You’ve probably strolled by a boutique or full-service spa during your daily commute; this usually results in your trying to remember the last time you indulged in a little relaxation aside from the last half-assed five-minute massage you got from your significant other or during a maintenance manicure. The costs of a glorious escape from it all can add up quickly, but it doesn’t have to cost an entire paycheck to pamper your body and spirit, thanks to these six spa sanctuaries.
Piedmont Springs — Oakland
Nestled among quaint Piedmont Avenue shops, Piedmont Springs is a treasure for patrons looking for a private hot tub retreat. Unlike many other hot tub spots, each room at this location possesses a redwood decking and tub in addition to a wide opening to the sky, which makes it perfect for taking in a sunny day or an evening filled with stars. At only $25 an hour, this spot is certain to make for a regular date-night (or day) escapade.
Cinta Aveda Institute — San Francisco
I might be a bit biased, considering I went to esthetics school, but Aveda facials are some of the best around, thanks to finessed techniques and fantastic botanical blends. Students go through a comprehensive skin-care program prior to being able to work on the general public by performing custom facial services at a fraction of what they typically cost at regular Aveda salons—just $44 for 60 minutes of relaxation.
QUA, The Spa — San Francisco
With massages and facials typically costing well over $100–$150 each in San Francisco, it’s not uncommon for folks to opt for one or the other. QUA takes the guesswork out of penny pinching to pamper kings and queens with their $189 60-minute Oxygen Facial and 60-minute Swedish massage package. Yes, for $189 you get both, amounting to two hours of complete bliss just minutes from downtown.
Kabuki Springs & Spa — San Francisco
Those looking for a longer spa experience without zeros next to each other in the price can unwind and wash away stress at the communal baths at Kabuki Springs & Spa for just $25. Take a plunge in the cold pools or rest tired eyes while lying down in the dry sauna. There are also traditional hot pools and a steam room. Kabuki has two separate bath rooms for men and women but welcomes all genders! You are welcome to sport your bathing suit or birthday suit. However, on co-ed days, which are every Tuesday, you are required to wear a swimsuit.
Oakland Floats — Oakland
While this isn’t a traditional spa experience, these wellness floats are an unconventional method for achieving deep meditative relaxation. Each oversize tank is filled with 800 pounds of dissolved epsom salt for a 60-minute floating sensory-deprivation experience. This is an excellent option for those who are not fans of massages but still want the same euphoric feeling associated with extreme relaxation. First-time floaters are charged $65.
PSY Health Town — San Leandro
Korean spas and skin care have been all the rage for quite a few years. PSY Health Town is best known for their 30-minute body scrub, in which a technician scrubs a visitor from head to toe for a deep exfoliation to remove dead skin cells from every nook and cranny—and yes, I do mean every nook and cranny. Patrons typically leave feeling baby soft, making this treatment an ideal one before a special event or vacation. PSY’s 120-minute Special Package includes a body scrub, a full body massage, a mini face lift and a milk treatment for only $100.
