A Popular California destination, Monterey is Known for its pristine bay with a fetching array of marine life, such as sea lions, sea otters, pelicans, and more. It has much to captivate land lovers as well thanks to a rich history, which was immortalized in John Steinbeck's Cannery Row. Capturing the essence of this charming city by the sea, Accista Spa at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa draws inspiration from the natural landscape, local history, and biological rhythms of the changing seasons.
 Accista Spa wins guests over with an inviting spa reception area |
According to spa director Joe Herman, Monterey's iconic setting was key in the creation of the spa's menu. "There was extensive research regarding the culture of the area," says Herman. "We wanted to tell a story through our menu and create a very strong sense of place." For example, treatments incorporate ingredients that are tied to the locale, such as the Monterey Land and Sea Wrap ($130, 60 minutes), which relies on algae, marine sediment, and fresh mint to remineralize the skin and the Monterey Mist ($130, 60 minutes; $180, 90 minutes), a facial that employs algae, evening primrose, and honey to nourish sensitized skin.
 Copper pedicure bowls |
 A stylish relaxation area. |
Other treatments take their cue from the seasons. "One of the most intriguing aspects of the Monterey peninsula is the mild weather patterns that the area experiences," says Herman. "The seasonal pattern is very unique, and while the changes are subtle, they are there. Our menu tells a little bit of the story about the relationship that the original inhabitants of the peninsula had with this seasonal rhythm." The Accista Continuum is a collection of results-oriented packages featuring treatments that are designed to be in harmony with Monterey Bay's seasonal cycles. For total body renewal, guests are encouraged to follow the Continuum in the following order: Harvest—Autumn Cleanse Cycle ($495, 5 hours), a detoxifying package; Rest—Winter Calm Cycle ($472, 5 hours), a soothing package; Renewal—Spring Restore Cycle ($400, 3 hours 30 minutes), a restorative package that helps brighten the skin; and Abundance—Summer Enrich Cycle ($499, 4 hours 30 minutes), a productivity-inspiring package that helps address the body's core needs to help it through an active time.
In selecting the spa's product lines, Herman looked for products that utilize indigenous ingredients as well as those that are natural and organic, whenever possible. Not only are the spa's custom-made signature products all natural and organic, they were also created in nearby Sacramento by Old Orchard Herbs. The spa also uses Amrit 100 percent organic massage oils, Seaflora organic seaweed products, the new Sacred Nature products introduced by Comfort Zone, and organic nail products from SpaRitual. "I've also had wonderful success with SkinCeuticals as a solid results-oriented facial line," says Herman. "Although it is not a natural line, it is a neutral line that complements others well."
In addition to the menu, the facility also helps the spa stand out from the competition. "The facility itself does a great job of connecting the outdoors with the indoors," says Herman. "Our treatment rooms are designed to accommodate all of our treatments, so our guests don't have to move from room to room while enjoying multiple services. Providing a guest-centric approach, they keep clients at the center of the experience while the facility and staff revolve around them."
 The couples' room features a fireplace, which gives the room a cozy feel. |
With 27 full-time and 10 part-time employees on staff, the spa is able to cater to approximately 80 to 100 guests each day. According to Herman, it's difficult to determine what most spa-goers are looking for in their visit. "Everybody's spa experience is as unique as the individual itself," he says. "I believe that the key is to try to make everyone feel as comfortable and as welcome as possible. When this basic need is fulfilled, everything else just flows."
 Accista Spa (Monterey, CA) |