I recently had the pleasure of staying at the beautiful Henderson Beach Resort in Destin, Florida with two close friends. Nestled along the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast, this award-winning property offers the perfect blend of modern amenities and nostalgic charm.

We spent our days lounging by the family pool with its lazy river, relaxing at the adults-only pool, and enjoying private beach access to the stunning emerald waters of the Gulf complete with convenient beach services.

Spa Profile: The Henderson Spa in Destin, Florida

Dining at the resort was a treat, with options from the fine dining at Primrose to the casual eats at Horizons, both featuring fresh local ingredients. The highlight of my stay was unwinding at The Henderson Spa, a 10,000-square-foot haven inspired by the Gulf Coast's natural beauty.

The spa boasts 11 private treatment rooms, a Himalayan Salt Suite, an experiential shower, sun-lit relaxation spaces, and a full-service salon. It was truly an oasis of well-being.

Let me take you inside my spa experience where I’ll share more about the luxurious treatments and serene environment that make the Henderson Spa a true sanctuary of serenity.

Here’s what you’ll love about The Henderson Spa: 

• Stunning art pieces, aesthetic design elements, and blown glass

• 11 Private Treatment Rooms: Each designed for a tranquil and personalized spa experience

• Wet Area featuring an experiential shower and hydrotherapy experience

• Whirlpool Tub: Perfect for soothing muscle tension and relaxation

• Himalayan Salt Suite: A therapeutic room designed to improve respiratory health and promote relaxation

• Sun-Lit Relaxation Spaces: Ideal for unwinding before or after treatments

• Full-Service Salon: Offering a range of hair, nail, and beauty treatments

• Holistic Wellness Programs including yoga, meditation, and fitness classes

• Luxury Spa Treatments such as massages, facials, body scrubs, and wraps using indigenous ingredients and innovative healing techniques

• Hydrotherapy Facilities enhancing the overall wellness experience

• Spa Boutique featuring upscale art pieces and coastal-inspired products available for purchase

• Experienced Spa Providers who are skilled in delivering world-class treatments tailored to individual needs

I was thrilled to experience the spa during my stay at the resort, scheduling my treatments for the afternoon to enjoy beach mornings and evening activities.

Arriving 30 minutes early as recommended gave me ample time to change into a cozy robe, grab a cup of tea, and settle into the plush chairs of the relaxation room.

The attendants offered warm neck pillows, a wonderfully comforting touch! The room’s large windows overlook Henderson Beach State Park, adding to its serene appeal.

From the moment I stepped into The Henderson Spa, I was captivated by its design and beauty. The space features rich turquoise colors, intricate tiled mosaics, white beach rock details, and stunning blown glass art.

The wall art—including pieces from local artists like Mary Hong who blends paint and glass in her creations—added to the visual appeal.

Besides the impressive design, the staff was exceptionally attentive and warmly welcomed my party, ensuring a delightful experience.

Two of my girlfriends joined me at the spa where we began our day in the salt suite. Surrounded by the soothing orange glow of natural salt bricks, we relaxed and enjoyed the benefits of halotherapy.

The Benefits of Halotherapy

After traveling, we looked forward to the respiratory and anti-bacterial benefits that salt therapy is known for. It was the perfect 30-minute start to our wellness day!

After my time in the salt suite, I was escorted to a private treatment room for my 80-minute Ultimate Zen Beach Escape. This treatment aims to bring the natural elements and beauty of the beach to clients in three steps.

First, a full-body exfoliation with sea salts and minerals smoothed and revitalized my skin. The sensorial scrub set the stage for the custom massage that followed. My therapist discussed my current needs and preferences, tailoring the massage perfectly.

Finally, I was cocooned in a hydrating wrap for skin nourishment. The cherry on top was the Moroccan Hair and Scalp enhancement performed during the wrap, leaving my beachy locks shiny and conditioned. I felt completely relaxed and pampered, enjoying the textures and scents of one of my favorite bodycare lines, Zents.

I floated out of my treatment room feeling giddy and continued my spa day by exploring the amenities.

After hydrating and grabbing a handful of delicious trail mix, I headed to the experiential shower. This high-tech shower simulates different natural environments, like a tropical rain shower, with soothing sounds and lights.

Next, I spent some time in the lavender steam room, which left me feeling calm and meditative.

Before leaving, I took a leisurely stroll through the spa, admiring the views and ambiance, and browsing the boutique’s selection of products and gifts.

It was an amazing day at The Henderson Spa and definitely one of the highlights of my trip!

Cost: Ultimate Zen Beach Escape ($325/105 min); Salt Suite (complimentary with purchase of a spa treatment; $50 per person without a spa service)

Insider Tips: 

• Arrive 20 to 30 minutes early to give yourself time to enjoy the Wellness Experience area and amenities.

• Reserve time in the Himalayan salt suite prior to your schedule treatment for additional relaxation.

• Bring a swimsuit for the wet area and whirlpool tub.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Daily)

Address: 200 Henderson Resort Way, Destin, FL 32541

Phone: 850-424-4482

For more information about Henderson Beach Resort, visit their website and follow on Instagram: @thehendersonfl. Get special rates on your next stay and discover the best flight deals to Florida.

[Photos by Alisha Racker]

Alisha Racker’s beauty career has spanned over a decade as she's worked as a master esthetician, skin care PR-pro, and freelance writer.

She lives in the beautiful mountains of Salt Lake City with her husband and children. Follow her on Instagram: @slcbeautybabe.