USA TODAY 10Best
Best Hotel Spa: Ritz-Carlton Spa, Orlando, Grande Lakes
Best Hotel Spa (2016)
"Spa travel experiences are not a luxury, but essential to a healthy body and mind," says 10Best Spa Expert Ava Roxanne Stritt, a.k.a. Spa Travel Gal. Some of the nation's best spas are found within hotels and resorts, and we're on the hunt for the crème de la crème.
In addition input from our panel of luxury travel and spa experts, 10Best editors considered industry awards and guest reviews to determine our 20 nominees for the category Best Hotel Spa. For the past four weeks, our readers have been voting daily for their favorites, and the results are in.
The top 10 winners in the category Best Hotel Spa are as follows:
- Peninsula Spa - New York
- Well & Being Spa at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess - Scottsdale, Ariz.
- Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Kea Lani - Maui, Hawaii
- Joya Spa at Omni Scottsdale Resort - Scottsdale, Ariz.
- Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace - Las Vegas
- Spa at Encore - Las Vegas
- Spa at Loretto - Santa Fe
- Ritz-Carlton Spa, Amelia Island - Amelia Island, Fla.
- Kohler Waters Spa at The American Club - Kohler, Wis.
- Ritz-Carlton Spa, Orlando, Grande Lakes - Orlando
Photo courtesy of The Peninsula New York
No. 10:
A blend of Asian, European and Ayurvedic treatments set the stage for relaxation at this urban oasis in Midtown Manhattan. Facilities at the Forbes Five Star-rated Peninsula Spa include 10 treatment rooms, men's and women's private lounge areas, heat experiences and an Asian tea lounge. The spa uses Biologique Recherche skincare products from France.
Photo courtesy of Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
No. 9:
Over 40,000 square feet of spa bliss awaits at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess's Well & Being Spa, a true wellness destination in Scottsdale. The spa menu has all the standard offerings plus nutrition counseling, acupuncture, life coaching and body composition testing. Jacuzzis, grotto waterfalls, a rooftop pool and a Eucalyptus inhalation room - to enjoy before or after treatments - are part of the appeal. Classes include aerial yoga and Rip Surfer.
Photo courtesy of Thinkstock
No. 8:
The 9,000-square-foot Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Kea Lani combines local Maui products with ancient Hawaiian techniques and the latest spa technology for the ultimate oasis of relaxation. New to the spa this year is the curated Inspire Your Energy fitness and wellness program that connects guests with the activities they're passionate about.
Photo courtesy of Omni Hotels & Resorts
No. 7:
The award-winning Moroccan inspired Joya Spa, located at the Omni Scottsdale Resort in Paradise Valley, is home to the only hammam in Arizona. This classic spa amenity has been used for thousands of years. One of the centerpieces of the spa experience at Joya is the Hammam Experience, which includes a brisk scrub using traditional Herbal Black Soap applied with a Kassa cloth. The treatment is said to increase circulation, improve balance and strengthen the immune system.
Photo courtesy of AP Photo/Caesars Palace
No. 6:
Inspired by ancient Roman traditions of relaxation, this tranquil, 50,000-square-foot oasis taps into the natural healing powers of water while incorporating historic rituals of "social spa-ing." Amenities include Qua's signature Roman Baths — three pools of distinct temperatures with mineral-enriched waters to help restore natural elements of the skin, improve circulation, remove toxins and reenergize the body — an Arctic Ice Room, co-ed laconium, steam room, sauna, whirlpool and Tea Room.
Photo courtesy of Wynn Las Vegas
No. 5:
This Forbes Five Star-rated spa is one of the Strip's most breathtaking retreats. At 61,000 square feet, The Spa at Encore features 37 treatment rooms, a gym with two fitness movement studios and separate men's and women's facilities each with their own steam room, sauna, hot and cold plunges, heated stone chaise lounge chairs, experience showers and waterfall showers. The men's and women's facilities also boast two large whirlpools with individual concaves for guests to sit in that provide spa-goers with their own jets and even armrests.
Photo courtesy of Destination Hotels & Resorts
No. 4:
The Spa at Loretto strives to award every guest with a refreshing wellness journey that enhances their Santa Fe experience. Most of the spa treatments utilize indigenous plants of New Mexico, and each treatment begins with a respectable Santa Fe tradition of burning sage in the guest's honor. This is a rare spa that has only private suites, each elegantly appointed. Special touches include antique Kohler claw foot tubs and a private spa elevator that whisks patrons directly to the interior of the spa from the hotel floor.
Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Amelia Island
No. 3:
Today spas are all about highlighting the local culture, and this spa by the sea at the Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island nails it with a unique Heaven in a Hammock signature service. This unique service is a massage performed inside a hammock! Not only does the gentle swaying of the hammock sway one to relax, it also gives a weightlessness to the body that helps elongate the spine. It’s one of the spa’s most sensory experiences, and one of the most unusual spa treatment found anywhere.
No. 2:
As the name suggest the thing to do here is a hydrotherapy treatment, like a bamboo countering drizzle or one of the baths which can be enjoyed as a couples service. Located an hour out of Milwaukee at the five-star American Club Resort, the nearly 24,000 square foot spa features a signature hollyhock product line named for the official flower of the village of Kohler.
Photo courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Orlando Grand Lakes
No. 1:
The grand dame of spas in Orlando has traditionally been The Spa at Grande Lakes. Located between sister properties the JW Marriott and the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes, this multi-floor spa includes 40 treatment rooms, a 4,000 square foot heated lap pool, a well-stocked boutique and a spa cafe. The spa may make you forget to visit the theme parks.
A panel of experts partnered with 10Best editors to picked the initial 20 nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote. Experts Anne Dimon (Travel To Wellness), Dena Roché, Ava Roxanne Stritt (Spa Travel Gal), Marla Cimini (USA TODAY), Roxanne Genier (LuxeInACity), Christopher Parr (Pursuitist) and Yasmin Pullman (Luxury Travel Diary) were chosen based on their spa and luxury travel experience.
Other nominated spas included Abhasa Spa at the The Royal Hawaiian, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea Spa, Halele'a Spa at The St. Regis Princeville Resort, Peninsula Spa, Sanctuary Resort Spa, Spa at Mandarin Oriental Atlanta, Spa at Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, Spa at The Omni Grove Park Inn, Spa at Rancho Encantado, Spa Montage Laguna Beach and the Waldorf Astoria Spa.
Congratulations to all our winning spas!
About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards
Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best.
The Experts
Anne Dimon
A 25 plus year travel writer and... Read More
A 25 plus year travel writer and journalist, Anne Dimon is Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association and owner/ editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course, a collaboration with the WTA.
Anne Dimon
A 25 plus year travel writer and journalist, Anne Dimon is Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association and owner/ editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course, a collaboration with the WTA.
Ava Roxanne Stritt
Ava Roxanne Stritt has been called the most... Read More
Ava Roxanne Stritt has been called the most influential person in the world on spa travel and a top authority on luxury and wellness travel. She transforms the idea of a regular spa day into a full wellness adventure! You can always find this freelance writer searching for unique experiences near and far. Follow her adventures at Spa Travel Gal and @SpaTravelGal to get inspired!
Ava Roxanne Stritt
Ava Roxanne Stritt has been called the most influential person in the world on spa travel and a top authority on luxury and wellness travel. She transforms the idea of a regular spa day into a full wellness adventure! You can always find this freelance writer searching for unique experiences near and far. Follow her adventures at Spa Travel Gal and @SpaTravelGal to get inspired!
Christopher Parr
Christopher Parr is the Founder and... Read More
Christopher Parr is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Pursuitist, one of the world’s most influential luxury lifestyle and travel guides. Named a "Top 10 Luxury Travel Blogger” by USA Today 10Best, Parr has also been selected as the official winner in Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ 2023 list of the “Top 50 Best Luxury Influencers and Bloggers in the World.” In addition to Pursuitist, Christopher is a contributor to numerous travel and luxury publications and TV shows, including being the host of Travel Tuesday on CBS. Follow along on Twitter.
Christopher Parr
Christopher Parr is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Pursuitist, one of the world’s most influential luxury lifestyle and travel guides. Named a "Top 10 Luxury Travel Blogger” by USA Today 10Best, Parr has also been selected as the official winner in Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ 2023 list of the “Top 50 Best Luxury Influencers and Bloggers in the World.” In addition to Pursuitist, Christopher is a contributor to numerous travel and luxury publications and TV shows, including being the host of Travel Tuesday on CBS. Follow along on Twitter.
Claire Endean-Cance
Claire Endean-Cance is the co-founder of Luxury... Read More
Claire Endean-Cance is the co-founder of Luxury Travel Diary– a blog about the best luxury accommodation and the most exclusive transport for your travels. Additional features hi-light essential style & fashion items required for luxury travel. The site also hosts their own online auctions, allowing users to bid on a dream holiday or luxury items.
Claire Endean-Cance
Claire Endean-Cance is the co-founder of Luxury Travel Diary– a blog about the best luxury accommodation and the most exclusive transport for your travels. Additional features hi-light essential style & fashion items required for luxury travel. The site also hosts their own online auctions, allowing users to bid on a dream holiday or luxury items.
Dena Roché
Dena Roché is a wellness travel expert who stays... Read More
Dena Roché is a wellness travel expert who stays on top of trends in the wellness travel space traveling the world on assignment for a variety of luxury lifestyle and travel magazines and online publications. Her travel, spa and lifestyle articles have been featured in Modern Luxury, Robb Report, Great Golf, Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, Life Refined, LuxeBeat and more. She speaks on wellness travel at events like the New York Times Travel Show. Dena is often quoted in media like USA TODAY, The Street and TripIt on the subject of luxury wellness travel.
Dena Roché
Dena Roché is a wellness travel expert who stays on top of trends in the wellness travel space traveling the world on assignment for a variety of luxury lifestyle and travel magazines and online publications. Her travel, spa and lifestyle articles have been featured in Modern Luxury, Robb Report, Great Golf, Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, Life Refined, LuxeBeat and more. She speaks on wellness travel at events like the New York Times Travel Show. Dena is often quoted in media like USA TODAY, The Street and TripIt on the subject of luxury wellness travel.
Marla Cimini
Marla is a writer with a passion for travel, music... Read More
Marla is a writer with a passion for travel, music and culinary adventures (and combining those whenever possible)! As an avid globetrotter, she encourages respecting and learning about other cultures while traveling. She has visited Hawaii multiple times, and has explored destinations worldwide, including the Mediterranean region, South America, Asia and more. Marla is a contributor to Fodor’s Hawaii guidebooks (Oahu and Kauai 2020) and her articles have appeared in a number of international publications. She calls New Jersey (Philadelphia area) home. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter and read her travel tips and adventures on her website.
Marla Cimini
Marla is a writer with a passion for travel, music and culinary adventures (and combining those whenever possible)! As an avid globetrotter, she encourages respecting and learning about other cultures while traveling. She has visited Hawaii multiple times, and has explored destinations worldwide, including the Mediterranean region, South America, Asia and more. Marla is a contributor to Fodor’s Hawaii guidebooks (Oahu and Kauai 2020) and her articles have appeared in a number of international publications. She calls New Jersey (Philadelphia area) home. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter and read her travel tips and adventures on her website.
Roxanne Genier
Roxanne Genier seems to be on an endless adventure... Read More
Roxanne Genier seems to be on an endless adventure experiencing sheer luxury around the world, having sailed 60,000+ nautical miles aboard superyachts, clocked up 40,000+ miles on a Pan American road trip, visited 65+ countries in a span of 100+ months abroad, Roxanne proves that travel can be a work of art. Roxanne is a nomad at heart and describes home as "the place I sleep tonight". Although she is a considered by many to be a leading luxury expert, Roxanne describes luxury has having time to travel the world to discover nature at its best. Roxanne has been voted one of the Top 10 Best Luxury Travel Bloggers by the readers of USA Today in 2014 for her blog LuxeInACity.
Roxanne Genier
Roxanne Genier seems to be on an endless adventure experiencing sheer luxury around the world, having sailed 60,000+ nautical miles aboard superyachts, clocked up 40,000+ miles on a Pan American road trip, visited 65+ countries in a span of 100+ months abroad, Roxanne proves that travel can be a work of art. Roxanne is a nomad at heart and describes home as "the place I sleep tonight". Although she is a considered by many to be a leading luxury expert, Roxanne describes luxury has having time to travel the world to discover nature at its best. Roxanne has been voted one of the Top 10 Best Luxury Travel Bloggers by the readers of USA Today in 2014 for her blog LuxeInACity.
