The 8 Most Beautiful Desert Spa Destinations in America
The natural deserts of the American Southwest are sublime destinations for restorative healing, boasting luxury resorts with meditation gardens, holistic body treatments, reflection pools, and stunning views. Here are AD’s picks for the most beautiful desert spa destinations in America.
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa, Paradise Valley, AZ
Perched high above the arid desert, Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa in Arizona confidently blends spectacular American Southwest vistas and culture with decidedly Asian design and spiritual influences. Hike rugged Camelback Mountain or make tennis more mindful through a Zen-inspired “zennis” class, which focuses on balance and fluidity. At Sanctuary Spa, treatment spaces keep a rock sculpture of a praying monk in constant view. A meditation garden, reflection pond, and therapeutic Watsu pool inspire a deeper self connection. santuaryoncamelback.com
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, Tucson, AZ
Set in Tucson’s upscale Catalina Foothills, Loews Ventana Canyon Resort awes with sweeping canyon views, lush Sonoran Desert scenery and fiery sunsets. The resort draws design inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wright, most notably in its sectioned layout and corrugated wall patterns. Rejuvenate at a revamped Lakeside Spa, which boasts calming mountain views, an adults-only serenity pool, and desert-inspired treatments, like a desert-salt body polish. Twice weekly, up your astronomy game with an educator-led stargazing program. loewshotels.com/ventana-canyon
The Oasis at Death Valley, Death Valley, CA
As you approach the Oasis at Death Valley, you may feel as though you are seeing a mirage, but this historic, mission-style resort set inside Death Valley National Park is no illusion. Towering date palm trees, natural spring-fed streams and swimming pools, and verdant greenery adorn this elegant property that dates back to the 1920s. A new wellness center, cabanas, and a poolside bar add to the allure of this surprising oasis in the desert. oasisatdeathvalley.com
Boulders Resort & Spa, Carefree, AZ
The Boulders Resort & Spa is an entrancing oasis that blends seamlessly into the heart and soul of the surrounding Sonoran Desert in Arizona. Pueblo Revival–style architecture inspired by the natural desert environs captivates, as do stunning views of ancient boulder formations. The Spa at the Boulders welcomes and revitalizes, fusing metaphysical elements of feng shui with the Zen-like serenity of the region’s Native American influences. Meditate in the signature labyrinth or harmonize the body and senses with a holistic Ayurvedic body treatment. theboulders.com
Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Indian Wells, CA
Tucked away at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains is a luxury desert hideaway that feels more like a charming villa in Tuscany. Fragrant citrus groves and olive trees interwoven throughout Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa invite guests to embrace the sprawling, serene landscape. Enjoy scenic vistas with a sunrise hike in the Coachella Valley, then detoxify in the eucalyptus-infused steam room at Well Spa. Creative farm-to-table fare and craft cocktails await at the new Citrus & Palm Restaurant. miramonteresort.com
The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, Marana, AZ
The natural beauty of the dramatic Sonoran Desert in Arizona is celebrated across the Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, with an architectural style reflective of the American Southwest. Elegant casitas made from straw-flecked stucco, clay tile, and native stone embrace the feel and allure of the stunning desert surroundings. Ancient therapeutic rituals define the spa experience, which features holistic treatments using indigenous materials, like the gemstone healing massage. A striking outdoor fountain adorned in turquoise greets spa-goers at the treatment room terrace. ritzcarlton.com
Amangiri, Canyon Point, UT
Set deep within the spectacular desert landscape in Utah, Amangiri is an idyllic luxury hideaway tucked within luminous canyons and starkly beautiful flat-topped rocks. An uber-exclusive enclave for the well-to-do, this five-star resort embraces Navajo healing principles, incorporating earth, wind, fire, and water into holistic wellness offerings. Several “spa journeys” enable guests to reconnect with mind, body, and spirt through hydration and natural botanicals. Experience the rugged landscape on horseback by day, then retire at day’s end with a rose gold sunset. aman.com
Enchantment Resort, Sedona, AZ
Spectacular red rock formations welcome guests as they arrive at Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona. Adobe-style casitas nestled into Boynton Canyon are designed to resemble ancient cliff dwellings, while interiors evoke a Native American appeal, featuring decor from local artists. Mii Amo Spa takes a holistic approach, tapping in to the spiritual energies found in Sedona. Five distinct transformative journey experiences await guests eager to be more centered, explore their inner selves, or transition into a new stage in life. enchantmentresort.com