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Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state and local advisories before scheduling trips.

With all of the stress and tension that this last year has caused us, the added benefits of an outdoor spa treatment are not to be ignored. This includes a boost in serotonin from spending time in nature, resulting in a greater sense of happiness and well-being. And if that weren’t enough, the sounds of nature are also incredibly healing to the human body. As spas begin to reopen their services, many have become creative with their options: Think basking in a mud bath under the glow of the moon or inhaling the salty air as you savor a massage by the ocean. Read on for these outdoor spa days that offer an extra level of special indulgence.

RELATED: 5 great men-only spa experiences around the world

Spa Without Walls at Fairmont Orchid: Kamuela, HI

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Orchid

Imagine yourself receiving a massage in a thatched hut that hovers above gently flowing streams and lily ponds, with three of Hawaii’s most spectacular volcanoes and clusters of coconut palms looking on. Or if you prefer, luxuriate in a private oceanfront cabana while palm fronds sway slowly above you. Such is the case at the Spa Without Walls, one of Fairmont Orchid’s amenities. Opt for the ‘Awa Earth & Fire, a Hawaiian detoxifying treatment, which blankets your body with warm coconut oil and eases tension with heated lava rocks. Blending the essence of aloha with Hawaii’s tropical spirit, you’ll achieve balance and calm that will linger with you long after you’ve returned home.

Book the Fairmont Orchid here!

Spa at ARIA Resort & Casino: Las Vegas

Step off the Strip and into the Spa at ARIA, where you can treat yourself to a poolside cabana massage. Enjoy one of the many add-ons available, such as cold stones to beat the heat or a foot or hand scrub. Then, enter the outdoor therapy pool which rests on the spa’s balcony and resembles a Japanese open-air hot spring bath. Venture inside and enjoy the healing benefits of the sound therapy chairs in the Shio salt room, which are designed to resonate to synchronized music. Or, lie down on the Ganbanyoku beds and let the hot stone melt away your tension. Afterward, take your pick of world-class restaurants inside the resort, which include CATCH and Jean Georges Steakhouse.

Book ARIA Resort & Casino here!

Spa Solage at Solage: Calistoga, CA

Photo courtesy of Solage

Indulge in an ultra-private retreat at Napa Valley’s Spa Solage with your sweetie, where you can enjoy their Starlight in the Bathhouse package after hours. This includes their version of a mudslide for two—a modern twist on the traditional Calistoga mud bath—followed by a romantic rose petal bath under the stars. Pop open a bottle of sparkling wine and share an array of chef’s bites along with a delectable dessert. You’re also welcome to soak in any or all of the five detoxifying geothermal pools, which are said to improve relaxation and restore your health. From a cold plunge pool to an ambient temperature magnesium-rich pool, all of your bases are covered here. 

Book Solage here!

L’Apothecary Spa at L’Auberge de Sedona: Sedona, AZ

Photo courtesy of L’Auberge de Sedona

Set amidst a lush forest and a babbling creek, L’Apothecary Spa offers a multitude of treatments that integrate Sedona’s stunning natural surroundings. From signature spa treatments like the Quiet Mind treatment to creating custom blended salts and scrubs, the spa will immerse the mind and body into a state of total relaxation. For the ultimate nature retreat, try the spa’s Shinrin-Yoku option, a forest bathing experience which is guided by a Shinrin-Yoku facilitator who will take you into the forest and show you how to connect with nature. More playful guests will want to try Feet in the Creek, which begins with wading in the waters of Oak Creek and ends with a foot reflexology session.

Book L’Auberge de Sedona here!

Rush Creek Spa at Rush Creek Lodge: Yosemite, CA

The brand-new Rush Creek Spa blends its outdoor and indoor elements seamlessly, resulting in a multi-sensory exploration of Yosemite. From the legendary granite formations to the majestic waterfalls, the spa pays homage to this national park with warm waterfall coves, an aromatherapy steam room, warm river rock beds, and a Himalayan salt block sauna. Take in all of the elements of nature as you lounge in the outdoor covered lodge. Or, revel in the tranquillity of the Sensory Room with its special light, sound, heat, and scent. Individuals and groups can book exclusive use of the spa, which includes food and beverage offerings like a cheese board or a smoked salmon platter.

Book Rush Creek Lodge here!

The Spa at Chatham Bars Inn: Cape Cod, MA

Photo courtesy of Chatham Bars Inn

Hidden in the far corner of New England’s historic Chatham Bars Inn is a spa oasis complete with its own zen garden pool. The Spa features such amenities as wet and dry treatment rooms, a Vichy shower room, and an outdoor relaxation pool surrounded by lushly landscaped gardens dotted with private cabanas. Let the waves of stress and fatigue be carried away by their Ocean Massage, which reflects the movement of the tides. For an extra dose of indulgence, stay in one of their 12 spa suites, which includes a hydrotherapy tub, sauna, steam shower, and fireplace. This is a soothing and restorative escape for both body and soul.

Book Chatham Bars Inn here!

Wilderness Adventure Spa at Spring Creek Ranch: Jackson Hole, WY

Photo courtesy of Spring Creek Ranch

Disconnect from the outside world and reconvene with nature at the Wilderness Adventure Spa, as this is where glamping reaches a new level of luxury. Located on a wildlife refuge almost 1,000 feet above the town of Jackson, it offers panoramic views of the Teton mountain range. Inspired by Native American rituals, the rejuvenating spa treatments are fully customizable and can be enjoyed in a teepee that overlooks the vistas of the Grand Tetons. Guests are also invited to do yoga on the Great Lawn or meditate around the fire pit. At Spring Creek Ranch you’ll enjoy luxury accommodations with a rustic touch—you’re in true cowboy country, after all.

Book Spring Creek Ranch here!

The Spa at Viceroy Snowmass: Snowmass Village, CO

Nurture your mind, body, and spirit at The Spa at the Viceroy Snowmass, which offers a wide range of holistic wellness experiences in Aspen’s backyard. From Ute Indian-inspired therapies to contemporary beauty rituals, The Spa offers spa sessions throughout Snowmass’ great outdoors—whether that’s poolside in a private cabana or in a private area out in the wilderness. If you’re feeling adventurous, partake in one of their Ski In/Ski Out or Hike In/Hike Out packages, which allows guests to take advantage of the close proximity to the slopes and trails. The 7,000-square-foot spa allows plenty of room for social distancing, and is a meditative wonder of modern design. 

Book Viceroy Snowmass here!

Tagged: Arizona, California, Hawaii, Las Vegas

Note: Orbitz compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site.

Danielle Bauter

Danielle Bauter

Based in Southern California, Danielle Bauter is a freelance travel writer who focuses on LGBTQIA, wellness, and culinary topics. Her writing has appeared in a variety of print and digital publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, Fodor's Travel, ZAGAT, and Wine Enthusiast. Follow her travels on IG @missbauterfly and read more of her work at daniellebauter.com.

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