We've rounded up the top 10 fitness retreat destinations. Make sure to comment below and let us know which one is your favorite.
We love fitness retreats – here’s why. Fitness retreats not only give you an opportunity to focus on health and restoration, but they also provide a chance to explore a gorgeous new part of the world and meet amazing people along the way. Our favorite provider of fitness retreats is Active Escapes, hosting getaways in some of our favorite destinations around the world. With a focus on fitness, relaxation, and fun, an Active Escapes retreat will leave you feeling energized and refreshed. Here’s a little more about the organization from Founder Zanna Conlan: “Active Escapes brings together exclusive organized events by expert trainers in some of the best and most luxurious places in the world. While Active Escapes is absolutely about fitness, it’s also about meeting new people, having a few drinks, and generally having a great time.”
1. Bali
Bali is the site of the original Active Escapes retreat, and is also one of the most breathtaking, tranquil destinations in the world. Upon touching down in Bali, expect a week-long adventure exercising on the Island’s beaches, practicing yoga, and learning to surf on the Bali’s crystal blue waters. This all-inclusive retreat provides luxury accommodation in the gorgeous hotels and villas of Bali, and nutritious meals cooked by the in-house chef. Bali is a far-away destination for some (the flight can take over a day for some U.S. travelers!), so we recommend exploring all that Bali has to offer during your retreat. Visit Bali’s iconic sea temples, such as Tanah Lot Temple and Uluwatu Temple. See the diverse wildlife on the Island at Bali Safari & Marine Park, home to over 60 species. Though getting to Bali may be a lengthy process, it’s less expensive than you might think! See today’s top deals on flights to Bali.
2. Hawaii
Hawaii is one of Active Escapes’ most popular retreat destinations. Over the course of seven days, attendees will embark on a fitness journey while taking in the natural beauty of Hawaii. This sought-after trip is centered around mountain hiking, snorkeling, surfing, and yoga. Attendees will feel at home in the oceanfront Turtle Bay Resort, enjoying gourmet breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. Don’t miss Hawaii’s must-see attractions during your visit. Check out the volcanoes at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, unwind on the Island’s beautiful beaches (we recommend Hapuna Beach State Park), and taste the local flavors of Hawaii at Hilo Farmers Market. Luckily, flying to Hawaii doesn’t have to be expensive. See great prices on cheap roundtrip flights to Hawaii.
3. Maldives
It seems that the Maldives are on everyone’s bucket list - and we’re not surprised. With luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and relaxing seclusion, the Maldives make for the perfect retreat destination. With a focus on surfing, yoga, and circuit training (on the beach, of course), this fitness retreat is bound to leave you feeling healthy and refreshed. Since the Maldives are a fairly remote destination to travel to, be sure to make the most of your time there once you’ve arrived. Visit Male’ and spend your day in one of the world’s smallest capital cities, immersing yourself in the distinct culture of the Maldives. Scuba dive in the Indian Ocean for a look at the Islands’ abundant marine life. Believe it or not, you can fly to the Maldives on the cheap. Check out today’s top flight deals and start planning your getaway.
4. Santa Monica, California
This fitness retreat in Santa Monica is led by inspirational trainers Scott Mathison and Miki Ash. During this seven-day wellness getaway, attendees should expect hikes with a view, yoga, bike tours, and obstacle courses. After days of hard work, enjoy a group wine tasting at Malibu Wines and L.A. shopping. This retreat package includes a stay at the Shore Hotel, a short walk from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where you’ll enjoy delicious meals from the in-house chef. During your visit, ride the Pacific Park Ferris Wheel on Santa Monica Pier and explore the shops and restaurants on Third Street Promenade. When planning your trip to Santa Monica, don’t overpay for your flight. Compare prices on flights to Santa Monica to be sure you’re flying at the best price.
5. Byron Bay, Australia
The coastal town of Byron Bay is an ideal spot for this next fitness retreat. While this newer trip offering is still in the planning stages, this retreat will likely include yoga, surfing, and other strength training programs. Attendees will stay at one of Byron Bay’s luxury accommodations, complete with ocean views and gourmet meals. To keep informed about this retreat’s development, join the Active Escapes mailing list. For U.S. travelers, a flight to Australia is lengthy, giving you the perfect excuse to extend your trip beyond this seven-day retreat. While in Australia, we recommend taking a trip down the coast to Sydney, then heading north to Queensland to scuba dive the Great Barrier Reef. If you thought flights to Australia were expensive, think again. In recent months, prices have dropped dramatically on flights to Australia, making this the perfect time to book. To see great prices, visit our top deals for cheap roundtrip flights.
6. Thailand
With trips to both Kata Beach and Phuket, Thailand is increasing in popularity as a top Active Escapes retreat destination. The Kata Beach retreat provides luxury accommodation in a private villa overlooking the Andaman Sea. Fitness activities include an aqua obstacle course, circuit training, yoga, and more. The Phuket escape offers similar fitness activities to Kata Beach, with the added bonus of access to one of Phuket’s world-class sporting facilities. While planning your trip to Thailand, consider extending your stay – it’s worth it. Take a trip to the Thai Elephant Conservation Center in Lampang, home to more than 50 elephants. Spend a few days in Bangkok, boating along the city canals (Bangkok is often referred to as the “Venice of the East”) and tasting delicious local Thai food. Getting to Thailand doesn’t have to break the bank – compare prices and find cheap flights.
7. Costa Rica
This Costa Rica retreat is described as a rugged, rainforested fitness excursion. One of Active Escapes’ newer destinations, Costa Rica is the perfect coastline destination for wellness and relaxation. Enjoy kayaking, surfing, zip-lining, and of course, daily gourmet meals from the in-house chef. Make yourself at home in a luxury oceanfront villa equipped with an infinity pool and unmatched ocean views. During your trip, don’t miss your chance to experience more of Costa Rica. See the Arenal Volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes and a must-see attraction. Hike the green oasis (pictured above) of Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. At Airfarewatchdog, you can find cheap flights to Costa Rica courtesy of our fare experts. Check today’s flight deals to be sure you’re flying at the best price.
8. Dubai
The Dubai Active Escapes trip provides seven days of all-out adventure. You’ll wakeboard, drive a desert buggy, compete in an obstacle course race, and surf around the famous Burj Al Arab. After a week of hard work, you’ll enjoy a luxury boat party and some hard-earned relaxation at your resort. Though this retreat is jam-packed with activities, you’ll want to see even more of this unique city during your trip. Shop at the Dubai Mall, the largest shopping center in the world, or escape the city to take a tour of the vast Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. While Dubai is a famously luxurious destination, you don’t have to splurge on flights. Compare prices and find the cheapest flights to Dubai.
9. India
This next retreat is located in Goa, on the coastline of India along the Arabian Sea. On this yoga-focused retreat, you will be immersed in daily training sessions while enjoying accommodation at the luxurious oceanfront W Hotel. Included in this retreat package are breakfasts, lunches, and dinners from the gourmet buffet at the W. We recommend experiencing more of the unique coastal state of Goa during your stay. Visit Dudhsagar Falls, some of India’s tallest waterfalls at over 1,000 feet. At Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll see Goa’s diverse wildlife, including panthers, wild boar, porcupines, and elephants (which you can ride). Flying to India is cheaper than you might think! Be sure to check out today’s top deals on flights to Goa and book your flight at the cheapest price.
10. Noosa, Australia
Finally, take an Active Escapes trip to Noosa, a world-famous surfing destination home to some of Australia’s most popular beaches. Join instructors Andrew Pap, Zanna Conlan, and Ali Dixon for a week of surfing, fitness, yoga, wakeboarding, and more. Enjoy your six-night stay in a luxury apartment rental with meals made by the in-house chef. Treat yourself to a well-earned extended stay while in Australia (the lengthy flight will make it worth it!). Visit Noosa National Park, home to some of Noosa’s most serene beaches, as well as coastal trails for scenic hiking. Take a trip to Sydney, or head to Queensland to scuba dive the Great Barrier Reef, a can’t-miss landmark on any Australia visit. Like we said, flights to Australia are cheaper than ever, so now is the perfect time to fly. Check out today’s great prices!
