If you’ve ever caught yourself daydreaming about escaping the L.A. grind — the sirens, the traffic, the endless scroll of emails — you’re far from alone. Southern Californians are increasingly swapping bottomless brunches for sound baths, trading shopping trips for silent hikes. But here’s the thing: most wellness retreats look like they were priced for celebrities, not real people. Luckily, there are a handful of affordable gems within a few hours of Los Angeles that’ll let you unplug, reset, and still make rent next month.
Below are five of the best budget-friendly wellness retreats near L.A., where peace and perspective don’t come with a luxury price tag.
1. The Oaks at Ojai – Ojai, CA
Distance: ~80 miles northwest of Los Angeles
Starting at: Around $250/night, including meals and classes
Nestled in the artistic, slow-paced town of Ojai, The Oaks is one of California’s oldest wellness retreats — and one of the few that’s managed to stay (somewhat) affordable. Days here revolve around sunrise yoga, guided hikes through the Topatopa Mountains, and surprisingly good plant-based meals.
What makes it budget-friendly is that all meals, fitness classes, and lectures are included, so you don’t have to nickel-and-dime your way through relaxation. Plus, Ojai’s downtown (a short walk away) offers cute cafés and art galleries for low-cost exploring between sessions.
(Learn more: Visit Ojai)
2. Two Bunch Palms – Desert Hot Springs, CA
Distance: ~110 miles east of Los Angeles
Starting at: $220/night midweek
A century ago, this spot was rumored to be Al Capone’s hideout. Today, it’s a haven of geothermal pools, palm-shaded hammocks, and desert silence. Two Bunch Palms focuses on sustainable luxury — think natural hot springs, locally sourced food, and low-key mindfulness workshops.
The best deal is to go midweek, when rates drop significantly, and to pack your own snacks since meals at the on-site restaurant can add up. Even a single overnight stay here can feel like a mental reset button.
(More info: California State Parks)
3. Yogaville West – Malibu, CA
Distance: ~40 miles from downtown L.A.
Starting at: $180–$250/night
Yes, Malibu is fancy — but tucked into its canyons is a humble offshoot of the Yogaville ashram in Virginia. Yogaville West offers short yoga and meditation retreats, ranging from a single night to weekend immersions.
Expect vegan meals, chanting sessions at sunrise, and long stretches of time where your phone is blissfully out of reach (they actually encourage digital detoxes). You can come solo or with a friend; either way, you’ll leave a little lighter.
(Learn more: Integral Yoga Institute)
4. Esalen Institute – Big Sur, CA
Distance: ~5 hours north of Los Angeles
Starting at: $395/night, including classes and meals
Okay, Esalen isn’t exactly “cheap,” but it earns its spot on this list for sheer value. The oceanfront setting alone — perched over the cliffs of Big Sur — is worth the drive. The retreat offers multi-day workshops in mindfulness, creativity, and movement therapy, all led by top-tier instructors.
If you book a shared room or sleep in your car camping spot, prices drop to just under $300/night — a steal for Esalen. Bonus: guests have exclusive access to the legendary cliffside hot springs, open 24/7.
(Official site: Esalen.org)
5. Joshua Tree Retreat Center – Joshua Tree, CA
Distance: ~130 miles east of Los Angeles
Starting at: $150/night (shared accommodations)
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s son, this architectural landmark has evolved into a spiritual playground for creatives and healers. The center hosts frequent yoga, breathwork, and sound-healing retreats, many priced under $300 for the weekend.
When no official retreat is running, you can still stay overnight and create your own DIY wellness escape — journaling, meditating, or hiking through the national park at sunrise.
(Plan your visit: Joshua Tree Retreat Center)
Quick Comparison
| Retreat | Location | Distance from L.A. | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Oaks at Ojai | Ojai | 80 miles | $250/night | All-inclusive classic spa vibe |
| Two Bunch Palms | Desert Hot Springs | 110 miles | $220/night | Hot springs & sustainability |
| Yogaville West | Malibu | 40 miles | $180/night | Yoga & meditation detox |
| Esalen Institute | Big Sur | 5 hours | $395/night | Iconic cliffside transformation |
| Joshua Tree Retreat Center | Joshua Tree | 130 miles | $150/night | Budget-friendly spiritual reset |
Tips to Keep It Affordable
- Go midweek. Rates drop by 20–40% compared to weekends.
- Skip spa add-ons. Massages are tempting, but classes and hot springs often deliver the same release.
- Pack snacks and water. Dining out near retreat centers can be pricey (especially in Ojai or Malibu).
- Carpool. Splitting gas for a 100-mile trip can save you another $30–$50.
- Look for day passes. Some retreats offer $40–$60 passes for yoga and hot springs access without an overnight stay.
FAQs:
What’s the cheapest wellness retreat near Los Angeles?
Joshua Tree Retreat Center is often the most affordable, with shared accommodations starting around $150 per night.
Are meals included at these retreats?
Most offer at least one meal daily (often vegetarian or vegan). Check before booking; some charge extra for dining.
Do I need to be experienced in yoga or meditation?
No — most retreats welcome beginners and provide guided classes.
