My Honest Review of The Ranch Malibu Wellness Retreat

The Ranch Malibu is tucked into the Santa Monica Mountains, surrounded by rolling hills, golden light, and sweeping silence.

It’s beautiful, yes — but it’s not just about the views. It’s about stripping away distractions so you can hear yourself again. I came here to reset. I left feeling reconnected.

The Decision to Retreat

Daily Routine: Hiking, Movement, and Mindfulness

Before arriving, the idea of hiking four hours a day sounded daunting. I pictured competitive groups, punishing workouts, and feeling left behind.

But what I found was something entirely different — structure without pressure.

“The Ranch is all about moving at your own pace — and that’s what makes it work.”

The mornings begin with a stretch class and herbal tea, followed by a daily guided group hike through the stunning Malibu trails.

The hikes are physical, but also peaceful and meditative — the kind of challenge that clears your head, not clouds it.

And the guides? They were honestly one of my favorite parts of the experience. Each one embodied the Ranch lifestyle — warm, grounded, and full of heart. They motivated us with stories, jokes, inspirational quotes, and subtle nudges that somehow made those last few miles fly by. Their energy was contagious in the best way.

Plant-Based Meals: Detox Symptoms and Lasting Impact

I had two fears going in: one was the activity level. The other? The food.

The Ranch serves a completely plant-based, organic, gluten-free menu. I wasn’t sure how my body would respond.

On Day 2, I hit a wall — fatigue, mild headaches, and definite signs of detox. But by Day 3, something clicked.

“By Day 3, I felt clearer, calmer, and more energized than I had in months.”
“I didn’t miss meat nearly as much as I thought I would — and that shocked me.”

Interestingly, there’s talk that The Ranch may start offering meat as an optional add-on in the near future — a nod to evolving wellness trends.

But for me, the plant-based meals were a surprise win. I left feeling more in tune with my hunger, my digestion, and my overall well-being.

And a month later, I’m still eating clean, without overthinking it.

A Wellness Retreat with Heart: The Power of Community

One of the biggest surprises? The people.

Each evening, we gathered for dinner as a group. It wasn’t fancy or overly structured — just honest, meaningful conversation with wellness-minded, open-hearted people from all walks of life.

“I came for the wellness — but I stayed for the people.”

There were entrepreneurs, doctors, creatives, retirees — all bonded by a shared curiosity and commitment to personal growth.

We swapped stories, traded book recs, shared health hacks, and laughed a lot. It wasn’t forced. It was natural, restorative, and deeply human.

Tips for First-Time Guests at The Ranch Malibu

If you’re thinking of booking a stay, here’s what I wish I had known before arriving:

1. Pack Smart, Not Excessively

Bring layers. Mornings start cool, afternoons warm up fast, and evenings are casual but cozy. They offer daily laundry service, so you really can pack light — especially since you’ll be in fitness clothes most of the time.

2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Start increasing your water intake a week or so before you go. It’ll make the detox process easier, especially if you’re cutting back on caffeine or sugar.

3. Let Go of Expectations

Yes, the program is structured. But it’s not militant. You’re encouraged to do your best — not someone else’s. There’s no shame in resting, modifying, or simply observing during a workout.

4. Be Open to the Stillness

The no-phone policy might feel intimidating at first, but it quickly becomes freeing. Bring a journal. Read that book you’ve been putting off. Or just sit and be. It’s rare to get that kind of stillness.Community: Finding Strength in Shared Experiences

More Than Just Fellow Travelers

One of the most surprising joys of the retreat was the sense of community. Despite our different backgrounds, everyone was there seeking the same thing: clarity and renewal.

We came together over shared meals, nourishing both our bodies and our spirits. Conversations flowed easily, and there was an openness that felt rare and refreshing. We laughed, we cried, and we supported one another as we each navigated our personal journeys.

This sense of connection reminded me that while our struggles may feel isolating, they’re often universal. Being part of this community was a profound reminder of the beauty of shared humanity.

One Month Later: How The Ranch Changed My Habits

It’s been about a month since I returned, and the shifts I made at The Ranch have stuck.

I’m still eating cleaner (not fully plant-based, but far more intentional), moving more regularly, and taking better care of my energy.

I left feeling lighter, clearer, and more focused — and I’m still feeling the ripple effect of that week.

“The Ranch isn’t a spa week. It’s a reset — for your body, your mind, and your habits.”

Final Thoughts: Is The Ranch Malibu Worth It?

Absolutely. If you’re looking for a luxurious escape, you’ll find beauty here — but also structure, challenge, and deep personal growth.

The Ranch Malibu is for anyone ready to unplug, reset, and return home to themselves. Not in a trendy wellness way — in a real way.

With muddy shoes, new friends, and maybe even a new way of living.