The Wellness Is 2026

WESTERN WELLNESS

Luxe Ranch Getaway

Surf Therapy

DIY Home Gym

HEALTHY RECIPES WEEKEND RESETS CITY SPAS

crofthardware.com

Serene spas in Western cities; A perfect weekend at Esalen.

Raising the Barn

Josh and Kathryn Brolin built an earthy, artsy media barn that channels their creative spirit and the chic-country charm of its coastal surroundings.

These houses fuse fitness and good design. Plus, how to set up a high-style home gym and spa.

What to do in your garden wherever you are in the West. Plus, regenerative garden intention setting and houseplants as living art.

At Besharam in San Francisco, chef Heena Patel reimagines the vegetarian flavors of her Gujarati childhood through a California lens.

is

Melissa King’s new cookbook is a stunning mashup of global, local, and deliciously personal influences.

the resorts, spas, and brands making the West the epicenter of

A five day surf retreat with surfer and board shaper Kai Sallas leads to self discovery—and finding flow on and off the board.

Few and Far’s bespoke experiences celebrate the rhythm of ranch life and the art of living lightly on the land.

Expert advice on what to do in South Shore Lake Tahoe, Silicon Valley, and King Salmon, Alaska.

Voices of the West

The Haute Hotelier

Avi Brosh has created a hotel company that charms like no other. He shares the formula behind his feelgood brand.

Photograph by THOMAS J. STORY

Water and Wellness

I’m writing this in the middle of a blissfully extended rainstorm in an otherwise typically parched Los Angeles. I’ve been doing my daily runs in the rain—breathing in the crisp air, marveling at the clear blue smog-free sky that follows each break in the weather, and noting those rare, record-low air quality index readings. My shoes are soaked, my clothes are drenched, and yet I feel restored. The rain connects everything: my body, my mind, my thirsty garden that will burst into wildflowers by spring, the aquifers recharging beneath us as we head toward drier days. This is our annual Wellness Issue, where we shift our gaze to the restorative, the healing, the grounding. And this year, water is a quiet stream running through so many of the stories in these pages. There’s a pastoral wine-country home designed for intelligent aging-in-place, complete with a yoga studio and—yes—a pool. Another home with a cold plunge. There’s a luxury multipurpose barn built for creative contemplation, situated, naturally, beside another pool. Water as fitness, sure. But also water as nervous-system reset, that instant full-immersion clarity nothing else can replicate. We send you, too, to a regenerative, roving luxury dude-ranch experience in Montana: big sky, horses, healing rituals, fine whiskey, and a river murmuring beside you as you fall asleep under the stars. Travel editor Krista Simmons offers an essay about stepping far outside her comfort zone on a surf retreat in Waikīkī—learning to face her fears and, literally, crossstep into the next stage of her life. And in this issue we debut our annual Wellness and Beauty Awards that serve as the short list of restorative experiences, hotels, products, and spas, many of which incorporate aquatherapy as an essential treatment. Wherever you are—rinsing farmers-market vegetables for a simple meal, readying your garden for spring, navigating your week, your year, or your own internal tides—water is there, fluid, cleansing, grounding, and an essential element for living life to the fullest in the West.

—Hugh Garvey, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CHAIRMAN & PUBLISHER

Michael A. Reinstein

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Hugh Garvey

DIGITAL DIRECTOR

Sarah Yang

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Brian Walker

PHOTO EDITOR

Christine Bobbish

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Thomas J. Story

Clausing

Sarah Lonser

Tracy Seng

Kathleen Craven

Coffey

Facer

Mindy Morgan

Megan Giordano

A contemplative moment by the koi pond at Golden Door.

BEST OF THE WEST

Bathing Culture

A soak and a steam aren’t just for far-flung spa resorts. These retreats offer soothing aqua therapy in the city.

Story by KRISTA SIMMONS

Photograph by THOMAS J. STORY

Onsen is a restorative retreat in the heart of San Francisco.

In the West’s busiest cities,

a new style of third space is emerging—one that doesn’t hinge on cocktails or conversation, but on stillness and rejuvenation. This new breed of urban bathhouses is quietly redefining the way we gather, offering calm in an increasingly fragmented world.

At Fjord, a smartly designed floating sauna moored along Sausalito’s waterfront, guests slip into a space where the Nordic ritual of the Viking bath is given a very Bay Area twist. Built from reclaimed redwood

and marine materials, the twosauna structure sits atop a salvaged barge used at the local SailGP races. Peering through the panoramic sauna windows, you’ll watch sailboats and harbor seals drift by, then cycle in a cold plunge in the harbor’s frigid and wonderfully refreshing waters.

Tapping into the ritualized bathing culture of Japanese ryokans is Onsen, which recently reopened in San Francisco. The bathhouse pairs its communal soaking pool, sauna, and steam room with intimate pop-up dinners imbued with the Eastern ideal of hospitality known as omotenashi. Guests book in for a soak followed by a meal, which, on nights where

in-house chef-owner Adam Wren is on the grill, may include a delicious selection of yakitori, housemade pickles and ferments, and black sesame s’mores ice cream.

Further north, Portland’s new subterranean hot springs bathhouse and boutique hotel called Cascada invites guests to move between its five thermal pools, saunas, and a hushed sanctuary room. The experience feels by turns luxurious and monastic, but never austere—an urban oasis where the rush of the outside world falls away, even though the city is right outside. Come winter, it’s a cozy and restorative respite from the Pacific Northwest’s rain and cold.

Fjord

Fjord

Cascada Onsen

An Epic Weekend at Esalen

Soak beneath the Milky Way and reconnect with nature at the legendary Big Sur retreat.

There are few places in America where you can slip into natural hot spring waters at three in the morning and gaze up to witness a symphony of shooting stars. Welcome to the Esalen Institute in Big Sur—a cliffside sanctuary that has, since 1962, drawn seekers, scholars, and the spiritually curious to its sacred stretch of California coastline. Founded as a center for the exploration of human potential, Esalen has long served as a meeting ground for Zen monks and Silicon Valley founders, therapists, Burners, and barefoot philosophers. It’s a place designed, in early Esalen faculty Abraham Maslow’s words, for “peak experiences”—where the distractions of the everyday fall away, leaving only time, nature, and possibility.

experience the art of the plate in storybook carmel

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable food and wine celebration at the 6th Annual Carmel-by-the-Sea Culinary Week with four village-wide signature events and ongoing chef-curated menus, culinary experiences and exclusive offers at more than 30 restaurants. Book the ultimate food and wine getaway and stay steps away from the action at Carmel-by-the-Sea hotels and inns. get inspired at carmelculinaryweek.com

FRIDAY

Arrival and Surrender

Check In: Grab a cup of tea and breathe in the Pacific air in a seat along what is known as the edge of the world. Or, skip all that and head straight to the legendary geothermal-heated baths, nestled into the craggy coastal cliffs and overlooking the sea. For first-timers, this is a baptism of sorts and your first taste of Esalen’s timelessness. Get Oriented: Head to Huxley, located above the Lodge, for “How to Drop Into Esalen”—part orientation, part oral history, part storytelling ritual. A resident staff member leads the session and introduces the cohort of seekers to the land, its lineage, and its living spirit.

Dine Together: Dinner in the Lodge is a communal affair—locally sourced, seasonal, and mostly organic, with produce plucked straight from the on-site Farm and Garden.

Conversations bloom easily here; you’ll find yourself talking to strangers who quickly turn into new friends.

Linger Later: After dinner, gather with your individual workshop cohort, then slip away for the hot springs baths, dip into the pool, or just sit by the firepit in the corner on the deck outside of the Lodge.

And if you’re lucky enough to visit during a new moon, stay up late. The sky here, unspoiled by artificial light, turns into a living canvas.

SATURDAY

Depth and Discovery

Rise and Reset: The morning may begin with yoga, breathwork, or journaling on the deck overlooking the sea. Breakfast in the Lodge—steel-cut oats with fruit from the garden, eggs gathered nearby, and bread baked fresh.

Work and Wonder: Workshops begin. Whether you came for Gestalt practice, creative writing, movement, or meditation, this is the heart of your weekend. The faculty are seasoned explorers of consciousness—part teachers, part guides.

Integrate in the Afternoon: Afternoons are for integration. You might stretch out on the lawn, nap under a cypress tree, or wander to the koi pond, tucked behind the Murphy House. Some guests head to the Art Barn, others soak in the afternoon light at the Baths or a cold plunge in the creek. Esalen invites both solitude and community, so there’s no wrong choice. Dinner again in the Lodge, with wine, kombucha, and conversation, and spontaneous jams with instruments lying around. Some nights the bar can be really revelous. Night Moves: On some nights, music rises—a spontaneous drumbeat, a single voice, a flute echoing off the cliffs. Sometimes, there is a sound bath at the Hot Springs baths. It’s amazing when someone has a didgeridoo and blows it.

SUNDAY

Return and Reverie

Meditate: A final morning ritual: yoga, meditation, or one more cold plunge in the creek and soak in the baths. Packing is a slow process because you are likely reluctant to leave. A last walk to the “I Love You” sign at the north end of campus or a final cup of tea.

A Fond Farewell: Breakfast and goodbyes in the Lodge. The staff and guests move easily around one another, as if part of a shared dream. Your last workshop session and cohort wrapping it up. Official checkout is at 10 a.m., but there’s no super immediate rush. Grab lunch and depart when the 2 p.m. arrivals trickle in. Then drive through Big Sur with its winding cliffs, redwood shade, and ocean spray. It feels like an extension of the experience, a slow reentry into the world. This is the start of the integration piece. By the time you reach cell service again, you understand and feel what Esalen can be for many: a space where time dissolves, where nature and consciousness meet, and where, for a fleeting 48 hours, the great potential of the world truly belongs to you.

You’re not just a homeowner. You’re also a “water stain that may or may not be a mythical creature” owner.

Fortunately, you’re also an American Standard owner. Which means you’ve got heating and cooling built and tested to keep going no matter what happens.

Make space for personal expression.

At Marvin, we appreciate how invested you are in turning big dreams into reality. That’s why we meticulously handcraft every window and door to meet the highest-quality standards for creating truly modern and spectacular works of art. Together, let’s make space for inspiration so you can bring sensational designs to life from every vantage point.

marvin.com

“When you have the right partnerships and the right products like Marvin Ultimate to realize results in unique and inspiring ways, beautiful things happen.”

Charlie Simmons Founding Partner Charlie & Co. Design, LTD

Raising the Barn HOME & GARDEN

Josh Brolin and Kathryn Boyd Brolin built an earthy, artsy media barn that channels their creative spirit and the chic country charm of its coastal surroundings.

Story by CHRISTINE LENNON

Photographs by MICHAEL P. H. CLIFFORD

Left: Josh Brolin and Kathryn Boyd

describe their vision for the design of the media barn as “kaleidoscopic.” Thanks to a highfunctioning layout and meticulously executed built-ins by the AAHA Studio team, the interiors can really soar. Pierce & Ward was inspired by the couple’s extensive art collection, including select works by Jammie Holmes. Right: The single-story structure complements the main home’s coastal-mountain aesthetic, and it expands the livable areas of the property with flagstone patios and several conversation areas.

Brolin

Once the construction dust settles

and the dream home is complete—after all the agonizing over details that define day-to-day living—designing ancillary structures like a guesthouse can feel like playing with house money. Whether you’re imagining a party barn, a back office, a playhouse, or a multipurpose retreat made for all of the above—as in this structure

AAHA Studio designed for actor Josh Brolin, his wife Kathryn Boyd Brolin, and their two young daughters—the process carries a certain lightness. The pressure is off. Cue the joy.

“The greatest part about this project is that the structure could be really playful. It was a bonus to the main living space,” says Aaron Leshtz, a partner at AAHA Studio with his wife and business partner, Harper Halprin. “It didn’t have to incorporate the everyday essentials. It can be just a creative place to have guests and parties, adjacent to outdoor living space, supplementing and complementing the main house and property, which is full of nooks and crannies. The Brolins wanted to put a game or a fight on the big TV and

have kids jumping in the pool.”

Josh Brolin is an old-school Hollywood creative polymath who grew up surfing in Santa Barbara, and his Malibu property, which has a basketball court, cold plunge, and little writing barn clad in reclaimed wood, reflects that. The Brolins worked with contractor Dan Marriott to remodel their main house, and they brought on the AAHA team to finetune this 1,800-square-foot space, dubbed the “media barn,” when a friend introduced him to the team. At first, Leshtz and Halprin were consulted to do a computer-generated shade and sun study to ensure worried neighbors the original two-story plans wouldn’t encroach on their land, and to also comply with strict

Malibu building codes. The Brolins were so impressed with the vision that they took AAHA’s advice to alter the plans and shave off a second-story mezzanine and focus on maximizing a single-story layout instead. Then, they got to the fun part. Brolin has described his decorative inspiration for the design of this project as “kaleidoscopic.”

“We had a text chain with the interior designers Pierce & Ward, and the builder and Josh would send a bunch of weird photos, then we’d all scramble to figure out what the inspiration was,” Leshtz says. “Dan would run with the ideas, and he didn’t really push back on anything. What the barn ended up becoming couldn’t have happened without a builder like him. It’s all quirk and nuance.”

Brolin’s wife, Kathryn, is a creative force in her own right. Her background is in photography, but she also designed a popular denim line, Midheaven. It was her idea to bring on Los Angeles-based Pierce & Ward for the interiors, which are known for being glamorous and

lighthearted, rooted in tradition but with a flair for drama.

“They both had thoughts about how they wanted it to function, but they weren’t prescriptive. They trusted the creative process,” Halprin says. “That’s very abnormal. People will say they want to be loose and fun, but they aren’t as fun as they thought they were.”

Leshtz says part of what made this project so successful is that his and Halprin’s background is heavily interiorsbased, and, unlike many architects, they were willing and prepared to emphasize the house’s decorative aspects. They were committed to building out millwork so the architecture would support the interiors, and vice versa. Pierce & Ward Creative Director Carmen-Jean Cluttey was their primary collaborator, and she used the Brolins’ impressive art collection as a jumping-off point.

“There were a few core pieces we designed around,” Cluttey says. “One of them being Jammie Holmes’ ‘Behind Golden Bars 2’ in the living room.”

Starting with a base of neutrals, such

as their “go-to” Benjamin Moore Beach House Beige, the team incorporated many of the Brolins’ vintage finds sourced from their travels around the world, with a few key additions, like a 1980s oak and brass pool table. Bold use of tile and stone in kitchens and bathrooms is another Pierce & Ward signature, and they did not hold back here, playing with geometric patterns and richly veined marble.

Consulting with Paul Weiss of Pacific West Landscape, they designed warm sandstone patios, decking, a built-in conversation area, and a pergola to take advantage of the mild coastal climate.

“What’s nice is that the Brolins are not terribly serious people,” says Leshtz, intending that comment as high praise. “They are playful. And that really comes through.”

Washed-out neutral colors that mimic sun-faded clay and vintage stone from Portola Paints give the new construction a timeless feel. Paned French doors and casement windows open up to let as much of the outside in as possible.

The small kitchen, used exclusively for entertaining, doesn’t skimp on luxe details. Deeply veined graygreen marble plays off paneled walls painted in Beach House Beige by Benjamin Moore.

SensoWash® D-Neo: Minimal Space. Maximum Upgrade.

SensoWash® D-Neo combines a feature-rich bidet seat with the compact D-Neo wall-mounted toilet, creating a comfortable, spa-like experience in even the smallest bathrooms. Designed by Bertrand Lejoly, its low-profile silhouette blends effortlessly into a wide range of bathroom aesthetics while offering customizable comfort. Thoughtfully engineered, SensoWash® D-Neo delivers modern conveniences at a more accessible price point.

Three wash modes—Rearwash, Frontwash, and Comfortwash—provide gentle to dynamic cleansing, with adjustable water temperature and pressure. The spray wand automatically rinses itself after each use, ensuring optimal hygiene. Daily rituals are elevated through thoughtful touches such as a heated seat, soft-closing lid, and integrated night light.

Duravit’s Rimless® flush technology keeps the bowl clean while conserving water, while the concealed electronics give the ceramic a sleek, timeless look. A built-in decalcification function supports long-term performance in hard-water areas.

SensoWash® D-Neo brings comfort, cleanliness, and modern functionality together—turning everyday routines into moments of upgraded well-being.

SensoWash® D-Neo

With SensoWash D-Neo, Duravit introduces a bidet toilet seat designed for those seeking a feature-rich, luxurious upgrade at an accessible price point. Paired with the compact D-Neo wall-mounted toilet, this design by renowned Belgian designer Bertrand Lejoly creates a private wellness retreat in any bathroom. Features like Adjustable Rearwash, Frontwash, and Comfortwash settings, a heated seat, night light, and self-cleaning wand bring advanced technology and thoughtful design to everyone, and will transform everyday routines into moments of well-being and relaxation for years to come.

WELL HOME THE

Home and health are one in these houses that fuse fitness and good design. Plus, how to set up a highstyle home gym and spa.

Story by CHRISTINE LENNON

DIVAN: MELANIE ARNDT

Left: Global antiques and hand-plastered walls give the Sonoma home Gayle Olson and John Boich share a timeless feel. This page: After spending time on the undeveloped plot of land, the couple and their architects at Marcus & Willers sited the new-build courtyard home to frame unforgettable views of the surrounding hills.

LONGEVITY VIEW

A home built for wellness and longevity, designed as an age-in-place retreat for a mindful couple and their close community, puts the definition of “the good life” in sharp focus.

Gayle Olson and John Boich had a very clear vision of what they wanted, and needed, their “golden years” dream house to be. Boich of Boich Family Cellar is a winemaker, chef, and musician who is happiest when every seat at the dinner table is occupied. Olson, a yoga instructor and yoga holiday and retreat coordinator, has a gift for setting a mood and creating welcoming spaces where guests feel cared for and comfortable. They met in San Francisco when Olson was looking for a new wine partner for her business. They fell in love quickly. And they knew immediately that they wanted to merge their worlds of wine and wellness and age together with grace, surrounded by natural beauty, staying flexible in mind, body, and spirit.

Most importantly, they didn’t want to do it alone.

“Since I was college-age, I had a vision of living a joyous life and sharing it with people,” says Olson. “Later in life, you have to be more and more intentional to live a quality life. Sitting down and having a meal with friends and a nice glass of wine is as much a part of wellness as going to the gym at dawn. I want to live a thoughtful, intentional life with others who have similar values.”

With loneliness and depression on the rise among America’s oldest citizens, people have grown wary of the traditional retirement model most older adults follow. People who stay in their homes alone often suffer in isolation and struggle to afford home health aides. Others who move to assisted living or communities for people of retirement age are not always pleased with the lack of privacy or the level of care they receive. A third choice has emerged for people who want to take an active role in choosing their roommates and elevating the experience of living well into old age.

So instead of building a home with extra bedrooms that sit empty awaiting visitors, Olson and Boich created an inviting place for their closest friends to live with them when they could no longer live alone.

“It’s actually a common experience, and we’ve discussed this idea multiple times with friends and clients,” says Bill Willers, who designed the home with his partner Carol Marcus. “There’s a trend that’s very anti-retirement community, and the more conventional retirement choices, which involve intentionally isolating yourself.”

The couple had already zeroed in on a location. They had previously renovated and sold a small farmhouse near the

Gayle Olson and John Boich

A pool is at the center of the U-shaped structure, with rooms and public spaces connected by limestone ramps instead of stairs. The couple planted 130 olive trees on their property and dubbed it “Olive Hill.”

Above: Large community spaces, like the massive kitchen that opens up onto a patio built for entertaining, are at the heart of the home. Garden paths wind through the terrain, dotted with drought-tolerant grasses. Right: Olson, a yoga instructor, hosts classes for neighbors and friends of all ages in her light-filled home studio. Three guest suites, each outfitted like a chic studio apartment with a kitchen and private terrace, are designed as a kind of private retirement home for their closest companions.

square in Sonoma and knew the wine country town had the right mix of rusticity and sophistication they craved. So when a parcel of land on a hill just 10 minutes from town became available, they brought in their friends at Marcus & Willers Architects to help them create their 6,800-square-foot private paradise.

“The first thing we did when our offer was accepted was to put flowers in every neighbor’s mailbox,” Olson says. “Then we started hosting picnics on the land so we could get to know it better and figure out where the best views are and how to site the house.”

Part Moroccan riad, part Southwestern hacienda, the home and garden represent a thoroughly modern interpretation of what it means to “age in place.” Hand-plastered walls and a soothing color

palette of earthy neutrals are sleek and modern, while vintage Persian rugs and hard-carved wooden doors from the Swat Valley in Pakistan, sourced from an antiques gallery in Santa Fe, add layers of texture and intrigue.

They assigned a wing of the home for the primary suite and living space, and then three spacious en-suite bedrooms with sitting areas and small terraces are across the courtyard.

“In the guest suite wing of the house, there are some private spaces so people can have a smaller gathering space. Then there is a shared courtyard,”

Marcus says. “Everyone has their own terrace. You can socialize or retreat in your room or your own back terrace.”

Instead of stairs, there are subtle limestone ramps that connect different elevations of the single-story house. The hallways are wide, and the bathrooms are chic and accessible. Threefoot-tall Corten Steel garden beds were designed for ease and accessibility.

A curving bee pollinator path, lined with drought-tolerant blooms and known as the “Peaceful Path,” winds through the landscape to a tranquil 1,200-square-foot yoga studio and gym.

“We have 40 solar panels. We grow food here. And we planted 130 olive trees to feel connected to the agriculture the area is known for,” Olson says. “That’s why we call it ‘Olive Hill.’”

While no one has taken up the offer to move in yet—and Olson and Boich are far from ready to slow down—it’s a relief to know a plan is in place, and the community-building is well underway.

“Tonight, we’re having our closest neighbors for dinner,” says Olson. “I do a weekly yoga class for the neighbors, for all ages up to people in their 80s. It’s designed for strength and balance. We have poetry gatherings and concerts.”

It’s in the quieter moments, however, when Olson can pause to reflect on her good fortune and revel in the world she and Boich continue to build together.

“Right now, I’m sitting on an antique rug looking out through the doors of the yoga studio, across the pool at the olive trees and the blue sky,” she says. “Beauty is everywhere here. To me, that’s absolutely critical to feeling natural joy and gratitude at any age.”

HOME SPA GOALS

A fitness-focused SoCal family hired Studio Mesa to transform an outdated indoor pool house into the ultimate self-care center.

It’s not every day that interior designers stumble into clients who have their own Ammortal Chamber—a performance-enhancing, healing cocoon that combines red and near infra-red light technology, molecular hydrogen therapy, multi-wave pulsed electromagnetic fields, and vibroacoustic-assisted meditation settings—parked in the backyard. But that rare opportunity presented itself in Rancho Santa Fe, where Studio Mesa partners Jill Norman and Cameron Shepherd have spent the last several years transforming a property for a fitness-focused married couple with young children.

“It’s a Mediterranean-style property, with many spaces for entertaining and play. There was a separate outbuilding that had an enclosed pool and a steam shower, but it was not at all the clients’ style,” Shepherd says. “At first, they didn’t know what to do with it. Then it occurred to them what their priority was, and that was wellness. The husband specifically is focused on the space where technology and wellness intersect.”

While the subject “biohacking” is controversial, and unproven therapies abound, there’s no denying that people are devoting serious resources to longevity medicine and practices that optimize health. And serious square footage is being designated for at-home workouts and relaxation.

Left: A family in Rancho

Fe had maxed out their resort-style property with spots for entertaining and leisure, and opted to convert an indoor pool into the ultimate home wellness center. This page: The yoga room has infrared heaters and non-toxic plaster walls. The gym has vaulted ceilings and every piece of equipment you could wish for.

Santa

“They have everything they need. There are treatment rooms, a UV therapy room, hot and cold plunge pools controlled remotely, a Himalayan salt sauna. There are infrared heaters in the yoga room,” Norman says. “They brought the full experience home.”

All of the finishes and surfaces in the home and the spa, like cork flooring in the yoga studio, Italian ceramic tile, and hand-troweled plaster walls, are free of harsh chemicals. The meditation deck is made from Brazilian ipe wood.

“We were walking a lot of lines considering form, function, and low-toxicity,” Shepherd says. “Anything that would make the space seem too synthetic or toxic would be at odds with the purpose of this center. All of these elements needed to align. We were very careful and specific in our choices.”

The gym equipment was chosen with help from San Diego company Out-Fit, which specializes in luxury home gyms.

While they are not anticipating another home-spa project of this scale in the near future, the Studio Mesa team came away with a couple of essential lessons from the experience that could apply to a home fitness space of any size to make self-care easier to prioritize.

“Personally, I need some separation. I can’t work out in the same space where I live,” Norman says. “Having a nice designated space for that is a luxury, but you don’t need much. If you can allocate a little section to put down some comfortable flooring and paint the walls, and keep everything organized and neat, it’s fairly easy to create a small retreat.”

Above: Two cold plunge pools are positioned outside the sauna. Finding a balance between work and pleasure, time in the gym and time at the outdoor bar pavilion with family and friends, is this wellness-minded family’s secret to happiness.

Home Gym Gems

Good-looking gear for a stylish fitness space.

A Pilates Springboard

This space-saving maple springboard mounts to the wall and delivers upper and lower body resistance training. Designed by Ellie Herman, training manuals and access to streaming workouts are also available. $575, pilates.com

B Designer Weights

A set of eight modern weights by Italian designers Alberto Basaglia and Natalia Rota Nodari was inspired by the columns of classical architecture. $605, artemest.com

C Infrared Sauna

Made of hemlock and gunmetal, the Titan is a hybrid outdoor sauna that combines infrared therapy and electric heat. A panoramic window is tailor-made for enjoying the view. $8,999, litmethod.com

D Leather Heavy Punching Bag

Available in three sizes, this heritage cowhide bag is handstitched in New Zealand and ships worldwide. Stuff it yourself with sandbags and fabric scraps. From $299, gloves from $115, modestvintageplayer.com

E Wood-Frame Stationary Bike

A hardwood frame, available in oak, cherry, or walnut, plus black metal accents, makes this Nohrd bike too pretty to hide in a garage, but this level of style comes at a price. $4,749, waterrower.com

F Gold Treadmill

Everything you want in a home treadmill, including speakers, speed and distance trackers, and easy-tonavigate controls in a chic, sleek, foldable package. $599, sunnyheathfitness.com

What is RV insurance?

How can RV insurance protect you?

Do you really need RV insurance on your travel trailer?

As RVers, we know the allure of the open road and the freedom it offers. However, with freedom comes responsibility, including the important decision of securing insurance.

RV insurance is designed to cover various types of RVs, including travel trailers, toy haulers, motor homes, fth wheels, and camper vans. While liability insurance is not required for most travel trailers, having RV coverage could bene t you and your adventures.

• Protection against accidents: May provide nancial protection for repair costs, medical expenses, and liability in case of an accident.

• Coverage for theft and vandalism: Could help with repairs or replace your trailer with less out-of-pocket expenses if it’s lost or stolen.

• Natural disasters and weather events: May cover the cost of damage from storms, oods, or other natural disasters.

Is your travel trailer covered under your home or auto insurance?

While your home or auto policy can protect your trailer in certain instances, it can also leave you with gaps in your coverage.

Con dence on the road

insure your investment

For example, your auto policy may only cover your trailer while you’re on the road, not if you’re parked or at a campsite. The same goes for home insurance—if you’re on your home’s property it might be covered, but damage from a storm at a campground wouldn’t be.

What specialized coverages does Progressive offer?

Progressive offers a variety of specialized coverages that aren’t included on a standard auto insurance policy like:

• Roof Protection Plus®: Covers repairs or replacements for RV roofs, including if the cause is wear and tear.*

• Pest Damage Protection SM: Covers the cost of repairs from pest infestations.*

Having RV insurance gives you con dence you’re protected no matter where you roam. From remote national parks to bustling campgrounds, RV insurance ensures you have the support and nancial protection you need if something goes wrong.

While insurance for your travel trailer may not be legally required, it’s a crucial investment in protecting your RV, nances, and peace of mind.

Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes.

to learn more.

Briana Selstad Bosch of Blossom and Branch Farm shows that regenerative gardening is both sustainable and restorative. A fifth-generation farmer, her Colorado flower farm blends field-grown blooms with native plantings that support pollinators and wildlife.

Late Winter

Late winter and early spring are the perfect times to prep, protect, and plant for a thriving garden. From indoor micro greens to native pollinator strips and soil-boosting cover crops, these smart moves will kickstart your season with flavor, color, and sustainability.

Story by KRISTIN GUY

PLANT

Plant native pollinator strips in low traffic, underused areas , such as driveway edges, along fence lines, the back corners of vegetable beds, or sloped side yards. Turn forgotten land into habitat with early-blooming natives like California poppy, Oregon sunshine, or Rocky Mountain penstemon.

Now is the time to tuck in edible perennials . Plant asparagus crowns, rhubarb, or artichokes throughout your landscape for added color, texture, and delicious results throughout spring

Harness the soil health benefits of cover crops for your containers. Sow quick nitrogen fixers like crimson clover in raised beds and large pots to enrich soil before spring plantings

Tr y your hand at potato towers by planting an organic mix of red, yellow, white, and blue seed potatoes in layered compost and straw. This trendy, space-saving method doubles as a fun kids’ project, and by combining early, mid, and late-season varieties, you’ll enjoy a prolonged harvest

HARVEST

Get a jump start on greens by growing micro varieties indoors. Cut trays of radish, pea shoots, and sunflower sprouts for a nutrientpacked winter harvest that can be blended into smoothies for an instant vitamin boost or sprinkled as a garnish over soups, grain bowls, and eggs

Head outdoors and explore coastal areas budding with foraged flavors. Harvest young nettles with gloves and enjoy their earthy,

slightly peppery, and spinach-like taste in teas and soups.

Tend your own tea garden for soothing sips. Lemon balm, chamomile, and mint are easy to grow indoors in pots, providing fresh leaves for teas and herbal remedies

MAINTAIN

Repot rootbound indoor plants as the days lengthen. Houseplants like monstera and pothos benefit from division, and extra cuttings can be shared with friends

Use reclaimed gravel or decomposed granite to reset pathways These permeable walkways prevent runoff and add habitat edges

Harsh conditions require a little TLC for greenhouses and coldframes. Clean glass or plastic panels with a solution of mild soap and water, or for tougher spots with algae, a paste of baking soda and water, to maximize light for seedlings and houseplants.

PROTECT

Deer and rabbit nibbling at your first signs of growth? Instead of chemicals, edge and protect precious plants with deterrents like yarrow, lavender, or salvia that wildlife finds less tasty.

Install groundcovers like creeping thyme in dry areas, kinnikinnick in cooler wet climates, or native bunchgrasses to stabilize slopes before spring rains.

Clean gutters and rain barrels to capture late-season storms, protecting against runoff and erosion Not only will you protect your home from pooling water, you’ll also be stocked up on watering supplies come spring.

BEFORE THE BLOOM

Prepping Your Garden with Purpose

Try these pre-spring strategies to nurture soil, support pollinators, and leave your garden healthier than you found it through regenerative gardening.

As the first hints of spring creep into our gardens, so does the itch to get outside and do something productive with tasks such as clearing beds, planting seeds, and sweeping away winter. But according to Briana Selstad Bosch, founder of Colorado’s Blossom and Branch Farm and author of The Regenerative Gardener’s Handbook, the best pre-spring prep isn’t about doing more: It’s about observing, slowing down, and working with nature’s rhythms. Here, she gives us the pre-season playbook on how to nurture nature as spring awakens

Savoring Soil and Seasons

For Bosch, spring begins with a handful of earth. “There is nothing like scooping the first handful of soil out of the earth after a long, cold winter—the smell of terroir holds all the promises of spring,” she says. “Just feeling the soil in my hands makes me feel more hopeful, and hope is so vital to life.”

That connection inspired her to rethink pest control on her farm. Early in her career, Bosch

observed that her dahlias were constantly damaged by bugs, except for the row closest to a chokecherry thicket. “The birds were hopping back and forth from the chokecherry branches, loaded with berries, to the dahlias, where they would pick off bugs,” she recalls. Planting hedgerows of berry- and seed-producing plants like golden currants and anise hyssop brought more birds and eliminated the need for insect netting.

Eco Eyes: Seeing the Garden as a Living System

Bosch advises tuning into natural cues before planting. “Once I see more of our birds hopping around at ground level rather than relying on the above-ground seed supply, I know the bugs and insects are starting to emerge and move closer to the soil surface, indicating warmer soil temperatures and thawing ground—meaning I can begin thinking about planting!”

Resisting the urge to tidy too early is also key.

“Watching birds hop about and scratching through fallen leaves helps us see how vital

With a little observation and organic matter, your native soil can outperform the fanciest potting mix.

YOUR REGENERATIVE GARDEN GAME PLAN

Use Bosch’s actionable tips to get your garden ready for spring while building soil, supporting pollinators, and reducing purchased inputs.

1

Observe Your Garden

Ecosystem: Watch your birds! Once they start scratching around in the yard, it’s a sign the soil is warming—and that planting time is on its way.

2

Know Your Soil: Get a soil test, but don’t be intimidated. Think of it as a wellness check for your garden and a way to track how your soil management is paying off. Pay attention to organic matter— it’s a vital nutrient source for your soil microbes.

3

Build Your Soil Armor: Start planning your mulches! If you didn’t plant a cover crop in the fall, you can still sow one in very early spring, six to eight weeks before the last frost. Green Cover Seed is a great source for cover crop seeds.

4 Minimize Purchased

Inputs: Forage locally. Wild rabbit droppings (gloves recommended!) make a nitrogen-rich boost for planting holes. Nature provides; we just have to notice.

5 Plant for Ecosystem

Health: Select plants that support native birds and beneficial insects, and prep a welcoming site for them in your landscape. Every pollinator counts!

6 Create Living Soil and Closed Loops: Inoculate seeds with a mycorrhizal seed inoculant (Big Foot is a favorite). It delivers microbes right where seedlings need them, boosting soil life from the very start.

7

Follow Nature’s Cues: Resist the urge to clean up too soon! Leaving debris until just before planting protects overwintering insects and- provides birds with needed food. Nature knows best— trust the rhythm.

Paying attention to your garden’s quiet cues allows you to discover how small, thoughtful choices can transform any space you cultivate.

leaving the garden a ‘mess’ can be. Considering the population decline of birds in recent years, it is vital to their survival to leave it as long as possible.”

Soil Sense: Listening to the Ground Below

Bosch has learned to lean on resilient early crops: “Many flowers such as sweet peas, snapdragons, lisianthus, foxglove, yarrow, delphinium, and more can be planted six to eight weeks before last frost with proper hardening and survive without any cover down to the teens.”

Her soil itself has been her greatest teacher. Once compacted clay, it was transformed through mulching and cover crops. “Cover crops can help provide armor for the soil while also increasing organic matter under the surface,” she explains. “Having a thick mulch layer of armor provides the balanced moisture and temperature required to foster a healthy soil ecosystem of microbes and fungi.”

Plant Purpose: Designing for Biodiversity & Beauty

Our lawns can be so much more than just grass. Bosch recommends grouping natives,

The Regenerative Gardener's Handbook: Essential Techniques for Growing a Garden That Leaves the Land Healthier Than You Found It, by Briana Selstad Bosch (Storey Publishing, $24.99).

such as goldenrod, yarrow, and echinacea along perimeters, with orderly vegetable beds inside. This blend balances beauty and biodiversity while reducing pests.

She also thinks in sequences to support pollinators: flax, currants, and plum blossoms in spring; goldenrod and rudbeckia in summer; asters and sedum into fall. Even experiments like sowing buckwheat under dahlias can deliver surprises—“Its flowers attracted ladybugs, which have helped manage aphids and thrips.”

Loop Love: Closing the Garden Circle

Compost is Bosch’s favorite entry point into regenerative gardening. “Starting a small compost pile can be one of the most helpful ways to close the garden ‘loop’ at home,” she says. Even a modest pile stretches far—she adds just a scoop per planting hole, or a light sprinkle over direct-sown seeds. Beyond feeding the soil, compost cuts landfill waste and reduces reliance on store-bought inputs.

Cultivating Calm and Connection

Above all, Bosch hopes regenerative practices inspire joy. “As home gardeners, we have an opportunity to directly help—even if it’s just a small garden or in a small way,” she says. Her advice for the overwhelmed? "Remember that laziness in spring can actually be beneficial for the ecosystem! Take the time to sit in the garden and simply observe.”

For her, gardening offers perspective. “Up close, a kale plant overrun with aphids can seem like a failure. But if you observe that plant as a piece of the ecosystem, it’s providing food for aphids that are food for beneficials like lacewings and ladybugs. As in life, it is the failures we can learn the most from.”

Houseplants as Living Art

Turn your space into a green gallery with these botanical building blocks that create drama, texture, and a lush indoor life.

Late winter is the perfect moment to dream indoors. While Western gardeners are sketching out spring plans outside, many of us are craving inspiration within our walls. Houseplants, long relegated to corners or windowsills, are stepping into the spotlight as

living art—and Jenny Yi, founder of Chloe + Mint, is leading the charge. Her studio blends design, art, and botany to craft lush, statement-making interiors for homes, restaurants, and hotels. And the best part? You don’t need a commercial space to bring that energy home.

Plants as Sculptural Statements

Yi approaches greenery as more than decor—it’s living sculpture. “I graduated with a fine arts degree in sculpture and installation,” she says. “My senior thesis explored merging live plants with functional furniture to challenge how people bring nature indoors.” That foundation, paired with years as an event and floral designer, taught her to see plants as intentional, expressive elements. In practice, this means asking yourself: What’s your lifestyle, your aesthetic? Are you home every day, or often on the road? Do you crave minimalism, or bold, risk-taking design? Plants should reflect those answers, transforming a home into a sanctuary that’s both artful and practical.

Jenny Yi of plantscape studio Chloe + Mint turns houseplant collections into growing galleries.

Statement Picks that Wow

Big impact doesn’t have to mean high maintenance. One of Yi’s favorites is the Freestyle Marginata—architectural, striking, and relatively low-maintenance when paired with a sculptural planter. She also admires bottle trees and black olive trees, though she notes that what thrives in Southern California may not survive in Las Vegas or Chicago. A true statement plant balances beauty with environmental suitability, a harmony that’s crucial for longevity.

Planters and Placement Matter

A plant isn’t complete without a thoughtful vessel. At projects like

Unbox the West

Etta in Scottsdale, Yi pairs dramatic greenery with sculptural planters, turning the two into a seamless design element. “Planters aren’t just vessels, they’re statements that can completely transform how a plant is perceived,” she explains. Placement is equally critical: Treating plants like furniture can shorten their lifespan, while thoughtful positioning—considering light, irrigation, and foot traffic—ensures both aesthetic and long-term success.

Grouping and Layering

with a tall tree, soften its base with trailing vines, and fill in with medium- and low-height plants to mimic natural growth.

“Texture matters too. Pair glossy

“ Texture matters too. Pair glossy with matte, sculptural with airy. The interplay creates depth, lushness, and harmony.”

with matte, sculptural with airy. The interplay creates depth, lushness, and harmony.”

Groupings are where plants truly feel curated. Yi likens them to storytelling: Anchor greenery with meaningful objects, vary textures, and avoid scattering small plants randomly. Begin

Hanging Gardens and Overhead Drama

Overhead greenery adds an immersive, luxe dimension.

At Bad Roman in New York City, Chloe + Mint used high-quality faux greenery to create a ro-

mantic, Italian-inspired cascade. Both live and faux plants can work overhead—vines are ideal for trailing impact, while well-chosen faux elements provide drama where live plants might not survive or be practical.

Indoor and Patio Oases

For tropical vibes, light and climate are everything. Indoors, with sufficient natural light or grow lights, even darker corners can feel lush and transportive. “Even plants labeled ‘low-light’ won’t truly thrive in dark corners. Photosynthesis requires light—there’s no way around it,” Yi stresses. Outdoor patios can capture the same layered, abundant feel, but results depend on sun, temperature, and exposure; planning matters.

Practical Refresh for Late Winter

Late winter is the perfect moment to refresh your indoor garden. Think of it as a plant-centric spring cleaning: Wipe leaves, trim dead growth, repot crowded roots, and refresh soil. For renters or small spaces, Yi suggests choosing one bold statement piece. “A single statement plant draws the eye upward, creates openness, and becomes a true focal point,” she says. Even in limited space, one well-chosen tree or large plant can feel monumental.

From dramatic statement trees to layered vignettes and suspended greenery, Jenny Yi shows us that houseplants can be much more than decoration— they are living, breathing art. With careful planning, strategic placement, and a little risktaking, any space can be transformed into a gallery of green.

Boldly Nourishing FOOD & DRINK

At Besharam in San Francisco, chef Heena Patel reimagines the vegetarian flavors of her Gujarati childhood through a California lens. The result: comforting, plant-forward dishes that speak to both body and soul.

Photographs by THOMAS J. STORY

From the moment you step inside Besharam in San Francisco’s Dogpatch neighborhood, you sense a kitchen that wears its heart on its sleeve. Chef and co-owner

Heena Patel has built Besharam as a space of fearlessness, where childhood flavors from Gujarat sit sideby-side with California’s seasonal bounty. The name itself, which loosely translates to “shameless,” signals her intention: bold, expressive cooking rooted in heritage and unafraid to evolve.

Over years of developing her voice, Heena has reinvested in vegetarian traditions with a modern twist. At Besharam, her plate is a bridge between memory and experimentation: the Gujarati dishes she absorbed at the table with her mother and aunts, reinterpreted with Californian produce and a lightness of touch.

This collection of recipes—poori, Ringan no Oro, Gajar Halwa, Malai Koftas—draws on that same sensibility: comforting, deeply flavored, and rooted in plant-forward traditions in dishes that nourish the body as well as delight the palate. Many of these dishes lean on ingredients long prized for their health benefits: turmeric for its natural anti-inflammatory properties, cumin and asafoetida for their digestive support, and fresh herbs for brightness and micronutrients. Legumes, vegetables, and nuts provide slow, sustaining energy—proof that comfort food can be both grounding and good for you. In a season when we often crave warmth and centering, these dishes invite us to slow down, savor textures, and remember that “healthful” need not mean austere. Think of them as a kind of culinary wellness: food that heals through pleasure, through connection to tradition, and through the slow alchemy of spice and technique. Let Besharam’s heart become yours at the stove.

FROM OPE N ING PAGE

Ringan

no Oro

Smoky spiced eggplant takes center stage in this Gujarati classic. Fire-roasting draws out deep flavor without heavy ingredients, while tomatoes, onions, herbs, and a touch of lemon create a lively, nourishing dish that’s naturally plantbased and full of character. SERVES 4

4 Japanese eggplants

8 red beef tomatoes, chopped

1 large red onion, chopped

1 large bunch cilantro, chopped

4 Tbsp. vegetable oil (canola or peanut)

3 Tbsp. garlic, minced

2 Tbsp. serrano chiles, minced

1 Tbsp. garam masala

1 Tbsp. chaat masala

1 tsp. turmeric powder

2 tsp. salt

¼ tsp. asafoetida

1 tsp. whole cumin seeds

1 tsp. black mustard seeds

2 bay leaves

3 dried red chiles

2 Tbsp. lemon juice

1. Wash and oil eggplants. Make small slits with a knife, then roast directly over an open flame until charred. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for 30 minutes.

2. Scoop out the insides and collect any smoky black liquid. Mince eggplant thoroughly, breaking up fibers.

3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, cumin, bay leaves, dried chiles, and asafoetida.

4. Stir in onions; cook until light golden. Add tomatoes, turmeric, salt, serrano chiles, and garlic. Reduce heat and cook until thickened and jammy, stirring to prevent sticking.

5. Add minced eggplant, reserved smoky liquid, garam masala, chaat masala, cilantro, and lemon juice. Cook on low for 7 to 8 minutes. Remove bay leaves and dried chiles before serving.

Heena Patel serves up a healthy feast at Besharam.

Malai Koftas

A North Indian favorite, malai koftas pair crisp potato-paneer dumplings with a spiced tomato-cashew sauce that’s lighter than it looks, thanks to fresh aromatics and a careful tempering of spices. Served with rice or bread, it’s a wholesome, celebratory dish meant for sharing.

MAKES 15 KOFTAS

FOR THE KOFTAS:

8 cups mashed potatoes

2 cups grated paneer

1 Tbsp. green chiles, minced

¼ tsp. dry lime powder or citric acid

4 oz. golden raisins, crushed

8 oz. cashews, finely crushed

1 Tbsp. garam masala

1 Tbsp. chaat masala

½ cup cilantro, chopped

1 tsp. salt

FOR THE MALAI SAUCE, BASE:

4 cups water

4 cups red onion, chopped

½ cup kasoori methi

4 cups tomatoes, chopped

2 cups broken cashews

6 dried red chiles

10 garlic cloves

2-in. piece ginger, chopped

6 serrano chiles, minced

FOR THE MALAI SAUCE, FINISHING INGREDIENTS:

4 cups water

8 oz. whipping cream

2 oz. ginger juice

2 tsp. cardamom powder (elaichi)

2 cups cilantro, chopped

3 cups tomato paste

1 Tbsp. sugar

3 Tbsp. garam masala

3 Tbsp. chaat masala

Salt, to taste

FOR THE TEMPERING SPICES:

4 Tbsp. vegetable oil

4 Tbsp. ghee

2 sprigs curry leaves

1 Tbsp. mustard seeds

2 Tbsp. whole cumin seeds ½ tsp. asafoetida

1. Malai Sauce: In a pot, combine all base ingredients. Simmer for 20 minutes over medium heat.

2. Let cool slightly, then blend until smooth.

3. Tempering: In a separate pot, heat oil and ghee.

4. Add tempering spices; cook until fragrant.

5. Add blended base sauce and the finishing ingredients. Simmer over low heat until oil floats to the top. Set aside.

6. Koftas: In a bowl, mix paneer, mashed potatoes, and remaining kofta ingredients until well combined.

7. Shape into 15 round, slightly flattened balls (about 50 g. each).

8. Shallow-fry until crisp and golden. Drain on paper towels.

9. Spoon hot malai sauce into a serving dish, arrange koftas on top, and serve immediately.

10. Garnish with edible flower petals and micro cilantro.

Pooris

These golden, puffed breads bring joy to the table without excess—made with wholewheat flour, they’re light, crisp, and best enjoyed fresh from the oil. Making them at home turns a simple meal into something memorable, especially when paired with bright, vegetable-forward sides.

MAKES 20

2 cups whole-wheat flour

1 tsp. sea salt

1 tsp. turmeric powder

½ tsp. chili powder

4 Tbsp. melted ghee (or vegetable oil)

¾ gallon vegetable oil (for frying)

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and spices. Add melted ghee and mix well.

2. Gradually add about ½ cup (120 ml.) water to form a stiff, smooth dough. Knead with both hands until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

3. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil (about 2 in. deep) over medium-high to 325°F.

4. Divide dough into 20 equal pieces (about 30 g./1 oz. each). Roll each into a ball, then flatten into a thin, 5-in. circle.

5. Fry pooris one at a time, gently pressing down with a slotted spoon to help them puff. Flip once puffed and fry until light golden, 1 to 2 minutes total.

6. Transfer to a cooling rack to drain. Serve hot with Ringan no Oro.

Pooris

Malai Koftas

Gajar Halwa

This fragrant carrot halwa celebrates the natural sweetness of carrots, slowly cooked down with cashews and warm spices. It’s rich and satisfying but also rooted in whole ingredients—proof that dessert can be both indulgent and balanced. SERVES 4

8 cups carrots, grated

8 oz. vegetable oil

2 cups sugar

2 cups fine-crushed cashews

1 Tbsp. cardamom powder

¼ tsp. freshly grated nutmeg

3 Tbsp. broken cashews

2 Tbsp. golden raisins ¼ tsp. salt Edible gold foil, for garnish (optional)

1. Heat oil in a large nonstick pan over mediumlow heat. Add grated carrots and roast, stirring constantly, until softened and cooked through, about 15 minutes.

2. Add broken cashews and raisins. Continue to stir to prevent sticking.

3. Stir in sugar and finecrushed cashews; cook 7 to 8 more minutes, until mixture thickens.

4. Finish with cardamom, nutmeg, and salt.

5. Serve hot, garnished with edible gold foil.

Gajar Halwa

Melissa King’s new cookbook blends the global and the local—and it’s a delicious love letter to flavor, technique, and the joy of feeding people.

Melissa King has spent a lifetime refining her voice through food.

Born and raised in Southern California to parents from Hong Kong, trained in French technique, and seasoned in Michelin-starred kitchens, King has built a career by blending precision with play. Her new book, Cook Like a King, is both a personal narrative and a master class—a roadmap for home cooks who want to layer flavors, bridge cultures, and cook with confidence.

The book is rooted in the ingredients and rhythms of California, informed by King’s upbringing and elevated by years spent in the highest echelons of fine dining. She writes as both a chef and a friend in the kitchen, encouraging readers to stock their pantries thoughtfully, pay attention to the little details, and not be afraid to improvise. Each recipe is filled with techniques—like frying tortillas to shatteringly crisp perfection or blooming ginger and scallions with smoking-hot oil—that build a cook’s instincts dish by dish.

King’s story runs through every page. She describes making jook in a rice cooker for her parents when they were sick, folding dumplings with her grandmother, discovering French sauces at culinary school, and linking those traditions with California’s seasonal abundance. She’s equally at home simmering bone broth with black Silkie chicken or drizzling Agrumato lemon oil over a perfect crudo. The result is a book that feels expansive yet intimate—part memoir, part instruction manual, part dinner party inspiration.

And then there are the recipes. Her tuna tostadas with avocado, ginger, and scallion channel Mexico

City cool, Hawaiian brightness, and Cantonese punch into one crisp bite. Her roasted kabocha with fivespice and hot honey takes a humble winter squash and turns it into a showstopper. These dishes—and dozens more—capture King’s singular talent: using food to build bridges, spark joy, and make a table come alive.

FIVE-SPICE AND HOT HONEY ROASTED KABOCHA WITH

If you ask me, everyone needs a solid roasted winter squash recipe in their repertoire, and this one is low-effort with big flavor. Kabocha squash (also called Japanese pumpkin) is a variety known for its fluffy, tender interior, chestnut-like flavor, and exceptional sweetness. Once the tough outer skin is cooked, it’s completely edible. The warm notes of Chinese five-spice complement the squash’s natural sweetness. Apple cider vinegar brings a little brightness, and a good drizzle of my hot honey contributes sweet heat.

SERVES 4 TO 6

One 3-lb. kabocha squash, trimmed, seeded, and cut into 2-in.-thick wedges

¼ cup plus 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

2 Tbsp. plus 1 ½ tsp. apple cider vinegar

2 tsp. Diamond Crystal kosher salt

½ tsp. Chinese five-spice powder

Finely ground black pepper

3 large garlic cloves, lightly smashed and peeled

Small handful of thyme sprigs

3 Tbsp. well-stirred King’s Hot Honey (recipe follows)

Flaky sea salt

1. Position a rack in the bottom slot of the oven and preheat to 400°F.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the squash, ¼ cup of the olive oil, 2 Tbsp. of the vinegar, kosher salt, five-spice, a few turns of pepper, garlic, and thyme sprigs; toss well.

3. Transfer to a large (18-by-13-in.) sheet pan and arrange the squash, cut-side down and with some space around the wedges. Roast on the bottom rack, flipping once halfway through, until a knife inserted into the flesh meets no resistance and the squash is caramelized and slightly charred at the edges, 30 to 35 minutes.

4. Transfer the squash, garlic, and thyme to a serving platter. In a small bowl, combine the honey, the remaining 1 Tbsp. olive oil, and the remaining 1 ½ tsp. vinegar, and stir well. Drizzle on the honey mixture, sprinkle on a little flaky salt, and serve.

King’s Hot Honey

Once you learn how to make hot honey yourself, you might never buy another bottle. My no-mess method infuses honey with the distinctive flavor of Sichuan chile flakes. Try it on anything that could use a sweet, spicy kick, like roasted kabocha, fried chicken, pork katsu, your favorite slice of pizza, or my sheet pan pizza.

MAKES ABOUT 1½ CUPS

One 16-oz. jar honey (1 ¼ cups) ¼ cup plus 1 Tbsp. Sichuan chile flakes

1. In a clean jar, combine the honey and chile flakes. Cover with a tight-fitting lid. There’s no need to stir.

2. Set the jar in a medium saucepan, add enough water to come about halfway up the honey, and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. As the honey warms, give the jar a few good swirls to distribute the chile flakes.

3. Once the honey simmers, turn off the heat and let the honey cool completely in the pan, swirling the jar a few times as it cools. (The honey keeps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to six months. Stir well before using.)

Cook Like a King: Recipes from My California Chinese Kitchen , by Melissa King with JJ Goode (Ten Speed Press, $40); penguinrandomhouse.com

Switch It Up

Play around with other winter squashes, like butternut or the supercute and flavorful honeynut.

Level It Up

Serve the squash on a creamy bed of labneh, store-bought or homemade.

CHILI CRISP LABNEH

I’m such a big fan of dips, and nothing tops a rich, velvety labneh. Common in Middle Eastern cooking, it’s essentially tangy yogurt that’s been drained until it’s super thick. It’s often served with a drizzle of good olive oil and maybe a sprinkle of zaatar or sumac. During a Pride collaboration with my friend Edy Massih of the fantastic Lebanese mezze bar in Brooklyn called Edy’s Grocer, I thought the creamy, cooling dip would play well with a generous drizzle of my lip-tingling chili crisp, as well as some crispy fried shallots and toasted sesame seeds. The combination of tang, textures, and heat was a huge hit, and it’s a breeze to make for any get-together, whether you buy labneh or make it yourself from Greek yogurt.

SERVES 4 TO 6

LABNEH:

One 16-oz. container nonfat Greek yogurt

2 tsp. lemon juice

1 tsp. Diamond Crystal kosher salt

TO FINISH:

1 Tbsp. King’s Chili Crisp or store-bought Chinese chili crisp

Fried shallots, homemade or store-bought, for garnish

Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish Zaatar, for garnish

Chive blossoms, micro scallions, or thinly sliced chives, for garnish

Flaky sea salt

1. Make the labneh: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, and kosher salt. Line a colander or sieve with cheesecloth so there are a few inches of overhang and set it over a separate bowl.

2. Spoon the yogurt mixture into the center of the cheesecloth, cover with the overhang, and let it drain over the bowl in the fridge for eight hours. Remove the cheesecloth and discard any liquid that has collected in the bowl. The labneh keeps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

3. To finish: Stir the labneh well. Scoop the labneh onto a plate and use the bottom of a spoon to make some pretty divots. Drizzle with the chili crisp, then sprinkle generously with fried shallots, sesame seeds, and zaatar. Top with chive blossoms and a little flaky salt. Serve immediately.

Serving Tip

Serve it with anything that benefits from creamy, spicy flavors: vegetable crudités, slow-roasted tomatoes, or roasted carrots; pita, scallion pancakes, or King’s focaccia; and roasted meat like kebabs, kofta, or mala lamb skewers.

TUNA TOSTADAS WITH

AVOCADO, GINGER, AND SCALLION

The perfect dinner party snack, this recipe is inspired by the tostadas de atún at the effortlessly cool Contramar, a restaurant in Mexico City. There, crunchy fried corn tortillas are topped with slices of pristine raw tuna, avocado, chipotle mayonnaise, and crispy leeks. In my rendition, tuna and avocado are drizzled with chili crisp for richness and heat. I also top it with ginger-scallion sauce, which I loved on a Hawaiian ahi poke I had on Oahu; it adds an unexpected dimension that at first bite reveals it’s a natural fit.

MAKES 12 TOSTADAS

½ cup sweet white onion, very thinly sliced (preferably on a handheld slicer)

Canola oil (about 2 cups), for shallow-frying

12 small (4- to 5-in.) corn tortillas

Diamond Crystal kosher salt

2 ripe medium Hass avocados, halved and pitted

2 tsp. lime juice or bottled yuzu juice, plus more as needed

1 lb. sushi-grade tuna, sliced 1/8-in. thick against the grain, chilled

Flaky sea salt

Level It Up

Swap out the raw onion for fried shallots.

Switch It Up

Sushi-grade scallops and hamachi make good substitutes for tuna.

½ cup ginger-scallion sauce (recipe follows)

King’s Chili Crisp or store-bought Chinese chili crisp, for drizzling

Cilantro flowers, micro cilantro, or cilantro leaves, for garnish

1. Put the onion in a medium bowl, fill it with cold water, and drain. Repeat several times, then drain well. This removes the onion’s sharpness and gives it a crisp texture. Refrigerate until needed.

2. Line a large (18-by-13-in.) sheet pan with paper towels. Pour ½ in. of oil into a large skillet and heat over mediumhigh heat for about 2 minutes. To test when it’s hot enough, dip the edge of a tortilla into the oil. When it bubbles immediately, fry 2 or 3 tortillas at a time, flipping once, until golden brown on both sides and completely crisp, about 1 minute per side.

3. Transfer the tostadas to the paper towels in a single layer to drain and immediately season lightly on both sides with kosher salt.

4. Scoop the avocado flesh into a medium mixing bowl. Add the lime juice and a generous pinch of kosher salt, then use a fork to mix and mash until creamy but still a bit chunky. Season to taste with more salt and lime juice.

5. Spread the avocado mash onto the tostadas. Lay the tuna on the avocado mash. Lightly sprinkle each slice of fish with flaky salt, then add the ginger-scallion sauce (about 2 tsp. per tostada) and a drizzle of the chili crisp. Top with the onions and cilantro. Serve immediately.

GingerScallion Sauce

Rarely does this Cantonese sauce last in my fridge for more than a day. When hot oil hits ginger and scallion, it tempers their sharpness but ignites their flavors, making the three-ingredient condiment so delicious you’ll find yourself searching for any excuse to eat it.

MAKES ABOUT 1 CUP

1 cup scallions, thinly sliced (about 1 bunch)

¼ cup ginger, finely grated (from two 4-by-1-in. knobs)

1 tsp. Diamond Crystal kosher salt ½ cup canola oil

1. In a heatproof medium mixing bowl, combine the scallions, ginger, and salt. Stir briefly and put the bowl near the stove.

2. In a small saucepan, heat the oil over high heat and wait for it to start smoking, 2 to 3 minutes. Pour it evenly and quickly over the scallion mixture, then immediately stir well.

3. Let it cool completely. (It keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.)

Amara Resort and Spa

Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort

Wellness & Beauty Awards 2026

Our first-ever Wellness & Beauty Awards celebrate the rituals, retreats, and remedies that can restore and revive us when we need it most—from oceanfront spas and desert sanctuaries to design-forward tools and science-backed skincare. These winners reflect the West’s signature blend of nature, innovation, and ease—and the simple idea that feeling good should fit real life. The West has always been a laboratory for living well. This inaugural list honors places and products that deliver results you can feel—salt air and hot springs, redwoods and ranchland, careful technique and cutting-edge tech. We tested what nourishes body and mind across categories including Seaside Serenity, City Escapes, Outdoor Escapes, Desert Reset, Wine Country Wellness, Iconic Retreats, Spa Destinations, Ranch Retreats, Restorative Resorts, Design-Forward Getaways, Nurturing Nature, plus Wellness & Supplements, Beauty & Body Care, Home & Ritual, Wellness Design, Services, and Events & Experiences that bring wellness home. Consider this your blueprint for living life to its fullest this year.

Rancho La Puerta

Best Seaside Serenity

Malibu Beach Inn

This inn, situated on the Pacific Coast Highway on an exclusive strip nicknamed “Billionaire’s Beach,” is the perfect way to dip in. Wellness is infused throughout the stay, from Malibu’s Cure Daily Spa treatments in the oceanfront suite to restorative rest on Sleep Number 360 i8 smart mattresses that track sleep patterns, heart rate, and breathing for truly deep rejuvenation.

The Sanctuary Beach Resort

Set along the Monterey Peninsu-

la, these redesigned beachfront cottages are a perfect place to land after experiencing the property’s mindful programming, such as the Burnout Recovery Journey and Full Moon Ceremonies. Tuck into ocean-totable dining at Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette to truly balance body, mind, and belly.

L’Auberge Del Mar

Perched above the Pacific in the seaside village of Del Mar, L’Auberge Del Mar embodies coastal wellness. Spa L’Auberge draws on oceanic botanicals for

holistic massages and skin therapies that restore balance and vitality. Start the day with yoga on the ocean-view deck, stroll the shoreline, or enjoy its oceanview pool. Locally sourced cuisine at Adelaide nourishes from within, completing a wellness experience rooted in California.

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

Hot off a multi-million-dollar renovation, this treasured oasis just north of San Diego is beloved for its robust garden grounds, rancho-inspired de-

sign, and rich SoCal charm. Nestled amid 10 acres of lush gardens between San Diego’s beaches and canyon trails, the hotel takes it beyond its top-tier spa and offers the region’s first wellness-based hotel bar with mixology at The Remedy Lounge.

Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Superlatives abound here: Set on 400 acres of coastal canyon minutes from the Pacific, the spa features innovations like Zestós DryFloat, zero-gravity Welnamis loungers, and vibro-

acoustic therapy. The 21,000square-foot facility includes 12 treatment rooms; men’s and women’s lounges with stone fireplaces; saunas, steam rooms, and indoor whirlpools; a shared fitness center; plus an outdoor relaxation area with a whirlpool and pool. It’s an expansive, high-touch environment designed to cocoon guests before and after treatments.

Half Moon Bay Lodge

Overlooking the rugged coastline, Half Moon Bay Lodge offers a serene escape where wellness and nature meet. From sunrise yoga and spa treatments to coastal bike rides and rounds at nearby Half Moon Bay Golf Links, every experience in-

vites guests to relax, recharge, and reconnect with the rhythm of the sea.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Rooted in Hawaiian practices and traditions, the wellness offerings at this luxe Kona resort will not only help you reset your body and mind but also provide an immersive cultural experience. Enjoy Reiki and energy healing sessions at the spa, along with cold plunge and sauna time or massages in open-air hales. Carve out some time to hit the Sports Club & Wellness Center for fitness programs curated by celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak.

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

At ‘Āwili Spa & Salon, personalized apothecary-style treatments draw on indigenous herbs and local products. Wellness extends to oceanfront yoga, meditation, and fitness classes, plus art workshops with resident artist Welzie and culinary sessions on poke-making and smoothie-blending with local ingredients. Set amid

Maui’s serene landscape, Andaz Maui inspires guests to slow down, reconnect, and restore body and spirit—an immersive, art- and nature-driven expression of Hawaiian well-being.

Hotel Californian

In the heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, Hotel Californian offers a vibrant wellness escape that blends Moroccan-inspired luxury with local flair. From custom aromatherapy at the Majorelle Spa to rooftop yoga and ocean-view lounging at Tan-Tan, every detail invites

guests to slow down, recharge, and fully immerse themselves in the city’s sun-drenched spirit.

Pendry Newport Beach

Spa Pendry blends fitness, wellness, health, and technology with seven treatment rooms (including a couple’s room), a eucalyptus-infused steam room, and a cryotherapy chamber— the only Newport Beach hotel to house one—plus MediSpa products and treatments. Add CBD salt scrubs and mud wraps, and you have a quintessentially Californian wellness retreat.

Fairmont Grand Del Mar

The Sanctuary Beach Resort

Best City Escapes

Los Angeles Athletic Club

Established in 1880, LAAC is a historic downtown club with 88,000 square feet devoted to fitness, wellness, and community. Sixty weekly classes; courts for squash, handball, racquetball, and basketball; a 25-yard heated lap pool; indoor track, strength, and cardio facilities; and studios for Pilates, yoga, and stretching—plus a kickboxing gym—make this a true OG of West Coast wellness.

The Club at the Claremont

Since 1915, this legendary club— open to hotel guests—has offered robust recreation: four pickleball and eight tennis courts for open play, clinics, and private lessons; three heated saltwater pools; and sauna,

steam, and indoor-outdoor whirlpools. Specialized studios support more than 75 weekly fitness classes, including Pilates, Kinesis, and In-Cycling. A Bay Area classic.

Rosewood Hotel Georgia

In downtown Vancouver, Sense, A Rosewood Spa, crafts tailored treatments with sustainable, locally inspired ingredients. A serene saltwater lap pool and full fitness center support daily routines, while proximity to the Seawall and Stanley Park invites walking and biking. Dining showcases seasonal, clean ingredients—especially at Reflections The Garden Terrace, a lush rooftop escape framed by greenery.

Fairmont Century Plaza

This 14,000-square-foot sanctuary features nine treatment rooms, experiential rain showers, sanariums, aromatherapy steam rooms, a Himalayan salt room, and a hammam. The menu spans performancedriven facials, relief and recovery massages, and sensorial, mood-enhancing body treatments. A polished, urban refuge in the heart of Los Angeles.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

This storybook village on California’s Central Coast boasts white-sand beaches, a charming downtown, and a thriving food scene. With scenic trails, yoga in the park, excellent surf breaks, quaint inns, and early-

to-bed charm, it’s the slow escape for wellness-minded travelers seeking art, nature, and restorative calm.

Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Strip is hardly the first place one might think of when it comes to wellness, but the 27,000-square-foot, two-story Waldorf Astoria Spa offers a serene, non-gaming sanctuary with sweeping skyline and mountain views. Featuring restorative treatments like the Harmony Renewal journey, IV drips by LIV Wellness, and an elegant eighth-floor pool deck, it’s the ideal spot to decompress with your girls after a night out or regroup after the grind of a long conference.

Best Outdoor Escapes

Ambiente Sedona, a Landscape Hotel

A modern take on the restorative red rocks retreat, Velvet Spa blends regional ingredients with tech-forward wellness. Think Dark Sky Lounge’s vibroacoustic sound therapy, private soaking baths with oxygen-infused hydrotherapy, and a secluded outdoor infrared sauna overlooking ancient waterways. Serene rooms feature earthy decor, Southwestinspired murals, curated music, and lambswool-heated beds.

Salish Lodge & Spa

At this Pacific Northwest getaway, wellness begins in-room with a Pillow Menu, luxe products, and oversize soaking tubs or dual-headed showers. As a gateway to Snoqualmie Valley hiking, the Lodge ties nature and nurture seamlessly. The spa offers Northwest Seaweed Salt Glow, coffee exfoliation, and honey therapies—plus a fireplace-lit relaxation room, daybeds, and soaking pools overlooking the falls.

Alila Ventana Big Sur

Spa Alila treats each service as ritual, prioritizing emotional, physical, and energetic balance. Beyond massages and facials are Reiki, chakra alignment, guided meditation, astrology, intuitive coaching, and oracle readings. Wellness suffuses the property: breathwork among redwoods, openair Japanese hot baths, and Alila Experiences like Elemental Reset and Coldstream Bliss, plus guided trail runs, forest breathwork, gratitude meditations, and couples connection sessions.

Best Desert Reset

CIVANA Wellness Resort and Spa

Outside Scottsdale, CIVANA offers an aquatherapy thermal circuit plus massages, facials, Reiki, energy healing, and reflexology. More than 100 complimentary fitness and wellness classes cover every interest, from the zodiac-inspired “Stars Align” program to expert-led retreats like “The Body Blueprint” with Brooke Burke and Sleep Retreats with Dr. Sheila Patel and Dr. Suhas Kshirsagar.

Tierra Luna Spa at Arizona Biltmore

At the base of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Tierra Luna draws on Sonoran muds and chakra-infused oils. The Sol Garden offers a cold plunge, hot tub, plush chaises, misters, and the Well Bar. Family-focused touches include the Tierra Luna Cabana for teens and tweens, with mini

treatments and self-care services beside the Paradise Pool.

Amara Resort and Spa

In Sedona, this serene yet sophisticated escape blends modern luxury with the region’s spiritual aura. Guests enjoy red rock–view yoga, locally inspired spa treatments, and desert-driven dining at SaltRock Southwest Kitchen— all just steps from Uptown Sedona’s trails, galleries, and signature vortex energy.

Tucson

Tucson’s wellness aura radiates from hundreds of trails across five mountain ranges and Saguaro National Park. The University of Arizona’s Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine set a national model. Resorts and spas draw on indigenous Sonoran ingredients—Arizona copper, blue corn, aloe—for inventive therapies. Icons like Canyon Ranch

and Miraval anchor the scene.

Miraval

Miraval Arizona offers retreats for intuitive spirituality, grief and loss, manifestation, and pre-/postpartum and menopause programs. Sleep and dream workshops improve sleep health. Trust the Journey: Equine Immersion remains central. Outdoor adventures embrace the Sonoran Desert’s drama at this pioneering center for mindful transformation.

Sensei Porcupine Creek

Sensei Porcupine Creek is where science-backed wellness meets relaxed luxury. Guests tailor their stay through guided fitness, one-on-one assessments, world-class golf and tennis, and rejuvenating treatments. Personalized itineraries balance movement, nourishment, and restorative downtime. The result is a precisely calibrated reset.

Miraval

Best Wine Country Wellness

Bardessono Hotel & Spa

The first California hotel awarded LEED Platinum, this suite-only Yountville retreat is built for in-room wellness. Spa suites host treatments— facials, massages, wraps, and bathing therapies—so guests can reset privately. For a different Napa lens, the N/A-pa Concierge curates alcoholfree itineraries: yoga, hiking, spa time, and mocktail tastings. It’s a sustainabilitydriven, wellness-forward stay that proves Napa’s joy extends well beyond the glass.

floral-infused massages to botanical facials, plus morning yoga and a fitness center with a barn door that opens to welcome in the cool morning wine country breezes.

Healdsburg

This quiet, bucolic town embodies a refined kind of wellness where wine, nature, and mindful living intertwine. From vineyard-inspired spa rituals at Montage Healdsburg and nature meditations at Hotel Healdsburg to bespoke Pilates sessions and hyper-seasonal dining at SingleThread Farm, the town invites travelers to slow down and savor the holistic, eco-conscious way of life California is known for.

Lodge at Bodega Bay

Royal Palms Resort and Spa

A premier well-being destination in the greater Phoenix and Scottsdale area for over 75 years. The resort’s Mediterranean–inspired design, outdoor showers, and that restorative desert air coalesce in a space that bridges past and present. Opt for a Desert Sage Salt Stone Massage featuring warmed Himalayan pink salt stones, or simply practice yoga and meditation in a setting that soothes and heals.

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa

Farmhouse Inn

On six acres that began as a 19th-century homestead, Farmhouse Inn layers Sonoma calm with its Wellness Barn, guided forest bathing, flower readings, and personalized baths. Daily hikes, bike rides, and riverside outings pair movement with scenery, while weekly classes—yoga and Pilates—offer a gentle reset before indulging in the region’s food and wine. It’s a pastoral, small-scale refuge with thoughtful programming and heritage charm.

MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa

There’s a serenity that immediately washes over you as you stroll the flower-lined paths of this resort and spa located in the heart of the charming city of Sonoma. Just off the idyllic pool is a spa with treatments ranging from

Nestled in the picturesque Southern edge of the Sonoma Coastline, a region practically synonymous with living well, the Lodge offers an oceanside sanctuary where wellness and nature intertwine through guided birding walks, weekly mindfulness and fitness classes, and serene spaces like its ocean-view lawn and library for quiet reflection. With sustainable upgrades debuting in 2025, including solar panels and an expanded spa, the Lodge continues setting the standard for restorative, eco-conscious getaways.

The Allison Inn & Spa

In Oregon’s Willamette Valley, this LEED Gold resort’s 15,000square-foot spa channels the region’s forests and vines. Fourteen treatment spaces, a vanishing-edge indoor pool, eucalyptus steam room, red cedar sauna, whirlpool, and modern fitness studio support deep restoration. Surrounded by vineyards and Douglas firs, the setting amplifies the spa’s calm—an elegant, naturetuned base for tasting, strolling, and enjoying unhurried afternoons.

This historic, 53-acre perch offers a Sanctuary Spa with 12 indoor and outdoor treatment rooms opening onto a Zen meditation garden, reflection pond, and co-ed quiet room. Therapies range from the Golden Lotus Balancing Ritual and Coconut Sumatra Body Ritual to Zen Shiatsu and Luk Pra Kope (Thai herbal massage). For more intensity, try Cycle Sculpt—Keiser-bike cardio plus strength—or hike nearby Echo Canyon.

Rancho La Puerta

Founded in 1940 at the base of Mount Kuchumaa in Tecate, Mexico, “The Ranch” spans 4,000 acres and offers about 40 classes daily—yoga, Pilates, TRX, pickleball, forest bathing, dance, birding, and advanced hikes— plus sunrise breakfast walks to its six-acre organic farm. Specialty weeks bring authors, musicians, artists, MDs, and other experts. A pioneering destination fitness resort that still sets the bar.

Golden Door

Midway between San Diego and Los Angeles, this 600-acre sanctuary blends ancient healing with modern practice, supported by a biointensive farm. Dedicated women’s weeks, men’s weeks, and select co-ed food and wine weeks are intentionally structured to recharge and transform. Golden Door donates 100% of net profits to aligned causes, pairing luxury with purpose and a clear mission for impact.

MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa

Best Iconic Retreats

Best Spa Destinations

Inn at Moonlight Beach

Perched above the Pacific in sun-soaked Encinitas, this regenerative coastal hideaway invites guests to slow down with herb-infused baths, garden-

to-cup teas, and hands-on experiences in its biodynamic urban farm. With fresh herbs harvested for in-room rituals and design rooted in biophilia, every detail is crafted to help

guests reconnect with the natural rhythms of coastal California life.

Four Moons Spa

This hidden gem in Encinitas feels like a tropical sanctuary, with Balinese bales over koi ponds, an ethereal hammam room, and outdoor soaking tubs beneath the palms. Beyond the usual massages and facials (which are indeed noteworthy), guests can dive into sound baths, somatic healing,

or intuitive readings—transformational experiences that capture the effortlessly Western spirit of mind-body wellness.

The Ranch Malibu

In the Santa Monica Mountains on 200 acres, The Ranch’s programs prioritize movement, nourishment, nature immersion, human connection, and restoration. Days begin with stretching and a two-to four-hour group hike, followed by strength training, restorative yoga, and

The Spa at Esperanza

daily massage. Plant-forward cuisine fuels recovery. Amenities include a Regenerative Organic-Certified garden, The Barn fitness center, Massage Village, heated pool, hot tub, cold plunge, infrared sauna, and elective health services. Next-level nearby L.A. renewal.

Love.Life

This El Segundo destination is rewriting the rules of modern wellness, uniting functional medicine, precision therapies, and plant-forward cuisine under one luminous, 45,000square-foot space that doubles as a social club. With everything from pickleball courts and red-light therapy to acupuncture, IV nutrients, and chefdriven meals, it’s where cutting-edge science meets soulful self-care—a bold new model for living well in California.

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs

A charming throwback updated with modern wellness, this Napa Valley icon helped introduce therapeutic mud baths to California. Soak in three geothermal mineral pools rich in magnesium and calcium, then join wellness workshops led by board-certified nutritionists on cardiovascular care, thyroid health, and mindful eating. House of Better complements spa time with health-forward Southwestern cuisine and herbal tonics infused with adaptogens and botanicals.

Sunny’s Spa & Beauty Lounge

Located within Oceanside’s

The Seabird Resort, Sunny’s Spa blends California ease with cutting-edge science. Offerings include Shiftwave, a nervoussystem regulation device designed to calm stress, improve sleep, and boost vitality. Pair the experience with NAD+ IV drips, B12 injections, and targeted facial and body treatments for visible, measurable results. With bio-optimization therapies, lymphatic flows, and craniosacral sessions, Sunny’s redefines modern self-care.

facile dermatology + boutique

Since its founding in 2016, facile has been a go-to skincare destination in Los Angeles. Both the West Hollywood and Pasadena locations offer cosmetic dermatology services, such as microneedling, facials, lasers, and more, provided by a medical team led by famed dermatologist Nancy Samolitis, MD, FAAD. The facile brand has evolved to include a skincare line of effective and dermatologist-developed products, which you can purchase at the brick-and-mortar boutiques and online.

Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort

You’ll feel as if you’re on your own private resort at this quiet, adults-only sanctuary situated on 48 acres of pristine coastline in Nayarit. Each of the 15 luxury tents at Naviva blends seamlessly with nature, embracing biophilic design, making you feel one with the forest. Whether seeking tranquility or adventure, guests

craft their own journey—from transformative temazcal ceremonies to bespoke customized massage treatments in their jungle safari tents, where you’ll unwind to the sounds of tropical birds and rain pattering on the canvas.

The Spa at Auberge du Soleil

Set within a sun-drenched olive grove overlooking Napa Valley, the sprawling 7,000square-foot Spa at Auberge du Soleil offers an intimate, adults-only sanctuary that feels like a real escape. Its French-inspired design, sweeping valley views, multiple pools, and signature couples’ experiences like the wine-infused Premier Cru and after-hours nighttime treatments make

it a uniquely romantic and restorative space to visit, no matter the time of day or year.

The Spa at Esperanza

There are a lot of incredible spas along this stretch of the Sea of Cortez, but this Cabo property stands out for its holistic approach, blending ancient Mexican healing traditions with modern therapies in an intimate desert oasis.

Take part in a temazcal-inspired Pasaje de Agua hydrotherapy circuit for a transformative journey of renewal, or book in for an ultra-exclusive massage at one of its well-appointed beach cabanas to unwind in an intimate setting with the ocean as your own personal sound machine.

Four Moons Spa

Best Ranch Retreats

Vermejo, A Ted Turner Reserve

On 558,000 acres of restored Western wilderness in northern New Mexico, wellness is time in nature: watching a bison herd on a conservation tour, hearing elk bugle at dawn, reaching an alpine lake overlook. Vermejo’s mission is authentic connection through meaningful immersion on land protected for generations by long-term conservation. It is renewal defined by scale, silence, and wildlife.

Brush Creek Ranch

Set on 30,000 acres of Wyoming wilderness, Brush Creek Ranch combines all-inclusive luxury with an authentic Western spirit of wellness and adventure. From yoga in a 20,000-square-foot greenhouse and sound healing in a historic schoolhouse to forest bathing, equine therapy, and farm-to-table dining, it offers a ranch experience that proves sometimes wellness is more about reconnecting with nature, and yourself, authentically.

C Lazy U Ranch

Across 8,500 acres of Rocky Mountain wilderness, the ranch experience is intentionally unplugged—cabins without

Best Restorative Resorts

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

TVs, long days in nature, bonfire nights, and easygoing community. Stress management arrives quietly: open space, plus the steady rhythm of classic Western traditions in a serene, highcountry setting.

Rancho Bernardo Inn: A Southern California Retreat for the Senses

On 265 acres in North County San Diego, The Spa flows indoors and out. Treatments unfold in outdoor casitas surrounded by jasmine-scented gardens and water features. Guests can follow a massage with time in the secluded saline spa pool, join garden yoga, or lounge in private cabanas with seasonal bites delivered poolside.

Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows

Set on 23 Sonoran Desert acres, the resort’s interiors draw from 1950s Arizona creatives like Alexander Girard, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Paolo Soleri. Three saltwater pools and the Palo Verde Spa & Apothecary anchor wellness with a full suite of customizable treatments. Midcentury-informed style meets easy, desert-breezy.

The stunningly sited wellness center features a dedicated pool, redwood sauna, and eucalyptus steam room. New treatments include TheraFace LED masks, RecoveryAir JetBoots, CBD wellness shots, and virtual reality meditation. Signature offerings span the Sleep Ritual, AI Aescape Massage, Bacara Body Melt, Cryo-Sculpt Facial, and 50-minute Stress Relief Massage. Coastal renewal at its finest.

The Global Ambassador Hotel

This new high-bar hospitality experience in Phoenix boasts an ultra-luxe wellness program with exclusive partners—Augustinus Bader, U Beauty, Biologique Recherche, MOVA by Camila Perez, Environ, and Oxylight Sapphire. The 16,000-squarefoot spa offers advanced facials, skin enhancements, massages, sculpting, acupuncture, light therapy, IV drips, cryotherapy, hot and cold plunges, eucalyptus steam, and a Finnish sauna. It’s a next-level desert reset.

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

Set on 45 acres of lush gardens, olive groves, and citrus trees, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa is a luxurious Southern California sanctuary where wellness and indulgence meet. From open-air yoga and awardwinning spa treatments to a world-class gym facility, padel courts, and fresh-

squeezed morning juice deliveries, every detail invites guests to unwind, reconnect, and even compete.

Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo

Tucked within a 3,000-acre private nature reserve in Mexico’s up-and-coming region of Costalegre, the resort offers a rare blend of luxury and truly wild seclusion. With copal-infused spa rituals, transformative temazcal ceremonies, chef Elena Reygadas’ award-winning cuisine, and immersive conservation experiences led by on-site biologists, it embodies the modern idea of wellness as a reconnection to nature, culture, and self.

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

When you step into the Waldorf Astoria Spa, serene surroundings instantly relax you, from the saltwater pools to the sauna to the luxe lounge. Indulge in treatments guided by the four phases of the moon, or enjoy Mexican folk healing rituals that were developed by local curanderos and shamans. Aside from the spa, the resort has a partnership with Alo Moves, hosting wellness retreats and integrating the brand’s fitness app on all room TVs.

Sol, Wellbeing by Auberge at Chileno Bay Resort & Residences

Picture this: a Bath House journey that begins with “The Attunement,” a sensory ritual of sound bowl vibrations and copal cleansing. You move through an aromatherapy

Vermejo, A Ted Turner Reserve

steam room, an invigorating ice bar, a Himalayan salt room, a cold plunge, a vitality pool, and a self-guided reflexology pool, then unwind in the Nap Garden. Baja relaxation is rarely so refined.

Banyan Tree Veya, Valle de Guadalupe

Set amid the rolling vineyards of Baja’s wine country, Veya sets itself apart from rustic offerings in the area with pool villas, the val-

ley’s first temazcal ceremony, and a world-class spa blending Asian and Indigenous healing rituals. It’s a transformative retreat where mindfulness meets Mexican terroir, setting the standard for Valle de Guadalupe.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol

Tierra Mar Spa is an indoor-outdoor haven that invites you to linger. Here, you can lift weights,

splash in the serene pool, and indulge in treatments such as rebozo massages, cocoa body wraps, and facials with 111SKIN and Apotheca Mía with native botanicals like cempasúchil and tepezcohuite. Hydrotherapy circuits and koi pond gardens enhance a modern hacienda setting. Wellness continues with complimentary ocean sound healing and a fitness center designed by Harley Pasternak, plus Pilates and yoga. True Baja bliss.

Castle Hot Springs

An adults-only, 1,100-acre Sonoran Desert icon has just 31 cabins and villas, its namesake hot springs, a working farm, via ferrata, horseback riding, and a standout spa. Once host to Roosevelts, Vanderbilts, and Astors, it sits about an hour from Phoenix. With history, springs, and wide-open desert, few places restore quite like this.

Waldorf Astoria

Los Cabos Pedregal

Best DesignForward Getaways

Asaya Spa at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort

Set amid black lava near Hualalai, Asaya is a stunner of a spa. The ethos is expressed in the Kahuwai Journey, a multi-stage treatment that begins bayside with gratitude, continues with a canoe ride, and culminates in a healing massage—honoring the ocean’s power. Treatments use local ingredients and sustainable skincare with strong ties to community purveyors. Two tranquility areas frame striking volcano views, encouraging reflection before or after services in a singular Hawaiian landscape at one of our all-time favorite resorts.

Mii amo

Fresh off a recent $40 million renovation, this 42,000-square-foot destination spa set amid the striking landscape and towering red rocks of Boynton Canyon includes a sensory garden, a twostory fitness studio, and a reflexology path. Its intentional guided journeys are a once-in-a-lifetime transformative investment that will truly change your life for the better.

Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas

This property, set on Baja’s secluded East Cape, blends desert, mountain, and sea into a unique expression of holistic luxury. With its world-class Oasis Spa featuring Baja-inspired treatments and access to pretty much every outdoor activity you can think of, from snorkeling and yoga to stand-up paddleboarding and horseback riding, it offers one of the most rejuvenating wellness escapes in Mexico.

Mii amo

THOMAS J. STORY

Best Nurturing Nature

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail

Four Seasons doesn’t mess around when it comes to the high-touch luxury experiences, and the reimagined spa is no exception, blending alpine serenity with cutting-edge wellness rituals rooted in rest, recovery, and mindfulness. Guests can indulge in bespoke treatments—like the yerba mate–infused Healing Ritual or the rejuvenating Extreme 360° Beauty Ceremony—set against the tranquil backdrop of Vail Mountain.

High Country Motor Lodge

This revamped motor lodge in Flagstaff, Arizona, surrounded by towering pines, is a slow stay that will transport you to simpler times. With Scandinavian-inspired design and an emphasis on restorative wellness, its open-air Nordic spa (the only one of its kind in Arizona) invites guests to cycle through hot and cold immersion, or decompress at firepits beneath the dark mountain skies.

The Ground

The Ground is a regenerative retreat in Oregon’s Willamette Valley that seamlessly intertwines wellness, community, and connection to the land through smart design and practical permaculture. Anchored by Tabula Rasa Farms and its farm-totable restaurant Grounded Table, guests can immerse themselves in mindful experiences, from yoga and forest bathing to meals crafted by chef Sarah Schafer, that celebrate living in harmony with nature.

NewTree Ranch

If you’ve ever dreamed of staying at an Italian agriturismo, this 120-acre eco-luxury sanctuary is as close as you can encounter in California. Nestled in the redwood-lined hills of Healdsburg, guests can practice yoga by the biodynamic gardens, pet adorable goats, and reconnect with nature through sound baths, forest bathing, and farm-to-table living that nourishes body and soul.

Redding

Framed by stunning Mount Shasta and Mount Lassen, this Northern California city is an unexpected haven where wellness and wilderness flow together. Greet the sunrise with yoga on the Sundial Bridge, hike to hidden waterfalls, or unwind with holistic lymphatic drainage, sound baths, salt cave therapy, and infrared sauna sessions with local practitioners, then refuel at independently owned juice bars and organic cafes that make healthy living more personal than big box gyms and retreats.

Best Wellness & Supplements

Laird Superfood

Founded by surfing icon Laird Hamilton, Laird’s lineup of superfood products is made for active lifestyles. The brand is committed to providing minimally processed offerings, so its creamers, instant lattes, coffees, protein bars, and supplements contain simple, real-food ingredients that support energy, endurance, and overall well-being.

Make Time Wellness

Women’s brain health is the focus of Make Time Wellness, co-created by Emma Heming Willis and Helen Christoni. The brand’s supplements are formulated with clinically backed ingredients that support a woman’s daily routine, whether it’s helping improve memory and focus, sleep quality, or mental energy.

Traditional Medicinals

A trailblazer in harnessing the power of plants, Sonoma County’s own Traditional Medicinals was founded in 1974 by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar and activist Drake Sadler. The brand has become a go-to for organic herbal teas, and its collection has expanded to more than 60 blends designed to support sleep,

energy, digestion, throat health, immunity, and more. Its commitment to sustainability is another plus, with sustainable packaging, compostable tea wrappers, and Fair Trade-certified ingredients.

Jarrow Formulas

Jarrow Formulas was founded in 1977 in Los Angeles, when supplement orders would be personally delivered to local health food stores. Today, Jarrow offers hundreds of science-backed and rigorously tested products to support all kinds of needs, from digestive function and heart health to cognitive wellness.

Ammortal

This device uses science-backed technologies—like red-light therapy, molecular hydrogen, and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy—to completely reset your body, mind, and spirit in just 25 minutes. With a $159,500 price tag, it’s not exactly something the average person can invest in at home, but you can check Ammortal’s website for clinics where you can experience the chamber.

Ammortal

Best Beauty & Body Care

Dr. Althea

Especially effective for sensitive skin, K-beauty brand Dr. Althea’s line uses Korean dermatological science and nature-inspired ingredients to gently and effectively calm and improve skin health. The minimalist-branded products— including nourishing creams, vitamin C serums, hydrating masks, and cleansing balms—are innovatively formulated and won’t irritate, making them a perfect addition to your beauty and wellness routine.

Ollie Blossom

If bathtime is an integral part of your wellness routine, Ollie Blossom needs to be on your radar. From bath soaks to shower steamers, the brand’s handcrafted products are designed to upgrade your self-care routine, helping you unwind and enjoy some mindful moments. The items are made with compostable materials and premium ingredients, so you can relax with ease knowing you’re being eco-friendly, too.

Somnee

Who knew a headband was the secret to a good night’s sleep?

Developed by Dr. Matthew Walker and a team of University of California, Berkeley neuroscientists, Somnee helps you get better quality sleep. You wear the headband before bedtime, and it maps your unique brain waves. After learning

Croix Filtered Showerhead

about these patterns, the device guides the brain to its optimal state for sleep. Clinical trials have shown that Somnee can outperform melatonin, helping users fall asleep in half the time, extending sleep by about 30 minutes, and reducing sleep disruptions.

The Refill Shoppe

Product packaging and single-use items can be so wasteful; The Refill Shoppe is here to fix that. The Ventura, California-based boutique sells more than 50 refillable bath, body, home, and cleaning products, plus a curation of reusable finds like cloth facial rounds, sponges, and dryer balls. If you can’t make it to the store, there’s also a customizable “Sudscription” refill service that delivers these sustainable goods to your door.

ELEVEN Australia

Haircare doesn’t have to be complicated, and ELEVEN Australia was created to simplify it. The highperformance, salon-quality product line features avocado oil, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, and native Australian ingredients like wattleseed. With more than 40 products, there’s something for every hair need. An added bonus? The collection is cruelty-free and PETA-approved, the packaging is 100% recyclable, and the brand supports numerous social and human rights causes.

Best

Home & Ritual

Croix Filtered Showerhead

Croix’s filtered showerheads get rid of chlorine, heavy metals, and contaminants. Expect softer skin and healthier hair post-shower. Choose from a handheld or classic version in three different finishes to match your bathroom’s hardware. Plus, installation is easy—the product comes with the tools you need, so you don’t have to call a plumber.

wildwonder

What makes wildwonder stand out is its foundation in Chinese herbal medicine. Founder and CEO Rosa Li was inspired by the healing drinks of her heritage and decided to give them a modern twist. Low-sugar, gut-friendly, caffeine-free, and gluten-free, the beverages contain live probiotics and prebiotic fiber and come in refreshing flavors like raspberry lychee, strawberry passion, guava rose, and mango gold.

Canopy

Canopy is on a mission to make your whole house healthier in a stylish way. Its range of dermatologist-recommended products—humidifiers, faucet and bath tub filters, and filtered showerheads—is created to improve your sleep, bath, and overall everyday routines. And since the designs are sleek and seamless, these wellness appliances won’t ever be an eyesore in your home.

Best Events & Experiences

Todos Santos and Loreto Wellness Festival

Set in the bohemian beach town of Todos Santos—long a magnet for artists, surfers, and free-spirited travelers seeking an alternative path—the Todos Santos Wellness Festival celebrates holistic living through yoga, meditation, sound healing, and community connection. This year’s gathering expands with the Loreto Live Well Experience, a serene coastal retreat where participants can integrate their journeys through oceanfront yoga, spa rituals, and mindful exploration.

Somnee

Best Wellness Design

SaunaBox

SaunaBox makes it possible for anyone to have an at-home sauna, with no plumbing or complicated electrical work required. You get all the traditional benefits of a sauna— contrast therapy, cardiovascular conditioning, muscle recovery, and immune support—in a portable design. SaunaBox offerings include a wooden structure or tent-like options that can be controlled by a mobile app so you can preheat the sauna remotely, track your sessions, adjust intensity levels, and access guided meditations through your phone.

Best Services

Delavie Sciences

Do you know what an extremophile is? They're organisms that thrive in extreme environments, and they're the basis for Delavie Sciences' skincare products, which are formulated to rejuvenate and protect the skin. The brand's signature innovation is Bacillus Lysate, which is derived from a microorganism that can handle the extreme conditions of space and is microbiome-friendly. The patented ingredient can boost hyaluronic acid production, reduce hyperpigmentation, and protect against UVA-induced free radicals—and it's featured in the brand's signature product, the Aeonia AgeDefying Serum.

Alignmed

Redwood Outdoors

Turn your backyard into a restorative escape with Redwood Outdoors. The Pacific Northwest-based company designs saunas and cold plunges that blend right into your home’s design while honoring Finnish wellness traditions. Its offerings are made from high-quality, sustainably sourced materials, and select products in the collection contain wood that’s responsibly harvested and FSC-certified.

With Alignmed's inventive apparel, you'll never be told to stand up straighter ever again. The brand creates clothing (shirts, sports bras, shorts, and leggings) that promotes your posture, thanks to a patented Neuroband technology that uses resistance and support to strengthen your core and retrain your body to find its ideal alignment. In turn, better posture equals fewer aches and pains, which is a win for back and joint problems.

Balanced Rock

For the ultimate wellness travel experience in Yosemite, check out Balanced Rock. The organization offers retreats, hikes, treks, excursions, and wellness classes in and around the national park, so you can make the most of the healing power of the great outdoors. Sign up for one of the classes and workshops already on the calendar, or book a privately-guided adventure that's tailored to your wellness goals and preferences.

Delavie Sciences

TRAVEL & ESCAPES

Waves and Wisdom in Waikiki

A five-day surf retreat with champion longboarder Kai Sallas blends ocean adventure with a lesson in patience, courage, and finding flow, on and off the board.

Story by KRISTA SIMMONS

Pulling up to the Kaimana Beach Hotel,

I came down with a case of the jitters. Far from the usual wave of calm I’ve felt when touching ground on Oahu, the nerves hit as if it were the night before summer camp. The next morning, I would be embarking on my first surf retreat with Hawaiian longboarding champion Kai Sallas. And my inner critic started to nag as I unpacked my surfsuits (and my ego). What if I’m the worst of the bunch? Am I too old to be doing this? What if this isn't for me? But I committed to carving out the time as a gift to myself for my 40th birthday. And there was no turning back now.

Sipping a mai tai at the hotel bar, a local guitarist played Hawaiian slack-key guitars. The sun set, my tensions eased, and I headed upstairs to the conference room overlooking the ocean to meet the group. This would be one of our two classrooms for the week—the other being the crystal-clear waters of Waikiki’s Gold Coast right outside. I introduced myself to the other campers, a mixed bag of locals and travelers whose ages spanned from 30-somethings, all the way up to surfers in their 70s. Sallas spent time hearing out our goals and asking what we were riding back home so he could kit us out with a board from his colorful quiver for the week.

The next morning, Sallas put me on a 10-foot Waikiki, a classic noserider he felt would be much better for a tall gal than what I’d been using, eventually getting me to my goal of cross-stepping, cruising, and hanging 10. His various designs crib from knowledge he gained working with the legendary Hawaiian shaper Donald Takayama, and the playful colorways are unmistakable in a lineup.

“A lot of times when people are struggling, they’re just on the wrong board to begin with,” Sallas says. “First we gotta get you on the right board, then you can apply the techniques.”

New tools in hand, we headed out for our first session at the break directly in front of Kaimana. It was an intimidatingly big day, which was especially challenging with all of us finding our footing. But frustrations were quelled by cheering each other on and chatting in solidarity between sets. Afterward, we returned to the hotel to review drone footage filmed by local cinematographer Matty Leong, who’d be shooting our sessions all week. As we noshed on tuna tataki and papaya bowls, Sallas went through each one of our waves in detail.

“You can only imagine what you look like so much. You actually need to see yourself surfing, where your feet are, how you’re turning, and where you’re catching the wave,” he says. Watching it all pulled up on screen in front of the group was hum-

Author and travel editor

Krista Simmons finds her footing cross-stepping on a wave on Waikiki.

bling—and wildly helpful.

It became clear early on that this experience was much more elevated than some of the surf shack getaways I’d seen on Instagram. And the footage review really helped us dial in our goals for the next day.

“One of my biggest things is surfing with intention. Pick one thing that you’re going to work on each session, rather than going out there with an empty mind,” Sallas says. “You’ve gotta go out there with a goal.”

Our days were punctuated by Sallas’ timeless knowledge paired with warm waves, arching rainbows, daily turtle sightings, and the spirit of aloha. His father was a Waikiki beach boy who spread the love of surfing to curious travelers, and he’s carrying that legacy of lifelong learning at these newly launched Oahu overnighters. An added bonus was that each of the five days, he was right out there with us, mitigating locals who otherwise would have been difficult to navigate at popular spots like Queens. Sallas says he grew up on that wave, and every so often, he’d pull into one as a reminder. Seeing his signature style, seemingly effortless noseriding, and elegant long lines at water level was almost worth the price of admission itself. The fact that he’s still competing is truly an inspiration as a lifelong learner.

“I’m 44 now, and I won my first World Surf League World Championship when I was 42,” he says. “In my late 30s, I really felt myself slowing down. I countered that by saying, ‘Screw this, I don’t want to go down that route.’ I picked up ocean paddling, added in gym workouts, yoga, stretching, and balance exercises, and I won two world titles in my 40s.”

I quickly learned that though Sallas makes cross-stepping and noseriding look graceful and easy, the wish of learning to walk the board by the end of the retreat was a little (okay, incredibly) unrealistic, even as a lifelong athlete. Learning at 40 has been all about continuously swallowing my ego, along with a whole lot of seawater. Even Sallas admits it’s a tough sport to take on, no matter the age; surfing doesn’t have any formal rules or way to replicate conditions like most others do. It’s a whole lot of pattern recognition plus patience, and progress is never linear. There was a breaking point for every single one of us at the five-day retreat, where that growth process was frustrating to the point of tears. One surfer dropped in on a group of locals at Queens and got cursed out and nearly taken to shore for a throwdown. On a particularly big day, another member of the group just couldn’t seem to land a clean pop-up and catch a ride, and kept trying until it resulted in a breakdown. As for me, I was

repeatedly flying backward off my board while trying to cross-step, all with an embarrassingly toasty sunburn I got from staying out too long on the very first day. But we all kept encouraging each other with hugs, yews, shakas, and good vibes. So when the little victories like my first successful baby steps came, they were so, so much sweeter.

Sallas has lived that reality, too. “I’ve placed second in the world four times and third a few times. I’ve missed out by maybe a 10th or a 100th of a point. When you have those moments, you gotta just not give up.”

By week’s end, my wave count was high and my “get-back-up muscle” felt stronger. I upgraded from my soft-top surfboard and bought my very own Waikiki to bring back to the mainland. (I lovingly named her Kiki.) But most importantly, I found a new tribe of ocean people. I now consistently surf with one of the women I met down in Santa Cruz, and we have a group chat going with the others to continually encourage each other’s progress. That, to me, is the heart of wellness: consistent movement, nourishment, time in nature, and a community that buoys you. The ocean asked us to show up, be present, and put one foot in front of the other. Sallas gave us the tools, the intention, and the space. The rest is ours to practice.

By week’s end, my wave count was high and my “get-back-up muscle” felt stronger.

EMBRACING THE

OF THE

HEART WEST

Few & Far’s bespoke experiences celebrate the rhythm of ranch life and the art of living lightly on the land.

Story by KRISTA SIMMONS

Photographs by THOMAS J. STORY

“Honk if you tonk,”

read the bumper sticker slapped on the rusted pickup trundling along in front of us as we turned off the highway and onto a dusty road toward Ellison Ranch. It was the perfect playful cue to loosen up and shift gears from deadlines to daydreams. As we pulled into our campsite situated on the border of the Custer Gallatin National Forest, big skies stretched above pastures dotted with cows, and the sound of the West Boulder River came rushing through.

“Cows outnumber people here two to one,” jokes our host Michelle Holdener, whose company Wild Productions outfitted the Few & Far campgrounds, which included luxury safari tents circled around a covered base camp, complete with a lounge area, full bar, rustic dining table, wood-burning sauna, and of course, a firepit.

It’s hard to imagine that these luxe glampgrounds were grazing land a couple of weeks ago. And that once we’re gone, it will be too. It’s all a part of the ephemeral magic that comes with a journey with Few & Far, whose new private trips are a fleeting haven for reflection, adventure, and renewal.

Clockwise from left: Luke Stockwell strums the guitar for guests; horses at Ellison Ranch; milliner Russ Fry of Yellowstone Hat Co. adding flair to his wares; guests enjoying dinner at sunset in front of the base camp that Few & Far built on the ranch in collaboration with Wild Productions; a hearty steelhead trout bowl by chef Robin Hill.

Few & Far was founded by Sarah and Jacob Dusek, the visionary duo behind Under Canvas, the chain of luxe glamping tent hotels located near national parks that became the category leader, thanks to their smart combination of five-star amenities and proximity to profoundly beautiful nature. Few & Far further builds on the sustainable safari legacy with a forward-thinking approach to travel. They are currently operating customized private trips in destinations like the Seychelles, Rwanda, and the Dolomites, but the Western trips to spots like Yellowstone, the Tetons, and Mendocino are where they really shine.

Through their investment firm Enygma Ventures, the couple has supported more than 10,000 women-led enterprises across Africa, and now they’re applying that same spirit of empowerment and restoration to travel. Campsites are solar-powered, zero-waste, and designed to vanish without a trace. But

This page: Paragliding with outfitter Bozeman Paragliding; wranglers Katie and John Clark. Opposite, clockwise from top left: Krista Simmons trying on a custom hat from Yellowstone Hat Co.; branding a hat with a bison; a wood-burning barrel sauna for guests to heat up in before cold plunging in the nearby river; the Few & Far base camp bar.

it’s just as much about the experiences that come along with these bespoke journeys as it is the creature comforts in nature.

When we arrived, the team from Yellowstone Hat Co. greeted us with whiskey and a custom fitting session. Husband-and-wife owners Russ Fry and Susan Byerly shared stories of the time-honored tradition of millinery while mindfully hand-shaping each brim slowly over steam, transforming them into something personal. My hat—a cognac cattleman that we thoughtfully adorned with mussel shells and a matchbook from a local seafood shack—became an ode to my coastal cowgirl California roots.

“Cows outnumber people here two to one,” jokes our host Michelle Holdener.

Each day at Few & Far unfurled like this, a meditation in motion. Mornings began with the slow ritual of a wood-fired sauna and stretching beside the river, its steady current acting as nature’s sound machine. One morning after breakfast, we soared above the Gallatin Range with Bozeman Paragliding, an experience that redefined perspective both literally and figuratively. Later that afternoon, Bozeman-based HAAN Aesthetic Medicine set up a fullservice spa in one of the tents, offering CO₂ laser treatments that felt surprisingly at home against a backdrop of mountain sunflowers and sage. The afternoons were

Left: Chef Robin Hill presenting a course at supper. This page: A view of the range at Ellison Ranch; the interior of the luxury safari tents pitched for Few & Far with photographer Thomas J. Story seated outside.

marked by hikes through wildfloweradorned trails, and evenings brought live fire dinners by local chef Robin Hill. One night, a local healer performed a sound bath at moonrise under the stars.

This pace invited both stillness and surrender. On a horseback ride outfitted by our in-house wranglers Katie and John Clark, we crossed open meadows that bloomed in bursts of pink and gold. Around us, the snowcapped peaks framed a valley that seemed untouched by time. One evening before bed, we were awakened by some hoots back at base camp. It turns out everyone was marveling at the northern lights. This wasn’t intended as a journey to chase the aurora, but that’s the magic of travel: experiencing the unexpected. In a world that often moves too fast, it’s trips like these that remind us to slow down and embrace laughter, connection, and moments of grace that catch you off guard.

As cowboy poet John Clark said, “Memories are something nobody can ever take from you.”

This page: Cattle grazing at Ellison Ranch, formerly a homestead; A relaxing sound bath by the river is performed by Jessie Solon of Frequency Sound Healing before campers head to bed. Opposite: An unexpected show of the northern lights dancing in the sky above the luxury tents at Few & Far.

SILICON VALLEY

CALIFORNIA

If you’re a fan of food TV, then you’ll hardly need an introduction to Stephanie Izard, whose bouncy curls and playful style of cooking have landed her wins on shows like Top Chef and Iron Chef. First finding success with restaurants in Chicago, she now lives in California, most recently opening Valley Goat in Sunnyvale. Here, she shows us that though Greater Silicon Valley is most famously known as the hub of the tech world, there’s a vibrant culinary scene worth exploring.

EAT

The insider:

Stephanie Izard, Chef-Owner of Girl & The Goat

I’ve been lucky to explore a lot of awesome spots with Valley Goat ’s chef de cuisine Ray Chi, who is a great tour guide. Some of my favorite visits have been Special Hainan Chicken in Millbrae for super tender and flavorful chicken, Broma in Mountain View for great tapas and even better pastries, Shancheng Lameizi in Milpitas for an awesome Chinese hot pot, 10 Butchers Korean BBQ in Sunnyvale for fluffy jeon and perfectly flavored beef, and The Second Wife in San Jose for delish noodles and great service.

DRINK

Rossotti’s Alpine Inn is so pretty. It’s the perfect place to have a drink and a bite outside among

Seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts.

all of the redwoods. I also love the selection at Barebottle Brewing Co. We serve a lot of their beers at Treehouse, actually. A Sunset favorite is Clark’s

Oyster Bar, where you can pull up a seat at the smartly designed bar and people-watch while enjoying an excellent lobster roll alongside a Vesper martini.

DO Mountain View Farmers’ Market is worth swinging through to shop and get inspiration. Northern California produce is in a class of its own. The Santa Cruz Moun-

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Modernism Show

tains are great for hikes, especially Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

STAY

Well, I’m a little biased on this one, because I always

stay at the Treehouse Hotel when I’m in town. It’s an amazing spot, and I always feel right at home. Our playful, trippy styles match perfectly. I wish I had more time to swim

in the pool when I’m there because the cabanas feel like an adult summer camp! Another great option is Four Seasons Palo Alto, which has a great brunch and a rooftop pool.

Broma

Four Seasons Palo Alto

DRINK the ISSUE

The Sunset Wine Club features the best bottles in the West, perfectly paired

with recipes in the magazine.

There’s no easier way to drink well than the Sunset Wine Club, a selection of story-worthy wines produced by the top vintners in California, Oregon, Washington, and beyond—delivered straight to your door. We’ve partnered with the country’s premier online wine retailer, Wine Access, to curate a standout mix of reds, whites, bubblies, and rosés. Think of each delivery as a box of aperitifs, party-ready bottles, and weeknight dinner solutions. Even better, they’ve been selected to go with the recipes and menus in the issue you’re holding in your hands. As a member of the Sunset Wine Club, you will receive the following exclusive benefits:

WINES INOURNEXT SHIPMENT!

2024 Bordo Mare Vermentino, Las Brisas, Napa Valley

PAIRS WITH: Tuna Tostadas with Avocado, Ginger & Scallion (page 49).

Vermentino’s bright citrus, saline edge, and crisp acidity cut through the rich avocado and fried tortilla while refreshing the palate between bites of tuna. Its subtle herbal notes echo the ginger-scallion sauce.

2023 Domaine St. Laurent Pinot Noir, Rogue Valley

PAIRS WITH: Roasted Kabocha with Five Spice & Hot Honey (page 46). A lighterbodied Pinot Noir offers sweet red fruit, gentle spice, and bright acidity—perfect for complementing kabocha’s natural sweetness. The fivespice blend mirrors the wine’s warming spice tone.

2020 Tome Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Stake, Columbia Valley

PAIRS WITH: Malai Koftas (page 42). Cabernet’s dark fruit, firm tannins, and savory depth meet their match in malai kofta’s rich, cashew-tomato gravy. The dish’s creamy base softens the tannins, while the wine’s structure and herbal notes stand up to the warming spices and aromatics.

Six Story-Worthy Wines, Shipped Every Three Months

Each bottle is thoughtfully crafted by a group of diverse, environmentally responsible winemakers.

Sunset

Recipes,

Profound Pairings

Every bottle comes with exclusive tasting notes and suggested pairings for Sunset recipes, hand-picked by sommeliers.

Subscribe to the Sunset Wine Club and you’re not just getting wine shipments. You’re getting a taste of the magazine’s featured selections and the captivating story behind each bottle. It’s an invitation to sit and sip at the Sunset table. $120 per shipment.

2020 MichelSchlumberger Chardonnay, Mountain Ranch Estate, Dry Creek Valley

PAIRS WITH: Gajar Halwa (page 43). A well-made Chardonnay with warm baking-spice oak, buttery texture, and orchard-fruit richness beautifully complements the caramelized sweetness of slowcooked carrots.

2019 Bodega Rancho Zinfandel, Craighead Vineyard, Sonoma Coast

PAIRS WITH: Chili Crisp Labneh (page 48). Juicy berry fruit, peppery spice, and plush texture counter the creamy tang of labneh and meet the chili crisp’s heat headon. The ripe fruit softens spicy edges, while its spice echoes the chili oil’s complexity.

First Shot at Rare Gems and Icons You’ll be first in line to claim the newest, highly allocated wines. These are bottles Sunset editors stand behind and serve in their own homes.

2022 Pedroncelli Petite Sirah, Dry Creek Valley

PAIRS WITH: Ringan no Oro (page 40).

The smoky depth, and powerful tannins complement fireroasted eggplant’s earthy character. The acidity and dark fruit contrast the dish’s bright tomato-onion masala and lemon, while the wine’s intensity matches the robust spices typical of the cuisine.

KING SALMON

ALASKA

World-class angler and seasoned guide

Insider

Kate Crump opened The Lodge at 58* North on Alaska’s Naknek River with the aim of giving travelers rare access to untouched wilderness and the chance to experience the breathtakingly beautiful Bristol Bay. “King Salmon is the gateway to Katmai National Park. Don’t blink or you’ll miss this sleepy little town,” she says. “People here don’t just consider themselves outdoors folk—they believe it is a way of life and are passionate about public lands, clean water, and community.” Here’s what she recommends doing while in this remote area of the Last Frontier.

The insider:

Kate Crump, Co–Founder of The Lodge at 58* North

DO

Fly to Katmai National Park and Preserve on a floatplane with Katmai Air and experience the wonder of Brooks Falls , where the bears draw thousands of visitors every year. Thanks to the largest run of sockeye salmon left in the world,

the brown bears feed intently right before your eyes, creating what should be the eighth wonder of the world. You can also visit the remote Lake Clark National Park and Preserve or Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve, the latter of which is one of the most wild and leastvisited places in the National Park System. Or, fly over the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes to see epic views of the largest volcanic eruption in modern North American history, as well as scenic glaciers and craters.

EAT

Everyone loves a good food truck, and our small town is blessed to have small business owner Krysta Watters at Watters Edge to share her creations with our community. Try the birria— cleverly nicknamed burria—tacos on fresh corn tortillas for her playful take on Alaska-Mex. While fishing for salmon

The Lodge at 58 * North

Brooks Falls

Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes

on the wild rivers of Bristol Bay with The Lodge at 58* North , pause for one of Alaska’s most timeless traditions: a shore lunch cooked over an open fire, with the aroma of wild fish and woodsmoke filling the air as you and your friends share stories along the riverbank.

DRINK

If you want ambience and a fun vibe, sneak into the Sockeye Saloon , where the bartenders know you by name and give hugs with a cocktail. Order Romney’s blueberry lemon drop for a touch of sweet summer in this vibey dive bar. Hike to the top of Dumpling Mountain in Katmai National Park and sip on Anchorage Distillery whiskey with 360-degree views of the large lakes and mountains that make the park breathtaking.

TASTE THE MAGIC OF THE

Santa Ynez Valley

Last October, Sunset had a front-row seat to the magic that is Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley. Now in its fourth year, TASTE showcases everything the region has to offer from long-table dinners and thoughtful wine pairings to outdoor adventures that highlight the natural beauty of the Central Coast. Over four days, guests enjoyed vineyard walks, private tastings, earlymorning horseback rides, scenic hikes, and even zipline tours.

It’s a true community celebration, where the renowned chefs, winemakers, farmers, and growers of the Santa Ynez Valley come together to mark the end of harvest, reflect on the season, and share their bounty. Over time, this collaborative celebration has grown into a beloved valley-wide fête, returning again October 1–4, 2026.

Start making plans now at tastesyv.com

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

CALIFORNIA

Insider

Between all the winter and water sports, awesome hiking, and killer entertainment, it’s hard to sift through what’s worthy of your time in Tahoe. Enter Brandon Miller and Jessica Howitt, co-founders of Dax Board Co. and co-owners of SUP Tahoe. The couple built their businesses around the crystal-clear waters and stunning alpine scenery of South Lake, where Howitt grew up. Here, they offer their insider perspectives on everything from hidden paddleboarding spots to the best seasonal adventures in this breathtaking part of the Sierra.

The insiders:

Brandon Miller and Jessica Howitt, Co-Founders of Dax Board Co.

DO

Firstly, you’ll want to rent a Dax Board from the flagship store, SUP Tahoe Or, you can also rent an e-bike from Pine Nut

Cycle Cafe and kick off your adventure on two wheels. The vibe is fun and effortlessly cool, plus there’s nitro coffees and kombucha on tap. The shop’s custom map will lead you to Tahoe’s best beaches and up to Fallen Leaf Lake. On your way back, stop for a scoop (or two) at the historic Camp Richardson’s Ice Cream Parlor. Park at Eagle Falls Trailhead above Emerald Bay and hike up to Eagle Lake, where you can cool off with a dip and take in sweeping views. Go early (parking goes fast!) or hop on the new shuttle. Then recharge at OMNI Tahoe. Whether it’s yin or hot yoga, a steam session, or a gym workout, OMNI will have you feeling relaxed or energized, your choice.

EAT

Verde Mexican Rotisserie is a bright, family-run spot serving organic,

locally sourced Mexican food with a healthy twist. The star is the verde burrito loaded with beans, sweet potatoes, cheese, pico, sour cream, and avocado—fresh, flavorful, and downright addictive. Everything at The Dog & Bear Tavern is made from scratch with seasonal, high-quality ingredients. The wood-fired pizzas are a local favorite, and inventive desserts like rocky road or jalapeño corn ice cream make it elevated and distinctly Tahoe. Three Pines Coffee Co. is the newest buzz in town. Order the ube waffle topped with housemade whipped cream paired with a pistachio cold foam cold brew. Breakfast bliss!

DRINK

After a hike or ride, roll into Meyers’ Divided Sky for a fresh-pressed greyhound, live tunes, and a cozy mountain community feel. The Hangar has a huge lawn, rotating food trucks, and ice-cold beer, plus live concerts in the summer. For an upscale vibe, sip cocktails with stunning lake views at the design-forward Edgewood Tahoe. Or, unwind at South Lake Brewing Co. , which produces all its beer on-site and has two laid-back taprooms and a laid-back vibe.

STAY

Take a step back in time at Camp Richardson Resort , a historic property first built in 1926. Its lake-

side charm is marked by woodsy cabins and s’mores by the firepit after a day on the water. Black Bear Lodge is the epitome of rustic-chic. It’s tucked into the trees with just a handful of suites and private cabins, making it feel like your own secret hideaway— complete with a roaring fireplace in the main lodge. The aforementioned Edgewood Tahoe Resort is the area’s ultimate luxury escape. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase jaw-dropping lake views, while the spa, fine dining, and sleek modern interior give it an edge over the rest.

SHOP

Cuppa Tahoe is a cozy bookstore-meets-cafe filled with books, cards, local jewelry, and warm community vibes, perfect for browsing and sipping. Another must-shop is GaiaLicious , an eclectic boutique with fair-trade gifts, jewelry, and crystals.

Black Bear Lodge

Edgewood Tahoe Resort

WEST ESSENTIALS

~ Our picks for what’s essential in the West ~

Oregon Wine Country’s Premier Destination Resort

Nestled on 35 acres in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, The Allison Inn & Spa offers luxurious guestrooms, seasonal garden-to-table cuisine, an acclaimed 500+ bottle wine program, and an award-winning spa – creating a serene, wellness-centered escape for any occasion. theallison.com

Unforgettable Journeys on the Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad carries passengers from Fairbanks to Seward, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, towering peaks, pristine lakes, winding rivers, and wildlife sightings, all experienced from spacious glass-domed cars with comfortable onboard amenities that showcase Alaska’s beauty. AlaskaRailroad.com

Unbox The West!

Sunset Subscription Box brings the Best of the West straight to your door! Every three months, you’ll get a box full of home, design, food, and gardening products curated by Sunset editors. Choose the box that fits your style and price point, then get ready to be surprised and delighted by what you find inside! TheSunsetBox.com

Find Your Bliss in Storybook Carmel-by-the-Sea

Discover California’s coastal gem in world-renowned Carmel-bythe-Sea with awe-inspiring scenery and a fairytale village where you’ll experience a vibrant food, wine, art, and shopping scene — all within walking distance from your charming hotel. CarmelCalifornia.com

Geodesic Dome Greenhouse Kits

Experience the Growing Dome’s exceptional performance with its innovative geodesic design. Built to withstand strong winds and heavy snow, it’s your key to creating a thriving oasis. Cultivate fresh, organic produce year-round. Start your dream garden today! Shop.GrowingSpaces.com

Baja California Sur: Live Well, Feel Well

Celebrate wellness in Baja California Sur through two uplifting experiences: Todos Santos Wellness Fest and Loreto Live Well

Experience. Gather with a community that values balance, nature, and mindful living, and immerse yourself in days designed to restore, inspire, and reconnect. visitbajasur.travel

www.explorefairbanks.com

The Haute Hotelier

Avi Brosh has created a hotel company that charms like no other. He shares the formula behind his feel-good brand.

Interview by HUGH GARVEY

With its cream-washed walls, vibrant textiles, and timeless furnishings, Le Petit Pali St. Helena reimagines the Napa Valley inn. Palisociety founder Avi Brosh shares how the brand’s signature style translates from coast to vineyard—and why this jewel-box property reflects both California history and fresh vision. For Brosh, the idea behind sub-brand Le Petit Pali is to flip the traditional bed-and-breakfast model on its head. “California’s most desirable towns were built in more modest times,” he says. “The early lodgings were simple, personal, and connected to place.” Brosh’s visionary take is always chic, approachable, and delightfully transporting.

“ G OOD DESIGN ISN’T JUST VISUAL; IT’S CULTURAL AND SENSORY.”

What inspired you to bring Le Petit Pali to Napa Valley, and how did you want it to feel different from your coastal and urban locations?

We started Le Petit Pali with the idea of redefining the classic B&B and creating something bespoke, layered, and tied to its surroundings. St. Helena had the right scale and history. It’s a small-town setting with real character. It’s about offering an almost residential experience.

You’ve described the design as “irreverent style” layered with Napa’s classic aesthetic. What’s an example of a detail that captures that balance?

There are no rules behind our aesthetic. It’s a mix of eras, silhouettes, and residential details. It’s not punk rock, but it has that independent spirit. Actually, it’s more like jazz.

How did the property’s three acres of vineyards and natural landscape influence your design decisions?

The surroundings dictated a lot. The flow between interiors and outdoors and the way terraces frame the views. The palette and patterns nod to American and European bohemian traditions. There are stripes, florals, and textures that feel lived in and elevated.

The Main House feels like a private home. How did you approach circulation and communal spaces like the breakfast rooms and Garden Bar?

Many of our guests are design-savvy. They appreciate thoughtful spatial flow. We designed rooms where people naturally gather and start conversations. The lounge, breakfast area, and firepit are social moments built into the architecture.

You’ve partnered with makers like Woodhouse Chocolate, Faust Winery, and Model Bakery. How do these collaborations shape the guest experience?

These partnerships create an instant connection to St. Helena. Guests recognize a Model Bakery English muffin or a local chocolate and smile.

Napa Valley has no shortage of high-end inns. What makes Le Petit Pali’s design approach stand out?

We do what feels right and avoid the on-the-nose clichés. No surfboards on walls in Laguna; no obvious wine country Napa tropes here. It’s about intuitive, layered storytelling. We aim for something personal and fresh.

From cream-washed walls to plaid textiles, what materials or colors were essential to your vision—and how do you source them? After 20 properties in five years, we’ve developed systems. I start sourcing a year out—mixing vintage finds with custom pieces. Today, 95% of guest room furniture is made in-house. That control lets us shape silhouettes, proportions, and palette in a way that’s both nostalgic and playful. And with Le Petit Pali, by focusing on smaller properties we can create these jewel boxes.

SUNSET (ISSN 0039-5404) publishes 6 issues per year in regional and special editions by Sunset, P.O. Box 15688, Beverly Hills, CA 90209. Periodicals

mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 507.1.5.2.) Nonpostal and military facilities: Send

No. 1. Issue: February/March 2026. Printed in U.S.A. Copyright © 2026 Sunset. Sunset

Living, The Pacific Monthly, Sunset’s Kitchen Cabinet, The Changing Western Home, and Chefs of

Manuscripts, photographs, and other material submitted to P.O. Box 15688, Beverly Hills, CA 90209 can be

For service, please email support@sunset.com. You can also call 1-800-777-0117 or write to Sunset