Updated August 2024

When most people think of Whistler what comes to mind is fresh air, adrenaline-induced adventures and outdoor exhilaration. Whistler is all of that, but it’s also more. The “more” that is often spared the spotlight is the yin to the adventurous yang – yes we’re talking about Whistler’s spa and relaxation scene.

Did you know there are over 10 spa facilities in Whistler? Their offerings range from luxurious full-body pampering to flawless treatments from Whistler’s top estheticians. While it always feels nice to treat yourself to a massage or eucalyptus-infused steam, it feels even better after a day of crisp mountain air and thrills. Nothing keeps an explorer’s spirit feeling more rejuvenated than time spent recharging.

A person enjoys a massage at one of Whistler's spas.
Relax at one of Whistler’s spas for a massage, body scrub or facial. PHOTO JUSTA JESKOVA

How to Choose Your Spa Experience

In Whistler, we like to earn our après and our spa because everything is better after playing in the vast offerings of our backyard, but hey there are no rules, spa for five days straight if you want to! The truth is, it’s hard to go wrong with any spa or relaxation experience but we think this will get your wheels spinning to ensure you get just what you’re craving on your next Whistler visit.

Day Spas in Whistler

Day spas usually offer massages, hot tubs and / or pool amenities as well as waxing, facials, manicures and more, so you could, in theory, spend the whole day there. Makes sense right?

A shot of the Scandinave Spa in the pinky hues of the fall alpen glow. Outdoor hot pools sit amidst the old growth forest.
The Scandinave Spa in the fall alpen glow. PHOTO JUSTA JESKOVA

Scandinave Spa

Scandinave Spa is probably the most well-known spa in Whistler because its offerings are unlike any other. Hot and cold pools, steam room, sauna, solarium, fireplaces, tea stations and a massage building are scattered in the tranquil forest of Whistler. Most spa go-ers spend a few hours alternating between the traditional Nordic hot, cold, relax cycle for the full hydrotherapy experience.

Perfect Pairings:

Best paired with anything heart pumping, because the compulsory disconnect from phones and chatting will leave you feeling renewed after an energy-expending day. It’s an especially great spot to hit up in the evening so you have time to thoroughly decompress after a day packed with adventure on the mountain.

Mountain biker riding a mossy trail in Whistler
Biking is sure to get the heart pumping. PHOTO ABBY COOPER

Vida Spa

Vida in the Fairmont Chateau Whistler has an extravagant list of spa services from hot stone massages to Ayurveda treatments and pedicures. They offer a full-body tune-up with access to the Fairmont Chateau Whistler’s pool, hot tubs, steam room, sauna and of course, the poolside bar (non-hotel guests get access for one hour before their treatment). It makes for a wonderful day of pampering and socializing.

Perfect Pairings:

Pair with a half-day of skiing, a hike to the ancient cedars, a morning ATV or snowmobile adventure. More of an evening person? Chase it with a night out at Vallea Lumina.

A person relaxes in an outdoor hot tub at night resting their arms on the edge of the tub and closing their eyes.
Nita Lake has a rooftop hot tub with views of the mountains. PHOTO NITA LAKE LODGE

The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge

The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge is a boutique spa in Whistler. It feels as though the cozy, open and refined spaces are private and just for you. Yet, you can usually manage to get a booking, which can be challenging at some boutique spas. They’re best known for their Kundalini massage experiences, tranquil lakeside location, and focus on sustainability and the use of organic ingredients in their treatments. You also get access to their rooftop hot tub, relaxation lounge and eucalyptus steam room.

The pedicure room at Nita Lake Lodge has four large seats with sinks at their feet and live-wood back boards behind.
Nita’s stylish nail lounge. PHOTO NITA LAKE LODGE

Perfect Pairings:

Best paired with a half-day of adrenaline. Dog sledding, ziplining or bungee jumping are the perfect match for The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge. You’ll want to allow for enough time to sit in the steam room, soak in the rooftop hot tubs and appreciate the Whistler Mountain views.

two people ziplining over snowy trees
Soaring above the trees. PHOTO THE ADVENTURE GROUP

Whistler Day Spa

The Whistler Day Spa is tucked into the Pan Pacific Village Centre hotel. The staff are well trained and an appointment grants you access to the outdoor pool area, an added bonus for any treatment!

Perfect Pairings:

Best paired with a sunrise hike or snowshoe up or a day spent sightseeing on Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.

More Day Spas: Aviva Wellness Massage Spa, Blue Highways, The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Whistler and Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa.

A person enjoys getting a facial at one of Whistler's spas.
Relax, you’re in Whistler. PHOTO JUSTA JESKOVA

Beauty and Treatment Offerings in Whistler

Many of these locations also offer massage and a wellness component but are known first and foremost for their estheticians. Haircuts and styling, manicures, waxing, facials and specialty treatments galore are available in Whistler. Find what you’re looking for and more at one of Whistler’s beauty hot spots.

Locations: Be Beauty Spa and Tanning Lounge, Glacier Day Spa, Elevation Hair Studio, Farfalla Hair and Esthetics Salon, The Loft Salon and Spa, Whistler Medical Aesthetics and more.

Perfect Pairing:

You’ll be feeling fresh after visiting one of these places which call for a night on the town, après anyone?

Woman having her makeup done in Whistler
Sit back and let the make-up artist work their magic. PHOTO ABBY COOPER

Spa Where You Sleep

Many of the condos in Whistler come with private hot tubs and nearly all of the hotels offer a pool and hot tub complex.

Perfect Pairings:

Best paired with absolutely everything. Even breakfast before your day begins. Who says you can’t start your day with relaxation? Coffee in the hot tub while quite literally soaking in the vistas? Sounds good to us!

Visit Whistler.com to find and book your perfect spa and activity pairing. Looking for a retreat experience? See our DIY planning guide.

Get some early festive feels and a deal! Book 3+ nights between November 21 and December 20, 2024, to receive a free $100 CAD Whistler Shopping Voucher, with rooms starting from $175 CAD per night. If you're coming this winter, the time to book is now with Whistler Blackcomb Day Passes starting from $97 CAD per day, 30% off lodging and 40% off rentals (free kids' rentals). Epic Coverage is included for free so you can plan ahead with peace of mind.

Come experience Whistler Blackcomb’s extensive terrain and adventure at every turn to see why we're known as one of the best resorts on the planet. Secure your mountain getaway with Whistler.com for personalized service and the local knowledge of our Whistler-based team

Author

Abby Cooper is a Whistler-based photographer, splitboarder and dog mom who is always looking for new adventures to take her farther and higher. You can usually find her in the backcountry, surrounded by good people (and dogs).