New Kapuala Spa opens in Maui, Hawaii

Spanning over five acres in the heart of Maui’s Kapalua Resort, the brand new Kapalua Spa pays respect to Kapalua’s unique sense of place and incorporates the healing benefits of the ocean in everything from its signature treatments to tranquil seaside décor.

“Kapalua Spa embraces the healing properties of the ocean and our beautiful natural surroundings. Walking into the spa is like entering an elegant, open air beach house – everything from the tropical wood and sea glass interiors to the expansive views and personalized amenities -- the beauty of the ocean and its calming properties are seen in details big and small,” said Spa Director, Crystal Poe-Cabatbat.

Overlooking serene Kapalua Bay, Kapalua Spa’s 30,000-square-foot facility mirrors its environment with 19 treatment rooms, including 10 outdoor hale (bungalows), three private stone soaking tubs and dual treatment space for couples. At Kapalua Spa guests can take advantage of sauna, steam room, whirlpool and a cold rain shower in each of the men’s and women’s relaxation lounges. In addition, guests enjoy the services of a beauty salon, spacious movement studio, the island’s only spa-dedicated saline lap pool and sunning deck as well as fitness facilities with state-of-the-art cardio, strength and full-range-of-motion Kinesis Circuit System. A juice bar – which will feature natural and organic beverage and snack selections – as well as a spa boutique with skin care lines and gifts, will also be available for visitors.

http://www.spasofamerica.com/spas/kapalua

Spas of America's Top 30 Spas of 2008

Spas of America, the fastest-growing spa travel website, today announced their annual ranking of the Top 30 Spas of 2008, based on consumer traffic on their website. Spas of America president Craig Oliver says, "This year's list is a unique cross-section of Spa & Wellness experiences from across North America, including resort, hotel and destination spas from the United States, Canada and Mexico." Over 650 spas are featured on the Spas of America website, and the Top 30 list represents the top 5%.

"Many of the spas making our list for 2008 are long-time established properties, with a solid track record of providing extraordinary Spa & Wellness experiences to spa travelers around the world. For 2009 we expect this trend to continue, with consumers attracted to unique experiences, well-earned reputations and value. Even -- perhaps especially -- in economic downturns, consumers realize the value of Spa & Wellness as a benefit to their overall well-being".

This year's list is a unique cross-section of Spa & Wellness experiences from across North America, including resort, hotel and destination spas from the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Topping the list for 2008 is the 100 Fountain Spa at the Pillar and Post set in charming Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. The 100 Fountain Spa is located in the heart of Niagara's wine region, a year-round destination offering a wide range of cultural and recreational activities, only minutes from majestic Niagara Falls.

Number two is the Homestead, situated in the scenic Allegheny Mountains of Virginia. Built in 1892, the Homestead Spa is one of America's most historic luxury spas, still fed by the original hot springs that have attracted travelers since the 1700s.

Third place honors go to the Fitness Ridge Resort & Spa in Ivins, Utah. Set amidst the remarkable red rocks of southwestern Utah, Fitness Ridge is categorized as a "destination spa," offering a one-week-minimum, results-oriented health, fitness and weight loss program.

Spas of America's Top 30 Spas of 2008 are ranked by unique page views generated by customers visiting our website in 2008. For the complete list, go to: Spas of America's Top 30 Spas of 2008