The Healing Waters of This State-of-the-Art Spa Will Wash Your Worries Away
The Spa at Séc-he is officially opening its doors on April 4 at the new Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza. Located in downtown Palm Springs, The Spa at Séc-he, which translates to “the sound of boiling water,” is a 12,000-year-old hot spring that is known for its ancient healing properties. This culturally conscious and connected spa is owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, ensuring that the treatments and impact of the spa are aligned with the tribe’s healing traditions. The tribe first broke ground on the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza in May 2018 with a passionate mission to bring the tribe’s traditions, history, culture and connection to the land to the forefront of modern life. The massive spa spans more than 73,000 square feet and is home to 22 private mineral baths, halotherapy salt caves and a tranquility garden, so get ready for the ultimate level of relaxation!
The Healing Waters
The magical waters at The Spa at Séc-he come from a 12,000-year-old hot spring. That alone sounds like something out of a fairy tale. But it’s real—and it starts with rainwater and snowmelt. These drops of nature travel deep underground, into a chamber that sits 8,000 feet below the surface. Along the way, they pick up minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sodium. It’s like Mother Earth’s version of a vitamin infusion.
By the time the water surfaces, it’s a perfect 105 degrees. Warm enough to soothe, but not too hot to handle. And it doesn’t just feel good—it actually helps. The mineral-rich water boosts blood circulation, improves skin, and reduces inflammation. Turns out, these ancient waters aren’t just relaxing. They’re healing, energizing, and maybe even a little bit magical.
For centuries, the hot spring provided water for drinking, ceremonies and irrigation for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Now, The Spa at Séc-he hosts 22 private mineral baths where guests can soak in peace after their treatment or during their day-pass excursion. This private mineral bath experience is an ancient and sacred practice of the tribe and is called “Taking of the Waters.”
The Extensive List of Treatments
In addition to its mineral baths, The Spa at Séc-he offers a full menu of top-tier treatments. Choose from body scrubs, massages, facials and more—all designed to help you feel your best. The quartz and water treatment tables contour perfectly to your body, offering next-level comfort. Melt into the table during a detoxifying water cupping massage or opt for the deeply relaxing Desert Rain massage instead. The facials range from anti-aging to hydrating, allowing you to leave with glowing, healthy skin. If you’re looking to treat yourself to a full spa day, indulge in one of the comprehensive wellness packages.
The Canyons Journey Massage and Facial starts with a full-body massage using a customized oil blend tailored just for you. Next comes a clinical facial, designed to meet your skin’s unique needs and leave you glowing. Polished body scrubs smooth your skin, while hydrating clay and mud wraps deliver powerful minerals to nourish muscles and skin. For something extra, try the zero-sensory tanks or chill out with a cryotherapy session. The Spa at Séc-he also offers nail services, scalp treatments, and even standard haircuts and colors to complete your self-care day.
The Many Luxurious Amenities
Credit: Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians[/caption]
This 73,000-square-foot spa has far more than your standard treatment rooms and lounge area. The 15 different treatment rooms and two couples’ treatment suites ensure that multiple spa-goers can receive their services in tandem. However, if you’d rather grab a day pass than book a full treatment, you’re still in for a relaxing escape. Start with a soak in one of the 22 legendary mineral baths—each one is rich with healing properties. Next, head to the dry sauna for a detoxifying sweat session that melts stress away. Then, breathe deep and open up your sinuses in the refreshing eucalyptus steam room. Need to decompress? The grounding room is ideal for taking a minute to meditate and reconnect.
If you want to catch some sun, step outside and settle into one of the luxe cabanas or nesting beds. Prefer something peaceful? The tranquility garden is a dreamy spot to center yourself and find your zen. For a more active escape, the fitness center has everything you need to get your heart pumping and feel restored.
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The Gourmet Cuisine
Credit: Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
Since a visit to The Spa at Séc-he is intended to be an all-day excursion, there are a couple of different gourmet food options on site. The Malmal Cafe serves up healthy and light cuisine that is meant to enhance your overall wellness experience at the spa. From refreshing salads to classic poke bowls, there are plenty of fresh and seasonal options to explore. If you’re in need of something more filling, Malmal Cafe serves sandwiches and wraps that can be eaten in the restaurant or taken on the go.
You can also grab a quick juice or smoothie from the juice bar. If you prefer to eat outside, the same exact menu can be ordered at Pal Bar by the pool. Craft cocktails are also an option if you’re looking to sip while you spa. But no matter what you’re craving or where you want to kick back, The Spa at Séc-he has something for every kind of visitor.
Allie Lebos graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2017 with a BA in Communication. While in school she was a staff writer at The Daily Nexus for nearly two years. Since graduating she has written for The Palisades Magazine, as well as Hidden Hills Magazine. Currently living in Santa Monica, Allie loves to indulge in good food, hot yoga, and daily walks along the beach; writing articles on travel, special events, as well as features on local businesses and individuals.
