Almost 10 years in the making, the highly anticipated Spa at Séc-he made its debut in Palm Springs. Celebrating the ancient healing waters of the Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring, this one-of-a-kind wellness destination that connects the body, mind and spirit is the first phase of the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza that will include a cultural museum, gardens and walking trails.
Located on 5.8 acres in Downtown Palm Springs at the northeast corner of Indian Canyon Drive and Tahquitz Canyon Way, and adjacent to the Agua Caliente Casino, the 73,000-sq.-ft. spa and bathhouse is owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The world-class property was inspired by the sacred natural mineral hot springs—“Séc-he” means “the sound of boiling water”—that flow from a cavern 8,000 feet below the ground.
“This very special water has had special meaning to our tribal community for such a long time,” says Reid Milanovich, tribal chairman, during the spa’s grand opening ceremony. The site on which the new spa is located has hosted a succession of bathhouses throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries. The most recent was built in the 195’0s and included a 229-room hotel.
“This spa defines who we are as Agua Caliente people in the 21st century by celebrating our culture, heritage and, most importantly, our traditions,” says Milanovich. “It is a place where our tribal members and visitors can come to once again to soak in hot mineral water and take part in cultural traditions of wellness like no other place in the world.”
The centerpiece of the Spa at Séc-He is its 22 individual mineral baths. Guests can enjoy a clothing-optional 15-minute private soak in the 105-degree water and experience the soothing power of the hot springs’ distinctive mineral composition.
“Our waters here are really great for the skin,” says spa director Daniel Spencer. “It’s very hydrating. It’s great for psoriasis, acne and eczema, as well as for the joints and inflammation in the body. You’ll notice that even a few days later, your skin still feels nice and hydrated.”
The bath is included with any spa treatment or as part of the Taking the Waters Day Pass. The $145 pass includes access to separate men’s and women’s treatment areas that feature aromatherapy showers, a eucalyptus steam room, a menthol inhalation sauna with cold experience showers, and relaxation rooms with acoustic wellness vibrational loungers and acoustic zero-gravity conducive chairs. Pass holders also can enjoy the coed state-of-the-art fitness center, a lounge area with two halotherapy salt caves, and the outdoor pool deck with whirlpool, waterfall pool and zero-edge mineral pool. Cryotherapy and zero-sensory flotation sessions can be added on for additional fees.
Fifteen treatment rooms offer an array of services, including massages, body scrubs and wraps, facials, and nail and hair care, that speak to the culture and traditions of the tribe while showcasing the wellness industry’s leading-edge innovations. Specialty Gharieni quartz and water treatment tables use crushed quartz and water cells to create unique sensory experiences. Essential oils, heated gemstones, light therapy and infrared heat enhance the treatment, and wellness and couples packages combine massage, facials and skincare. Massage prices range from $230 to $325, facials are $245 to $315, and couples retreats are $610 to $690.
For those who want the ultimate in luxury, the private spa suite can accommodate groups up to 18. The suite includes a cozy fireplace lounge and a private outdoor mineral whirlpool. Guests can add on individual treatments, enjoy fresh health-forward meals from the onsite cafe or simply enjoy their secluded relaxation. It’s ideal for bridal showers, birthday parties or group getaways. The suite can be rented for $750 per day.
The Spa at Séc-he is open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Guests must be 18 years of age or older. For more information, visit thespaatseche.com.
200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262