SEASIDE SPAS
1/30/2007 11:13:41 AM by Stacy Wynn
When it’s time to escape to a relaxing getaway far away from the hustle-and-bustle, nothing beats an exotic seaside spa retreat. We hopscotch the world’s oceans to bring you the best spas around the world.
Water is relaxing. Spas are relaxing. When you combine the two the result is the ideal cure for our stressed out, cell phone ringing, traffic jammed, rush-rush-rush lives. So take a deep breath — let it out slowly — and peruse the following list of some of the more unique waterside spas from around the globe. Hopefully, the article alone will bring you some of the serenity we all need.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
South Male Atoll, Maldives
If we were only allowed two words to describe the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in the Maldives they would have to be “exclusive” and “exotic.” This award-winning resort boasts the Taj Grande Spa at its far end. The location makes the spa the epitome of privacy with superb ocean views. Based on a central courtyard garden, the spa is encircled by an aqua lagoon. Each spa pavilion has a private sundeck and relaxation area.
Vatsu philosophy is apparent in the tropical-themed design principles and space clearing which results in a haven of bliss. Natural wood, stone and understated elegance contrast with a rich sensuality that is reminiscent of Royal India. The open and romantic atmosphere is at once welcoming.
The spa also offers a Yoga and Meditation Pavilion, a Signature Royal Mud and Bathing Experience Pavilion, an Ayurveda Sanctuary Pavilion, VIP Spa Suite and two over-water luxurious couple spa suites. If that wasn’t enough, the property also boasts a Heat, Hydro and Relaxation experience pavilion that has a sauna for guests, with an oversized relaxation deck and single and double waterbeds. The variety of spa services is matched by the range of eclectic culinary experiences available. Of course, with this great location watersports opportunities abound. For more information, call 866.WOW.1TAJ or visit tajhotels.com
L’Auberge Del Mar
San Diego, CA
Advanced European spa treatments are available without leaving our continent. The Spa at L’Auberge Del Mar combines both traditional and cutting-edge ocean and botanical themes to create a wide selection of relaxing, soul nourishing massages, facials, body purification and more. This destination spa boasts all the details one would expect of a Four Diamond Resort, with personal service reminiscent of a small upscale inn.
A robe, slippers and Tazo tea are the order of the day as guests watch breathtaking sunsets and cruising boats off the beach just north of San Diego in the village of Del Mar. The casually elegant complex offers gourmet dining options, as well as top-notch golf and tennis. Or just spend a day on the beach with its private paths, sandy coves, dramatic waves and peaceful trails that lead to the remarkable Torrey Pines State Reserve. In addition to plenty of boutiques, shops and galleries nearby to choose from, the area also offers breathtaking balloon rides and a renowned horse race track, though “vegging out” by the pool with a good book (or the latest issue of Wave) is also a popular pastime. In fact, the resort is so all-inclusive, some guests never leave the grounds during their stay. For more information, call 800.245.9757 or visit laubergedelmar.com.
Little Palm Island
The Keys, FL
Getaways don’t get one much further away than the feeling of total escape that happens the minute one steps onto Little Palm Island. This private oasis features SpaTerre, which is the signature spa of the venerable Noble House Hotels and Resorts. Utter relaxation can be quickly achieved through one of the many Balinese spa treatments or Thai body rituals available. Some of the treatments offered were once only available to Eastern royalty. Flowers and spices are utilized generously to enhance the soothing effects, with popular choices including jasmine, frangipani, lemongrass and tropical island fruits. Who can resist a therapy called Caribbean Seaweed Body Mask, or better yet, a Margarita Key Lime Pedicure? Caribbean influences are strong, with the inclusion of indigenous South Florida herbs and minerals.
Even when you’re not at the spa proper, the resort boasts an aura of upscale tranquility with the gentle lap of waves on the shore and the sweet sound of a heron’s call. Harry Truman was a guest on Little Palm Island, and his former presence is reflected in the 35-foot launch, The Truman, which chauffeurs guests to and from this exclusive island, which is only reachable by boat or seaplane. Crushed shell paths and lush gardens give a feel of the Keys of yore. The thatched roof bungalow guest quarters blend seamlessly with the luxuriant environment. Ocean views abound as hammocks hang from the trees. A Zen garden and the Great Room library round out the feeling of purely decadent total relaxation. For more information, call 800.343.8567 or visit littlepalmisland.com.
Secrets Excellence Resort & Spa
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Secrets Excellence Resort & Spa is nestled in one of the fastest growing resort locations in the Caribbean. Nestled amongst the pristine white sugar-sand beaches and lush palm groves of Punta Cana, the resort capitalizes on all this lateral luxury with a spa that features treatments based on native fruits and flora. A massage is not a massage until you’ve had one in the cool shade of paradise. The onsite fitness club offers free weights, NordicTrac, Universal equipment, stationary bikes and treadmills. The combination of tropical sun, pure air, untouched earth, unspoiled beaches and offshore waters work to remove the tension of everyday life, turning the resort and spa into an area dedicated to pure relaxation and good health.
All this emphasis on serenity is balanced by the lively Secrets Excellence Casino. This separate small club with bar offers black jack and other card games, slot machines and roulette, as well as a vibrant party atmosphere. Couples will find the moonlit horseback rides on the beach romantic, while just about everyone will enjoy the live stage shows featuring Latin American dance and music. Two giant pools round out this secluded playground which offers swim-up bars and poolside meals under palapas. For more information, call 866.GO.SECRETS or visit secretresorts.com.
Soneva Fushi & Six Senses Spa
North Baa Atoll, Maldives
When it comes to off-the-beaten-path with style and luxury, Soneva Fushi, in the North Baa Atoll region of the Maldives, is hard to beat. First, the resort and spa are reached by a 30-minue seaplane ride from Male. The Six Senses Spa offers choices in rejuvenating, pampering and holistic wellness, which result in a calm mind and body. The team of international therapists and practitioners blend the best of Eastern and Western techniques in treatments that occur inside the spa building, in open-air locales and right on the beach.
Once your body is rejuvenated, it’s time to pamper the palate with a wide variety of dining options — from informal barbecues to gourmet feasts. The property boasts an excellent wine cellar. The Maldives are famous for their diving opportunities and Soneva Fushi guests are accommodated by a professional dive school supporting an expansive variety of diving options. The resort is popular with ecotourists who enjoy the pampering in this Earth-conscious, environmentally diverse locale. For more information, go to sixsenses.com.