as well as special event and bridal packages. For the ultimate massage experience, try the Bella D'ora Signature Tiramisu Massage (a deep tissue massage with essential oils, heated stones, and warm blankets), and ask for Robyn - it just might be the best massage around.

In addition to an array of pampering treatments and fitness options, Bella D'ora also boasts an extensive boutique, with items ranging from Isola Luce candles and lingerie to clothing, jewelry, and skin and hair care products, among others. Featured lines include Deux Lux, 18 Karat, Laurent Oliver, Cosabella, Sweet Pea, EmerginC, Sonya Dakar, Bumble & Bumble, and Eufora, among others. (760/438-7404, www.belladoraspa.com)

Spa Velia
Located between the Columbia/Little Italy Districts of downtown across from the W Hotel, Spa Vel?a is an intimate boutique spa that offers amenities including a soothing relaxation lounge, Swiss seven-head showers, a co-ed aromatic steam room, and a couple's suite, to name a few. Once inside, the hustle and bustle of downtown immediately disappears as soothing music, warm and earthy colors, and muted lighting create a calming, relaxing atmosphere that is more balanced than feminine, keeping the male clientele in mind. "Spa Velia's clients are about 40 percent men and 60 percent women, and almost 90 percent of our male clientele become regular customers, which is really unique," affirms founding partner Chris Guimond. "I think the way the spa is designed for privacy with low lighting is appealing to men. They don't feel like they are in the spotlight because we've tried to create serene spaces for people to relax with their own thoughts."

Just over a year old, Spa Velia's notable treatments include a Classic Sundari facial, Vel?a Classic Aromatherapy Massage, couple's massage, Espresso Body Polish, and Avocado Cilantro Body Mask, to name a few, as well as multiple spa packages and create-your-own experiences that allow you to combine any three treatments for special pricing. (619/235-0000, www.spavelia.com)

Golden Door
For those looking to actually get away, the Golden Door spa in Escondido offers a week of transformation, complete with a custom-tailored fitness program; personal services including facials, body treatments, herbal wraps, and a daily in-room massage; gourmet spa cuisine; and a complete spa wardrobe. Voted best U.S. destination spa in 2005 by Zagat U.S. Hotel, Resort and Spa Guide, the Golden Door houses only 40 guests each week, They offer personalized service with a four-to-one staff to guest ratio, challenging workout options, self-discovery in mind-body classes, and evening programs to stimulate the mind. Rooms feature private patios and antique Japanese art, and are surrounded by meticulously landscaped courtyards of camellia bushes, koi ponds, and sand gardens. In addition to a daily massage, weeklong stays also include a skin-care treatment of your choice on five days (your aesthetician will help you select those appropriate for your skin type), as well as a manicure, pedicure, make-up lesson session, and at least two herbal wraps.

Each guest is also assigned a personal fitness trainer who outlines a weeklong program tailored to fit individual needs and interests. Each day, numerous 45-minute classes are available for guests of any fitness level and age. Activities include swimming, Pilates, yoga, Feldenkrais, t'ai chi, weights, spinning, cardio-box, fencing, archery, and more. All weeks are for women only, with a few exceptions throughout the year. Upcoming men's weeks include June 4-11 and September 3-10. (800/424-0777, www.goldendoor.com)

The Spa At Torrey Pines
The Spa at Torrey Pines, located in the five diamond-rated Lodge at Torrey Pines, is a 9,500-square-foot retreat with 14 private treatment rooms, saunas, herbal-infused steam rooms, and an aromatherapy inhalation room. The spa offers a complete line of restorative treatments, and many of the products utilized are also available for purchase.

Recently, The Spa at Torrey Pines partnered with Comfort Zone, an exclusive Italian skin and body care line, to offer special holistic and sensorial massages, body wraps, masks, and specialty skin treatments. Nine new treatments that aim to balance the skin and create emotional well-being feature rejuvenating earthy essentials such as walnuts, fruit extracts, herbs, and olive oil. "We have created the menu of services for our spas in the same way a chef would create a menu for a gourmet restaurant," says spa director Darcie DeBartelo. "Our partnership with Comfort Zone reflects our tradition of pure, organic body care products and the newest skincare programs." (858/777-6690, www.spatorreypines.com)

The Ritz-Carlton Spa,
Laguna Niguel
Last year, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel's 20th anniversary, $40 million resort renovation included a spa makeover to allow the ocean-inspired escape to transform guests with a collection of signature therapies that nurture the body and restore the spirit. Upon first arriving, the spa entrance features the soothing sound of running water, and once inside, the serene sanctuary offers calming aqua and sand tones. Each of the 11 treatment rooms includes its own water feature, along with a crushed crystal glass ceiling.

Health, beauty, and wellness treatments include traditional and Eastern massage therapies, body treatments, manicures and pedicures, facials, peels, aromatherapy, pre- and post-sun treatments, packages, and salon services. In addition, a two-story fitness center with panoramic ocean views features Precor cardiovascular and Icarian strength-training equipment (each with personalized TV and audio services), resistance-training machines, and a free-weight area. An observation deck above the fitness center offers stellar views of the ocean, beach activities, and whales during their migration. (949/240-5020, www.ritzcarlton.com)

Spa Montage
Located in Laguna Beach, Montage Resort & Spa is set on an impressive 30-acre coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The resort offers 262 craftsman-style rooms (including 51 suites) that feature turn-of-the-century d?cor, custom dark wood furnishings, a muted color scheme, and Early California artwork. Spa Montage is the resort's 20,000-square-foot retreat, offering rejuvenating, noninvasive techniques and an array of innovative treatments for anti-aging and wellness. Influenced by the surrounding area's lush habitat, the spa staff utilizes an organic, hands-on approach to services and treatments, using indigenous natural ingredients such as eucalyptus, lavender, orange blossoms, and citrus in many of the hand-mixed lotions and oils.

For a great Father's Day gift, consider a four-day Gentleman's Surrender spa marathon, designed to heal the body, mind, and spirit. By consulting with a therapist, wellness coach, and personal trainer, he'll receive a customized menu of indoor, outdoor, metro, manual, electronic, and holistic activities to promote optimal well-being. (888/715-6700, www.montagelagunabeach.com) - Jane Shiomi