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Escape LA: Carlsbad Wellness Weekend

[header] visit carlsbad header 610x250
(credit: Visit Carlsbad)

Need to get away? In just a short two-hour drive or less from the city, you can escape the hustle and bustle of LA to the tranquility of Carlsbad, a sought after destination for beachside rest and relaxation. Throughout the entire month of May, "Women's Wellness Weekends" presents a fantastic selection of wellness and spa midweek and weekend getaway packages for all budgets and occasions.

This month long event is in its second year, inviting Angelenos to enjoy a romance retreat, pamper mom for Mother's Day, or spoil yourself after tax season. Don't want to drive? Set the tone of the trip with a leisurely ride up on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, a train that parallels the coastline for picturesque portions of the route. Here are a few ideas to lead you on the road to wellness.

visit carlsbad
(credit: Visit Carlsbad)

Leo Carrillo Ranch
6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane
Carlsbad, CA 92009
(760) 476-1042
www.carrillo-ranch.org

A California Historical Landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places, Leo Carrillo Ranch is the perfect getaway. Leo Carrillo acquired the land and built his getaway in Carlsbad, playing host to some of the biggest Hollywood stars of the day. Historic structures from the early 1930's include hand-crafted adobe buildings, a hacienda, reflecting pool, cabana, cantina, carriage house tack shed, stable, barn and foundry and equipment shed. The ranch has guided and unguided tours for the public, making it a magical place to take a walk, slow down, and take interesting photos to make the memory linger.

beach terrace inn
credit: Beach Terrace Inn)

Beach Terrace Inn
2775 Ocean Street
Carlsbad, CA 92008
(760) 729-5951
www.beachterraceinn.com

This wonderfully private and terraced Inn is located right along the Southern California coast. Guests who stay for their Wellness Weekend package will be greeted with a welcome basket of healthy treats that await in their room. Sunday mornings start off with a beach yoga session on Sunday morning and a complimentary late check out so you can end the afternoon on a leisurely note.

aviara spa
(credit: Aviara Spa)

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort
7100 Aviara Resort Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92011
(760) 603-6902
parkaviara.hyatt.com

Aviara Spa features a sun-drenched solarium lounge, indoor whirlpools, and sauna/steam rooms to detoxify. What's more is you can find your true Zen at their adults-only Tranquility Pool for reflection and breathtaking views of the Pacific that is sure to be the relaxation you desire. The resort will be offering a Spa at the Park Package that invites guests to indulge together in relaxation as well. It's the perfect getaway for couples, best friends, and mother daughter trips. Double your pleasure with two personalized massages, a personal cabana at the pool with select amenities, and lunch for two at Ocean Pool Bar & Grill.

running - city of carlsbad
(credit: City of Carlsbad)

West Inn & Suites
4970 Avenida Encinas
Carlsbad, CA 92008
(760) 448-4500
www.westinnandsuites.com

For active travelers, this property has a package made for those that want to take on a relaxing, yet physical, outdoor experience. It includes champagne upon arrival, a facial or massage at Mirabella, a tour of West's private three acre farm, and a dining credit at one of their restaurants, with dishes made from ingredients from the farm.

Start your mornings off with a jog at the top of the bluffs of Carlsbad State Beach or for recreation, head to Agua Hedionda Lagoon for waterskiing, boating, and fishing before sitting down for dinner at West Steak and Seafood.

omni la costa resort & spa
(credit: Omni La Costa Resort)

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
2100 Costa Del Mar Rd
Carlsbad, CA 92009
(760) 438-9111
www.omnihotels.com

Named the number one wellness spa in the nation by Spa Magazine and Travel + Leisure's number four Spa in North America, the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is the place to be for the ultimate in pampering. Their Spa & Splendor package includes a choice of two fifty-minute spa treatments, Spa Café lunch for two, and luxury accommodations.

Joy Bitonio has the phrase "Joie de Vivre" tattooed on her shoulder, a reminder to enjoy life every single day. She has a voracious appetite for fun, adventure, food, good cocktails and works out like a madwoman to keep it all together. Check out her other articles on CBS L.A. She also covers fitness on Examiner. Follow her on Twitter.
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