Best Spa Hotels in Austin

Located along the Colorado River and less than 22 miles northwest of downtown Austin, the Lake Austin Spa Resort is one of the area's most luxurious resorts. And according to recent guests, this property is just as relaxing as it is opulent (and warrants the commute back and forth from the downtown area). The LakeHouse Spa offers a wide menu of treatments that are sure to help relax your body and mind, while resort activities like yoga, boating and hiking will entice you to get outside and get moving. And guest rooms offer the perfect amount of peace and quiet, boasting private porches, soaking tubs, fresh-cut flowers, complimentary Wi-Fi and Egyptian cotton linens. Lake Austin Spa Resort also receives high praise for its healthy (and yes, very tasty) cuisine. And while room rates are on the pricier side, this is an all-inclusive resort, so all meals, beverages and activities are included.

Surrounded by some of Austin's favorite entertainment joints and within walking distance of major attractions like the Austin Bats and Zilker Park, The W Austin puts you at the epicenter of the action. Its ultra-chic design may seem somewhat out of place in this funky city, but recent guests said that the guest rooms and amenities live up to the W's reputation. The hotel did infuse a hint of the city's "weird" culture into the decor: Rooms feature throw pillows with brightly stitched designs, offsetting the serene blue hues that envelop the space. Like Austin itself, the W Austin earns high praise from recent guests for its friendly, fun atmosphere, claiming that they felt extremely welcome here. And they're not the only ones: The hotel's Pets Are Welcome (P.A.W.) program makes sure that even the four-legged members of your party are well cared for. Because W Hotels are part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

Sitting near two of Austin's favorite entertainment spots – Esther's Follies and Emo's – the Hilton Austin is popular among visitors looking to immerse themselves in the city's live music culture. It's also convenient for sightseers looking to visit the State Capitol or families hoping to witness the Austin Bats. Whatever the reason for your visit, you can pamper yourself in the Hilton Austin's spa and health club, or join the party at the poolside tiki bar. Though some warn of late night noise from the bars and clubs nearby, most guests enjoyed their time at this Hilton property. While they describe the guest rooms as average in terms of look and amenities, visitors find nothing wrong with the accommodations. Meanwhile, the fare at the Hilton's on-site restaurant earns a big thumbs-up. Members of the Hilton Honors loyalty club can rack up points for staying here.

Located about 10 miles northwest of downtown Austin, the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa isn't the most practical choice for sightseers. But golfers will be delighted by this premier Texas golf destination; it features four golf courses in the heart of Texas Hill Country. After you work up an appetite on the driving range, treat yourself to a meal at one of the resort's eateries. And if you have kids in tow, plan on a day at the pool, on the surrounding hiking trails or on the mini-golf course. Recent guests love this Omni resort's quiet location and large guest rooms, which include plasma TVs, plush beds and granite countertops. However, recent guests do warn that the service staff isn't up to par and that guests should be wary of hidden fees that can be added to your bill. 

Located about 22 miles northwest of downtown Austin, the Lakeway Resort and Spa caters more to R&R seekers than it does to tourists. This beautiful complex rests on the banks of Lake Travis in Texas Hill Country, leading to spectacular views for those of you practicing your swing on one of four 18-hole championship golf courses (including Flintrock Falls, a Jack Nicklaus-designed course). Lakeway also boasts a full-service spa, which offers a long menu of massages and skin treatments. And if you're looking to take to the tides, head to the Lakeway Marina for opportunities to sail and fish, or simply lounge by the property's pool. Recent guests highly recommend ending your day with dinner at the on-site eatery, Lake Travis Restaurant. And though they describe the grounds as stunning, previous visitors say that the guest rooms feel dated, despite their flat-screen TVs and private balconies. Some also warn against hidden resort fees, which can spark a serious case of sticker shock upon checkout.

Stretching out along the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge about 18 miles northwest of Austin in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Travaasa Austin offers dramatic views and activities catered to both R&R- and thrill-seekers. Property standouts include group cooking demonstrations, Texas two-step dance classes and horseback riding lessons. Though most visitors describe the unrivaled outdoor experiences available at Travaasa Austin as a compelling reason to plan a future stay, travelers also insist that it's the gracious hotel staff that truly seals the deal. If all that activity makes you hungry, refuel with some nutritious farm-to-table cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Sample menu items include huevos rancheros for breakfast and short rib espagnole for dinner. If you're looking to take the relaxation up a notch, unwind with a revitalizing treatment, such as a clay and aloe wrap or a detoxifying sea salt and olive stone exfoliation, at the spa. Meanwhile, active types can participate in on-site Pilates and yoga classes. When nighttime rolls around, you'll retire to your rustic-yet-stylish accommodations outfitted with wooden furnishings, spacious balconies, coffee makers and walk-in showers. 

The Four Seasons brand prides itself on luxury, and this property is no exception. Sitting on the northern shore of Lady Bird Lake (just a block or so from the Austin Convention Center), the Four Seasons Hotel Austin earns rave reviews from travelers thanks to its sumptuous atmosphere and extremely friendly service staff. The accommodations also garner praise: Rooms are decorated in neutral tones and feature cozy furniture, down bedding, flat-screen TVs, L'Occitane bath products and Internet access. Some previous visitors recommend splurging on a balcony room for excellent views of either the lake or downtown Austin. Or, you can save your money for an elegant Ciclo restaurant dinner or a massage at the spa. You'll find excellent vistas from the windows of the deck of Live Oak or the lounge chairs by the outdoor, heated saltwater pool, and you won't have to pay extra for them.

Sitting about 5 miles south of downtown Austin (right off of I-35), the Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark offers a luxurious stay without all of the noise that accompanies downtown properties. This hotel caters more to business travelers than tourists, offering on-the-go workers a 24-hour business center, postal services and free Wi-Fi for Omni Select Guests members (non-members pay $9.95 per day). Recent guests do note that the location is only convenient for guests with cars. However, that doesn't mean leisure travelers should rule this Omni out: The hotel's Trinity Spa features a full menu of stress-relieving treatments, and the hotel concierge is happy to arrange tee times at nearby golf courses or direct you to surrounding shopping areas. Some recent guests do warn to check your credit card statement during your stay to watch out for extra charges. Meanwhile, recent visitors praise the Onion Creek Grille, saying that the make-your-own-pasta buffet is a treat for diners of all ages.