Testimonials

Sometimes the universe gives you exactly what you need, and what I needed was this week at the Golden Door! I’ve never thought of myself as a morning person, but the 6am hikes wound up being the most incredible high point (literally & spiritually!) of the week. The same group of women went every morning and formed the most incredible sisterhood. And having a “yes and” mentality opened me up to trying so many new things like drumming, archery, tarot and dance. It felt like being back in summer camp!

After my week at the Golden Door I feel alive again, like I did in my twenties. Friends say I’m radiating enthusiasm. My body feels lighter, and I’ve embraced new habits of mind and body health. I couldn’t be more grateful to the Golden Door, to our group, and to myself for the remarkable turnaround that I began that joyous week.

Spectacular as always. Food was wonderful. All dance was great. Keep Yuichi forever!

This is my second time at the Golden Door and words cannot express how I feel about this amazing establishment. I feel that I’m a pretty confident man but sometimes this game we call life gets a little challenging. But staying here with all this positive and endless energy has brought me back to an extremely confident man. I thank you!!!

Golden Door is a place to become a better YOU. Self-care is self-love.

This was my second visit to the Golden Door. It was even more self-affirming than my first visit. I allowed myself to really dig deep and come to some realizations about how to improve my life and goals, as well as my relationships. Thank you, Golden Door!!!

Had a wonderful stay! Looking forward to a return visit next year. Thank you to all the staff at Golden Door.

I came to the Golden Door very stressed and needing a reset and a change of pace. This was exactly what I needed. From the workouts to the spa to the food and the friendships I have formed I will forever be grateful. I leave feeling refreshed and wondering when I can book my next visit!

As the visiting winemaker for Food & Wine week, the hospitality, welcome and dedicated respect of my product by the chef & kitchen staff was absolutely unparelleled. Having the opportunity to spend time interacting with the guests throughout the day added a dimension of intimate community that I have never experienced at any of the other myriad of winemaker dinners that I have hosted. Chef Greg and his staff are truly exceptional, and I am more grateful than words can express for the opportunity to be a port of this magical experience. I’d love to do it again…

Inner Wisdom week at the Golden Door has been an exquisite and profound experience. The level of care in every area was literally heavenly. Answers were given before you asked and most needs were anticipated. I asked for very little because everything had been thought of. I feel stronger and healthier and have a jump start to my exercise agenda at home as was as healthier eating. I now know really well the extraordinary difference fresh vegetables and fruits picked straight from the garden can make in taste and presentation. The staff is extremely gracious and caring and always try to help with even the smallest things.

This is a place to address and nurture the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of your life. After a difficult year of medical and family issues, this place was a wonderful pause in life to turn around and remember who I am and where I want to go. Whether you want to be more active or seek inner stillness, I highly recommend the Golden Door.

I came to the Golden Door by accident – or maybe karma. My husband passed away just over four months ago and I was looking for a retreat to gather myself physically, mentally and emotionally. I gained all of that and more. I rediscovered activities I used to love doing and will now incorporate them back into my life. I had time to think and reflect in the dream sharing and wise women circle, and will now go back to consider how to proceed those insights. I am very grateful for this experience.

This experience was a perfect communion with my granddaughters, 15 & 17. A new world was opened for them. It offered the three of us to relate to one another in a special, intimate way.

The Golden Door has been truly transformative. It nourished my body, mind and spirit at an important inflection point in my life. The team was exceptional and the service was on point. Thank you and gratitude.

There is a truly authentic culture of generosity and compassion at the Golden Door. I think that’s what separates them from the rest. A sense of openness and community. It felt like a really big part of the growth and rejuvenation we experienced in our week together.

Golden Door is a very special place that quietly brings out the warmth, love and joy in people. I have met the most wonderful people and have never felt so cared for. It has been a sensational and wonderful experience.

The Golden Door pampers and challenges you, and it’s up to you to decide how you want to use the experience. I’ve been here twice, once with a group of friends and most recently alone. I recommend both experiences. Recently alone, I sought a refuge from the noise of a busy, full life and a chance to get back in shape after a fractured ankle sidetracked my workout routine. I found both. The staff is wonderful in every way, with plenty of flexibility and personalization of services and classes. Wellness of body and mind distinguishes it from other spas and luxury of other retreats. I can’t wait to return.

The Golden Door is above and beyond the greatest gift I gave myself. From the moment I made the reservation to getting into my car to leave, every single moment impacted my well-being. The staff is off the charts; friendly, kind and they do their very best to make sure all your wishes and then-some are taken care of. The accommodations themselves are spacious and lovely. The grounds are magical and just heighten your overall experience. The Golden Door is one-of-a-kind! Everyone should treat themselves to this life changing week. The other guests are all amazing and wonderful. Everyone was friendly and inviting which made it easy for us to grow close. I know I will keep in touch with some of my new friends. If you are looking for a week vacation somewhere that will transform you, your outlook on life or whatever you need, the Golden Door should be at the very top of you list. It is an experience unlike any other and truly, going to the Golden Door was the best decision I ever made! I will definitely be back again and again. Thank you for changing my life!

To the entire Golden Door Family: thank you, thank you! This is my first visit to this magical oasis. My heart, brain and feet have been on the path to find my ‘golden’ door for a long, long time. I’m just sorry it took this long, but I am sure there was a purpose. Being with my sister was such a joy. I will be back!

I came here for the first time. I walked through the golden door and down the bridge and cried deeply to learn the evil spirits would stay behind as I turn the corner into the sanctuary. Inside I found myself. I shifted, opened, found love and compassion and forgiveness – I found strength – and I am now at peace. When I left, I felt ready to go through the golden door. Because I found myself. Thank you with deep love.

My stay has been just perfect. I cannot express myself poetically, but I shall carry in my inner self a fabulous memory of the people and my experiences here. I hope I shall return. Inshalla.

What a joy to be able to come to the Golden Door yet again. I brought my daughter Vanessa with me this time, I was happy to share the wisdom, experience and friends I had made in the past. It’s not every day we have a chef in residence that so loves what he does – enjoyed the cooking class and the amazing bee walk with a master! This man Greg clearly loves what he does and is willing to share. The meals were all 100% divine – the services in every way fantastic. The employees all were so happy willing, loving caring and helpful beyond!

Golden Door opens‚
Nurtures friendship along path
Mindful spirit soars
I came to the Golden Door physically broken and mentally exhausted having lost my direction and myself in life’s tragedies. You have helped me recognize myself again and find my inner strength and peace. Thank you!

The Golden Door is an aurora – brilliant reds, soothing blues, luminous greens. It is always beautiful, mesmerizing, energizing. The colors dance for a lifetime.

The beautiful setting and the care and warmth of the staff make this place so very, very special.

Thank you Golden Door for allowing and supporting myself to be present, push boundaries, set good habits and become more aware of my surroundings. This has been one of the best weeks of my life and for that I am forever grateful and thankful.

This week has really been life changing. I came in a basket case! The challenges with my autistic son had really gotten the best of me. I feel rejuvenated and ready to face the challenges ahead! This truly is an amazing place to be! Thank you to all! Love Annie

There is a huge variety of classes to choose from for all levels and they make each one fun and challenging. All the trainers are amazing – knowledgeable, encouraging and caring.

I had an incredible first time experience at the Golden Door. It is full of amazing, compassionate, attentive staff who go all out to ensure all of your needs are met. You can do as much or as little as you want from the beautiful early morning hikes, fitness classes and excellent spa treatments. Thank you Golden Door…it was such a special week.

Thank you all for helping me through a very difficult week. I hope the next time you see me I will be “whole” again and you will see more of my smile.

I have been to other spas before, but there is none that compare to Golden Door in the US or in Europe. It is a total mind body experience in a beautiful setting. First rate exercise, organic, delicious food, and dedicated, caring and enthusiastic staff. It’s wonderful!

This trip turned out to be so much more than I expected. The staff, the room the grounds – everything was so welcoming and tranquil. I was able to confront some very significant emotional pain in a space that truly allowed me to grow and renew. I came here closed off and exhausted and am leaving here in a serene calm – I feel ready to be around people again. Thank you. I will be back.

This is the second time coming here and each time I take away something different. The first time, I left becoming more spiritual and practicing yoga on a weekly basis. This time I realized how important the food we eat is and I appreciated every meal because I felt greater and greater everyday. Thank you for putting me back on the right track.

It pleases me when I realize that the kale I am looking at on this warm summer morning is going to be on my plate tonight.

I learned so many things in addition to my physical fitness training. I also learned so many new American words…like ‘buttocks!” –names for parts of the body I never learned in school in Japan.

I was welcomed
I was pampered
I was pushed
I was soothed
I was nourished
I was reflective
I was comforted
I was educated
I was enlightened
I was amazed
I am grateful!
Thank you all so much!

I came to Golden Door thoroughly depleted and in need of some serious rest and relaxation. I received so much more. The staff is exceptional, the grounds are beautiful – perfect for exploring or simply to rest and reflect in a quiet space. The treatments were pampering and healing. Chef Greg’s menu was delicious and nourishing. I feel restored. Thank you to everyone at Golden Door. This is truly a special place.

I love Golden Door. It is my third stay and each time I feel like I am coming home. Everything is special here. The Tai Chi, meditation and labyrinth walks have changed my life by giving me an inner peace I never imagined. It is a truly special place.

This visit was exactly what I wished for and thought about for the last year and a half: serenity, quiet, solitude when I wished and kindness.

Golden Door reminds us all that we are worthy, that we all experience love, laughter, pain, and that we are all connected. I am so deeply, profoundly grateful for its existence.

I came to the Golden Door expecting a relaxing spa and some challenging workouts. What I did not anticipate was the opportunity to explore more personal issues through one-on-one sessions with experts in their fields. This, and the extraordinary staff of the Door, has made my visit here more of a voyage in self discovery in a most understated luxurious manner.

I was in deep sorrow having lost my wonderful husband of 53 years of marriage. Golden Door helped heal my pain in many small ways. It was rejuvenating here, and I hope to return some day together with both my daughters. To summarize, I had a lovely stay here at the Golden Door! Hurrah to the great staff here!

I had an exceptional time. Not only am I pain-free from a long-term injury, I now have the knowledge and skills to better myself in a more efficient manner. No matter your level of fitness, you will learn and improve beyond expectations at Golden Door.

This place is magical; there is no comparison. It is not a hotel and it is not a spa. You somehow create a community that is safe, welcoming, kind and joyous. We work hard and you are delightfully pampered. Your staff is your secret sauce – but the outfits, daily laundry, no make up…amazing.

The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.

This special place called the Golden Door is home to beauty in all of it’s forms. Caring and kind staff who spend their time and talent to bring comfort, joy and peace to all who pass by here. Hugs and love abound.

Having the closeness of female companionship reminded me how important it is for women to connect with other women. Golden Door reminded me that I am more than a mom, a wife, or an employee and I feel empowered to hold on to that.

I had no idea what to expect, but very high hopes. I’ve been blown away, this past week has felt like the best kind of dream. The property, services and activities have all been amazing. However, what really puts it over the top are the people. Each and every staff member, therapist, attendant, kitchen staff and guests are one of a kind. This goes for Bill & Joanne who I’ve been lucky enough to share my time here with as well. Chef Greg is an absolute treasure, but you already know that.

I come here to remember and take pause. The air changes when you walk through the Golden Door. You exhale and then breathe in all the peace, beauty, and spirit nurturing air. The wise women teach me things I did not know and remind me of things I have forgotten. My spirit is lifted and my mind is centered. It is the most wonderful gift for the soul.

This special week at the Golden Door has truly confirmed a new direction in my life. The challenges proved to be opportunities for renewed strength. Fear of not reaching my goals is no longer an excuse. The staff were outstanding in their willingness to help me improve in every class and situation. The cleanliness was beyond perfection, the quality of the meals and their preparation was superb. Truly this is a well-seen spa and I would give it 5 stars!

I came here physically and mentally exhausted and I’m leaving nourished, loved, grounded and well. Thank you for seven transformative days. I’ll be back!

This was the first Coed week my husband and I have attended. It was fantastic – people of all ages, some new to the Golden Door and some returning for the 97th time. Thanksgiving week was festive, relaxing and challenging. We are leaving with new plans to improve our health and recommendations from experts as to how to do so. It was inspiring to see the beauty of the property and the kindness and professionalism of everyone who works there!

The myriad experiences offered allowed me to see how bored I was with my own chatter. I felt a quietness and groundedness that was startling. Golden Door broke through my shell so delicately.

Thank you Golden Door from the bottom of my heart. After three days of specific training I am able to walk up the stairs to my room freely without holding on to the banister. I am going home with exercises I need to continue with my progress. I’ll see you all next year!

This was my second trip and just as perfect as I remembered the first time. I cannot compare this to any place on earth in fact. And, if it appears expensive – it isn’t, not if you compare with a fine hotel, then include all meals, dozens of classes, massage everyday, facials, manicures, pedicures, and so much personal care. I have not met a staff person who wasn’t eager to make this wonderful refuge a delight.

My focus this visit was two fold. One, for my mind and body to take the time to reflect and relax. And secondly, to tailor my activities and nutritional needs in such a way that I could realistically incorporate them into my daily life at home. To these ends I have had a very successful visit.

I grew up hearing about the Door from my mom – every year she would disappear for 1 week and come back to our family as the brightest, calmest, most grounded version of herself. It was special to finally have a chance to taste that magic for myself after my mom’s nearly 25 years of coming here! My intention this week was to learn, grow, spend quality time with my mom, and hopefully unwind some of the anxiety and physical tension I carry in my body (usually in the form of headaches & jaw tightness). Every practitioner I worked with – from Daniel my incredible massage therapist to Danielle my fitness -trainer to Cindi and Tracy and Lupe – was so deeply attuned to my intentions and each one was able to offer a holistic healing experience that addressed my mind, body, and spirit, through each of the modalities. I felt so safe, supported, and trusting in the hands of every practitioner I worked with here. I could feel that they were completely present with me, totally attuned to my mental/physical/emotional; state in each session, and -most powerfully- I could feel how much they each loved their world and loved healing other and holding space for other. I really felt like I could let go into expert, loving hand here. This is such a special place – I am so grateful!

I arrived tired, overworked, stressed and my energy was low. I am leaving relaxed, restored and excited about my life. Thank you!

Golden Door is a must for those seeking refuge from daily madness. You are taken care of by some of the best trainers, massage therapists and staff the world has to offer. Let your spirit glide!

The Golden Door not only meets the expectation – it exceeds the expectation. From the moment you pass through the exquisite golden door and walk down the crooked bridge, past the riot of blooming camellias, you are enveloped in a nurturing environment where an unparalleled staff gently guides you on a transformative journey. This unique Japanese inspired spa has changed my palette with its sophisticated, delicious, organic cuisine. From the superior instruction I received on the tennis court to the beautiful early morning guided hikes, every goal that I set for myself was achieved with the help of the incredible staff at the Golden Door.

Thank you so much for being here!!! I loved every minute of my experience. It, once again, was exactly what I needed- caring staff and guests- lots of energy, tender moments talking with my sweet daughter. The pampering was lovely- classes, inspirational food- just what my body needs!

It’s been an amazing experience. The combination or fitness, pampering and inner focus make this a very special treat to yourself. I loved it!

My experience here at the Golden Door has been phenomenal! As you know, you had a last-minute call to me due to a cancellation. I literally packed in an hour & was whisked away by limo on Monday January 31st at 2:30 p.m. I was in bad shape physically, emotionally, paralyzing fear & anxiety (etc. etc.) Upon my arrival I was greeted with kindness. The room was placed in was quite a distance to walk. Debbie Ann and Dawn were able to see I was in no condition to navigate the week. They promptly relocated me to the perfect location room so I could participate in all the activities. I really needed help & a reboot, peace, clarity mental help with trauma & bereavement. The EMDR/Danielle was life changing. The eco-somatic journey with Luca, indescribable! She was so intuitive. Again, life changing. Chef Greg- fantastic! Yummy. Lori and Elaine gift shop so very kind. I can’t wait to come back next year or sooner and will bring my mom, Beverly. Made some new friends. All my service providers were outstanding!

I look around at all the women smart enough to come here before a healing crisis, and I’m glad to have finally joined their ranks.

A wonderful, enriching and rejuvenating experience. I will definitely return.

I knew I had to come here, but I didn’t know what I needed. Luckily the Golden Door knew exactly what I needed and gave it to me in drones. Signed, a changed human being.

The Golden Door has brought clarity within myself to help foster an equilibrium in my life. It has taught me that the first priority in life is to take care of one’s own mental, physical and spiritual needs first, and that all else follows. The Golden Door experience does not end when you leave its timeless property, you will strive to bring the experience along with you for the rest of your life.

At dawn, lungs joyous with fresh air, spider webs hanging from branches like dew filled crystalline tumblers, eyes brimming with tears of gratitude, and marvel at the majesty of nature.

Life saving and transformative- Allowing the noise in our heads to quiet and hear what is important.

This visit (my first) was more than I could have ever hoped for. I forced myself to give myself a week where I could renew after a very tough couple of years. Not only did I feel physically better, but much more mentally and spiritually able to face my challenges and making decisions. But the best thing of all is making lifelong friendships that I will treasure in the years to come

When I arrived here on Sunday I was totally burned out – my body was exhausted, my stress levels were maxed out and I was feeling depressed and shut down. Today I’m feeling like a completely new person. I’m energized, rested, and feeling like a million dollars. Most importantly the deep fog of depression has lifted it’s veil and my spirit feels strengthened and my heart feels light. I’m feeling such joy and gratitude. On my Labyrinth walk my stone said ‘love’, which just sums things up perfectly. I feel loved. Thank you to the wonderful staff here.

Golden Door is an amazing experience for the body and mind. I will go home with new healthy practices and friendships.

Coming to the Golden Door was receiving your wish from Aladdin and the golden lamp. Whatever you wanted, whatever you desired was immediately there. Every wish presented with a smile and kindness, nothing was too much. I truly felt like a QUEEN.