Mind Matters 

Hidden in some of the state's most spectacular scenic locations, California is blessed with world-class retreats designed to still the modern mind. Even those affiliated with various religious traditions such as Zen Buddhism pride themselves on being ecumenical and are open to anyone who seeks some peace, quiet and the chance to reconnect and unplug from daily distractions. 

Esalen/Big Sur 
The dramatic sea cliffs and towering redwood trees of the Big Sur coastline set the scene for Esalen, a place practically synonymous with New Age healing arts and various forms of meditation and inner growth. Famed personalities ranging from Hunter S. Thompson to Ida Rolf (founder of Rolfing) spent time here and not much has changed at this timeless location since its founding in 1960. Accommodations range from luxe private homes with woodburning stoves and redwood decks overlooking the Pacific to simple bunk bed rooms. In addition to classes and workshops, top attractions here include the famed Esalen massage and clothing-optional baths fed by natural hot springs.
 
Tassajara/Carmel Valley 
Don't expect luxe accommodations at Tassajara, founded by a Buddhist monk in the 1960's and the first Zen monastery established outside of Asia. What you will discover however is breathtaking scenery and absolute serenity deep in the Santa Lucia Mountains. Guests are welcome to participate in scheduled retreats or open overnight stays during the “guest season” which runs from April to September (the facility is closed during the fall and winter months for select Zen students). Accommodations are comfortable but rustic (as in no electricity and a shared bathhouse) and include choices such as creekside cabins, forest-view yurts and shared dorms. And while simplicity is definitely part of the equation at Tassajara, the Japanese-style bathhouse featuring natural hot springs is pure indulgence.
 
Vedanta Society/Marin County 
Marin's Point Reyes Peninsula is the setting for the Vendanta Society Retreat, a gorgeous swath of 2,000 acres of pristine Northern California wilderness featuring meadows, rolling hills and paths that wind through ancient oaks. The retreat center is open to all faiths and retreats are self-directed. There's no cost to visit (donations area optional), but if you're interested in a day visit or overnight stay, the organization requests an interview first at their San Francisco center. 

Work That Body 

If you like movement with your mindfulness or seek to push your limits in some of the state's astounding natural surroundings, the Golden State presents a wealth of active alternatives and wellness adventures. 

White Lotus/Santa Barbara 
Santa Barbara's White Lotus Foundation and Yoga retreat center is associated with some of the original pioneers of the practice in California such as Ganga White, who founded the retreat in 1967. Located in an idyllic ocean-view setting once sacred to the Chumash Indians in the San Marcos pass, White Lotus is where you can practice your downward dog and other asanas amid towering old growth trees, waterfalls and meandering hiking trails. 

The Ashram/Malibu 
Located in a serene, secluded spot just 15 minutes from Malibu, The Ashram's tranquil, eucalyptus tree shaded location belies its tough love approach. One of the earliest of the “boot camp” fitness retreats, The Ashram has for three decades whipped all manner of clients into the shape of their lives, including celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey and Julia Roberts. Just like the A-listers, you'll experience Spartan-but-uber healthy meals; a rustic, efficient aesthetic cultivated by the Swedish founders; and a challenging regimen that includes hours-long hikes, multiple yoga classes and meditation. 

Rewire/Santa Monica 
Ex-Army Ranger Tony Molina believes that to achieve your best level of physical performance, you have to “rewire” your belief system of what you can accomplish. That's why his Rewire Project uses stamina-building and skill development exercises ranging from road biking to rappelling to push the limits of clients to breakthrough to new levels of both fitness and confidence. In addition to utilizing their Santa Monica fitness facility kitted out with climbing ropes, weights and the latest fitness gear, Rewire relies heavily on getting you into nature to be challenged by the nearby ocean and Santa Monica mountains. 

Spa Fitness

California spas are rightly famous for their unrivaled pampering. But since this is the home of the fabulously fit, it stands to reason that spas here are also at the forefront of ways to wellness other destinations haven't even dreamed up yet. Following are a few of the best where the latest and greatest in fitness trends are being re-imagined everyday.
 
Ojai Valley Inn & Spa/Ojai 
For decades the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa has been the gold standard luxury retreat in this part of the Golden State (located just east of Santa Barbara), entertaining everyone from Hollywood elites to PGA pros. Beyond the championship links that have hosted multiple PGA tourneys however, you'll find an extensive menu of scheduled fitness classes, private training sessions and seasonal activities designed to keep you on top of your game. Options offered through Spa Ojai's Mind &Body instructors include everything from water aerobics to trail running in addition to staples such as various types of yoga, mat work and guided meditations.
 
Golden Door/Escondido 
The mind-body equation and how to achieve a Zen-like balance of both has been the focus of the Golden Door since the legendary holistic retreat was founded in Northern San Diego County more than a half-century ago. Set on 377-acres that include over 20 miles of hiking trails, the facilities and lush grounds are a blissful setting that includes Japanese gardens, a vaunted spa with sought-after treatments, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities that include 7 gyms and 3 group exercise studios. To help navigate a deep menu of classes that cover modalities like Active Aging, Dance, and Strength and Balance training, you'll be assigned a Fitness Guide to monitor your progress. 

Cavallo Point/San Francisco 
Few hotels can claim the iconic location that Cavallo Point boasts at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge. A former Army post, the impeccably restored officers quarters and parade grounds have been transformed into a groomed resort that prides itself on its wellness offerings. First and foremost here is the “Integrative Medicine” approach defined by onsite doctor and wellness guru Dr. Brad Jacobs, who meshes Western medicine with the wisdom and practices of Asia. Combining elements such as acupuncture, nutrition, herbal medicine, yoga and martial arts with conventional wellness practices, the doctor and his staff guide you to new levels of healthy living.