Relax: Four Great Spa Resorts in Florida

Nicole Hutcheson

Let’s face it. There aren’t too many places in the world that have year-round sunshine. And lucky for us, Florida is one of them. That means it’s a perfect place for those who seek a restorative retreat for beauty and wellness. 

And then there are those of us who just want to luxuriate with a firm massage, an opulent facial or a steamy sauna tucked inside a plush, world-class spa. 

Florida has its fair share of spa resorts, from the crystal-clear waters of South Beach to the northwest coast of the Gulf. And the types run the gamut from a modern oasis to historic destinations and full service resorts.

The best part? No need to worry about what to wear. A plush white robe is all the wardrobe you’ll need.
 

Safety Harbor Spa: A Blend of Historic Charm and Modern Luxury
105 N. Bayshore Dr., Safety Harbor, Fla.

Step inside this spa and you can envision the 1960s when ladies adorned in cat-eye sunglasses and chiffon scarfs flocked to this corner of Tampa Bay to restore and rejuvenate in the natural mineral springs on the property. Designated a historical landmark by in 1964, the spa has evolved into a destination for pampering with a nod to healing and restoration of the mind, body and soul. You can get a facial, do a yoga class and soak in the Jacuzzi before noon. The interior of the resort has maintained much of its old-world charm. A recent $5 million dollar renovation to the 50,000-square-foot spa included 30 new treatment rooms for luscious services like salt scrubs, hot stone massages and a Turkish Hamman treatment room. The 172-guest room resort is a great place to escape for a weekend of pampering.

Treatment to Try: Herbal Wrap
Looking to disconnect for a bit? This is the treatment for you. Ten different herbs are infused in heated cloth wraps. The wraps are applied to your body, followed by a thermal blanket. The wraps heat for 20 minutes, detoxifying your body and leaving your skin glowing.

Spa Palmera, at The Boca Raton: A Regal Beach Resort Spa Experience
501 E. Camino Real, Boca Raton, Fla.

One foot inside the famed Spa Palmera and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Spanish castle. In fact, the spa was modeled after the Alhambra in Spain. The 50,000-square-foot spa, has touches of Arabia including gilded walls, elaborate mosaics, and ornate entry ways. Like Boca Raton itself, the spa is known for next-level luxury. The spa’s services speak for themselves, including a rose quartz facial using real rose quartz. You’re sure to feel like a royalty here. After your spa treatment is complete you can do a little surfing at the nearby beach or lounge poolside in a private cabana. This spa resort makes for an upscale wellness retreat.

Treatment to Try: Ritual Bath
Take your normal bath into luxurious overdrive with a ritual bath at the Waldorf Astoria Spa. These decadent soaks are known for their holistic health benefits. You start in the eucalyptus- infused steam room to relax your muscles. This eliminates toxins and gives the respiratory system a cleansing. Then it’s off to the actual bath where spa staff give your skin a good scrub. You soak in the “termes” or ritual bath before getting a jolt by the Swiss shower. The last stop is the Jacuzzi to finish off the process and to bring on balance.

Mokara Spa: A Modern Oasis of Tranquility
1500 Masters Blvd., Champions Gate, Fla.

After the 12th roller coaster ride at the theme parks, the trek to the car and the slog of traffic, you need to book a day at the Mokara Spa Orlando. Located inside the Omni Hotel at Champions Gate, this 10,000-square-foot spa offers a variety of spa treatments and a serene modern interior kissed with an Asian flair. While Orlando isn’t short on spas, Mokara scores points for its attention to detail. From the coconut lychee tea to the scented candles surrounding the hydro-bath, this spa doesn’t skimp on the finer points. The hotel’s inclusive spa packages make it a perfect place for a weekend getaway.

Treatment to try: Himalayan Salt Stone Massage
This treatment takes massage to the next level with the use of purifying Himalayan Sat Stones. Known for its healing properties, this salt is said to balance and neutralize the toxins in our bodies. The full body massage integrates the salt along with thermal therapy. And instead of one hour, the treatment lasts 80 minutes.

The Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn and Club: Coastal Pampering at Its Finest
302 Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla

The Spa at Ponte Vedra is located on one of the best beaches on the east coast of Florida. This coastal destination for pampering is a great place to spend the day while staying at the Ponte Vedra beach resort. Indulge in a full day of spa services, rest in the relaxation lounge, have a poolside meal and a indulge in a bit of shopping. You can do it all here without leaving the 30,000-square-foot spa. The sheer selection of services is what makes this spa special – there are more than 100. Located on a manicured 36-hole golf course, the resort and spa have a rich history. The resort started as a quaint seaside resort in 1928. It has transformed into a refined coastal destination. The spa is an extension of that style. Chose between the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, or The Lodge and Club. Both resorts are located on the same property and offer spa-inclusive vacation packages.

Treatment to try: Sweet Orange Ritual
This Vitamin C-rich treatment utilizes a signature Florida ingredient – citrus. The service begins with a full body scrub using citrus botanicals, oils and Florida honey. The exfoliation leaves your skin smooth and supple. A 50-minute full body massage completes the ritual service.