Ava GabouryThe last time I went to a spa for an out-of-town bachelorette trip, I learned to be cautious about those glowing mystery reviews.
You see, the lady who did my massage jabbed her elbow into my spine like I was the ex-husband she hates. The facial products they used left my clear, unblemished skin with cherry red blotches. It was the exact opposite of a relaxing experience for me.
That’s why when I returned to the city, I decided to look into the best spas in Vancouver. I tested several spots, asked around for recommendations, and narrowed it down to the ones that consistently deliver.
Here’s what I found.
How much does it cost to go to a spa in Vancouver?
It usually costs $40 to go to a spa in Vancouver. This price is just an estimate. The actual total will depend on the spa, the services you get done, and more.
1. Smile Thai Wellness Spa
Address: 235 Robson St
Contact Details: +1 604-630-3808
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 8:30 PM
If you’ve ever been to Thailand, then you would know that a good Thai massage usually means you walk out with hardly an ounce of tension left in your body. Smile Thai Wellness massages do just that.
I went with their authentic Thai aroma oil massage, and for that hour, I was in a total daze (I almost fell asleep). That’s just how relaxed I was.
The massage therapist paid careful attention to my biggest pain points, like my shoulders, back, and hips. She applied just the right pressure, so it wasn’t painful either.
I also loved their Thai hot herbal compress. It was very calming, and the aroma of the herbs like turmeric and kaffir only added to the soothing atmosphere.
Many other customers I talked to recommend the Smile Signature Orchid treatment. It includes a thorough herbal foot soak, oriental foot reflexology, and an invigorating scalp massage at the end.
My only gripe about this place is that the facials they offer are hit or miss. While I do like that they use Moor Skincare, a brand known for anti-aging, several people complained that the extractions were a little too aggressive.
Beautiful spa and great service!
“Beautiful spa and great service! I was able to walk in and book an appointment for the same day which was great. I chose the Smile Signature Lily package to wrap up my week in Vancouver and it was just what I needed. The space is really calming, clean, and has great ambiance. The ginger tea in the sitting room was my favorite. I will definitely be back!”
- CT Okolo Google Review
I always choose this spa
“🌺Beautiful Thai Wellness spa🌺
If you’re looking for a top-notch massage experience in downtown Vancouver, Smile Thai Wellness Spa is the place to go. I always choose this spa whenever I need a massage, and it never disappoints. Every minute of the massage is worth it, with skilled therapists who know exactly how to ease tension and leave you feeling rejuvenated.
A spa gift certificate is a fantastic holiday gift to anyone Whether it’s for a loved one, friend,or colleague.I highly recommend Smile Thai for anyone in need of a therapeutic and truly relaxing experience.”
- My Ana Google Review
2. Vancouver Ageless Rituals Beauty & Wellness Spa
Address: 1177 W Broadway #203
Contact Details: +1 778-928-7928
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
If I need a good scalp and head spa treatment, Vancouver Ageless Beauty and Wellness Spa is where I would go. I came in to try their NeuroCalm Therapy treatment, which supposedly helps reset your nervous system.
It’s on the pricier side, so I wouldn’t recommend making it a regular stop. But for a treat-yourself spa day, it’s definitely worth it.
I loved every minute of their detoxifying neck and shoulder lymphatic massage. I could feel the tension ease off during the session.
I also appreciate that their therapist was clearly experienced. She didn’t just follow a gua sha TikTok tutorial. She used it with skill, targeting scalp blockages and improving circulation.
The precision scalp massage was just as relaxing. She really kneaded into the pressure points to help me reach a sense of calm and stillness.
Others I spoke to who’ve tried their Ageless HeadSpa+Mind Clarity Anti-Aging Treatment said it was the closest thing to hitting the “reset button”. The treatment takes inspiration from Japanese wellness techniques to restore balance.
I also love that they have deluxe customized skin care, as well as permanent makeup options. Their range of options allows customers to have a full wellness experience.
Definitely a nice treat to relax
“I did the 1 hour hot stone head spa and it was an extremely relaxing experience. I especially enjoyed the essential oils they used – I looked and it was Saje, my favourite! Scalp and hair thoroughly washed 🙂 if you’ve been stressed, definitely a nice treat to relax and reset here.”
- Cally, Google Reviews
It was bliss
“I had my 1st experience at Ageless Beauty & Wellness today and had a wonderful time. It was so relaxing from the moment I walked in to the spa. The staff are lovely…so friendly! I had the Head Spa & Facial Treatment package and it was bliss! All my worries melted away for 95 minutes! My skin felt amazing afterwards and my hair was so soft and shiny. Definitely recommend!”
- Vanessa Critchley, Google Reviews
3. Kiku Wellness Japanese Zen Spa
Address: 805 W Broadway, 5th Floor
Contact Details: +1 778-798-5458
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Monday – 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Kiku Wellness Spa embodies Japanese Zen vibes throughout its entire spa. Their very aesthetic and relaxing waiting room made the 20-minute wait not so bad.
One thing I like is how Kiki Wellness weaves 3 Japanese therapeutic principles into their massages: yurashi to enhance lymphatic flow, hogushi to target deep muscle pain, and nagashi to help de-stress with essential oils.
Many customers I talked to appreciate that the therapists explain these techniques before the session, which helps them understand what to expect.
I tried their 100% organic Japanese Zen facial, and I can see myself returning for it. They use the yin-yang balance method, combining deep restorative massage with intense movement to energize muscles and get the blood flowing.
By the end of the facial, my skin felt noticeably softer, and I could see a subtle glow. It’s a relaxing and well-executed treatment that’s worth trying if you want a facial.
Professional, attentive, and her technique was amazing
“I had a splendid experience at Kiku Wellness Japanese Zen Spa. From the moment I walked in, I was warmly welcomed and offered some tea. The space is beautifully decorated, and the atmosphere was very serene. My massage therapist, Mai, was absolutely wonderful. She was professional, attentive, and her technique was amazing. She knew exactly where to focus on and made sure I was comfortable throughout. After the massage, I was offered tea and a small snack, which was such a thoughtful touch. I left feeling relaxed, refreshed, and truly cared for. I’ll definitely be coming back!”
- Mouhammad Sy, Google Reviews
Amazing service and massage
“Amazing service and massage with the best view in the town. My husband and I went for a couples massage. The end to end experience was meticulously planned and executed taking our preferences into consideration. They also offered us the cacao nib hot tea before and after massage (which honestly was so good). Highly recommend if you are looking for a relaxing luxurious spa experience”
- Rohini Muthuvelan, Google Reviews
4. Halsa Float Spa- Kitsilano, Vancouver
Address: 2028 W 4th Ave
Contact Details: +1 604-738-0942
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Monday – 10 AM to 8:30 PM
Halsa is where I’d return to again for float therapy and sauna vibes.
They have two options that you can choose from: their Genesis pods and the Ocean Cabin. The Ocean Cabin is slightly more spacious, but I went with the Genesis pod this time.
I liked having complete control over the lighting and the music, which helped calm my nerves before the floating therapy began.
The water was heated to the perfect temperature, and after a few minutes, I could already feel the soothing benefits of the Epsom salt. After a little over an hour, I ended the floating therapy with a relaxing shower to rinse off all the salt.
Then I hopped over to their sauna. Again, they have two types of saunas you can choose from, Cedar and Hemlock. I liked their Cedar Infared sauna because of Cedar’s beautiful aroma and all the wonderful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal benefits.
The only major complaint I have is that parking was a literal nightmare. They had limited parking spaces when I went, so I had to park a bit down the road.
Best lymphatic drainage message
“I just had the best lymphatic drainage message with Bren. I am two weeks postpartum and really just needed some TLC. Every time I come to Halsa it is incredible but this session really was amazing. Thank you so much for taking such good care of me at such a tender time!”
- Tracy Murray, Google Reviews
Extremely relaxing
“Amazing massage with Rachael today and extremely relaxing float. This was my first time here and I really enjoyed the facility. Very clean and relaxing place.”
- Aleksandra, Google Reviews
5. Miraj Hammam Spa
Address: 1495 W 6th Ave
Contact Details: +1 604-733-5151
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Miraj Hammam Spa offers an exotic and luxurious Middle Eastern spa experience with a focus on traditional rituals. I tried their Miraj Signature Massage, which includes a hammam and gommage before the actual massage.
I enjoyed the hammam, which was a luxurious steam bath that eased my muscles and really opened up my pores.
The gommage was also very thorough. I appreciated how the therapist used the exfoliating kit to scrub away all those yucky, dead skin cells. By the end of it, my skin felt fresh and was glowing.
The massage itself was attentive. The therapist did a wonderful job listening to my pain tolerance and focused only on the areas I asked.
When I talked to previous customers, many recommended the Rhassoul Mud mask. They said the cool mud really detoxifies the pores, leaving the skin feeling rejuvenated.
The only thing I will say is that this spa is quite the splurge, so if you’re on a budget, you might want to look elsewhere.
Relaxing and enhancing experience
“Truly an amazing experience! Selected the hammam spa & massage package and would definitely recommend this relaxing and enhancing experience! The great location, cozy atmosphere and kind staff made the experience even better!”
- Nona SM Google Reviews
Amazing spa
“Amazing spa. My skin feels so soft and rejuvenated. It’s the perfect thing for exfoliation and feeling like a new person. Will have to check out the massage next time too.”
- Zach Jones Google Reviews
