Whether it’s surfing into serenity or soaking in geothermal bliss, wellness travel continues to surge with unique escapes that go way beyond a spa day. For those craving adventure with a side of rejuvenation, here are some of the top wellness travel trends and destinations I’ve recently explored from Costa Rica to New Mexico and Colorado to Iceland and Minnesota.
Surf, Yoga, and Sustainability in Costa Rica
If you want to ride the wave of wellness travel, Surf Synergy in Jacó, Costa Rica is one of the best places in the world for 1-on-1 surf coaching complete with video analysis, which is a lot of fun with fellow guests. This eco-conscious resort blends surfing and yoga with bodywork, breathwork, and a serious connection to nature. It’s a hot trend in Central America: the intersection of adventure, wellness, and sustainable travel.
What sets Surf Synergy apart is their commitment to regenerative agriculture and permaculture on-site. They also focus on community initiatives through Jacó Impact, a local collective advocating for environmental and social awareness. The property is thoughtfully designed to harmonize with nature, and their November retreat with Vail Health brings science into the surf with a first-of-its-kind longevity and wellness program that incorporates medical biomarkers, surfing, and holistic practices.
Soak Up Relaxation at Hot Springs Destinations
Nothing says wellness quite like a hot soak surrounded by natural beauty. Here are three of my favorite soak spots:
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Ojo Santa Fe – Minutes from downtown Santa Fe, this sanctuary in the high desert offers soul-soothing geothermal soaks, desert hikes, and an award-winning spa.
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Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop – Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this 800-mile road trip includes hot springs from Pagosa Springs (home of the world’s deepest geothermal spring) to Glenwood Springs (home of the world’s largest hot spring pool).
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Blue Lagoon, Iceland – This is one of the most iconic geothermal destinations where you can soak in otherworldly blue waters surrounded by a volcanic landscape just minutes from Reykjavik airport.
Wellness Social Clubs: Sauna Culture with a Twist
Sauna culture may have originated in Finland, but it’s catching steam in the U.S., with a social spin.
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Sauna Camps – Only open in winter near Minneapolis, steam in a wood-fired sauna then go for a cold plunge in the icy lake. Fire, ice, and contrast therapy all in one.
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Portal Thermaculture – With locations in Denver and Minneapolis, Portal blends modern Scandinavian saunas, craftsman-style ice baths, and alternative fitness classes. Their contrast therapy and social interaction concept can be summed up as: Hot – Cold – Socialize.
Two More Bonus Wellness Trends:
Digital Detox: Unplug at a Colorado Ranch
If you’re feeling tech-fatigued, a digital detox might be just the reset you need. At Arapaho Valley Ranch in Grand County, Colorado, there’s limited wifi and unlimited access to nature. Hike, paddle, or simply breathe deep in a forest of pines and peaks. This is a place to slow down and recharge off-grid, yet fun for the whole family. With accommodations ranging from campsites to glamping tents, and cabins there’s something for every budget.
Adventurous Wellness: Outdoor Adventure + Culture in Slovenia
For an adventurous wellness trip off the beaten path, Slovenia just might be Europe’s biggest secret. It’s one of the greenest destinations in the world effortlessly blending outdoor adventure with cultural experiences.
In just a few days, you can explore:
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Start in Ljubljana – The capital with a car-free historic zone is crowned by a hilltop castle.
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Shepherds Village at Velika Planina – In a pastoral setting high in the mountains, take a cable car, chairlift, and hike to see a village where shepherds have herded sheep in the summer for over a century.
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Culture Fun in Ribnica – Take a basket weaving workshop to make a special souvenir followed by salami tasting at BioSing.
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Explore a Virgin Forest – Mountain bike through the pristine forest near Kočevje in the heart of Kočevsko Region.
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Wellness Stay – Book at night or two at Hotel Balnea for soaking in thermal pools, spa treatments, and restorative activities like a meditation walk through the forest.
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Fun Along Kolpa River – Canoe the river while pitching a tent or enjoying a cabin stay at Camping Bela Krajina. If glamping is more your thing, enjoy staying in a luxury tent at Glamping Kolpa Resort.
Wellness travel isn’t about escaping your life. It’s about returning to it refreshed, refocused, and maybe even a little sun-kissed or sauna-steamed. Whether you’re soaking, surfing, or stepping away from your screen, there’s a wellness escape that fits your wanderlust.