Of course you want to spend Mother’s Day with the very people that made you a Mama. But then, oh, then, you’ll be an even better mother when you’re refreshed and relaxed from a getaway to a spa. So drop hints that a day with your little sweeties is just how you want to spend May 11th, but a solo getaway to one of these local day spas would make a superb gift for someday soon.
Ojai Valley Inn
No wonder this valley doubled for Shangri-La (an earthly paradise) in the movies. The Inn evokes Tuscany-meets-Provence-meets-Morocco as striking white casitas abut the verdant hills. But you’re here for the award-winning 31,000 sq ft spa which features not one, but three dedicated pools in its own ‘village:’ one for laps, another for wading and a specially-designed therapy pool (calm hot water, cooler than a whirlpool, it’s the place for pregnant bellies). Try their unique do-it-yourself co-ed Kuyam mudbath, the definitely decadent Abhyanga four-hand massage and stick to create your own personal scent at the Apothecary. The kids will rave about how relaxed you look and good you smell.
Day passes available for $75 (or $20 with treatment)
Opens daily at 8 a.m.
905 Country Club R.
Ojai, Ca 93023
Phone: 888-772-6524
Online: ojairesort.com
Four Seasons Westlake Village
Over Malibu Canyon between LA and Santa Barbara, this Four Seasons offers an oasis in the sprawling valley off the 101 Freeway. Intimate yet well-appointed, the elegant setting offers a “Wow-Me-Wednesday” special for the sitter-less with a choice of a 50-min massage or facial that includes child care for a kiddo from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. for just $99. (Potty-trained babes to 9 year olds are welcome, with an extra fee for additional little ones.) For the ultimate “Daycation” you can get a half day at your private poolside cabana, a massage or facial and lunch for $235. If outside gets too hot or too cold, head to the indoor pool and fitness center, or try a nutrition or cooking class at the California Health & Longevity Institute.
Day passes Mon.-Fri. $50 ($75 to include indoor pool & fitness center), spa amenities included with treatments & services
Open daily 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
2 Dole Dr.
Westlake Village, Ca 91362
Phone: (818) 575-3000
Online: fourseasons.com/westlakevillage
Terranea
This spectacular oceanfront resort in Palos Verdes, is like Hawaii without the jet lag or tacky shirts. Opt for one of their signature rituals, categorized as “invigorating” or “relaxing” and graciously recommended for different times of day depending upon body areas targeted and intensity of the treatment. The oceanfront lap pool has ample lounge chairs perfect for napping, with VIP suites and outdoor cabanas that can be reserved for small groups for added privacy. Take a spin on the stationary cycles at the waterfront gym, while sipping a sugar-free smoothie from the spa café (or choose from one of the other 7 on-site eateries) before heading home for dinner. Insider’s tip: Tide Pool Kid’s Club is available to day spa guests, for little ones 4-12 yrs. from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. for $50; activities are offered 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. at $15/hr.
Day passes available Mon-Thurs for $60
Spa amenities are included with treatments & services, daily, at no extra cost
Open daily 6 a.m. – 8 p.m.
100 Terranea Way
Rancho Palos Verdes, Ca 90275
Phone: (310) 265-2800
Online: terranea.com/spas-southern-california.php
Montage Laguna Beach
Surfers paradise gives way to the lap of luxury at the world-class oceanfront Montage. Check out a yoga class for $65 and enjoy the lap pool and fitness center, as well as their eucalyptus steam room, redwood sauna, cold plunge & Jacuzzi. Can’t decide what services to have? Have a treatment indoors then outdoors as well – or plan a mommy-and-me reunion sans bebes and book the private Gallery for the group.
Day use requires a class, 60-min treatment or mani-pedi.
Open daily 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.
30801 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, Ca 92651
Phone: (949) 715-6010
Online: spamontage.com/lagunabeach
La Costa
This Carlsbad mainstay does not disappoint, and the recent renovation upholds its gold standard. A day just touches on the plethora of spa services and classes offered in the Athletic Club. Grab a robe for a relaxing walk on the Reflexology Path that massages weary feet, while strolling to the Roman waterfall showers before turning resting at the poolside cafe. The lush retreat is set apart from the popular family areas, so escape is absolute (and child-free). If you’re bringing kids with you, they have a Kidtopia program where kids can play and have fun, while you rest and relax. Insider’s note: the spa offers numerous day packages with multiple services and lunch; check website for current details.
Day passes available daily, $60 all day or $30 after 2 p.m.
Includes valet parking, Athletic Club & fitness classes
Opens daily at 8:30 a.m.
2100 Costa Del Mar
Carlsbad, 92009
Phone: 800-854-5000
Online: lacosta.com/spa-and-wellness
When’s the last time you took a weekend (or day) for a relaxing spa getaway? Because you deserve it!
–Kim Orchen Cooper
Photos courtesy of Ojai Valley Inn & Spa facebook page, Terranea facebook page, La Costa facebook page, & Montage Laguna Beach facebook page.
