These Spas Are Returning Back to Their Roots with Nature-Derived Ingredients

In a world of AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids, it’s refreshing to see more down-to-earth ingredients popping up on spa menus. Southern California resorts are returning to their roots with components with direct ties to the location and people who settled there long before they broke ground on these luxurious properties.

From seaweed oil at an oceanfront resort to a facial inspired by an Indigenous tribe, these treatments aren’t just for an hour of relaxation—they’re designed to further connect you to these special spaces.

Montage Laguna Beach

Montage Laguna Beach

A cliffside oasis overlooking the ocean in South Laguna Beach, Spa Montage has a number of oceanic offerings. Perhaps the most unique is the Sea and Stone Massage, which features warm Himalayan salt stones and restorative and hydrating seaweed oil. The Laguna Radiance Facial is yet another soothing skincare solution, with a hand-blended seaweed mask. 

Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Just a few minutes south from the Montage, check into the Ritz-Carlton in Dana Point for the Ancient Wisdom Facial. Recently renovated, the resort’s spa is now home to a treatment that honors the Luiseño tribe, the original settlers of Dana Point. A collaboration with N8iV BEAUTY Founder Ruth-Ann Thorn, this facial starts with the tribe’s Medicine Wheel. Select the scent you’re most drawn to—sage, cedar, sweetgrass, or tobacco—and it will inform your facialist as you’re guided through this soulful wellness experience. Acorn oil and a custom Three Sisters mask (made with blue corn, red bean, and squash) make this a spa treatment unlike any other.

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

In San Diego County, you’re greeted by fragrant eucalyptus tree-lined pathways. Eucalyptus isn’t native to the area, but it was first introduced in the late 19th century, particularly when it was believed the plant could help build railroads. Fast forward to today, and the award-winning Mila Moursi Spa at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe is taking advantage of the abundance of eucalyptus trees nearby. A nod to the medicinal plant, you can add a cold eucalyptus sinus relief pack to any body treatment. During a massage, for instance, the aromatherapy pack is placed in the face cradle, then followed up with warm towel compressions on sinus pressure points. 

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Four Seasons Hualalai

On Kona, the Big Island boasts lava rock-covered terrain and sandalwood forests. A multisensory, high-vibration day awaits guests of the ’Iliahi Experience at the renowned Hualalai, which begins with brunch among the trees in Háloa Áina’s native Hawaiian ’Iliahi forest. While there, you’ll learn about the restorative properties of sandalwood and have the opportunity to witness the process of extracting sandalwood oil. After returning to the resort, you’ll be welcomed back to the newly refreshed spa, where you’ll indulge in an energy and sound bath session, body cocoon, and massage that incorporates—you guessed it—the healing sandalwood oil.