CHI - Cottage Health by Inga, Anaheim, CA
I got the CHI signature facial with an enzyme peel. The facial came with an amazing upper body massage! I received the best and most comprehensive extractions I have ever had in my facial "life." The cottage is cute and cozy and I highly recommend CHI. My skin was glowing when I left and I am already thinking of when I can go again. -- Chrissie L., February 2010

BERKELEY

Claremont Resort & Spa, Berkeley, CA
I've been to the Claremont Resort & Spa many times, including on my wedding day eleven years ago, so I'm disappointed and surprised to have to submit a negative review.  My last visit was really not up to standard, especially at the deluxe prices the Claremont charges. The spa ambiance is lovely and restful, but I had the following problems:  
1. Robes not available the second day. The spa provides large-size robes on request but was "out" on day 2 because of a busy weekend. The regular size robes do not cover a size XL woman, which was embarrassing when meeting and walking down the hall with a male massage therapist!  
2. The same massage therapist was assigned for two back-to-back treatments: deep-tissue massage and reflexology. The deep-tissue was fine, but the therapist was not very experienced or knowledgeable in reflexology, which was disappointing.
3. The fruit was bruised and tired-looking, very unappealing.
4. There was no one checking the front desk at the salon, so my pedicure appointment started late. The person who did my pedicure was very brusque and rude when I wandered into the salon area looking for a staff person, but later when she did my pedicure was "fake sweet" and overly chatty, clearly in pursuit of a tip.
5. The products used for my facial stung my skin and left me with red, irritated cheeks for two days afterwards.
The experience was not all negative. The front desk staff was pleasant and efficient, the facility was very clean and the atmosphere was lovely. The spa technicians who performed my services were all competent. Unfortunately the overall spa experience, when combined with the very poor customer service and high prices at the hotel, was very disappointing and not worth the high price tag. 
--Twyla H., 2006

Claremont Resort & Spa, Berkeley, CA
This place is great. It is VERY clean. The refreshments in the lounge were fresh and tasty. The staff were helpful. The aestheticians were the best!!! Surpassed my expectations. The facilities included a steam room, deluge bath, large spa, whirlpool bath and a large selections of private showers. Wonderful toiletries. -- Ryan L., 2007

Calistoga Inn and Spa, Calistoga, CA
Pro:  The staff were extremely attentive. Con: The facility was very  institutional and not luxurious. I felt like I was in a prison hospital. --  Karen K., August 2006

River Village Resort and Spa, Guerneville, CA
River Village Resort and Spa is a hidden treasure. We want to come back for a month! The cottage was wonderful and the hosts were so friendly that we felt like we were leaving old friends after just 2 days. The wet salt massage was unbelievable! Better than any massage/treatment ever (even one "famous" spa nearby where we spent 2 days before  coming here).  We should have stayed here for the "Ultimate Spa Package". Next time, we will, and we'll be back with friends. -- Daly T., Submitted 2005
 

River Village Resort and Spa, Guerneville, CA
What a grand experience --  the cottage, the community feeling, our hosts, Gary and Donna. And then there is Phil and Bonnie! Oh, that lavender wet salt massage and those hands. Thank for it all, we loved it and we'll be back. -- Patty M., Submitted 2005

Estancia La Jolla, La Jolla, CA
I was married at Estancia and skipped my Bachelorette Party so I could spend the day before my wedding at the spa with the girls getting manis, padis, and facials. Since my wedding, I have been back many times thanks to gift certificates from my boss, husband, and family members. The grounds of Estancia are immaculately kept and there is a calming feeling as you are greeted by the inviting aromas and candlelight of the spa. The waiting area offers tea, cucumber water, and fresh fruit, as well as ample magazines to choose from. You may also have drinks, breakfast, or lunch from their restaurant delivered to the spa. I have really enjoyed the outdoor areas: one area has a nice fireplace and cushioned seating, while the other area is strictly for the ladies with a Jacuzzi and lush landscaping. The staff is very friendly and their main goal is to ensure that you have a wonderful, relaxing experience. This is a small upscale spa, with very reasonable pricing.   --  Michelle M., Submitted September 2008

Spa Mystique at the Century Plaza Hotel, Century City, CA
Very friendly and attentive staff. First impression was good. Very clean and relaxing atmosphere. Excellent prices. I received the couples 50-min. Swedish massage and was very satisfied. I cannot stress how courteous the staff was. I was escorted through the spa, refreshments were poured for us; it was very nice. The day spa, which you have complete access to all day, was fabulous. Very well maintained -- fresh fruit and drinks available alongside lounge chairs within the spa. Overall, highly recommended.  -- Andrew, June 2003

Urban Retreats, West Hollywood, CA
For my boyfriend's birthday, I arranged for a surprise 60-minute massage over his lunch hour. I made the appointment well in advance, and specifically requested two things: NO deep tissue (light Swedish only) and NO male massage therapists. When my boyfriend arrived, he was given a very deep tissue massage (all elbows, he said) by a short dark-haired man! Thinking this was the "surprise" I had planned for him, he didn't mention how uncomfortable (in several ways) the massage had been, until a couple days later. As soon as I heard what had happened, I called the spa to discuss my complaint.  Each person I spoke with "did not have the authorization" to handle my complaint. The one woman who DID have authorization never returned my calls, despite over a month of messages. I finally gave up after 5 weeks. In sum, it's a very poorly run spa. --Jessica C., Submitted March 2005

UNWIND Mobile Spa, Los Angeles County
I am always excited when I know I am gong to receive a treatment from Unwind.  They create a space for me to enjoy and forget. I am always better for the experience.  I have been to many practitioners in the past and finding those who give this level of care is like finding a personal pot of gold. The gentle nature of this group of practitioners supports the transformation that I want out of the experience.  I can't more highly recommend these folks and the wonderful things they can do for you. -- Marla S., November 2009

Spa on the Plaza, Monterey, CA
This spa was one of the most disappointing I have experienced. The front desk was staffed by young ladies who thought and worked so slowly, they may as well have been stoned. My girlfriend and I both had massages and one additional treatment each. We both found the masseuse's to be uninspired, performing a merely perfunctory service. There was no sauna or Jacuzzi, only a small, poorly performing steam room that went from cold to hot and all the way back to cold before restarting. The layout of the locker rooms was likewise poorly executed. When the door opened, anyone walking in the hallway outside could look in to most of the interior of the locker room, viewing anyone inside, regardless of whether they were dressed or not. I was charged $390 for two massages and two salon services. Hardly worth it. I won’t return. -- Drexel B., August 2008

Health Spa Napa Valley, Napa, CA
One of the best spas I have ever been to. From start to finish, I felt it was well worth my time and money. With access to a gym, a pool, steam room, and Jacuzzi, you can definitely take your time there and enjoy your treatments. I am definitely going back! Very professional and great atmosphere. -- Terina C., 2004

Newport Beach Marriott Hotel and Spa, Newport Beach, CA

I just wanted to comment on a new spa that was a most welcome surprise. I am a Specialty Food Consultant and was invited down to Marriott Newport Beach Hotel & Spa's $70 million grand-reopening, to try their new restaurant "Sam & Harry's."

Not being a big fan of traditional ho-hum steakhouses, I was thoroughly impressed by this new east-coast transplant-(the original Sam & Harry's is 5 minutes from the White House). A scrumptious meal could even be had by non-meat eaters, by ordering the jumbo crab cakes -- fairly "bursting their britches" with huge chunks of crab--flanked by some delectable sides such as perfectly sauteed spinach and the Cheesy sweet potato gratin.

The next morning I woke from a "best-dreams ever" sleep in their famous Marriott bed which has a feather bed topper, sky-high count Egyptian cotton sheets, and tons of down pillows-ahhhh. After my in-lobby Starbuck's coffee, I decided to check out the luxurious 14,000 square food Pure Blu Spa. Glam it up with beauty treatments, work up a sweat at the gym, relax in the quiet room where you can also partake of a selection of fruits, herbal teas, and naturally flavored waters.  The only difficult part is deciding to choose from the menu of treatments that are offered. I felt totally rejuvenated after my heavenly aromatherapy massage, followed by their Pure Blu O2 skin-plumping facial. (Although next time I'm definitely going to treat myself to the Signature Shell Therapy-which uses heated shells to soothe away your cares).

Plus the location gets extra credit points for being just steps away from the unparalleled collection of stores in Fashion Island. Shopping, Spa Treatments, Succulent steaks and seafood-what more could a girl want?

--  Janice N., May 2006

Desert Springs, JW Marriott Resort & Spa, Palm Desert, CA
I had a facial at the spa next to the JW Marriott Resort in Palm Desert. Prior to my facial I was allowed to visit the steam rooms, hot tubs, outdoor pool and California showers. All areas were very clean and the staff helpful and friendly. I especially enjoyed the aroma therapy steam room.   -- Marianne W., March 2009

Hacienda Hot Springs Inn & Spa, Desert Hot Springs, CA
I stumbled on Hacienda Hot Springs Inn and Spa by accident, and have fallen in love. Each room is clean, has a kitchenette, a private patio, spa robe, and the grounds are beautiful, with two natural mineral water pools.  The last time I went I splurged on a massage and it was great (I think my masseuse was Laura). The real selling point for me is the private patio and the pet-friendly policy -- they allow well-behaved small dogs. Sometimes I take mine along, sometimes I don't, it's just nice to have the option.  Suzy F., March 2006

La Quinta Resort & Spa, La Quinta, CA
If you are in the Palm Desert/Palm Springs area, this is where you should spend your day! La Quinta is beautifully understated, carrying their Mexican heritage throughout their decor and into their treatments. I enjoyed a wonderful warm stone massage, and then a "celestial shower", where you take a warm shower outdoors in a private area with the desert moon and stars shining overhead. You can almost hear the coyotes in the background! The therapists were experienced and the staff quite warm and welcoming. Absolutely excellent!  -- Mary E., May 2006
 

Spa Casino Resort, Palm Springs, CA
My daughter and I went to Spa Casino in May 2003 for a Mother's Day Spa Day.  When we arrived at the spa, it was very crowded and noisy.  We were herded with 10 to 15 other women as staff pointed down a hallway in an effort to explain where showers and steam rooms are located.   

At the counter a menu was casually flipped to us and we were told to pick our lunch selections, which were to be eaten in the locker room where tables were set up.  We were told to bus our own trays. 

When my daughter asked about the noise level, the desk staff responded "It's Saturday and it's busy."  We thought that was a strange response to make to clients who had come for what was advertised and promised to be a "Tranquility Day."

When we went to the steam room, a patron was complaining about the aroma scent being too strong.  The attendant started bickering with the patron -- with the door to the steam room left wide open.  Another patron had to interrupt and ask that the door be closed.  The attendant left, saying "If she doesn't like it here she can leave."   When my daughter and I left the steam room, she broke into tears from the disappointment.

The entire "spa day" was a special gift for me, and she had paid $680.00 in expenses for the experience.  Because my daughter was still crying during her treatment, a young lady from the front desk came and spoke with us.  She wouldn't give us a refund, but she said we could return on another weekday. 

We both felt terrible, and wanted to leave, so we did. We felt they pulled a bait and switch by not providing the experience they advertised. They didn't seem to care that they had patrons walking around tearful and looking miserable.  

I am requesting they refund my daughter her money and am requesting your assistance.

Virginia, May 2003

Editor's note:  We contacted Spa Casino Resort on Virginia's behalf.  Initially, our telephone calls to Spa Casino were not returned, and our emails to the spa director of Spa Casino Resort were bounced back as undeliverable, as were our emails to the hotel staff. The spa and resort thereafter went through renovations and later in November 2003, they opened new facilities.  Ultimately, the spa agreed to refund Virginia's daughter's money, sent a letter of apology, and included a gift basket.  A regrettable experience, but a professional resolution.

Spa at Pebble Beach, Pebble Beach, CA
I really enjoyed myself at this spa; my massage was the best I've ever had. I will definitely return; thank you. -- Lorie M., June 2002

Luminary Spa, Pleasanton, CA
Amazing spa, I am thrilled to have found it. I've been to several spas in the area and none compare to the fantastic service I received here. The atmosphere is so relaxing and cozy. Very clean, lots of specials and seasonal discounts, the prices are very fair. The staff goes out of their way to please and accommodate you. I've been here many times and it's always a true pleasure, the way a great spa should be. -- Sarah J., June 2007

Granite Bay Spa, Roseville, CA
I love this place! When I walk in I love the smell, the atmosphere, and the people! I always get my haircut and eyebrows waxed here and they do a very good job.  I am always very relaxed when I go to this salon.  They also have nice gift packages, it's a little bit pricey, but it's worth it!   Taylor M., January 2007

Blue Sky Day Spa, Sacramento, CA
I found Blue Sky Day Spa on this site many  months ago, when I was browsing the Day Spa Specials page, looking for promotions for a friend's birthday.  I bought a gift certificate from Blue Sky for my friend who ended up not coming to visit after all, so ultimately I used it on myself.  What a treat! I loved my day here. A complimentary champagne lunch was included with my package.  The spa is in a shady little spot, and was very restful and quiet, even though it faces a fairly busy street through a popular neighborhood.  The owner, Cindy Ajay, and her team have created a quiet refuge in midtown Sacramento, and I plan to return. -- Karen, May 2005

Luxe Salon & Spa, Sacramento, CA
Anita Beebe.  That's all you need to know.  BEST esthetician I know.  I've been with Anita since 2004 when I moved to Sac.  Waxing is phenomenal and painless.  Important to know for the ladies who like a Brazilian wax job.  Brow work is impeccable and clean.  Prices are very reasonable.  She uses DermaIogica products and doesn't leave your face red and puffy after a facial.  I can't speak for the rest of the salon, but Anita gets 5 stars!  -- Lisa S., September 2009

Saqqara Salon de Beaute, Sacramento, CA
This is a small salon with hair and esthetic services on a quiet corner of downtown, at 10th and S Streets. Lynn Phillips handles the hair, and is a talented stylist who specializes in cut, color, and offers human hair extensions by Balmain, a top of the line brand, either clip in or bonded.   Kathleen Mikulin offers  all of the esthetic services.  She's an industry expert of long standing, and committed to the science of her profession. Very warm and friendly and keeps my skin looking fantastic.  The salon also offers TRUE Cosmetics, a mineral makeup brand that I love, with makeup services as well.  The Salon is set up in a Moroccan style in a nod to Kathleen's extensive travels in Morocco.  Moroccan art, clothing and shoes are available.  Nibble on fresh dates, almonds, and Mint Tea while waiting for your services.  The salon participates in Second Saturday events, and frequently offers complimentary classes in skincare, makeup and other topics of interests to its clients.  -- Anon, June 2008

Spa Tiki, San Diego, CA
I visited Spa Tiki while attending a conference in San Diego. They are located across from the convention center. I had a twenty-five minute wait for my appointment, which I believe is unreasonable. While waiting, I browsed through products and gifts in their store. Some bottles and containers were sticky, others were empty, some had tops left off, etc. The waste basket was full, and it was early in the day. The aesthetician was polite, but the facial was mediocre. Worse, there was quite a bit of sales pressure, even after I explained that I had my own aesthetician and products at home. The massage technician was aloof but competent. I somehow felt like I was bothering her. The decor is a little tacky. It's supposed to be "tropical" but it falls short. Altogether, this was a disappointing experience. Both the spa director and her assistant were not available to speak with me. If you are looking for a relaxing environment and skilled technicians - look elsewhere. -- Donna J., April 2009

Pala Casino Resort, Pala (San Diego County), CA
This was my first spa experience, checked in about 15-20 min early for men's 1/2 day package. 10 minutes after scheduled facial with no response from staff, the massage therapist tells me she can take me now (this was originally scheduled as 2nd therapy). Massage was truncated though (as if I was late in getting in) although the therapist giving facial and body scrub admitted to me she was caught in traffic and late getting in. Informed receptionist of issue, she could not reach a manager so gave my phone number and they had my room number in the hotel. Never heard anything back from them for the extent of my trip. Also informed resort on comment cards and never heard anything back from resort either. The treatments themselves were nice (except for being truncated) and the resort was clean but was very disappointed not to even get an apology from a 4 star resort. The hotel/casino itself was very nice but found the service extremely disappointing. -- Chris R., July 2008

Dancing Heart Spa, San Diego, CA
The spa facility was very clean, nicely decorated and very organized. The front desk clerk was courteous, and she called the day before to remind me of my appointment. It was my first spa experience and she made sure I was very relaxed. She gave me hot tea and explained what each process would be. The therapist was exceptional, as well! I would (and have) highly recommended this spa to my friends. -- Stacie O., February 2006

re:fresh, San Francisco, CA
I have been to re:fresh day spa on two separate occasions for two different treatments. The environment of the day spa is very nice. The decor is very minimalist and the facilities have always been clean and well-maintained. When you arrive, you are shown to a locker room, given a robe and slippers, and told to change and then wait in the co-ed waiting area. The waiting area is comfortable and they serve you hot tea or water.

On one occasion, my treatment was for a Pohaku Stone Massage, was not great but was very good.  

On the second occasion, my treatment was a facial. I arrived at exactly the time for my appointment, but was told that I was late. I protested, and was then informed the spa had a mandatory 15-minute advance check-in policy, so, my treatment would have to be cut short.   I was not informed of this policy when I booked the appointment.

I was shown to the locker room where I quickly changed. My aesthetician greeted me in the locker room and took me back immediately to the treatment room and set to work on the facial. She sped through the treatment and did not complete all aspects of the facial. The treatment I requested was a deep cleansing facial with arm, neck, and upper back massage. She did not perform any massage but did give me an "upgrade" on my mask since she couldn't do the whole treatment due to my  "late arrival."  The facial was one of the worst I have ever received and I was very unhappy with the service.

I complained to the manager on duty and asked for a discount on the service. She refused because I had been "late" but did give me a free upgrade on a future facial, which is useless to me because I won't be returning to their facility. The staff is generally polite but I will not return to this day spa when my patronage obviously means very little to them. -- Anonymous, 2007

Editor's Comment:    While it is regrettable that this patron had a disappointing experience at the spa, this review makes for a good opportunity to discuss spa etiquette.  It is industry policy to request all patrons check in sufficiently early that they are ready for the treatment to begin at the appointed time, not standing at reception saying "Hello, I'm here."

As this guest points out, a beverage is usually offered, and there is time required to change into spa attire, put away a purse and keys, and get onto the table, and discuss the treatment.  One doesn't simply walk in the room and immediately get a facial AT the appointed time.  Your esthetician needs you to be on her table, read for the treatment to begin, and not walking in the front door.  

Further, the esthetician must clean the room between patrons, and ready it with fresh linens and the refilled or different components of the next service to be rendered. Massage therapists need a break -- the tension they removed from YOUR muscles, are now infused in their hands and shoulders and arms.  This "window of time" afforded by an early check-in is customary throughout the industry and can be found on most every website and menu for a spa or salon. 

In addition to making for a more pleasant experience for the patron, it also avoids penalizing the next patron, who must then wait for the room to be cleared and prepared following a late start for the previous guest. Even five minutes delay can make quite a bit of difference in an efficient schedule.  

It would appear from this review that the spa elected to adhere to its policy (and likely had another patron waiting), and appropriately so. It would have been good customer service had the spa informed the patron of the early check-in policy, at the time the service was booked. Unfortunately, that didn't occur.  The spa may have mistakenly thought this returning patron was already aware of the policy from prior visits.  In any event,  the upgrade during the treatment, and an offer of a future upgrade, was, in our opinion, a very generous response to the situation and indicative of the spa caring for its clientele. Unfortunately, it wasn't perceived as such, but we respect that it is often difficult to remedy a disappointing experience.

Our readers should take note:  Whenever possible, arrive as early as fifteen minutes in advance to both enjoy your spa treatment to the fullest, and get the most value.

Spa Bellissima, American Canyon, CA
My visit to Spa Bellissima was a wonderful surprise indeed. I was in need of some TLC and I had heard about the spa but was not sure, when I called for information I was immediately impressed because the person on the phone was courteous and knowledgeable. I knew I would be in a good hands. I arrived to my appointment and was greeted by staff, I felt welcomed by a wonderful smell of lavender and some other oils -- I'm not sure what they were but they smelled great. I enjoyed 3 hours of pampering. The massage and pedicure were wonderful but my favorite was the facial. I will be back to Spa Bellissima. I encourage anyone looking to relax to visit this spa --  PC, July 2005

Sol-Y  Mar Day Spa, Oakland, CA
Sol-y Mar Day Spa is wonderful.  They offer massage, couples services, and the staff is wonderful. I highly recommend that you go, and ask for a tour to see the entire spa.  -- Loren, November 2008

Sea Spa, Santa Barbara, CA
This review relates to a lack of courtesy and public relations. I contacted Sea Spa to organize a bridal shower. The web site and services offered look sumptuous. Unfortunately, the service did not live up to that promise. It took them 5 days to return my call, despite the fact that I was told someone would call the next day. The phone staff were somewhat abrasive. For example, when I asked if salon services (such as manicure/pedicure) would be available to a bridal party in addition to spa services, I was simply told "We are not a nail shop." When I shared this information with the group concierge and suggested that from a customer relations perspective, it was somewhat off-putting, she said simply "You are one of a million, and we are number one, so this must be an issue just with you." I was surprised, as most other service-oriented businesses I deal with at least give lip service when feedback is offered in a friendly way. Based on this episode, I decided to plan the spa party elsewhere, and feel strongly enough about it that I wanted to share the experience with others.  -- Melissa F, February 2004

Editor's Note: Inquiring as to whether manicure and pedicure services are available at a day spa is a perfectly reasonable request, particularly given the reason for the visit -- bridal party preparation.  To dismiss the provision of manicures and pedicures as services offered only in "nail shops" sounds snide, and does a disservice to nail technicians everywhere. -- SpaIndex.com

Image West Salon and Spa, Sunland, CA
I had been looking for a first class Spa and Salon in my neighborhood when I came across a goldmine! Image West Salon is the best Salon that I have been to from Encino to Pasadena. The salon features full service color, cuts, nail services, hair extensions and even permanent makeup. Debra, the owner was very friendly and helpful, her hairstylists are highly educated. The spa is very private and tucked away from the rest of the services. The spa has a steam room, massage rooms, facial rooms, the variety of services and the knowledgeable staff is again is top notch. They also have a Raphaologist, ear candling, dermabrasion, detoxification. I found this skill range and commitment combined with sincere friendliness to be the prevalent through out the staff. Overall, I trust them. -- Terry A., January 2008

Cal-a-Vie, Vista, CA
What an experience!  The staff was great!  The hikes were hard, but felt great.  The treatments were wonderful, and so was the food.  Can't wait to go back. -- Kathleen N., November 2002

Cal-a-Vie, Vista, CA
The fitness program is killer, but the treatments are in a class all themselves. Fabulous, knowledgeable staff, and incredible menu. Plopped in the hills of warm San Diego, what more could you ask for? Truly my best spa experience. -- Annie P., April 2001

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Suncadia Resort
Washington
$119 per night includes
a $25 spa credit
Though March 2010