With its famously steep streets and abundance of iconic landmarks, San Francisco can leave you feeling exhausted after a day of exploring. Fortunately, the city is home to a variety of world-class spas, so you can relax your muscles in a traditional bath at Kabuki Springs, or indulge in a full day of luxury at Remede. Many of the top spas are centrally located, so they’re easily accessible by car or public transportation from most San Francisco vacation rentals. Check out the most noteworthy spas in the city.
1. Kabuki Springs and Spa
Experience a traditional Japanese spa experience at Kabuki Springs and Spa, a hip spot in Japantown. The highlight of the spa is the candlelit communal bath area, where hot and cold plunge pools await; bear in mind that most days alternate between men-only and women-only. Elsewhere in the spa, treat yourself to a sauna, a dip in the hot tub, or an invigorating trip to the steam room. Kabuki Springs also offers a full menu of standard massage options, including the popular Abhyanga massage with Shirodhara, which involves a warm-oil forehead and scalp treatment. Best of all, the staff requires visitors to leave their phones behind, so the environment is peaceful and screen-free. The baths are surprisingly affordable, and treatment prices are on par with most other spas in the area.
2. Spa Vitale
Treat yourself to an afternoon of luxury at Spa Vitale, which sits on Mission Street near the San Francisco Ferry Building. Although it is more expensive than other local spas, the view alone is worth the splurge; the spa sits on the top floor of the Hotel Vitale, offering a spectacular view over the bay. Locals love the private outdoor bathing tubs, which sit under a canopy of bamboo. Revitalize your tired muscles after a day of exploring the city with the San Francisco Treat, a foot and leg massage that comes complete with a sugar scrub and a peppermint foot treatment. Spa Vitale is small, with only three massage rooms and the outdoor bamboo garden, allowing the staff to offer excellent, personal service.
3. Remede Spa
If you’re looking for a wide selection of treatment options, head straight for the Remede Spa at the St. Regis San Francisco on Mission Street near the Financial District. With two floors and 9,000 square feet, the spa offers something for every taste. Look out over the city from the indoor saltwater infinity pool, pop into a cedar wood sauna, or let the whirlpools wash away your stress. The spa is known for its Signature Massage, which begins with an aromatherapy ritual and transitions into a relaxing Swedish massage. After your treatment, head to the relaxation lounges for a glass of champagne and a handcrafted truffle. As Remede offers over-the-top luxury, prices are on the higher end.
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4. SenSpa
San Francisco locals love SenSpa, a midpriced facility located in the Presidio. Earth-tone decor and an abundance of green plants create a remarkably warm, soothing atmosphere that’s a relief after a long day of travel. Stop in the infrared sauna or chill out by the floor-to-ceiling cyclone fireplace in the warming room before heading to one of 14 treatment rooms. With an array of services, including the Buddha Belly pregnancy massage, acupuncture, and Celluma LED light therapy, it’s a breeze to ease your aches and pains. After your session, stop in the SenCafe for a fresh lunch.
5. International Orange
Awash in natural light and impeccably minimalist, International Orange relaxes you the moment you step in the door. The professional staff focus on facials, massage, and acupuncture; one to try is the IO Organic Detox Facial, which uses lymphatic stimulation to help eliminate cellular waste. With a few treatment rooms and a small sauna, the spa feels cozy and intimate. Prices are on the upper end of the midrange, but you can get a great deal by booking one of the spa’s specials online. If you’re driving from local vacation rentals, street parking is relatively easy at the spa’s location on Fillmore Street in lower Pacific Heights.
6. Spa Radiance
Spa Radiance has been one of the top-rated spas in San Francisco since it opened in 1976. Known for its knowledgeable aestheticians and beautifully decorated interior, the spa attracts a stream of repeat customers. Regular visitors rave about the LED facials, which use colored light to rejuvenate the skin. For travelers, the warm lavender salt scrub is the perfect way to soothe sore muscles; other treatments include waxing, a full massage menu, body treatments, and tanning. Prices tend to be slightly higher than average for San Francisco spas. Find Spa Radiance on Fillmore Street in Cow Hollow.
7. Nob Hill Spa
The Nob Hill Spa, which is hidden away in the Scarlet Huntington hotel, is one of the most welcoming spots in the city. You won’t find all-white rooms here; instead, the owners provide ultra-plush seating, cozy blankets, and soft pillows to keep guests comfortable. Start your visit in the sauna or the infinity relaxation pool, or pop into the eucalyptus steam room. After, head to one of 10 treatment rooms to try the spa’s legendary heated bamboo massage or the Jet Lag foot treatment. A men’s menu offers options such as a natural manicure and the Gentleman’s Quarters package, which includes a whiskey flight. Prices are about the same as other spas in the elegant Nob Hill neighborhood.
8. Pearl Spa and Sauna
If you find yourself in Japantown, don’t miss Pearl Spa and Sauna, a traditional Korean women-only facility. A favorite among locals, the spa is renowned for its ultra-friendly staff and fantastic spaces. Try the Himalayan salt room or the red clay room, hop in the cold plunge pool, and refresh your senses in the steam room. The spa’s signature Aroma Special is a must for travelers; over 90 minutes, you receive an aromatherapy scrub, oil massage, and hair treatment. Prices at Pearl Spa are relatively affordable in comparison to other spas in the area.
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