Pedicures are lasting and carefully done. It's our local go to - never disappointed. We always make a reservation and it's on time. Love the location on the Mesa. read more

Too expensive and not good customer service. The vibe was unpleasant and the place was dingy. Avoid

I am satisfied every time I come for a pedicure. Friendly women who do a quality job.

The women here are SO sweet and they do a fantastic job on my 2x a year mani pedi. The salon is clean, relaxing and fairly easy to get an appointment with if you call ahead. I do wish they had voicemail so I could leave a message and get a call back though. I previously hesitated to come to this salon because of old negative reviews, but they changed owners and management a few years ago for the better it seems. read more

Gel manicure removal problem. It's unacceptable to soak hands in acetone to remove polish because it eats skin.

Took my 9 year old for a manicure. They fit us in last minute, were very sweet to her, and you can't beat the price. Lasted about a week on an active kid. read more

Amazing service from these ladies with the kindest hearts you can imagine. They truly take their time with making your nails look presentable and making it a relaxing experience. The prices are pretty good I would say as-well. read more

Charming Nails, and the lovely ladies who work there, are really great. Dealing with my first pedi post-Covid was a tough job to put it mildly, and I was impressed with their work and space. My pedicure was perfectly done, they took time each step of the way, and the space is CLEAN! I've been known to walk out of a nail salon due to cleanliness, and my go to spot to glance at is the baseboards. The whole salon is very clean, neat, and has plexiglass partitions between chairs and staff. read more

I've had a lot of pedicures and manicures in my life and Lua gave me the best French manicure and pedicure I've ever had. She's experienced, talented and not rough at all. Even gentle. My feet are a little too sensitive to touch I think. I've been to her twice in the past 2 months and I'm not going to go anywhere else. read more

Terrific experience! The salon was accommodating for a last minute appointment and the pedicure was flawless. The nail color lasted weeks without chipping. Top notch pedicure! read more

Living on the Mesa, going to Charming nails is a no brainer. I like that I can walk there from my house. It's owned by 3 (maybe 4) sisters and Susan always does my hands since I think she's the only one that does gel. My manicure and pedicure are always perfect! I've never had a day where I go home unsatisfied. There's not a lot of extra frills and since it's only a few of them that work there it's never too full and on the quieter side. I don't take time out of my day to get my nails done and then to feel overstimulated after leaving. I go to pamper myself so I enjoy this vibe. They can be quite busy so make an appointment in advance :) read more

They did an exceptionally good job on my nails, I'm usually quite picky when it comes to others doing my nails but they nailed it first try (no pun) intended but I am quite happy with how they turned out I highly recommend this cute little nail shop! read more

I got a mani/pedi here about a month ago. My nails have been in poor shape ever since and I'm still waiting for them to grow out. I used regular polish, not gel and when I removed it my nails were thin, striated and peeling underneath. My cuticles have almost all pulled back to hangnails as if they weren't cut correctly. One of my toes had toe nail fungus on it which I've never had in my life! I'm on prenatals so my nails were really healthy prior to said treatments. I've never had such a poor lasting result from a manicure and pedicure. read more

Wonderful job. There were some others who walked in after and I thought maybe she would rush, but not at all. And I've never gone anywhere where they used a paintbrush with remover to make sure the edges were perfect. They also did a wonderful job on my fiancé who had really bad callouses from work. After she was done, she decided to do some more just to make it better for him. Definitely coming back. $22 for his, $28 for mine. And the massage chairs are the best I've sat in. Extra points. read more

Charming Nails - Tootsie love. - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

My friend and I called on the phone for prices and the woman was extremely rude but we decided to go there anyway since no other places seemed to be open. (It was a Sunday.) Anyhow, we got there and a woman (I assume she was the owner) was standing in the front door blocking the entrance. We walked up to her asking if we could get our nails done and she looked us up and down very rudely and said she couldn't help us. She basically "shooed" us away like we had no money or something? It was one of the strangest experiences I've ever had and left nothing but a bad taste in my mouth. I wouldn't recommend this place to ANYONE! read more

After quite a few good recommendations on Nextdoor, I looked this nail spa up on Yelp, a lot of bad reviews. I decided to call for myself and sure as rain, the man who answered said the do mani-pedi only. He said no when I asked for acrylic or gel. I repeated myself several times to verify he understood. Glad I read the reviews and called ahead...not a place I would recommend just on the attitude alone. read more

Came to see if the can fix my nail, she look at me really surprised, she said "we don't do acrylic" I said is gel. She said sorry we don't have time. They only had one customer. Never coming back to this nail salon. read more

This place perfectly satisfied my two requirements for a mani/pedi... 1) My manicurist was meticulous, and 2) They had massage chairs. I had to do this place justice by giving them 5 stars. Their facility is very nice, clean and you can tell well taken care of. They were very nice and accommodated us coming in late. They even recommended places for us to eat and gave us directions. They seem to have gotten a lot of whiny reviews from people who were unhappy so I had to let others know that its a great place. Always a sad story when the only people who say something are angry people. Not really fair. Definitely worth it and probably best to make an appointment as its not that big. Best mani/pedi I've had in a long time! read more

I got an infection.... Twice. The first time I got a nail infection, but wasn't sure if it was them... Then several months later I go back, and the woman sits me in a pedi tub I didn't know had been sterilized or not, then proceeded to grab used instruments and files with toe dust all over them (they were clearly used with soiled towels and used gloves on a tray next to her) and try to start to do my toes. I stopped her, and said, "no, those are used. I want a new one." She started arguing with me, saying "it's ok, one side used, other side clean." Yeah, I'm sure the health department codes read like that. Ummmmmmm, no. Especially when both sides have the white nail dust streaks on them. I got up to leave and she decided to get a clean instrument. She finished up and I think may have used clean instruments the rest of the time, but the metal tools were pulled from a drawer instead of a wrapper or barbicide container so I have my doubts. Anyway, a few weeks later I get athletes foot. I've never had it before. Besides their blatant disregard for sanitation, their prices are reasonable, and service is ok.... Just make sure to bring your own tools because they are clearly cutting corners. I guess it isn't so cheap when I think about all the money I spend on healing myself from their practices. I really wish they were better- they're near my home and I would use them much more if I thought they were safe. read more

BEEN COMING HERE FOR 19 years! First came here when I was pregnant with my 2nd child and Lua is truly a GEM. I've gone to other places where you can "just walk-in" and there's no comparison to the pedicure and manicure I receive from Lua. Even if I'm desperate and Lua can't fit me in the day I call, I WILL WAIT for her ALWAYS! Don't let the other comments about Susan scare you away, she's a woman of few words but she is just as wonderful! read more

This salon is fantastic. My daughter and I have been to most reputable nail salons in Santa Barbara, never quite finding the exact fit. Mostly happy, but never 100% stoked. When we moved to the Mesa, we were delighted to find this little gem within walking distance from our home! As far as cleanliness and quality of the products and equipment, Charming Nails gets 5 stars. Also, the callous treatment was highly effective-- hard to find-- and, for reference, my pedicure lasted as long as it has from spa pedicures at the Wynn and Encore/Vegas and Bacara/SB. In my experience, It's uncommon to achieve this level of quality outside of a high-end spa salon. Pricing was standard for me and half the price for my daughter. Many salons in town will charge the same price for my 8-year old, which seems absurd to me and, frankly, I have elected not to return to those establishments. Pedicures for me are a relaxing time so I don't seek conversation. I generally am pretty upbeat and did not notice any negativity in the slightest from anyone in the salon. I'm surprised by the negative comments, they are not reflective of our experience at all. Two enthusiastic thumbs up! read more

I have been going there since day they opened and decided to write a review after noticing the negativity. I was always seeing them coming out of the shop at night and finally asked them, joking if they are having parties after the shop closes. They locked shocked and told me they were cleaning and explained in great detail about taking every out each jet (which is the biggest source of infection) sterilizing the tools, etc...Cleanest nail place in town and great value. As a nurse that is a key point. Owner operated with low turnover in staff. My schedule is variable and they are great about same day appointments. 90% of the time I call, they say can you come now, I say I'll be there in 5 minutes but occasionally especially during holiday times, like everyone they are busy. I don't understand the negative comments regarding customer service but I am not one that needs chit chat and like to get in and out. Sue the owner talks fast and her accent may come off as gruff to some, but I like most of the regular customers enjoy going there. I have seen people walk in wanting a appointment for 2 a Saturday and get a attitude if they have to wait. Sometimes people get the customer service they deserve. The quality of the service is excellent. I am hard on my feet, barefoot beach running and garden in flip flops and am always amazed how long the pedicures last, they will grow out before they chip. My only complaint is they stopped carrying Million Dollar Red. I give stars based on the type of business, i.e a coffee shop is rated to relative standards, a cafe is not compared to a Michalin star restaurant. This is a local nail shop that deserves every star . read more

This is such a nice nail salon! It was a great experience! The first thing I noticed was how clean it was! And, how very courteous, gentle and detailed they are! Great spot. I will be back for sure! read more

I've been curious to try this place out for some time since I live right down the street and finally got to on Saturday. The ambiance is very zen with the beach art on the walls and the place looks clean. I had to make an appointment since it looks like they are short staffed. At least I got in the same day! I wanted to get pampered for new years eve. They even had Jersey Shore on the television, which served for great entertainment while I got a mani/pedi. They have a great selection of colors and work to make sure you have beautiful nails before you leave. Let's just say, I got my nails done on Saturday and they still haven't chipped. It's now Wednesday! Usually they start chipping the next day so I am happier than a clam. I will hopefully be coming back on my next visit to SB. read more

I went here for the first time tonight for a pedicure. The woman was very meticulous and I was extremely happy with the outcome. For a basic nail salon its pretty nice (the chairs are new/clean looking and the pedi chair gave a nice massage). I went to two places downtown last week and this place was the nicest by far. It doesnt seem like they take walk ins though. Easy parking in the back. Ill definitely return. read more

The trick is to plan ahead and make an appt. it's worth the effort, these ladies are meticulous, fast and friendly. As I live on the Mesa, this is my new go- to salon! read more

I recently had a mani/pedi that was beautifully done! I called ahead and made an appointment so there was no problem getting in. The owner was meticulous in her preparation of my nail beds for the polish which was applied with perfection! I have had a mani/pedi at 4 other locations in SB and this is hands down the best one. Definitely coming back. read more

I had a great pedicure and the woman was super nice. They have plexiglass dividers, wear masks (and make sure the patrons do too!) and gloves. The thing that struck me was they don't sterilize their instruments. Everything is clean and sanitary looking but sterilization is a must for me. If it doesn't bother you, then I recommend this place! read more

I have been driving by this place for a year and finally gave it a try since it's right down the street from my house. I called and made an appointment for a mani/pedi and I'm so glad I did as I will be a regular from now on at Charming Nails! Susan whom I assume is the owner was finishing another client who I can tell is a long time regular. The have every color of OPI you can imagine. It's super clean and tidy as well. The music was off when I got there but she told me to sit in the pedi chair while she finished her client and told me to relax and turn the massage on, and they also turned the music on. My pedicure was great. My manicure was great. It was close to closing and she still took care and did not rush me at all. So pleasant and accommodating. There were two other clients who came in after me with appointments and I could tell they are regulars. I can see why. Both ladies working were very nice. And the price is right. Do yourself a favor and make an appointment. Ignore the negative reviews! read more

I've been going to Charming Nails for 6 years now. They are wonderful. owned and run by three sisters. Being close to the ocean the air inside is great and the atmosphere is so relaxing. Their work is superb. What a treat it is for me to go there on the Mesa. read more

I called for their hours and the person says: Come right now! I was like, uh... not really ready to come "right now" and basically he said that he was ready to go home unless I went but they are usually open till 6 or 7. It was about 430 or 5 when I called. I also think the other review for this place is a fake one. I don't think I will be trying this place. read more

Laziest nail techs in town. Avoid completely. I walked in on a Tuesday and four ladies were sitting in an empty salon with 30 min to spare before closing and they said "no time for manicure". read more

Wow! I really should of listened to the reviews! I walked into this place & got a what do you want? I said, I want a pedicure. You sit and wait was the reply. I asked how long of a wait? I am busy don't you see? It will be a few minutes the lady said. As, I was waiting and looking at the poor selection of nail polish the other lady turns to me and says we don't have time to see you today. What? There were 2 people getting their nails done and almost finished. I shook my head and walked out. I will not be going back read more

I assume it was the owner that goes by Susan, well she is rude and hardly speaks English. I couldn't really understand her. The lady who did my toes, did not understand English whatsoever and cut my toenails without asking me first. Polish on my nails is an average job, my 6 year old so can do a better job than them. They don't have the prices out anywhere. When asked for the prices a brochure was pulled out of a drawer and given instead of having them on the counter or on a wall. I wouldn't go back to this place. read more

I've been going to charming nails forever, they are so thorough and take the best care every time!

This nail salon is one of the worst in Santa Barbara. Older woman is very rude and not friendly. She cut my toe nail and it was bleeding a lot. The nail polish here chips fast as well. I'm not sure if it is the base or top coat that causes it but this salon overall is very low quality. If you are deciding between here and doing your nails yourself I would 100% recommend doing them yourself. I have been to a lot of nail salons in Santa Barbara and of course there are some cons to most. This one is just not worth a dime. Also, walk ins are not welcome. The rude staff complains that you need an appointment and they don't have time. read more

Rude, expensive, and rough. Go somewhere else. Oh, and if you decide to forgo the polish and just get a gentle buff, they charge extra?! In what world, except money gouging, does that make sense? read more

This place has the WORST customer service! You would think in the economy people would be nice and friendly especially since there are so many nail salons in SB. I tried getting my nails done here twice. I live on the mesa so I figured I would try and go local. Well, the first time I was with my mom as walk in, we wanted to get manicures together. They looked at us funny because we didnt have an appt. and then were exteremly rude and said they couldnt help us. I tried going back again for another manicure and the lady said, "sorry, no appt. we can't help you, good bye!" So rude...the salon also did not look veryt clean. I will never walk in there again! read more

They were rude and treated me like I couldn't afford a damn manicure because I look like a college student. Then when I tried to leave through the front (I parked in the back but wanted to go next door to get a wax) they wouldn't let me go through the front door. read more

I went to this place because it is just down the street from my place. They took me as a walk-in mostly because it was a slow day for them. My mani-pedi done by the "boss lady" ( I assume as she was barking orders at the other staff) , was good. The down-side was the incessant loud talking on the phone or to the other staff in a foreign language while she was looking at me. At times I thought she was trying to speak to me in Vietnamese =), and she also pushed a nail color on me even after I declined firmly. Oh well...another day in a nail shop. read more