By Madilyn Moeller, Marketing Content Coordinator

This October, as the Women in Aesthetics Leadership Conference (WALC) descends upon the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the coastal sanctuary of Terranea Resort promises relaxation and inspiration for the women driving medical aesthetics forward.

A coastal haven rooted in history and harmony with nature

Spanning 102 acres of unspoiled Pacific coastline, Terranea Resort is perched on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, a Channel Island that long ago fused with mainland California. This island heritage has given it a unique natural makeup first revered by the Gabrielino-Tongva people. Later, it became home to Marineland of the Pacific, the world’s largest oceanarium in the 1950s that celebrated marine life and conservation. Today, that legacy lives on in Terranea’s deep commitment to ecological stewardship.

The resort’s architecture draws inspiration from the Mediterranean, with terracotta roofs, sun-washed stone, and lush native landscaping that blends effortlessly into the cliffs. From its ocean view pools and wellness center to its opulent spa and acres of hiking trails, Terranea has restful and adventurous experiences to suit the whims of every guest.

Accommodations that invite stillness and serenity

Get away from your day to day. Terranea’s guest rooms, suites, bungalows, and villas are thoughtfully designed to complement the serene landscape, ensuring each stay is imbued with tranquility. Whether you’re sipping espresso on your terrace at sunrise or soaking in a deep tub after a day of dialogue and discovery, this is the perfect place to leave behind daily worries and revel in the sounds of the ocean.

Recenter yourself for connection with intentional wellness
The Spa at Terranea harnesses the therapeutic power of nature to rejuvenate the body and soul. This 50,000-square-foot haven offers oceanfront treatment rooms, a full-service salon, and a fitness center with daily classes ranging from yoga and Pilates to guided hikes along the coastal bluffs. Signature treatments draw on the ocean’s healing properties, incorporating marine minerals, sea salt, and indigenous botanicals. It’s a perfect retreat for the conference attendees to unwind and reconnect with themselves, fostering a deeper sense of well-being.

Delight in the culinary excellence

Elevated dining at the resort is an exploration of flavors, with everything from fresh seaside fare to gourmet cuisine. Signature dishes highlight local, seasonal, farm-to-table ingredients. Mar’sel, the resort’s award-winning fine dining restaurant, is particularly noteworthy, where guests can savor exquisite dishes against a backdrop of breathtaking ocean views.
The resort’s culinary program emphasizes sustainability, seasonality and sophistication, with ingredients sourced from local farms and the resort’s own gardens.

• mar’sel, the crown jewel of Terranea’s dining offerings, presents refined California cuisine in an elegant oceanfront setting. Its wine list has been recognized by Wine Enthusiast as one of the finest in the country.
• catalina kitchen offers a more casual yet equally elevated experience, with an open kitchen, vibrant atmosphere, and a menu that ranges from fresh seafood to wood-fired flatbreads.
• Nelson’s, perched dramatically on the cliffs, is the perfect spot for a sunset cocktail or a relaxed lunch with panoramic views of the Pacific.

A commitment to sustaining natural beauty

Terranea’s deep respect and commitment to preserving its stunning coastal environment shine through in the sustainable practices woven into its operations, from water conservation measures to wildlife habitat preservation. Guests are encouraged to engage with nature through educational programs and guided tours that highlight the local ecology and the resort’s efforts to protect it. The resort is a leader in sustainable hospitality, with initiatives that include:

• Over one-third of the property preserved as natural habitat.
• A sea salt conservatory that harvests ocean water for culinary use.
• On-site composting, water conservation, and energy-efficient systems.
• Educational programs and guided nature walks that invite guests to engage with the local ecology.

Curated experiences to connect with nature and unwind

For those seeking a taste of adventure, the resort offers an array of activities that seamlessly blend leisure with excitement. Golf enthusiasts can refine their game at The Links’ short-game practice area, while the resort’s scenic coastal Discovery Trail invites exploration and immersion in the natural beauty with naturalist-led or self-guided hiking.

Guests enjoy complimentary use of the fitness center, which hosts a daily schedule of fitness and wellness classes, and can enjoy a falconry meet and greet experience. With Destinations by Lexus, guests have an exclusive opportunity to can cruise along the peninsula. Or, indulge in luxury retail to bring home a piece with Terranea’s essence.

As the conference unfolds, participants will find a wealth of curated experiences designed to both inspire and rejuvenate. WALC attendees unwind with group experiences including nature’s gym fitness, Yo-Chi, guided ocean kayaking, archery lessons, pickleball or tennis. Evenings are filled with laughter and cherished conversation, enjoyed with cocktails under the stars.

A conference designed for connection and clarity 

Terranea’s dedication to preserving and enhancing natural beauty while providing luxurious experiences truly speaks to the vision of medical aesthetics. 

It’s a place where you can breathe deeply, think clearly and reconnect with your passion for the profession. Take yourself on a transformative journey of personal and professional revitalization when you join your peers at AmSpa's Women in Aesthetics Leadership Conference, October 3 – 5, 2025, at Terranea Resort in Rancho Pelos Verdes, California.