Rest in peace, Crash. You are missed! Thank you, for introducing me to floating. Your tanks set a very high standard and now I'm spoiled. read more

Float Lab - Medical Spas Near Me - Venice, California

When there a couple of weeks ago for my appointment. Place was closed. Phone was disconnected. No signs on the door, no email, no notifications that they would be closed or going out of business. They were happy enough to charge me though. It's in the banks hands now. read more

I was really looking forward to this.... thought it would be a great end of the day relaxing thing to try. However it wasn't! It's located in a strange gated courtyard that anyone can walk up to.... but it was pretty vacant and it felt creepy and dirty. Not to mention the row of tents lined up just on the other side of the building. As soon as I walked in the place smelled like chemicals. You know that muggy gross feeling when you walk into an indoor pool area at a gym, that's what it felt like. I did read about it before going, stating not to shave before attending. But once I was in it my skin started to burn a bit by my lady parts. The water also felt strange , like there's definitely more than just salt in it. It took me all of 10 min before I just could not take the burning anymore. I tried to get out but it's very slippery and at first I couldn't pull myself up. Got in the shower rinsed off and split. The owner didn't know I left because he splits for the two hours. The place is run down and completely uninviting . I won't be back that's for sure. read more

This place is awesome!! Took a self care day a while ago and came here to try it out and it didn't disappoint. Helped with neck and back pain too which was a big plus read more

Thumbs down. I called to ask how they've made adjustments during COVID and the woman I spoke to was incredibly friendly and helpful. She thanked me for calling. She answered all of my questions thoroughly. We're roughly six ands half months into the pandemic here in LA and this was my first major outing. She put me at ease and I booked an appointment. Tl;dr - it's less expensive than anywhere else for a reason. Cough up there extra money for a better experience elsewhere. (I tried to type a summary and it got too long. Bullet points it is.) - parking: difficult to find. - masks: non-existent. Had to ask the owner (?) to put one on and even then he only covered his mouth - other float locations: don't mention. I I got a mini rant about them not understanding silence. I was then asked not to interject again because I threw him off and he had to start the shpiel over. - reception: a chair and a couch. The owner kicks the door and leaves for two hours. - walls: don't go up to the ceiling. - tank: VERY narrow. Could touch both walls with my elbows out and I'm petite. - Location: ON the boardwalk. I could hear music the entire time. Overall: after twice opening the door to check the time, I decided to leave after 40 minutes. I absolutely would not go back. I've been to other sensory deprivation locations (the ones he said don't understand what they're doing) and everyone has been more enjoyable. In multiple locations across northern and Southern California and out of state. Every one of the was more enjoyable. They might not understand the science, but they understand customer satisfaction. (The two stars are entirely for the woman who helped on the phone.) (Note: I would love to talk to someone about this experience, but as my negative encounter was with the owner, there doesn't seem to be a "higher up" who could address this.) read more

I preface this review by saying that I have no ill feelings at all towards the owners or operators of Float Lab at all. They're nice guys. My experience at BOTH Float Labs(Westwood & Venice locations) was less than stellar. At both, I experienced water temperature fluctuations, which defeats the purpose of sensory deprivation. If the water is cooler than your skin, you're feeling the coolness and not being sensory deprived. The air was also cooler. Both should be the exact temperature of your body so that there's not distinction between air/water/body. Upon my arrival at each, I smelled a strong smell of bleach, but they don't use chemicals according to their policies(which I believe) but my nose smelled bleach the whole time I floated, which again, defeats the purpose of sensory deprivation. At the Westwood location, after you float, you're let out into an alley. Okay during the day, but at night if you're a woman, it's not a safe feeling after floating. At the Venice location, PARKING IS HORRIBLE!!! The building where Float Lab is located has underground parking for $40!!! You're float is $40!! The parking people were kind enough to offer me $30 parking.....uh, no thanks! So you have to drive around for 30-45 mins looking for parking. Then, navigate your way to Float Lab by foot. I parked several blocks away and hiked through alleys and unsavory homeless tent areas as I encroached upon the location. Parking in Westwood: There is a lot one block over where you can park and walk over to the location. This float location is underground. I wasn't comfortable with this initially because of the recent earthquakes but realized quickly that it would be easy to get out safely. Now for the sound sensory part at the Venice location. Because you're on Venice Beach, there a lots of people with VERY LOUD SUB FREQUENCY MUSIC playing with lots of sub bass that travel through the ground to you where you can hear it clearly. Whether you use earplugs of not, you can hear and feel the sub frequencies. Defeating the purpose YET AGAIN of sensory deprivation. It's not the fault of the people at Float Lab, just a shitiquitous location. Should you decide to take this mission, just enjoy the aspect of being weightless and relieving your body of excess tension. You WILL feel the difference, however, if you're looking for absolute sensory deprivation, these are NOT the locations. Check around the city for other more "spa like" float centers. My fave is Just Float in Pasadena. There is where I experienced my first float and was ABSOLUTE SENSORY DEPRIVATION!!!! While they are a bit more pricey, it's worth it for a first time experience. They weren't trying to kick you out as soon as possible for the next clients, they have a beautiful waiting and tea room for you to go chill and process your experience before going back into the WORLD AT LARGE! Much needed to ease your way back into reality. Again, not hard feelings toward the fine people of Float Lab, but this is not the Float for me. read more

I've been coming here for years and used to visit weekly! The owner is awesome. You get the entire place to yourself. He checks you in and then locks up behind you. Allowing you space and complete privacy to focus on your float experience. There are two tubs, each has its own private shower. Goggles and earbuds including. If you go later on in night you can float longer. A shake machine to use before or after that is supposed to be helpful for various medical conditions or just for body maintenance. It's clean and located right across from the beach. I simply love this lab. Highly recommend. read more

Wow.. that was about as enjoyable as getting an MRI. First of all, the float pod itself is not a pod it's a very shallow black box. It's creepy. I lasted about 10 minutes. As soon as I got in the solution my skin started to itch-- does not feel good on skin at all. Then I realized I could not relax at all bc floating in a pitch black muggy box just feels like a horror movie. To the people that find this place relaxing and can last TWO HOURS--- get therapy ASAP. & a good old fashion spa day. The location is very sketchy. So if you're a woman and want to book a late night session, don't. read more

I really cant recommend coming here enough. I've been multiple times, and my first ever float was here in Venice. Compared to other floating places in LA, this one is the most affordable, easiest, and friendly in my opinion. I've always booked the latest (9PM) session in the evenings, because its a great way to end the evening and I hate dealing with Venice traffic during the day. However, coming to this area late at night does make me a bit uncomfortable (female/alone)-- You can wait in your car while you call FloatLab, and they'll come open the back door for you. Always very friendly and helpful service, I can't wait to go back again. read more

This is a worthwhile experience that I think everyone who is interested in sensory deprivation should try. Provided you're not claustrophobic, that is. Even then, the chamber is pretty big, so if it's not too severe, you might be okay. I admit, after reading so many reviews and chatting with a friend who does it on a regular basis, I had a high expectation that I wouldn't say fell short, but I also wasn't planning a return visit anytime soon. That said, it is something I eventually want to do again to see if I have a different experience. I went in August when it was hot as hell and the chamber was very humid and muggy. I can't help but wonder if it would be the same in cooler months? That was the main thing I found challenging, but it felt like I couldn't fill my lungs with enough air. These are the things one might focus on as you're trying to get into that head space of completely tuning out. It's hard for me to completely shut down. My head is quite often like the energizer bunny. There are few things to get me in a quiet state and sadly my first time doing this wasn't one of them. But I'm not giving up. I want to like this. I want to be have the just-took-a-vacation-feeling like others have stated they had. And for all for $40! I will say it's very clean, your skin will feel soft and if you're in there long enough (most people go for at least two hours) you'll get a nap out of it. Definitely don't shave anything the day you go. I had a little cut on my fingers and oh, but did it sting the entire time! Which was also distracting for me. I got out after an hour and a half. BF loved everything about it and stayed in well over two hours. read more

Unlike anything you've done period period. You can make an appointment online, the tanks are located inside a small office park right on Venice Boardwalk. It's near the north end of the boardwalk and is one of the stranger and lesser travelled areas of Venice at night. Once parked, you call to get in, you will find a small office that feels like a spiritual experiments lab. The lights are only purple and blue. A small orientation commences and one is made aware of the do's and don'ts. The whole experience feels a bit strange at the beginning but I promise if you do this and get "The Float" you will find it entirely unique and really really cool. The tank looks like a black bank vault on the outside and inside is your own private universe of endless pitch black. At the bottom of the tank there is pool of submerged ultra salt water that causes you literally float effortlessly. One lays in the water and infinity for up to two hours. After a very short time if you let yourself relax, you will feel the induced meditation. It can be a bit startling and foreign getting settled for the first time, but this is a must do experience that leaves one feeling surprised/stimulated yet really really calm. Physically, your entire body feels like a heavy layer of weight has been lifted/peeled off of you, this feeling is also pretty incomparable. Here for a moment, there for a moment, and then it's over (maybe) Go again if you'd like read more

See all

Straight and to the point..easy to understand. Cash only. $40.00 Very cool place. Relaxing. read more

Float Lab - Medical Spas Near Me - Venice, California

Had an amazing experience with Float Lab. Stuff is friendly and helpful. I tried it for the first time, 2 hours passed by so quickly. I felt relaxed, rested and rejuvenated after. Definitely making it my monthly ritual and bringing some friends. Pricewise it's really affordable compared to other places I called. Totally worth it!!! read more

I went here yesterday and my experience was awesome. It was my first time trying a sensory deprivation tank. I've been wanting to do this for years and so glad I finally did. I picked this spot because I like Venice Beach and the float lab has the best rates. I found the place to be very clean and very straightforward in presentation. I was a little hesitant based on some of the less favorable reviews, but everything about the facility was clean and professional. There was no weird smell in the tanks either. The only thing I can think is that some of the reviewers are extra picky or sensitive and possibly the type that are never satisfied. Incidentally, some of the instructions in the pre-float briefing seemed super specific(like how to open the front door of the business when leaving on your own.) which made me wonder if it was due to previous experiences with strange clients. I personally didn't have a single thing to complain about with my experience and that's why I'm giving it 5 stars. Again, the place is incredibly clean and comfortable. You don't need to bring anything with you. Towels, soap, shampoo&conditioner, and earplugs are all provided. The actual float experience was so calming and it was an interesting feeling to experience the near total absence of external stimuli. After the float I felt incredibly relaxed and I took a nice, leisurely stroll/scooter ride along the Venice beach path. It was the perfect way to end the evening. I really wish I had tried this out years ago. If you are someone who yearns for a moment of peace and quiet to collect your thoughts, this is the perfect way to accomplish that and I would totally recommend trying it. I will definitely be doing it again, as I've heard the experiences get better the more you do it. read more

Honestly wanted to like this, but it just wasn't for me. 2 hours was too long and I just didn't feel relaxed. The solution ended up getting in my eye and ruined the experience even more for me. Wouldn't recommend it read more

Have been wanting to come here since my friend told me about it ages ago. Everytime I'm driving through the area and remember it, I try to call and make an appointment but they are always booked (I think there are only 2-3 chambers)...so definitely call a few days ahead of time. The only appointment he had available was for Satuday evening at 9pm so I took it. Finding this place was a pain in the ass, becuse you park in this alley behind the building....so don't try driving down Ocean Front Walk like I did because I turned on it and realized I was driving on the sidewalk for half a block. You need to turn down the little alley (which is a one-way of course) and then park on the right under the overhang thing. I called the guy because I was confused and he actually came out and waited for me. Anyway so you park, and then walk into this cement hallway thing with a sketchy staircase that smells like pee, then cross the hall into this outside corrider and then finally into the building. At first I was like "I'm pretttttty sure I'm about to be murdered in some really fucked up Saw III kind of way" but then we got into the place and it was chill and there was one other bro in there so the guy gave us this little speech about what not to do (I was not listening at all..something about salt in your ears), and then we filled out these forms and he gave us our rooms. It was $40.00 (CASH ONLY) and he said we could stay in for three hours since it was the last of the evening...I think normally it's two hours. So you get this pretty big sized room that has the tank and then in the back is a shower. You get in the shower and lather up (they have soap, shampoo and conditioner)...do not condition your hair in the first shower, it's just for after. I was pretty lazy about this shower because I wanted to get in the tank and like find my spirit animal or whatever I was expecting to do. Make sure you put your ear plugs in (they are provided)...that's the one part of the speech I (sort of) caught and it seemed important. So the tank itself is really creepy looking and it is HUGE. It really looked like some kind of crazy gas chamber, but I was into it so I got right in...the water went up to about half-way up my calf and was perfect temperature. So get in and shut the door and it is completely, completely dark. Once you submerge your ears, it's completely silent as well. When I first laid down and started floating it felt like I was spinning in circles...very odd sensation, and for the first fifteen minutes or so, any time I would float into the sides of the tank I would get super startled and freak out...then I calmed down and I think I fell asleep for awhile. I kept trying to meditate but meditating is really fucking hard so I just focused on clearing my mind and getting zen...this tank makes it really easy and natural to relax and focus or shut down if that's what you choose to do. I ended up getting out at around two hours and thirty minutes because I started feeling like I was on heavy sedatives. I'm telling you the relaxation you get from this is no joke. When I tried to get out, it felt like all my limbs were made of cement. Everything felt SO heavy...but overall I felt lighter. Anyway, I finally managed to get out and took my second shower (make sure to rinse out your ears really well). I left here feeling like a little floating marshmallow...just totally out of touch but like in touch with being out of touch, you know? I think I'd like to come back here during the afternoon next time to really feel like I'm escaping. I loved and needed this experience, and it gets a high recommendation from me to anyone who needs a little mental vaycay. read more

Pro tip: bring moisturizer; that salt solution dries you out! Now that I've done this, I can cross it off my bucket list. I've always wanted to try it, ever since I saw the Frasier episode where Niles learns, while sitting in his sensory deprivation tank, that his wife Maris might be cheating on him with their German fencing instructor (points to you if you remember that episode!). At first, sitting naked in a salinated tank in silence and complete darkness was anxiety-provoking, and even after I got over the urge to push the door open several times, it took a while to get comfortable enough for all of my muscles to relax. But eventually, how relaxing it was. Imagine--you live in Los Angeles--when's the last time you spent time anywhere that was either completely dark or completely quiet. Probably never. For that fact alone, it's worth the drive over to Venice. I had a great time at Float Lab. Crash was the ultimate professional and I felt safe and secure under his care. I can see how the positive benefits of doing the float tank would compound over time, but I think it can really be many things to many people. Just need some stress relief? Go sit in the tank. Have a creative idea you need to work through? Book some time in the tank. Want a quiet, focused place to pray or meditate (like me)? The tank's for you. Have chronic pain? The tank. Want to let your mind run wild in the expansive dark? Guess what, get in the tank. At $40 for two hours, it's cheaper than a massage or acupuncture. After the one hour mark, I was so relaxed, so fully leaning into the buoyancy of the saline, that I felt like I was laying in bed. I may have even drifted off to sleep a couple of times--don't worry, you can't drown, you can't even flip over! Hands down, the float tank was one of the most unique experiences I've ever had. I'm super glad I went and I definitely want to do it again. read more

I just did my first float here. This place is awesome. I had been suffering from severe Bali jet lag and I heard going to a sensory deprivation tank could help. I had made the rookie mistake of smoking a little bit of pot before heading over to my appointment. I would not suggest this for first time floaters as there is a brief instruction prior that you need to pay attention to. So after getting a little bit lost in my own neighborhood, I arrived for my float. The owner hands you a laminated instruction sheet to look over, then talks about the instructions/ steps you are to follow before getting in the tank. Due to my jet leg fog and my medical marijuana, I didn't really get a good handle on all the directions. Then he leads me into my tank room. It looks like an amateur spacecraft and much more complicated than I had in mind. I'm really clueless when it comes to mechanics, cars, and spaceships. Maybe I should ask him to go over the instructions again... "Okay, see ya in 2 hours," and he shuts the door. I'm like " Wait...what??" I forget all my instructions and panic a little. Again, I don't recommend smoking pot prior for newbies. I'm able to pull it together and talk myself down. It's not a spaceship. It's just a floatation tank. I follow the directions as best I can piece together. Put earplugs in dry, take a shower, dry off face completely, get in the tank and shut the door. Okay, I got this. My heart is beating so fast and loud that's all I can hear/focus on for the first 20 minutes. I'm convinced I did something wrong. Interesting, as this happens to be an ongoing issue in my life. I'm always worried I'm not doing something quite right. In complete darkness, in my new salt water womb, I'm faced with a an ongoing worry in my mind that serves absolutely no purpose. In this moment, I'm able to see this and let it go. You really don't need to do anything "right." Or maybe there is no "right way" . So, cool. 20 minutes in and I'm able to release a useless, repetitive worry . By now, my heartbeat has slowed back to normal and I'm able to relax into the water to where I don't know where the water ends and I begin. It's truly like a forced meditation. I'm stuck in my head a bit, but eventually the thoughts stop and I just become one with the float. Even with my endless googling of what sensory deprivation does, I'm not really sure what happens the next 2 hours. I think all the cells in your body relax in a way they never can when exposed to gravity. The only areas of my body I can sense are where I store tension- in my neck mostly and a little bit in my lower back. I work on breathing in and out with the intention releasing these energy blockages. I also make a mental note to work on the areas in day to day life outside the tank. You have no sense of time in the tank. I'm positive half a day has gone by. The owner never mentioned how you know when it's over and I forgot to ask. Maybe he rings a bell or perhaps just shouts " Yo! Times up!" I start to worry I've overstayed my appointment by 5 hours. I get out and take a shower. I can honestly say I've never felt so relaxed in my life. The owner does just yell "Times up!" FYI. Like the other reviews say, he is an interesting character. I would not be surprised if he goes on to build more complex tanks, like a time machine. Definitely come here! read more

GOOGLE "sensory deprivation" before you head down to the Venice Boardwalk and lose your thoughts! A good introduction is watching this VICE portrayal: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCYglCDgpu0 I went 2 weeks ago and booked the last appointment that night. The owner CRASH conveniently called earlier that day to ensure I was arriving. When I arrived, I spoke with Crash for over an hour about electromagnetic waves, quantum psychics, dimensions, and several conspiracies. He is one of those characters that is so intelligent you could listen to him talk about the universe for hours. After a quick view of his Dogon (african statue) collection, I stepped into one of the labs. Took a shower and then walked into the black box. ADVICE: Don't expect your life to change and don't get scared. Any preconceived notions you have about the lab will not manifest and its a waste of time questioning it. I lay in the salt water for 2 hours....visually seeing flashes of white light and losing all sense of physical perception before my body would twitch awake. I was meditating and trying to transport to another level of consciousness, but it just wasn't happening. As Joe Rogan said, you don't get the full hallucinogenic/vision experience until you do it at least three times. At $40 for 2 hours, we can all afford it! read more

Oh Float Lab Technologies, you are definetly on a whole other level. I found out about FLT through a friend of a friend and knew immediately I wanted to try it out ASAP. There is a 6-8 week lead time depending on what day you choose. Since I don't live close to Venice, I had to schedule on a weekend and wait out 8 weeks. Some quick tips: Ladies - bring a brush for afterwards. You will be taking two showers and you might as well come slightly prepared. CASH ONLY If you wear contacts - you will have to take them out. If you aren't prepared, Crash will supply you with a case and solution. I guess there is an area to park, but I ended up paying for parking about a block or so away. Possibly bring your own ear plugs as the ones he has on hand aren't that great and I felt took away from my experience a smidge. The experience itself was pretty relaxing. I focused on my breathing and positive energy eventually visually seeing flashes of white light and losing all sense of physical perception. There were points where I didn't think I was breathing anymore. I layed with my hands behind my head and would find myself coming back to self awareness with my finger tips touching the side of my head. I was in for the exact two hours. Today, not even 24 hours later, and I feel really good. I have had a few life changes recently and am dealing with the possibility of having my uterus removed. I kept focused on my healthy body and mind, it prepped me for my busy week of doctors appointments and being a single parent. I definetly see myself coming back to get into a deeper meditation while in the tank. read more

This was a very worthy time. I just left my first float lab experience. Oddly, I was mildly freaking out pre sesh. Idk why- most likely life's stresses. I've been stressed stressed. Here's how the float went: Initially, when I started to float I was thinking about my breathing. It didn't take long to forget about my breathing Then I had to fight thinking about floating lol. But within (idk how long- time isn't in the tank) a couple mins, I found myself smiling and almost snoozing. I was so tired. But I didn't wana sleep so I took time to think of my body! Every part. This was went the treat got better- I felt all my parts of my body that were sore (ankle, knee joint, lower back, left hip, and right shoulder) vividly. But I wasn't thinking of the pain of them, they felt carefully caressed. The tank will be what you make it- so I decided to imagine being held. My entire body felt.... physically burden-less if you will. And mentally? Oh gosh- a treat as well. It was as if outside thoughts couldn't come in. Your body feels soooo blessed, other thoughts don't exist. I can't wait to go back without the negative, preconceived notions I had! Def recommend :) And now being 30 mins out of the tank my body is very relaxed. As if I come back from a tranquil vacation. My sore areas aren't healed magically, but definitely soothed. - don't go thinking you're walking into heaven. You're there for the tank... the location isn't bev hills- sooo don't expect aesthetics read more

Scheduled the appointment about a week in advance. He only had Tuesday evening available for both of us. It worked out fine and he lets us stay well beyond the 2 hours time limit. My friend eventually got the "TIME'S UP!" knock to get out. Some of the claims from the Joe Rogan Experience podcast that brought me here so far have proven to be mostly null and void however I will have a better conclusion once I try it a few more times. I could see this being a great way to wind down a busy month of hustling everyday however I will have to come back aided with some magical brownies and/or a large deficit of sleep. Just wished I lived closer. Luckily we found street parking a couple blocks away. We came early expecting traffic and got their at least 30 minutes before our scheduled time so we just wandered around Venice Beach checking out the hand painted sugar skulls for sale on the main walk. On a side note: Why do the very pushy medical marijuana street solicitors choose to wear prison jump suits which by the way are this offensive shade of puke lime green? Doesn't that work against their sales pitch? Either way.. beware! Craig, the owner was chill but a little too chill. Dude must of been baked which is par for the course with anyone in Venice Beach. Would like to have a bit more sense of service from him but really I don't have much to complain about. Pay attention to the rules. He will pop quiz you! lol Sign a waiver, listen to the how-to brief, and pay the $40 cash for 2 hours. Cheap for a quick mental get-a-away. Enter one of two rooms. Each room has its own tank. Door is locked. Turn off cellphone. Get naked. Admire large penis. Insert complimentary ear plugs. Pre-shower rinse with soap and shampoo. The back room with the shower and tank felt like a low budget sci-fi movie set with the colored lights and the tank itself appeared to be this makeshift Home Depot shopping spree of PVC piping and wall-mounted electrical boxes connecting to a large industrial freezer size box. It is so tall I could stand in it. As I lied down in the tank it made me think I was in some robotic womb, suspended in a humid vat of lukewarm watery jello. Where does the water end and air begin? Its quite amazing how an controlled environment could feel like this. I was skeptical about floating so easily but apparently 800 lbs of epsom salt will make any large mammal float. Me likes. Once settled I could hear my heart beating and nothing else. I could see just waves of of darkness in front of me. It is so completely dark you can't even see your eye lids move when you blink. Very trippy! The issue that some are having with their neck was not a problem for me. My head floated like the rest of my body with no strain or tension whatsoever. I tried different postures and hand and arm positions and I think having your arms to your side or above (not behind) your head is ideal. Remember: Do not touch your face or let your hands get near your face. While trying to stretch out I raised my hands out in front of me and it dripped into my left eye. Once the stinging started I had to get out of the tank to wash it out. I re-entered and tried to get back into the zen of it. The novelty wore off and I eventually got bored and ended up coming out just shy of the first hour. Booooo! Post-shower rinse with soap, shampoo, and conditioner. Remember to flush your ears out to prevent the salt from solidifying in your ear. I felt relaxed and a little rejuvenated. Unlike other reviews, I had no problem with the sound as the ear plugs worked perfect in keeping the sound as well as the salt out. Occasionally I heard weird sounds that I believe came from the plumbing attached to either my tank or the tank my friend was in. Who knows really? If I ever hit the lottery jackpot I'll spend the 35k and get my own tank installed in my crib. I imagine this would be a good alternate to a bed. read more

The moment I lied down a big smile came over me. I was totally buoyant lying in 10 inches of water inside a steel isolation tank in Venice, California. Even though my eyes were open it was pitch black so I couldn't see anything. At first I felt like I was spinning around, like an astronaut in space. I couldn't tell where the air ended and the water began because the temperature was identical. Is this how it feels to be in the womb? 800lbs of Epsom salt dissolved in the water kept me floating. With every muscle relaxed it was like I was floating in the Dead Sea without a care in the world. With no bodily senses to distract me I was left to observe my mind. Observing the thoughts as they came one by one. At some point I figured I should check the time so I opened the door and to my amazement nearly 2 hours had already passed! I quickly hopped out and showered to make the 2 hour deadline. Should you try your own isolation tank experience? Yes, I think you should. Without receiving any messages from your body you are left alone - just you and your mind. From someone who has regularly meditated for over 15 years, an isolation tank is not going to become a major part of my training. You can get the same experience from zazen (seated meditation). Do zazen long enough and your body sense drops away and again you are left with your inescapable partner - your mind. The isolation tank however will give you this experience immediately. Will you enjoy an isolation tank experience? I suppose that depends on your mind. Try it and get to know yourself. read more

I have to take a moment and write about my experience yesterday in a float tank aka isolation tank aka sensory deprivation tank. it was a transcendent experience that I really did not anticipate. in the first few minutes once I was actually inside the tank, I felt incredibly giddy; my spirit felt as buoyant as my body. whoa. I didn't know that what I would get to experience was what it feels like to shed my physical form, nor did I know that it would be the most liberating experience of my entire life. I can imagine how some might go into the tank and have a womp-womp experience. those people (I'm guessing?) are not walking around feeling super burdened by invisible forces. but for those like me who equate natural forces of gravity with, like, the physical feeling of being weighed down by life, circumstance, and/or body-- well, what can I say-- the 2 hours I spent alone and completely weightless were the most unburdened, peaceful, fun, happy, clarifying, and purifying hours of my life. I keep saying "of my life" because it was THAT distinguishing of an experience-- it stands out from truly everything else, because the normal experience of life doesn't involve u feeling like you've legitimately shed your human physical form. the second I knew I wasn't going to freak out and instead was going to like it, I went from feeling giddiness to euphoria, to an overwhelmingly deep sense of joy and peace; so much so that tears came to my eyes. I've cried from joy many times in life but to CRY FROM FEELINGS OF PEACE? yeah. never. fast forward to the postscript, because I seriously can't go into all the depths of the experience here. but my original reason for doing the float tank was because of the horrible and foreign back pain I was acutely suffering from the past 2 days, and YEAH it fixed that too. 2 hours with zero pressure on my body allowed my bad usage-- which was the source of my pain-- to reset itself. my mind was blown at how much better it made my body feel. I kept saying it was "magic" because when else are u able to put a pause button on the physical experience of being a human being? post-float, it didn't feel like my back problem had been solved, it felt like it had never existed in the first place. and that was just the physical experience. the internal experience... oh baby. wow. that's a whole nother thang. I can't wait to do this again.-- read more

Very relaxing and the staff was very accommodating. Not sure why I have to write such a long review................................................................ Not sure why I have to write such a long review................................................................ Not sure why I have to write such a long review................................................................ read more

Been to this location 3 times. Crash, the owner / mad scientist, is an awesomely unique person -- you won't come across too many people like him over your lifetime. I use my time in the tank to relax. I get away from the constant stimulation of the world. Break my addiction to technology -- checking my phone, etc. Floating is a great way to meditate, you're in an environment completely free of distractions. However, you can meditate anywhere. The flotation tank is my place to introspect. There is no other environment so perfect for exploring your own mind, your opinions of the world, and your relationships with other people. The clarity of thought you experience is unreal. Floating has helped me make critical life decisions and come to terms with situations outside of my control. Come in to it with an open mind and a problem to solve. read more

I'm not sure what all the bad ratings are about. We had a wonderful experience at Float Lab yesterday. Chris was extremely helpful, both with assisting me over the phone with our reservations as well as explaining the process when we got there to help us understand what to expect and to put us at ease for our first float. Yes, there is a strong ozone smell when you walk in, but that is to sanitize the chamber so you are not sitting in a bunch of germs, so I actually was quite fine with the smell (especially since it wasn't a bleach or chlorine smell). There is a lot of noise coming from the Venice boardwalk, but once we were in the chambers with earplugs, we didn't hear any of it. Both my partner and I thought the water in the float chamber could have been 1-2 degrees warmer, so it would be a nice addition to the experience if you could adjust temperature based on preference. Floating in the chamber was extremely relaxing. I was so relaxed afterward that I fell asleep very early that night, so next time, I may try to take a later appointment in the early evening. My only complaint with the whole experience is that the hot water in the showers went in and out, but it was not terrible. Overall, a good experience that we would do again! read more

The fluid was great, reminds me of the amniotic sack. Dark and warm like the womb of mother.

I got turned on to Floatation tanks after hearing Joe Rogan talking about it on the radio. I googled it and was fascinated. The closest place i found was in Venice...so my journey began. Venice itself is always fun. I went with my girlfriend one Saturday morning. Both of us were a bit nervous and excited. We didn't know what to expect. You can research all that fun stuff yourself. as far as the experience... i thought a bum had just finished using the place, turns out..he was the one scheduled to run the machines...i later find he's the one that built the tanks. cool guy. nipple piercings...well, we're in venice...what should i expect? place is clean...small, informative. i've never been to any other place, but i liked this one so much i got 2 gift certificates for my parents, you get an extra one free too! $50 an hour per person. their soap is tingly minty all over. me likes. you can then go out refreshed and hang out in venice...good stuff. catch me here and i'll buy you a crazy cowboy hat at one of the vendors. trust. read more

Interesting experience, 2 hours is quite long in my opinion. I found the chamber a bit too cold for being naked. The water was ok, could have been warmer as well, but the air definitely would not have invited me to go naked. Disappointed that no hair dryer was provided after the experience. After all you soak your hair for 2 hours and then have to wash it. Especially during winter time. If you like it warm and cozy maybe try another lab.... read more

I just experienced my first float. There isn't much to say as I think it gives an expectation to someone who doesn't know what to expect and will likely have a different experience than myself. I will say that I hit a trance like state pretty quickly. After releasing some of my own stress and anxiety I did reach some of my inner demons. I'm considering getting a massage before my next float as I did think releasing the tension in my muscles was one of the biggest things that impeded me from relaxing at first. Occasionally a muscle would spasm in my leg or arm and I'd knock the side of the tank and then need to recenter and refocus myself. With that being said it was an incredible experience and I've already booked my second and third sessions. FLOAT ON! read more

After multiple friends hyping up sensory deprivation for me (and them knowing my history with meditation), I thought I'd finally schedule something. Three weeks out which is meh, but hey, I'd rather wait for something spectacular. Of course, like the other reviews say, the gentleman running the place is definitely a character, but I think it's kind of endearing. Besides, you're not there to be uptight and judging; you're there to let go of all preconceived notions of what life really is. So I show up barely in the nick of time (because parking is a little tricky, so I suggest showing up early to plan for that), but the other guy who was schedule to float in the tank on the other side of the wall was late, so I ended up waiting anyway. The kid finally shows up. We go over the basics: safety, cleanliness, procedures etc. Then it's float time! Squeeeeeeeee! They have you shower before you get in. The shampoo, conditioner, body wash (soap) is all provided in the shower, so no worries there. I suggest taking out contacts (which I did) because in the small chance you get the salt solution in your eye (if you don't follow the directions clearly), you'll not be a happy camper - no permanent damage, but I've heard it stings! Then I get into the float tank. It took me about 30 minutes to quiet my mind, and then the next 30 minutes were amazing. I saw purples, blues, had a light "swishing" sensation, and the sensation at one point that I was slowly turning clockwise. Then I saw stars (like the constellation, not the nautical kind). It was amazing and I was smiling. I didn't feel claustrophobic at all, in fact, I thought if the tank was any bigger, I might have been a little freaked out. It's the perfect size. The second hour I fell asleep because I was so relaxed. The kid in the other tank got out early, which woke me up. I thought maybe the guy who ran the place signaled us to get out and I missed the cue, so I got out too. My "walk" from the tank to the shower felt more like I had floated over. What a great feeling! Got showered and dressed, and then walked out into the lobby area, and much to my surprise, not only was the owner not there, but it hadn't even been two hours yet! I was a little disappointed at myself for thinking it was time to get out, but I know I'll be going back, so I got over it quickly. The rest of the day was light and fluffy. I was stuck in traffic and the road-rage part of me didn't even surface. Hallelujah! I highly recommend if you're dealing with any type of stress, anxiety, fears etc. Floating is such a great way to let go of all of that, even if the effects last for a few hours after. read more

It's great! Lots of people have listed everything but I'll just add that a towel is provided, and if you go in the evening you can park right on Pacific a couple blocks away. Do it! read more

At the intersection of being back in the womb, Neo being brought into the real world and perhaps what it's like to be suspended in a coma or lost in deep space. Whatever your interpretation, it certainly takes a special kind of person to appreciate and sit through this. If you're apt to freak out easily, are unable to cope with your thoughts or the path your mind may take or are afraid of the dark, this might not be for you. If you're looking for an alternative to massages or other relaxation/meditative activities, this may be for you. I found it to be an amazing way to be one with my thoughts with absolutely no exterior distractions or even those distractions of my body. Really remarkable what sensory deprivation and suspending yourself in water will do. The facility was clean. And the session includes a fresh towel for your shower, complete with organic shampoo and Dr. Bronner's soap. read more

It was an interesting experience. When in a tank, it was strange at first, then you beginto hear your breath, your heart beat, to feel parts of your body, just being more aware of self. Lol, I fall a sleep at some point and when I wake up I totally lost idea of time. That was tripping and cool as the same time. Its totally worth trying. I'd do it again too read more

Looooove this facility! It was just what the doctor ordered n' some.. read more

THIS PLACE IS AWESOME!!!! Service is excellent, proprietor is extremely friendly and really knows his stuff - totally open to questions and eager to share his knowledge. The experience was unparallelled. Really just the single most restful, relaxing, recalibrating thing I have ever done. I wish this place was closer to home - I could see going there as a real habit. read more

Have you ever floated on top of water for 2 hours, totally nude, without sinking, alone, and in complete darkness? Floating allows you to go into a relaxing meditative state that words can't describe. It feels like your asleep but your not asleep and your body embraces it. Body aches and pains are lifted along with all negativity being pulled away from your mind and body by the time your session is over. You become one with the water! #hippieStatus. The Float Lab sensory deprivation tank is by far the best type of meditation I have ever experienced! read more

Nothing wrong with this place at all. I have a feeling for many people this could be an amazing, maybe even a life changing experience. For me, it was boring but I feel it just wasn't my cup of tea. Being deprived of light and sounds and stimulation would seem the ideal experience in a place like LA but to my surprise I found the experience to be dull. If I'm going to float in water I'd prefer to have the sun on me and the sounds of nature all around, even if some of those sounds are people on the beach. No hallucinations or zen moments for me. The man who explained everything was clear and kind and the place was clean enough and had what was needed. Parking is an issue, prepare to walk or pay at least 10 bucks. Just giving the review of my personal experience, the place is just fine if you want to try this out. read more

Float Lab - Float lab front room, Venice, CA - Medical Spas Near Me - Venice, California

After all the hype -- we decided to try this place out....and certainly don't regret doing so. As an observation after having gone through the experience -- I think using a float tank to experience a meditative state is ideal perhaps for those who have a hard time winding down or are hyper-sensitive to being overstimulated in their own environments. For me -- I've found other effective ways to attain a calm, quiet state of mind -- so being locked up in a pitch dark tank didn't enhance my normal ability to quiet the mind. With that said, the experience didn't blow me away. What I really did find quiet effective tho was the utter muscular relaxation felt from floating in this dense, almost gooey like water. It almost felt like I was massaged without actually getting one -- as there was no tension felt at all, it seemed from allowing the water to securely hold every muscle in your body, effortlessly. Place was super clean, the owner was straight to the point. He briefs you about the place before you begin, then leaves the premises as soon as you go into the tank room. And I guess comes back after about 2 hours. You can leave whenever you like within the 2 hours and lock the main door behind you. I'd say try it -- it may just be your cup of tea...(well not literally! the gooey mega-salinated stuff is super bitter! ;) read more