City living can be stressful. Luckily, there’s no dearth of San Francisco day spas where you can unwind in style. Whether it’s a tension-relieving massage for easing the dreaded 9-to-5 hunch, a skin-sloughing facial to make you glow, a luxurious soak (indoor or out!), or an over-the-top, head-to-toe pampering session, these local day spas are the best in town.
S.F.’s top day spas
This sleek city spa and yoga studio is known for expert skincare. Estheticians specialize in skin-specific regimens, using products from Arcona, IS Clinical and In Fiore. Opt for the In Fiore facial, which includes a series of herb and plant extracts, skin-tingling active enzymes and alpha-hydroxy acids. Though it’s located off a bustling strip of Fillmore, the spa feels like a true retreat, outfitted with reclaimed teak floors, leather benches and a roaring fireplace (and if you’re in the market for a true retreat, the spa has another location in Marin). In the summer, guests can kick back on the beautiful, landscaped outdoor deck in back. Swedish, Thai, hot stone and deep tissue massages are performed with your choice of jasmine, geranium, bergamot or lavender essential oils. Even the facials are capped with a mini-massage.
A former army barrack may not seem like the most obvious place for an escape, but this huge spa has transformed its army digs into a Zen hideaway. The 13,000-square-foot complex encompasses steam rooms, an infrared sauna and 14 treatment rooms offering services spanning acupuncture, body treatments, massages and facials. Founder David Spencer is a collector of Eastern art and a firm believer in holistic wellness—treatments like the Gua Sha Stone massage are based on ancient Asian healing practices. The bamboo-bordered lounge is a lovely place to spend the day, whether in front of the cyclone fireplace or in the lush private garden.
This beloved bathhouse and spa feels like a jaunt to Japan without the pricey flight. Be forewarned: It’s not for the shy or body-conscious. Though swimwear is optional, most all attendees go nude. (Men and women are welcome on alternating days.) The low-lit communal baths include a hot tub, pool, cold plunge pool, sauna and steam room. Private treatment rooms are also available for massages, ginger and seaweed body wraps, facials and acupuncture. Book the Javanese Lulur treatment, which starts with a turmeric and rice scrub and ends with a fragrant, flower-strewn private bath.
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