Sometimes a family getaway feels so hectic that you need a vacation from your vacation. But not anymore! New healthy habits for the new year means a family vacation that will get the whole crew into a wellness state-of-mind. Whether your family goals are to reconnect, renew patience, get into nature or go on a digital detox, check out these wellness vacations for families that will get you all on track for a truly happy 2020. Read on for the feel good details.
Tech-Free Getaway
When electronic time is on overload, it’s time to book a tech-free vacay, and Getaway wants you to do just that. Their Big Bear escape offers guests secluded cabins throughout a 60-acre wooded outpost. Adding to the adventure, the exact name and location of your cabin is emailed to you once you book your stay. Each cabin has a cellphone lockbox (just in case you’re tempted), a two-burner stove and other basic amenities. The Cabin for Four is perfect for families, with queen bunks and back-to-nature vibes. Whether you spend your days taking wilderness walks or hunkering in for a board game marathon, quality face-to-face time will make you wish you could stay powered down just a bit longer. And to top it off, Getaway has partnered with One Tree Planted, which means they plant a tree for every Getaway booked, assuring the next generation can also wake up amongst the trees.
Online: getaway.house
Five-Star Relaxation
Finding your inner zen and peaceful family vibes is easy amongst the tranquil 78-acre grounds of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara. With two beaches, three infinity pools and a 42,000 square-foot spa, this wellness journey comes with five-star luxury amenities. While you’ll want to schedule in some me-time to enjoy the resort’s top-notch spa, exploring the beauty and serenity of the area is a must for families. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara offers activities such as Migrating with the Monarchs and a Bike & Hike trek to explore the breathtaking scenic vistas of Santa Barbara. Make sure to check out the Ambassadors of the Environment program, which offers families guided hiking, beach walks and thoughtful insight into the natural surroundings and rich cultural history. When you’re ready to refuel, the hotel has six restaurants to choose from, which feature locally sourced produce, sustainable seafood and breathtaking ocean vistas.
Online: ritzcarlton.com
Equine Therapy in the Redwoods
The healing effect of animals has been much documented and animal lovers young and young-at-heart will love a memorable 6-night Redwood Coast Riding Vacation. Find your family's peace-of-mind with daily equine therapy on exceptional horses. Trail rides are fully guided by Ricochet Ridge Ranch’s expert staff and vary from beach rides and ocean view bluffs to mossy trails through a redwood forest. Lodging is provided at a local hotel and a continental breakfast is included daily and lunch on full trail ride days. Well-trained horses match riders experience levels and soon become a trusted companion during the trip.
Online: horse-vacation.com
Ranch Serenity
The stunning grounds and all-suite accommodations at Carmel Valley Ranch are a welcome respite from city living. Peaceful days on the ranch help calm the mind and allow for exploration into programs such as A Bee's Life, in which guests get up close with 250,000 Italian honeybees and learn about the bee’s life from hive to honey. The 500-acre property includes many other ways to focus on wellness, including an organic garden, yoga, hiking trails, family pool and the luxurious Spa Aiyana.
When it’s time to return to your suite, optional enhancements include Bath Butler, with lavender bubble bath and champagne, or kid’s Teepee Time, which includes an in-room teepee, milk and cookies and a stuffed animal for each child. Make sure to check their daily activity schedule for guided hikes, Ranch Hands Kids Camp and opportunities to meet the ranch animals.
Online: carmelvalleyranch.com
Desert Retreat
The healing properties of the desert have long been lauded and folks have been flocking to the greater Palm Springs area for decades to rejuvenate body and mind. For a family getaway that mixes resort fun and mega-relaxation, head to Palm Desert's JW Marriott Desert Springs. This full-service resort has dining, resort pools, a full-service spa and multiple workout options. Start your wellness goals with a family walk amongst the lush 450-acre property or opt for the fitness center with full gym and daily classes like yoga and pilates. If getting to the gym solo seems like an impossible task, check out the resort's in-room Behind the Barre on-demand workout program, so you can work on your fitness while little ones play or nap.
For ultimate relaxation, check out the Spa at Desert Springs. Whether you indulge in a treatment or just get a day pass to enjoy the lavender and eucalyptus steam rooms, sauna and private pool, it's the fast-track to complete bliss. Book a suite for ample family space and deep-soaking tub that you and the kids will never want to leave. When you're ready to nosh, healthy options await at Rockwood Grill. Not only will you find excellent service, but you’ll want just a nibble of the delicious kids-menu salmon. Or, stay in your plush robes and order room service, which gets a healthy upgrade with Tastefully Nourished, an in-room nutrition guide that lists health benefits of menu items.
Online: marriott.com
Terranea Tranquility
Nestled on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Terranea is a 102-acre luxury haven overlooking the beautiful Pacific. Daily wellness activities await guests through their full-service spa and fitness center, kids’ club, ecological enrichment programs and tranquil grounds. Which means you can squeeze in a patience-renewing spa treatment or coastal cycling class while the kids learn and play at the Tide Pool Kids Club. Here, leaders engage kids with science experiments, activities and locally-inspired art projects.
A daily events calendar also provide opportunities to rejuvenate body and mind, with activities such as daily coastal walks, yoga and an ancient sunset ritual known for healing and relaxation through sound and vibration. After a day well spent, retreat to guest rooms with spa-style stone baths, luxury linens and private balconies.
Online: terranea.com
Coastal Re-Connection
You want serenity and they want LEGOLAND. Thankfully, Carlsbad can provide a staycation the whole family will love. Before you unleash your inner child at nearby LEGOLAND, find your inner bliss at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort & Spa. A stay here includes 200-acres of lush property grounds, a pampering spa, hiking trails and meditation gardens.
While it'll be hard to pull yourself away from the five-star luxury and LEGO fun, Carlsbad is also home to a saltwater lagoon, Agua Hedionda. Here, families can get back-to-nature with hiking trails, kayaking, birdwatching and the Discovery Center. And a trip to Carlsbad isn't complete without taking in those gorgeous panoramic ocean views. Catch some vitamin sea and an epic sunset at Carlsbad State Beach, where you'll relax and reconnect SoCal style––with your toes in the sand.
Online: hyatt.com
––Kerry Cushman
RELATED STORIES:
Treat Your Family to a Luxe Vacation at Four Seasons The Biltmore Santa Barbara
