11 Top Wellness Destinations Around the Globe for 2024

Looking for the best the world has to offer in wellness travel for 2024? Join us as we take a deep dive into exploring the world’s best travel destinations for wellness.

There are certain wellness destinations around the world known for their rich wellness history, secluded, peaceful locations and modern therapies designed to connect and revitalise the body and soul.

They allow for the rest you seek, while also offering new knowledge you can apply to your daily life at home. Certain places such as Hawaii or Bali might be known for their wellness destination allure but there are many other destinations that offer wellness on a very different level.

If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next trip keep reading for my top 11 places to visit around the world for wellness travel.

These destinations are perfect to head to both for their luxury resorts, best health and wellness retreats as well as more affordable boutique hotels, spas and restaurants because wellness doesn’t have to be ridiculously expensive.

*This ‘ wellness destinations ‘post contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you.

Remember that before booking a wellness experience, it’s essential to understand what your goals are.

There are many different wellness retreats out there that offer different focuses and approaches to wellness from yoga-focused retreats to weight-loss retreats, from Ayurveda retreats to running retreats.

Ask yourself what it is that you’re looking for, what you want to learn or achieve and where your interests lie. This is key for determining the wellness destinations and retreat focus that fit your needs.

Read more: 11 Best Yoga Retreats in Mexico

11 Best Wellness Destinations Around the World

United States

Yes, the United States is one of the best wellness destinations around the world, proving you don’t have to travel far to relax and escape from it all.

The travel industry is well-developed in the United States, catering to every kind of travel you could possibly imagine, including wellness travel.

The US has some of the best all-inclusive wellness-focused resorts as well as smaller more affordable setups with healthy food options nearby making it one of the easiest places for a health-friendly stay-cation.

Here are some of the best states in the US for wellness travel in general even though you can still find places to indulge in wellness travel all over the country.

California

It’s sure to say that California has some amazing wellness resorts and spa hotels but it’s not only that which make it one of the best places in the US for all budgets of wellness travel.

Los Angeles and San Francisco have some of the best plant-based, healthy restaurants and cafes that you can find, you’ve got endless coastlines and stunning national parks to lose yourself in.

Wellness is just easy in California. Even if you don’t quite have the budget for an all-inclusive spa stay, California is the perfect place to rent a cottage not far from the beach, indulge in your own meditation and yoga practise, outdoor activities and sports and fuel your body with some of the best foods around.

Some of my favourite California wellness destinations are:

Cal-a-Vie Health Spa, Vista, San Diego – this French-inspired all-inclusive will transport you straight to France sans cheese. The focus is wellness here and their three, four and seven-day packages are filled with hiking, yoga, tennis as well as both familiar and not-so-familiar spa treatments and delicious, nutritious foods to support your body.

Two Bunch Palms, Desert Hot Spring– is the perfect place that really doesn’t require anything from you and allows you to indulge in your definition of wellness.

Located in the middle of the desert this oasis is all about the healing pools of mineral-rich waters, heated by nearby aquifers which you can soak in for hours on end. Indulge in their long list of exquisite spa therapies which include sound vibration healing, therapeutic massages and even water shiatsu.

Shasta Abbey, Mount Shasta – This beautiful Buddhist Monastery of the Soto Zen tradition welcomes visitors for retreats to practise self-reflection and meditations.

In the three-day Introductory retreat you can learn more about Serene Reflection as well as participate in guided meditation, dharma talks and discussions.

Hawaii

Just like California, when it comes to wellness Hawaii is paradise.

There’s something about the Hawaiian lifestyle that attracts thousands of people to the islands every year looking for rest, relaxation and spiritual fulfilment.

Once again, even if an all-inclusive wellness resort isn’t your thing you can quite easily rent your own Airbnb beach shack and make your own wellness stay-cay filled with surf, hikes and açai bowls.

Hawaii offers something for everyone and there are so many options in terms of fitness, adventure, outdoors, sports, detox activities and delicious healthy food.

Some of my favourite Hawaii wellness spots are:

Travaasa Hana, Maui – for an off-the-grid experience without actually going off the grid, this tranquil yet luxurious hideaway at the end of the Road to Hana is the perfect place for the more adventurous traveller.

Guests can choose different ‘pathways’ or focuses for their stays which include fitness, culture, spa and wellness, culinary or adventure and enjoy spa treatments, yoga, sports and of course hiking and surfing. 

Four Seasons Resort Lanai – One of the best health resorts is everything you might expect from the Four Seasons and more. Perched high up on a cliff surrounded by lush greenery, waterfalls and birdsong, this idyllic property will leave you rested, relaxed and rejuvenated.

Arizona

Arizona recently became one of my favourite states in the US for outdoors and wellness. There are so many parts of Arizona that beautifully bring together nature, spirituality and wellness, notably Sedona and Scottsdale.

Spend your days hiking around the mind-blowing red rock scenery of Sedona before retreating to your resort for a delicious dinner and a massage and enjoy the many amazing local cafes and juice bars in town.

In Scottsdale, escape the winter blues of the north, check into one of the best wellness resorts in the country and let the experts truly take care of you.

Some of my favourite Arizona wellness spots are:

Civana Wellness Resort and Spa – Recently voted Top 5 Destination Spa Resort in the World by Conde Nast, Civana is a one-of-a-kind wellness resort.

With personalised wellness experiences and award-winning hospitality surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert, you can’t really go wrong here.

Enchantment Resort- Located right in Boynton Canyon in Sedona, this exclusive beautiful resort is one of my favourite wellness stays in Sedona. Located right next to many top hiking paths, make the most of the red rock scenery during the day before heading back to the beautiful resort in the evening.

Read more: 14 Best Spa Resorts in Arizona for a Wellness Stay and Top Spiritual and Meditation Retreats in Arizona

Japan

Japan probably doesn’t come to mind straight away when thinking about places to go for a wellness retreat or a wellness destination for that matter.

Japan, however, is the centre of Zen Buddhism, longevity and health and if you’re looking to go somewhere a little off-the-wellness-beaten track, Japan might work for you. 

Japan, much like the United States, has something for everyone, city retreats, mountain retreats, hiking and outdoor sports and of course nutrition-focused experiences and reiki too.

If you’re a fan of soaking in thermal heated, mineral-rich pools and unique wellness experiences such as engaging in minimalism, zen and mindfulness then Japan awaits as one of the most interesting wellness destinations there is. 

If you’re on a budget then Japan is one of the only places you probably don’t need to consider going on a retreat. There is so much peace and wellness deep-rooted in Japanese culture that finding it is inevitable.

Staying in a traditional ryokan, exploring and meditating in a zen Buddhist temple and visiting an onsen are just usual parts of Japanese culture that are already filled with intention, mindfulness and calm. You don’t need to go out of your way to find it.

Read more: The Definitive Japan Bucket List | 30 Ideas For Your Trip

Some of my favourite Japan wellness spots are:

Wellbeing Retreat at Aman Kyoto – Aman’s resorts in Japan are some of the finest in the world and their best health retreats and programs in Kyoto include Shiatsu, mineral hot springs and acupuncture and that’s just to start.

Enoshima Island Spa – Your primary reason for being in Japan might not be wellness but if you are looking to take a day or two out from your itinerary Enoshima Island is one of my favourite places to go. This island is just 80 minutes from Tokyo but it feels like a world away.

This modern spa offers many onsen-style bathing pools, outdoor pools overlooking Mount Fuji on a clear day and the spa also has several facial and body treatments on their menu.

The entrance fee allows you unlimited access to the onsen, pools and relaxation rooms but treatments need to be booked in advance.

Costa Rica

A firm favourite for wellness travellers Costa Rica is the perfect year-round destination for wellness and nature lovers who really want to relax, recharge and get their share of nature. It’s one of Latin America’s best places for retreats.

Costa Rica’s lush jungles, pristine white sand beaches and world-class yoga, spas and surfing really make it the perfect getaway.

Costa Ricans or Ticos, live by the phrase ‘Pura Vida’, a super-healthy life based around healthy foods, self-care and being at one with nature. You can enjoy jungle treks led by keen naturalists, early morning surfs, nutritious, fresh, local food including heavenly tropical fruit as well as yoga, kayaking and waterfall chasing.

Costa Rica is perfect for either relaxing and doing nothing or the ideal active retreat. It’s also a brilliant place to head to if you’re planning your own wellness vacation on a budget. The best places to head to are Nosara and Santa Teresa on the Pacific Coast.

Both these towns are slowly booming as the ‘wellness destinations’ of the country and are filled with healthy food options, surf, yoga centres and spas. Choose your hotel and indulge in all the activities at your leisure.

Some of my favourite Costa Rica wellness spots are:

Hacienda Alta Gracia, An Auberge Resort– For the ultimate bit of luxury, Hacienda Alta Gracia has you covered. Check-in for a week and dive into one of their specialised programs or simply relax and enjoy treatments at your own pace.

The variety of treatments includes floral remedies, life coaching, reiki, massage, meditation and regenerative medicine all in a special, sustainability-focused centre. The Well Spa here is one of the most coveted in Costa Rica.

The Retreat Costa Rica– Located in the Central mountains of Costa Rica, this wellness centre is the perfect place to base yourself for a few days. They host a variety of wellness, yoga and meditation programs, all held in their beautiful, jungle-fringed property overlooking the areas stunning volcanoes.

The food here is also excellent. There isn’t a better place in all Costa Rica for relaxation and rejuvenation.

If you prefer to join an organised wellness tour or retreat then don’t miss this amazing 8-day wellness vacation of Costa Rica from G Adventures. Click here to learn more.

Tulum, Mexico

Located on the Caribbean Sea on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum is Latin America’s answer to Bali. For those seeking a more relaxed, sustainable and zen experience, Tulum is a great alternative to the huge, all-inclusive resorts Cancun has to offer.

Apart from its amazing, white sand beach, Tulum also boasts many clear-blue cenotes nearby, jungle adventures and of course, all the wellness and yoga imaginable, located in the most beautiful location.

The Tulum Beach strip is characterised by many luxury hotels all with their own pools, spas and beautiful ocean-facing rooms and private beach access. While each hotel has its own spa, there are many other spas and wellness centres in Tulum for which you can drop in for treatments, massages and activities.

On top of these, there are also many places to do yoga every morning to the sounds of the waves breaking and the jungle waking from its slumber. On top of that, you’ve got some of the most delicious and nutritious food options in Mexico. 

Tulum is a great place to come for either an organised retreat or if you’re trying to save some cash, a do-it-yourself stay-cay (remember too that Tulum is now the most expensive place in Mexico).

Because of how easy it is to do wellness in Tulum you can decide what to do each morning and fill the days as you wish- yoga in the morning, followed by an açai bowl at Matcha Mama followed by relaxing on the beach and a spa treatment in the afternoon.

Wellness is easy and flexible in Tulum and for this reason, it really is one of the best places in the world to indulge in wellness on a budget.

Read more: The Ultimate Wellness-Focused Tulum Weekend Itinerary

Some of my favourite Tulum wellness destinations are:

Nomade Tulum– One of the best wellness-focused hotels on Tulum Beach, Nomade is our choice when in Tulum. We love their grounding suites, amazing spa and healthy restaurant options on-site.

Sanara Tulum – A wonderful hotel with daily yoga classes in a beautiful, airy studio. They also have lovely sunbeds on the beach to relax on after class, a nourish and heal stay program and a great on-site restaurant.

Olas Tulum – This tiny property right on the beachfront is Tulum’s only real sustainable hotel. Indulge in a conscious, slow living experience here with healthy gastronomy, yoga sessions and long walks on the beach.

Yaan Healing Sanctuary – this healing energy spa is one of the best places in Tulum to indulge and practise some self-care.

They take relaxation extremely seriously with their carefully prepared custom flower and herbal baths, crystalline water pools sauna and steam rooms, massages and a host of other wellness treatments and unique Mexican therapies. Their most popular options are the daily spa packages that have a range of services and wellness offerings.

Read more: Where To Stay in Tulum: The Best Hotels

Peru

Peru is definitely not the obvious choice when it comes to wellness travel but this stunning South American country is transforming itself to become a centre of high-vibrating energy and optimal health.

Peru is bursting with history and culture but also adventure and outdoor activities, namely surfing and hiking in the stunning Andes mountains. It’s definitely a newby but soon to be a favourite wellness destination in South America.

The Sacred Valley (the same valley where Machu Picchu is located) has for centuries been associated with spiritual Andean energy and rituals, healing and Quechua culture.

If you’re interested in digging a little deeper and learning about something completely new, while possibly also visiting one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Peru and the Sacred Valley could be the perfect destination.

My favourite wellness destinations in Peru are:

Willka T’ika, Sacred Valley – this luxury yet eco-friendly wellness retreat and boutique hotel located in the stunning Sacred Valley. Here you can truly connect with mother nature, rejuvenate and find peace and tranquillity.

You are also able to explore the local area and valley, hiking in the surrounding countryside and visiting local villages and ancient Incan sites.

Sembrando Semillas con Yoga – This comprehensive 7-day yoga retreat based in the Sacred Valley, combines yoga, alternative therapies such as reiki and crystal with Peruvian culture and sightseeing.

It’s the perfect mix of seeing local villages and Incan ruins with yoga, meditation and many more rituals and therapies.

Kichic Boutique Hotel, Mancora– located on one of Peru’s most beautiful beaches, Kichic is a stunning boutique hotel with all the mod-cons, amazing vegetarian menu, beautiful spa and daily yoga classes.

Guests can check-in and take advantage of all their services at their leisure or join one of the retreats which happen throughout the year.

If you prefer to join an organised wellness tour or retreat then don’t miss this amazing 7-day wellness vacation of Peru from G Adventures. Click here to learn more.

India

India, the home of Ayurveda, yoga and meditation is a country that has been the centre of wellness practice for centuries albeit a little different from the western notion of wellness.

Even though you might picture India as being loud, and congested there are so many pockets of peace, tranquillity and relaxation around the country. If you are looking for a wellness destination that goes deeper into the practices of yoga and Ayurveda then India is one of the best places for it.

One of the most popular things to do in India is to stay in an Ashram where you can learn about and discover not only yourself but the history of yoga and meditation and the ability to pursue holistic emotional, spiritual and physical healing.

Different wellness centres and ashrams have different focuses, some focus more on yoga and meditation practise, others more on nutrition, Ayurveda and treating ailments. There are so many to choose from it really depends on your needs.

Some of my favourite wellness centres and ashrams in India are:

AyurYoga Eco Ashram– located in Karnataka in Southern India, this ashram, as its name suggests focuses on yoga and Ayurveda practise in today’s modern world. Its aim is all about how we can use yoga and Ayurveda principles and practise in our daily lives.

If you’re new to Indian culture and wellness practises then this ashram is a brilliant option- it encourages you to learn from all of India’s spiritual traditions and it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a lifestyle change for both mind and body.

They have four yoga spaces surrounded by nature as well as Ayurvedic doctors and treatments available round the clock.

Rishikul Yogshala Yoga Retreat – this highly regarded yoga school provides one of the best yoga and meditation retreat packages at a budget where a 7-day yoga retreat included meals, Ayurvedic massage and accommodation as well as yoga and meditation instruction by some of the best teachers in India.

They have centres all over the world including Myanmar, Nepal and Thailand.

Ananda in the Himalayas – The destination spa and wellness mecca in the Himalayan foothills. Ranked as one of the best retreats in the world, spending some time here when in India is a must. Through holistic wellness, yoga and ayurveda, this is the wellness retreat for anything ranging from hormone balance to immunity and vitality.

I highly recommend going to India as part of an organised wellness retreat, especially as a solo female. For one of the best wellness trips to India, check out this trip from G Adventures.

Thailand

From the lush mountains in the north to the postcard islands and beaches of the south, Thailand has always been a popular choice for all kinds of travellers. I had the privilege to visit Thailand recently where the country’s Tourism Authority showed us all the best new wellness travel offerings Thailand has to offer.

From yoga retreats in the mountains to luxurious spa hotels on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Thailand never fails to impress as an all-round wellness destination.

Depending on your budget you can head to some of the more luxurious wellness resorts in the south of Thailand or you can opt for a cheaper all-inclusive retreat- Thailand really does have so many options for all kinds of budgets.

Even still, retreats can be quite pricey but it’s still easy to create your own sanctuary of wellness by basing yourself on a beautiful island like Koh Samui and going to daily drop-in yoga and meditation classes, requesting treatments as you wish from nearby spas and seeking out healthy eating options.

Some of my favourite Thailand wellness spots are:

Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort– Rawai Phuket- If you’re interested in learning more about the Ayurvedic approach without going to India then this is the perfect little getaway.

This resort integrates yoga, spa treatments and tailor-made nutrition programs to make sure you get the most relaxing and rejuvenating experience possible.

AMAYEN Sanctuary, Chiang Mai – for the ultimate, intimate wellness retreat look no further than AMAYEN. This unique sanctuary is all about energy, finding your own energy and the right mindset through stillness so that you are free to live a successful lifestyle and achieve your goals.

There are a lot of lessons to be learned here and if you are looking for a self-care, transformative experience that encourages you to take the necessary steps toward self-improvement, this is the retreat for you.

Santosa, Phuket– This great value retreat focuses on health through yoga and other activities such as Muay Thai and Zumba and the right nutrition. Detox programs start at 3 days and go up to 21 days, but if you are pushed for time you can try their one-day detox and wellness program.

Accommodation is spacious and feels luxurious and you’re surrounded by stunning sea views and tranquillity. The food offered is nutritious, vibrant and all plant-based.

Read more: The Best Yoga Retreats in Thailand + Top Wellness Retreats

The Dolomites, Italy

If your idea of wellness is being surrounded by majestic mountains, cool mountain air and crisp views then the Dolomites might just be the best answer for your next wellness vacation.

While not in itself being the most budget of destinations, if you’re based in Europe it can be a perfect place to head to for just a weekend of relaxation and activity.

If you are on a real budget I would recommend staying in an Airbnb, and making the most of your surroundings through walking, hiking and morning yoga and meditation. 

Some of my favourite Dolomites/South Tyrol wellness spots are:

Hotel Preidlhof – One of the top spa hotels in South Tyrol, Preidlhof is an award-winning spa with extensive wellness programs and beautiful natural surroundings that provide guests with an immersive health retreat.

With personalized treatments, gourmet healthy dining, and serene accommodations, Preidlhof epitomizes luxury wellness and is a wellness destination in itself.

Hotel Tirler – Located in the otherworldly Seiser Alm, probably one of the most beautiful meadows in Europe, this wellness-focused hotel offers pure rest and relaxation surrounded by an amphitheatre of mountains. Their onsite spa consists of a variety of pools, including an outdoor one, heated in winter, saunas and a variety of both standard and unique treatments.

A stay at Hotel Tirler also has a huge focus on food, positive food that aims to truly aid wellbeing and while not offering an exclusively plant-based menu, vegans are still well taken care of.

Portugal

Another European country that does wellness so well is Portugal.

Whether you’re after a wellness destination filled with relaxation and spa treatments or an adrenaline-fuelled trip of surfing and yoga, Portugal combines all that brilliantly with a sprinkle of culture and history.

There are so many wellness resorts, retreats and centres all over the country from the Duoro Valley in the North to the Algarve Coast in the South, all of which let you experience divine Mediterranean cuisine, hot springs and thermal spas and a variety of sports such as cycling and running.

It’s also a great place to escape to during the winter months and Portugal is one of the most budget-friendly European wellness destinations.

My favourite wellness spots in Portugal are:

Almashala– This yoga retreat based in Sintra and Ericeira is a beautiful space to practise with like-minded yogis. They offer a few different retreats based around yoga, massage therapy and sound healing.

Their most popular retreat is the budget-friendly 7 Day Love Yoga Retreat which is all about allowing yourself space, peace and time to practise and cultivate mental and physical balance.

Six Senses Douro Valley – Located in Portugal’s enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Douro Valley, is a luxury resort known for its exceptional blend of natural beauty, local charm, wellness offerings and sustainable practices.

Offering world-class accommodations, organic gardens, and a focus on wellness and wine experiences, it epitomizes tranquil, eco-friendly luxury. It might just be one of the best wellness retreats in the world.

Bali, Indonesia

Probably the most well-known wellness destination is the tropical island of Bali.

Even though it’s firmly on the wellness travel map, Bali will always be a favourite simply due to the ease at which wellness comes in Bali and the large variety of luxury wellness retreats on the paradise island.

Balinese culture is centred around nature, connection and tranquillity and there’s the aesthetic appeal of the island too. For the budget traveller, Bali might be your best bet too.

It’s so easy to either find a budget retreat or simply rent a villa and join daily yoga and meditation classes and spa sessions as you go. No doubt you’ll also be surrounded by like-minded people where you can make friends for life.

There are so many, but my favourite wellness spots in Bali are:

Como Shambhala Estate – Located in a secluded forest, flanked by two rivers, this luxury resort offers a serene escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can indulge in Ayurvedic therapies, engage in outdoor activities, partake in wellbeing retreats, enjoy daily spa treatments, and savor nutritious meals.

The Yoga Barn, Ubud – The Yoga Barn is a Bali institution and you may have heard of it already. Their speciality is yoga and meditation and they have various classes daily that you can drop into, workshops and host 7-day personalised yoga retreats.

Revīvō Wellness Resorts – A haven for holistic renewal, merging luxury with transformative health experiences. Located in the tranquil settings of Bali (and also Ibiza), it offers tailored wellness journeys amidst natural beauty.

With a variety of programs including meditation, yoga, fitness, spa treatments, and nutritional guidance, Revīvō focuses on restoring mind-body harmony through expert-led, personalized consultations.

Read more: Best Wellness Retreats in Bali: Our Top Island Retreats

Click here to check out my first choice for an organised wellness retreat to Bali with G adventures.

Top Wellness Destinations: Maldives

The Maldives, with its serene azure waters, pristine white beaches and luxury overwater villas offers an unparalleled destination for wellness travel in 2024. This tropical paradise specializes in providing an escape from daily life, making it ideal for those seeking tranquillity and a chance to rejuvenate as well as a good variety of travel retreats.

The islands are home to world-class resorts that offer holistic wellness programs, incorporating spa treatments, yoga sessions, meditation, and customized health-focused menus.

Immersed in breathtaking natural beauty, visitors can engage in activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding, promoting physical health while the peaceful surroundings support mental well-being.

Some of my favourite wellbeing resorts in the Maldives are:

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort – The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort excels in wellness with its advanced Fitness Center and Yoga & Meditation Studio.

The Iridium Spa, with its ocean views, provides personalized services, Ayurvedic treatments, and the Maldives’ largest hydrotherapy pool, complemented by Natura Bissé products. For a luxury wellness escape in the Maldives, this is perfect.

Gili Lankanfushi Maldives – Gili Lankanfushi is a no-shoes resort where guests receive personalized attention from a butler titled Mr. Friday from the moment they arrive by boat. The resort offers water sports, outdoor activities, and a 5-night active wellness program, alongside wellness journeys at the Meera Spa.

The Holistic Healing program, designed for those seeking a comprehensive spa experience, focuses on body, mind, and soul rejuvenation through personalised programs and quality treatment.

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Do you have any comments or questions about these top wellness destinations? Leave them below, I’d love to hear from you.

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Planning a trip right now? These are just some of my favourite websites I use to book everything from hotels to rental cars!

Rentalcars.com for quick and easy car rentals worldwide

Booking.com for great deals on hotels

Hotels.com also for great deals on hotels

Get Your Guide and Viator for tours and adventures around the world

G Adventures for organised wellness and adventure travel

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