With everything going on in the world and all we’ve been through the last couple of years, it’s more important than ever that we take time to unplug and de-stress whenever we get the opportunity. Thankfully, whether you’re a local or just visiting Santa Monica, there are tons of places where you can unwind and zen out. With its breathtaking vistas, amiable pace of life, and many wellness centers, it’s easy to restore your self-esteem and breathe a sigh of relief in the city. Let’s look at the best places to de-stress in this idyllic environment.
Palisades Park
Right along Ocean Avenue is the famous Palisades Park. The park is the perfect place to focus on your wellness journey as you explore the 25-acre park filled with lush trees. You, of course, have beautiful ocean views to remind you of how small we are in the scheme of everything – a touching reminder when life feels overwhelming. If you enjoy long walks to clear your mind, the park is as perfect as you can walk the entire park and end your stroll with your toes in the sand and water of Santa Monica Beach.
Burke Williams Spa
While you may get through your days with the help of your favorite organic Ashwagandha product, sometimes you need a day full of pampering. Enter the Burke Williams Spa – located just off Third Street Promenade; this renowned spa is renowned for its five-star massages. Release the stress deep in your muscles with one of the many massage options on their menu. They, of course, offer other spa treatments if you want to make a full day out of it; you can even get adjusted by a chiropractor while you’re there. Chiropractic care has been shown to impact your physical and emotional well-being. A popular addition to spa days at Burke Williams is indulging in the Wetroom treatments, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and full of tranquility.
The Viceroy
Sometimes you just need a night away. While a vacation may not be in the cards for you, a night in a hotel away from the kids can sometimes be the treat you need to recenter yourself and a much-needed mood booster. If you’re going to book a hotel to enjoy a night of solo self-care, there’s no better place to chill out than the Viceroy. The hotel is luxurious, but they also have fantastic wellness options from their fitness center or beach yoga.
Park To Playa Trail
You can reconnect with nature from the Pacific Ocean to the Baldwin Hills Parklands on this beautiful 13-mile trail. If you don’t want to do the entire trek, the path is broken up into six separate parts, making it an easy way to take a few hours in your favorite section to enjoy the natural beauty for which the state of California is known. The breathtaking views of the Los Angeles Basin you experience along the way are absolutely awe-inspiring and will make you fall in love with the area all over again.
The Santa Monica Stairs
If you’re the type of person who feels the most centered and at their best while exercising, the famous Santa Monica Stairs are your best bet. Get your blood pumping and your mood boosted by running up and down the steps or taking a moment to jump rope on them. Studies have shown that exercise is a great way to keep your mental health sharp, so get centered on the steps. Enjoy some epic people watching when you’re finished, as this area is usually pretty crowded with locals and visitors.
Tongva Park
Rounding out the list right where we started with a park, this beautiful six-acre park is right off the Santa Monica Pier. If you’re having a day where you need to unwind and your CBD isn’t doing the trick, head to Tongva Park and take in the beauty of the modern art sculptures and sustainable plants and trees. The juxtaposition of nature and steel is gorgeous, and if you’re a lover of art and architecture, you’ll instantly be at ease in this environment.
We all need to take time to reconnect with ourselves whenever we can. If you’re like many people, this act of self-love gets put on the backburner due to day-to-day responsibilities. Let the above locations be your inspiration to explore the city while taking care of your well-being. Here’s to your health!
