Itineraries

Self-Care Seekers

Relax, recharge and unplug in Arizona among awe-inspiring landscapes and wellness experiences. Discover your ideal outdoor reprieve to nourish your mind, body and soul at Arizona's Western beaches on this 4-day / 3-night itinerary.

For this itinerary, we partnered with Courtney Johnson, founder, of FitWell Escapes.

FitWell Escapes offers wellness retreats for women with community-first events that bring people who share a passion for exploring Arizona together to empower one another. Originally from Illinois, Courtney's self-proclaimed mission of bonding women over educational workshops, guided hikes, outdoor yoga events, and weekend getaways keeps her busy and fulfilled. Follow Courtney on Instagram at @therealcpj or @fitwellescapes.

Joining Courtney on this trip is photographer Taylor Cohen, a multi-faceted artist who has done photography and videography around Arizona for over 10 years, specializing in portraitures, adventure and travel. See more of Taylor's work on Instagram at @tcohphotos.

Ways to Wellness in AZ's West Coast

River Island State Park

Day 1 on the road to wellness starts off at River Island State Park, located three hours northwest of Phoenix, in Parker, Ariz.

Along the shores of the mighty Colorado River lies a year-round destination for those looking for seclusion while escaping to the desert for a water-filled adventure. River Island State Park offers trails for hikers and access to off-highway-vehicle (OHV) backcountry roads, while those looking to stay on the water can do so. Camping here is a must: You will be rewarded with riverfront and distant mountain views.

On the agenda? A soulful swim and riverside yoga. (Photo: @jilliancampsarizona on Instagram)

Instagram: @azstateparks, #riverislandstatepark

Beachside Picnic with Desert Boho Events

After settling into camp it's time for dinner.

With help from Lake Havasu City-based Desert Boho Events, arrange for a surprise boho-chic picnic on the shores of the beach. No matter your vibe, they can deliver on your vision for your next private event, wedding, bachelorette party or simply a luxury picnic experience for the self-care seeker in all of us. (Photo: @darlingdoubtphotos on Instagram)

Instagram: @desertbohoevents

Buckskin Mountain State Park

After a night's rest camping under the stars and breakfast, explore nearby Buckskin Mountain State Park. From swimming to hiking and camping, visitors can do it all at this picturesque waterside escape located along the remote Parker Strip. Stay ashore and play on the beach, or bring your boat for some fun on the vivid blue waters, and soak in the nearby mountain views. We recommend a hike on the nearby trails followed by lunch, and then stand-up paddleboarding on the smooth water.

Instagram: @azstateparks, ##buckskinmountainstatepark

Stars and S’mores

Spend the evening around a campfire swapping stories, making s'mores, or just relaxing under the stars.

Cattail Cove State Park

After breakfast, pack up camp and make your way to Cattail Cove State Park for some swimming and kayaking.

Visitors to this park can enjoy a multitude of activities from fishing, swimming, boating or just lounging under the sun on the white-sand beach and blue waters of Lake Havasu. Wellness enthusiasts can take part in beach yoga, kayaking, and maybe even a stand-up paddleboard session. (Photo: @isaac.l.nelson on Instagram)

Instagram: @azstateparks, #cattailcove

Lake Havasu State Park

By now you're probably feeling peckish. Get some dinner, and with muscles fully engaged and positive endorphins flowing, spend your afternoon soaking in the panoramic lakefront views of western Arizona and the scenic shoreline of Lake Havasu State Park.

Instagram: @azstateparks, #lakehavasustatepark

Sunset Copper Canyon Island Tour

For the grand finale, get a front-row seat to sunset's orange, red and occasionally purple hues on a boat tour with Sunset Charter & Tour Co.

Copper Canyon is considered the most scenic canyon on Lake Havasu. There's no better time to experience it than late in the day, during the "golden hour" when the sun begins to set. Different shadows appear and vibrant colors dance on the rocks as the evening settles and the calm water invites guests to slow down and marvel at its wonders. (Photo: Kyle Huber)

Instagram: @sunsetchartertourlhc

Nourishing cuisine

For her trip, FitWellEscapes partnered with Chef Jenn Beach of @whatscookinbeach to provide delicious plant-based, health-conscious meals.

Chef Jenn is a classically trained chef specializing in plant-based cuisine who brings nearly 15 years of professional experience to the table. After a career in restaurants in Australia, Italy and the U.S., she now works as a freelance chef providing holistic personal meal plans, private catering and cooking classes to her clients.

Pro-tip

Love the itinerary but don't have the gear? Rent from REI Adventures!

Whether you're in need of a full camping—tents, pads, camp furniture, etc.—or just want to test out a stand-up paddleboard or kayak, they'll have you outfitted with high-end equipment for your entire trip. With a convenient pick-up location in North Phoenix consider trying before you buy.

Instagram: @rei

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Arizona Office of Tourism

These articles are brought to you by the staff of the Arizona Office of Tourism, and occasionally local tourism organizations around the state.

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