On a beautiful and sunny day, I enjoyed a scenic drive along the winding Palos Verdes coastline as I made my way to Terranea Resort. The ultimate oceanfront destination in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, Terranea is perched above the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by miles of natural beauty from every direction.

The 102-acre property is also home to The Spa at Terranea, an award-winning 50,000-square-foot oceanfront sanctuary that offers prime indoor and outdoor space designed for guests to relax in while connecting to the natural beauty and energy of their surroundings.

Spa Profile: The Spa at Terranea

I was looking forward to spending the day at Terranea, where I would be experiencing the resort’s various wellness amenities and offerings, trying one of the spa’s signature services, sampling some of the healthy dishes created by the resident nutritionist, and participating in a fitness class at the Movement Studio. I was ready for my day of wellness and relaxation to begin!

Here’s what you’ll love about The Spa at Terranea: 

• Terranea Resort is located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula and features panoramic 270-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, making it one of the rare places where one can watch the sun rise and set from a single vantage point.

• The 102-acre resort sits on the former site of Marineland of the Pacific, and 45 of the native mature trees have been preserved and planted on site.

• Each evening at sunset, the end of the day is signified by the ringing of crystal singing bowls—an ancient ritual known for healing and relaxation through sound and vibration.

• The award-winning Spa at Terranea spans 50,000-square-feet of indoor and outdoor oceanfront relaxation space, and features 25 treatment rooms and 3 VIP suites.

• The spa’s unique approach to wellness includes paying attention to the timing of guests’ visits and recommending treatments according to the Circadian Rhythm.

• The spa offers a variety of treatments inspired by Terranea’s coastal locale and also incorporates local ingredients such as honey from the resort’s own bee hives into services.

• Amenities include separate oceanfront indoor and outdoor spa lounges for men and women with saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, cold plunges and fire pits.

• In addition to the spa, guests also enjoy access to an oceanfront spa pool, full-service beauty salon, boutique, solviva restaurant, and a state-of-the-art Fitness & Wellness Center.

• The Fitness & Wellness Center is equipped with the latest fitness machines and includes an adjoining Movement Studio, which offers complimentary classes for spa guests.

• Terranea Resort hosts an ongoing series of immersive wellness retreats dedicated to nourishing the mind, body and soul that include spa treatments, movement classes, workshops, and more. To sign up for their next retreat, click here.

After parking in the valet, I headed into the entryway lobby—where I was immediately greeted by sweeping ocean views. One of the remarkable things about Terranea is that no matter where you are on the property, you can see the ocean and feel at one with nature.

The resort is also home to an Experience Center, where guests can book a wide range of activities, and get up close and personal with local flora and fauna. Many different adventures are available to enjoy, including archery, paddle boarding, and guided nature hikes. Expert guides are also available to offer additional insight and knowledge about the area’s unique ecology and history. For those interested in exploring on their own, Terranea is lined with miles of oceanfront hiking trails that guests are welcome to use anytime.

As I walked across the expansive property, I passed The Bungalows at Terranea, which are located just steps away from the spa and solviva restaurant. For adults only, these luxurious accommodations feature 1,100-square-feet of living space with ocean views, include wellness and fitness equipment, L’Occitane bathroom amenities, and so much more. I definitely want to book a wellness staycation with my husband in one of the Bungalows in the near future!

In addition to a bright and welcoming entrance and reception, The Spa at Terranea also features a cozy waiting area with plush seating and a two-sided fireplace, as well as a large retail boutique that carries a wide variety of top-tier spa, skincare and beauty brands such as European Spa Source, Kopari, LALICIOUS, Naturopathica, and others.

There is also a full-service Salon located directly inside off the spa reception area, which has four pedicure stations, three manicure stations, and four hair stations. Guests can enjoy services that are focused on the hands, feet, face and hair—including hair cutting and coloring, as well as bridal makeup consultations and services.

After checking in, I was given a tour of the women’s facilities, which are incredibly spacious and include a locker room and private changing area, showers, as well as separate indoor and outdoor spa lounges. Indoor amenities include a sauna, steam room, and a relaxation lounge with ocean views that offers direct access to the outdoor relaxation lounge.

The relaxation lounge has lots of natural light and comfortable seating for guests, as well as complimentary reading material—although when you’re surrounded by majestic ocean views, it’s hard to look at anything else!

There is also a snack bar with infused water and an assortment of hot organic tea sachets and loose leaf varieties, including several caffeine-free options. Flavors included Chamomile Medley, Peppermint, Hibiscus Berry, Turmeric Ginger, and Strawberry Tulsi.

I especially enjoyed the “Create Your Own Trail Mix” bar, which featured Terranea’s house-made granola and rosemary sea salt almonds from solviva, as well as other delicious offerings such as dried apricots and cherries, banana chips, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, and chocolate chips.

After indulging in some trail mix, I ventured outside to the outdoor relaxation space, which has plenty of seating, a whirlpool, cold plunge, and loungers next to clear walls of glass that showcase the pristine ocean views. I set up camp in one of the loungers, where I basked in the warm rays of the sun while listening to the tranquil sound of waves gently crashing in the distance. I could have spent the entire day in that spot!

For couples or those visiting the spa with friends/family of the opposite sex, there is a co-ed relaxation area located between the men’s and women’s facilities. From the outdoor relaxation lounge, there is a gate that leads to a private meditative space with lounge chairs and ocean views. It also leads to the spa pool, but it is one-way only, so if you do go out, you will need to re-enter the spa from the front entrance.

For those that are serious about their pool time, Terranea has four salt water swimming pools that all offer views of the Pacific Ocean:

• Main Resort Pool: Family-friendly pool with a 140-foot water slide, splash pad, private cabanas and poolside games for kids.

• Cielo Point Pool: Adult-only pool with private cabanas and views of Catalina Island.

• Vista Pool: Saltwater pool and hot tub for resort guests ages 13 and older.

• Spa Pool: This pool is reserved for spa guests and has private cabanas and fire pits, and is next to the Fitness & Wellness Center.

Check out my feature on the most beautiful swimming pools around the world, which includes Terranea’s swimming pools.

After lounging in the sun for an extended period of time, I headed back to the indoor relaxation lounge five minutes before my service was scheduled to start. Shortly after, my therapist Akiko came to greet me and I followed her up a set of stairs leading to the treatment rooms.

Today I was scheduled for the El Segundo Blue, a 90-minute spa service that is inspired by the El Segundo blue butterfly, a rare subspecies that can occasionally be found in the neighboring area. The Spa at Terranea offers a unique approach to wellness by recommending treatments based on the time of day, as it pays attention to Circadian Rhythm—the body’s natural, internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle.

The spa menu has a variety of customized treatments that it recommends for mornings and early afternoons to awaken and energize, such as the Coastal Detox (90 min, $295 weekdays; $305 weekends), which includes dry brushing, a massage and Vichy shower. There are also treatments recommended for late afternoon and evening, such as the Sound Sleep (60 min, $205 weekdays; $215 weekends), that help promote deeper relaxation and rest.

Because my service included a Vichy shower, I was in a special treatment room designed for that purpose. My therapist gave me a set of disposable spa underwear and a matching tube top to change into, then instructed me to lie down on the treatment bed.

The El Segundo Blue is a ritual of metamorphosis designed to relax the body, mind and spirit. I was offered my choice of botanical oils, which Akiko gently applied to various parts of my body as she began the slow rhythmic massage. She used long, firm strokes which felt amazing, and she managed to get into some of my deep knots without compromising the relaxing vibe of the experience. In all honesty, it was one of the best massages I’ve ever had!

After the full-body massage, I lay on my back again while she proceeded to apply a revitalizing sea blue mineral clay (which Akiko informed me is great for sunburns) from the neck down, wrapping my body in foil followed by heated towels resembling a warm cocoon. As I lay there with my eyes closed, I felt safe and snug—as if I were going into hibernation mode.

Afterwards, Akiko removed the towels and foil wrap, then rinsed me off with the Vichy shower as I lay there comfortably. Originating in France, Vichy showers are vertical showers that have anywhere from five to seven shower heads and offer a super relaxing experience. Your therapist can change and alternate the water pressure and temperature, so depending on how they do it, it can feel like a massage. Vichy showers offer numerous benefits, including increased circulation in the body, stress reduction and lymphatic drainage. It’s a unique and enjoyable way to shower without standing up!

After I had been rinsed and dried off, for the final part of my treatment Akiko applied a hydrating oil all over my body that would seal in and maintain the hydrating benefits of the wrap. Like a new butterfly breaking out of its cocoon, I emerged from my service feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for the world.

The spa also has a signature Ocean Suite with side-by-massage tables and a freestanding copper soaking tub for those looking to take their spa experience to the next level. The Ocean Prelude (120 min, $385 weekdays; $400 weekends) is a two-hour journey offered in the Ocean Suite that includes a dry brushing, seaweed wrap, massage, and relaxing saltwater bath in the copper tub. Sign me up!

Akiko greeted me outside of my treatment room with a glass of water, then I followed her to the private upstairs relaxation lounge—another hidden treasure at the spa. With calming ocean views and a fireplace, this serene sanctuary felt like home.

Stepping out onto the balcony, I enjoyed unobstructed views in all directions. Directly below me was the private co-ed lounge space and to my right was spa pool. As I sipped on my water, I gazed out at the dreamy blue ocean and felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and wonder wash over me as I took in the natural beauty all around me.

After my spa treatment I was ready for lunch, so I changed and headed next door to solviva, the spa’s adjoining restaurant that offers lots of healthy dishes—many which have been created by the resort’s resident nutritionist. Solviva has indoor and outdoor seating, and is next to the spa pool so you can enjoy ocean views while you eat. The dress code is casual and some restaurant patrons are wearing bathrobes, as they’re often coming from the spa or pool.

The dishes at solviva were designed to accommodate all diet types, including gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan. Featuring nutrient-rich ingredients and locally and sustainable grown produce, the menu has a variety of tasty offerings to choose from.

For lunch I started with the Warm Brussels Salad, which included pickled ground cherries and pistachios seasoned with house yogurt, shiso vinaigrette and bonito flakes. Next up was the Mushroom Mezze, which is made with crudite, olive oil and pimenton, and served with a side of pita bread.

Other dishes on the menu (which I’ll have to order next time) included Roasted Stuffed Quail and the Farro Bowl, which has charred avocado, picked turmeric onoins, roasted vegetables and cashew cream. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it…

My drink of choice was the Strawberry Revive, a delicious smoothie made with strawberries, pineapple, banana, coconut milk and orange juice. In addition to fresh juices and smoothies, solviva also has a selection of organic, biodynamic and sustainable libations from wineries and breweries on its beverage menu, which were curated by Terranea’s wine director and certified sommelier.

After lunch, I relaxed by the pool until it was time to head over to the Movement Studio for my Seaside Yoga class. The Movement Studio is located inside the Fitness & Wellness Center, which is equipped with state-of-the-art Technogym cardio equipment. It also offers customized personal training sessions and a wide variety of classes that range from different types and levels of yoga to water aerobics and seaside cycling.

Another bonus for spa guests is that they receive complimentary access to various 60-minute classes in the Movement Studio. I had signed up for Seaside Yoga at 5 p.m., which was accompanied by a stunning ocean backdrop that gradually transitions to a beautiful sunset. There is also morning Seaside Yoga if you’re looking to start your day on a good note!

Yoga mats, blocks and towels were provided for the class, so I didn’t need to bring anything aside from comfortable workout clothing. Today’s class had four people and I really enjoyed the intimate class size paired with the personalized attention from the instructor.

The class focused on gentle postures, breathing exercises, and other techniques that promoted flexibility, built strength, reduced stress, and helped to balance the body, mind and spirit. Afterwards, I felt looser and stronger—it was the perfect way to relax after a long, fun day at the resort.

By the time class had ended, the sky had turned multiple shades of pink and blue. I walked out to the pool area to enjoy the beautiful sunset, which slowly changed colors every few minutes. As it got later, the colors in the sky intensified. It looked electric and felt magical.

I could hear people gathering at Nelson’s, Terranea’s clifftop restaurant located on the other side of the Fitness & Wellness Center. It has both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as outdoor fire pits—making it a great spot to catch the sunset while enjoying a cocktail or meal.

After watching the sunset, my day at Terranea was complete. And like the El Segundo Blue butterfly, I felt transformed. All my worries and cares had disappeared, and I left feeling relaxed and positive. I’m happy to say that The Spa at Terranea has become one of my favorite new places and I know I’ll be coming back here again very soon.

If you’re looking for the ultimate oceanfront getaway, this place has something for everyone, from couples and families to those that want to enjoy a day of self-care while being connected to nature. Once you experience the magic of Terranea for yourself, you’ll become a lifelong fan, too.

On another note, Terranea has fully-furnished ocean view and golf front villas for sale. Vacation home owners at Terranea receive exclusive benefits that include personal 24-hour concierge service, access to special events, spa privileges, and more. On my way out I picked up a real estate brochure in the lobby, because hey, you never know…

Cost: El Segundo Blue Treatment (90 minutes, $295 on weekdays; $305 on weekends)

Insider Tips: 

• Arrive 30-45 minutes prior to your appointment in order to have ample time to enjoy the spa’s amenities.

• Bring a swimsuit for the pool, whirlpool and cold plunge.

• Wear comfortable clothing or pack workout clothes if you plan to use the fitness center or sign up for a class.

• If you can, plan to spend a full or half-day, as there are many amenities and activities to enjoy at Terranea Resort and the Spa.

Hours: 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. (Daily)

Address: 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

Phone: 310-265-2740

For more information and to book your next treatment, visit terranea.com. Follow them on Instagram: @terranearesort

[Images by Kamala Kirk]

Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk