My wife and I just went for the first time and had a great experience. I had Aree and she was really nice. Found a few spots to concentrate on and took some of the tension out of my neck that I was dealing with. One thing to be aware of is the ATM. I handed them my CC and they suggested I use the in house ATM instead. I don't have an issue with it but it's just a heads up. $80 for the hour read more

I'm not sure how this place has so many stars. Good things: They were able to schedule me when I requested The place seemed simple and clean Why I won't go again It was quite warm/ hot until midway through my massage I think I had two different people who worked on me The first who stood on me was nice and firm and continued to check on me When it came to the massage It was essentially rubbing oil on me When I made the appointment I asked Repeatedly that I was getting scheduled for a deep tissue massage and that I needed it hard It's not at all what I got I wouldn't even consider it a massage really read more

Really great service. Clean and very friendly. Staff were accommodating and professional. Would definitely recommend if visiting from out of town and don't want to spend the crazy prices at the other upper scale spas. read more

See all

I visited Malai Thai most recently on 6/18/25 and had a wonderful experience, as always. I had the 90 minute massage with Cathy, who is amazing. She started by walking on my back, and then had a full body massage. Her pressure is perfect for me, neither too strong nor too soft. She really works out the kinks in my back from the week. The facility is clean, welcoming and friendly, with relaxing music. The prices are reasonable, and the quality is excellent. I would definitely recommend, particularly Cathy. Enjoy! read more

From the moment I walked into Malai, I felt instantly relaxed. The ambiance is warm and calming. My therapist, Aree, was incredible! She was highly skilled and attentive to what i wanted. She took the time to listen to my concerns and tailored the massage exactly to what i needed. I have tried other thai massages and this is by far the best i've had, definitely will come back!! read more

Nicole, is AMAZING I recommend you getting the 1.5 hr massage you will be 100% satisfied!! Ask for Nicole, she is incredible i highly recommend her !!! I cannot wait to see her again. read more

Very good massage cozy comfortable wonderful. Very very very very very very very very very very very very good read more

Malai Thai Massage - Entrance - Massage Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

FANTASTIC massage! Visiting SB from Phoenix on a girls trip and we saw great reviews about this place. From the moment we walked in to the moment we left, the customer service was amazing. The beds were very comfortable and heated and the oil they used was soothing for the muscles. The gals hit all our trouble areas and we left feeling relaxed and refreshed! Cant wait to visit again! read more

The massage was ok, but my whole experience was ruined when the therapist told me to pay her more money after I gave her a $20 tip. When I tried to explain that a tip is not mandatory and completely up to the customer, another therapist came out and got aggressive with me. I will never go back. read more

Wow just wow. I was traveling for work in Santa Barbara and decided to get a massage in a tiny break I had because my back has been having a lot of issues. I called a ton of places and this place was able to fit me in. I love massages and go once a month because of my back issues. Ive been going to massages for years and this place was one of the places that was memorable. I was paired with someone named Pim who really understood where I was tight and what needed working on and at what pressure. I wasnt expecting much when I decided to get a massage last minute but this massage was definitely one to remember. I wish Pim lived in the city I lived in because I would go to her all the time! Lastly, the price was incredible. I live in san francisco so massages average aroun $120 an hour minimum. This place was $80!! Anyways this place was such a great surprise and will definitely be going back if I ever find myself in Santa Barbara again read more

If you're looking for a relaxing, affordable massage- come here! I had a wonderful experience with May, and I called same day and got an appointment. I felt so good after this massage, and honestly its the best one I've had in ages and I frequently get them back in LA. They run a clean, friendly place and the rooms and beds allow privacy and are nice! They had relaxing water flowing sounds and made me feel so comfortable during the visit. May even gave me a water when I left and went out of her way ti check and make sure I safely got to my car when I left since it was dark out. She was so sweet! I'm so happy to have found them, I'll be doing a 90 minute massage from them every time I'm in town! (: read more

This was a happy accident going there. I was going to a Thai massage place further up the street, but thought they had moved out. I had passed this place, but went back since I couldn't find the other one. It turned out to be the best choice ever!!! It was a bit cheaper than the other one, but the service and my massage was excellent! We were in town for the week, anniversary gift to ourselves, but I had this pain in my upper back that was ruining our vacation. Malai is the owner, but Pim gave me my massage. She didn't know much English, but she really knows the body! I pointed out where I hurt, right shoulder and neck area. She worked extra hard on those areas, but really all over. I felt almost normal afterwards. I got 60 minutes, but wish I had done 90. Well, next time. We live in the OC, so maybe not, but I am definitely looking for Thai massage when I get back home! Thanks again Malai Thai Massage for an excellent first time experience! read more

Great place to get a thai or swedish massage for a good price! I browsed around (that's what good Yelpers do, isn't it?) and found this place, called and they had time for me within the next couple hours. It's next to to a thai restaurant in a not so fancy establishment, but it's clean and quiet in the rooms they have. Professional and kind staff with great massages! You can request how firm or light you want the massage. I've been a few times and would come back. Remember to tip too! read more

I absolutely love this place! If you've never had a Thai massage, go out and get one! It's the best thing in the world. It's sensual, soothing, relaxing and literally gives you chills all over. But if that isn't your thing, You have so many options for other types of massage. You can request deep tissue, Swedish or Thai. Or you can request a variety of them all. On my last visit, i was having some pain on my thigh and ankle. The therapist worked on it for some time and i left feeling so much better. Another amazing thing about this place is the ambiance. Awww...total bliss. Surrounded by gold Thai statues. The rooms are cool, dark and beautiful. They have double, large massage tables and you can go in a friend/partner. The have peaceful music going and the feeling is always peaceful. At times they incorporate aromatherapy and hot towels. Prices are affordable and worth every penny! read more

See all

My friends and I wanted a massage while in Santa Barbara and called around to see if they have spots available. We made an appointment... For a 90 minute massage. My friends wanted the deep tissue but I was too much of a wimp and opted for the regular. I was already laying face down when my masseuse entered the room so I didn't get to see her, but I was impressed by the strength exerted. I have some pain in my shoulders and she proceeded to get to work on them. I was too afraid to have her "walk my back" but I was so relaxed I fell asleep on several occasions. At the end, I met my masseuse and she was a petite woman. Incredible how much strength she has. A very enjoyable and relaxing massage. I slept so well that night. read more

Bonnie is incredible! Came in feeling very tense and left feeling like Jell-O. Highly recommend.

Great place for a relaxing massage . Conveniently located and welcoming staff. I would visit again

needed a deep tissue massage and decided to try Malai Thai....very happy i did, cost was very reasonable, parking on site, clean and spacious rooms. I was seen by Cathy and she was excellent...worked hard on my back and shoulders with just the right amount of "good pain" to make me feel great afterwards Highly recommended and i will return on every visit to Santa Barbara read more

My husband and I stumbled upon this place while on our honeymoon. We had a couples massage and it was the most relaxing experience ever. We will definitely be back! read more

If you are looking for a good Thai massage place this is a good one. The massage itself was very good but a few things caused it to lose a star -open ceiling so you can hear other patrons. Patron next to me was coughing up a storm, clearing throat etc. the door to the massage area also www opened and closed dozens of times. Just chAnges the ambience. -the massage therapist asked if I wanted a Thai massage and I Asked what my options were. She said, let me check. She came back, didn't say anything and then just gave me a Thai massage ‍ Again, if you don't mind some noise and just want a good Thai massage I would recommend this place read more

Visiting from Santa Monica, we decided to get a deep couple massage which included hot stone and oil massage. It felt like heaven. definitely recommend it. I am behind the computer 9_10 hours a day and have tense shoulders. I really needed the massage. read more

I have probably spent around $8,000-$10,000 here in the past 10 years. I've never had a bad massage but some are better than others. I came to specifically share how incredible Nicole is. She is not just a masseuse, she is a healer. Hands down the best massage I have ever had in my life. If you have the fortune to schedule with her, I cannot imagine how you could leave disappointed. One tip I can share if you're not used to Thai massages is that for me, a soft-medium pressure Thai massage is like a deep tissue Swedish massage. I would probably pass out from the pain if I ever requested a deep tissue Thai massage. So I encourage you not to be afraid to speak up if you need the pressure reduced. Wishing you a great experience and an incredible massage. read more

I highly recommend their combo massage , very nice people and skillful. It's a very clean place . The price is totally worth it.

When ever I'm in Santa Barbara and need some relieves for my muscles and joints along with tension and working out the knots this is my go to place for total relaxation. This is small and cozy place up State street, there is parking on the street or shares parking in the rear next door to a Thai restaurant. I am always greeted with a warm welcoming smile awesome customers services, the décor is done in some nice Thai artwork with dark hard wood floors. The prices here are pretty reasonable plus there is a early bird special on Mon.- Thur. $45.00 an hrs. 10:00am - 6:00pm only. Nicole and Nok massage therapist ladies here are just amazing, the work on you using their hands elbows knees feet and toes applying the perfect pressure. The staff has always been super nice and very professional. read more

Thought I'd get a massage after several months of lower back and neck pain. Got the deep tissue massage, which is full body. And wow, one hour later my back pain and all the muscle knots were all gone. Also had some soreness in my shins and calves and they were worked out also. Catty did an amazing job with the massage and is very talented, asked throughout if the applied pressure was good, and it was perfect. Will be asking for her next time. Was a very good cost for a massage in Santa Barbara. Will definitely be coming back! read more

Best Thai massage in town with reasonable price $ 65 for hour . Aree and Amee I recommend

First time having a ThaI massage, my friend recommended it while we were in town. I've had Lots kid massages non quite like this. It's massage combo with stretching. Very nice ladies/staff. $60/hr. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is the look at you differently if you give less than $20 for tip read more

The best 90 minute massage I've had in a very long time. Amanda was my masseuse. She was professional and thorough. Spent the last 20 minutes on my feet which was heaven. The facility is clean and friendly. I Will be a regular customer of Malai Massage. read more

Best Thai massage I'd ever gotten. I went in after a day of attempting to surf. I was so sore and could barely walk. I went in and Nita worked out all the knots in my calf and hamstrings. It was a painful massage but it was what I needed to get rid of the knots. I was able to go on a hike later that day!!! When I'm back in town I'll definitely be back. read more

I was weary to try this place because of the mixed reviews but I am glad that I did! I was so happy that they were able to accommodate my late request for a same day appointment (7 PM). My massage therapist was very attentive and sensitive to my much needed areas of work. My massage was very comprehensive. She adjusted pressure to my comfort and I felt restored by the end of my massage. It was easily one of the best massages I've ever gotten. I will definitely be coming back! As a side note, you could hear other clients in other rooms but that was nothing in comparison to the massage! Also, "Malai" is not on the signage in the front of the business. It only says "Thai Massage and Spa." It is located right on the corner, next to the Thai restaurant. read more

My fiancé and I decided last minute to get a massage.. We'd seen a flier for Malai massage at the motel we stayed at, and thought we'd check it out! We walked in and were greeted by a friendly woman behind the counter. She gave us the choice between a couples massage or separate, we chose a couples massage for an hour. She walked us to our room in the back and stepped out for us to undress. The room had two large beds set up, it was clean, there was relaxing music playing.. very inviting. When our massage therapists came in, they greeted us and began. My fiancé and I both loved it. They were professional and obviously knew what they were doing. By the end we were both relaxed, our muscles were totally worked out and we both agreed we'd be back! You can't beat $49 hour long Thai massages! read more

After my drive down, I was looking for a massage and some spa like treatment at a reasonable price. I had plenty of places to choose from but went with this place since they were available and it was local to State St. They have nice remolded interior that matches their name. It's very clean and professional, there was no wait when arrived but I called in 10-15 minutes before to check. So they have a special $49 offer for the 1-hour Thai massage which is actually pretty reasonable. That 1-hour felt like an long while for some reason so it's good I didn't opt for the extra half hour. I've had a 2 hour massage once and even that felt almost too long. I like to think I'm a lot more flexible since I've been practicing Yoga, so the massage went pretty well without any strange pains after from an rough massage. The massage therapist will use their legs, elbows, feet and whatever else they can massage with on your back. Thai massage is quite different from the other massages I've had. The hour felt like it was a bit longer than I had expected and maybe it was. They're all very nice and seemed to actually speak Thai. They gave me a bottle of water when I left, which was much needed. Next to the hotel I stayed at, this is the other place that needs more real Yelp reviews for sure! read more

The massage was actually not too bad and the lady there was nice enough. I would have given it 4 stars had they not over-charged my credit card more than the total amount I put down including the tip. When I checked my credit card statement, they added $1 more. You might be wondering what's the big deal about $1. Well.. to me it's much more than the actually value of the dollar, but it says a lot about the honesty of this business. This had also happened to me once before when they will just add $1 more thinking perhaps customers wouldn't notice or maybe it's not worth the hassle for most people. So take note on how much you've put down, or better yet, just don't use your credit card there since they also charge and addition $2 for credit card transcation. read more

Stay away from this place! My husband and I scheduled an appointment early in the morning and when we got there they had given our appointment to another couple! No apology or anything. read more

Ladies were nice that's about it. Massage was terrible!!!!! I felt no different before and after. My friend and I got the Swedish massage and there was no pressure or focus on the problem areas. Most of the focus was on my head.....$50 for a head massage? Also power went out. Lady left me for ten minutes and didn't make up for the time. Very disappointed quite humorous experience. The entire time I was just waiting for it to be over. Don't come here for a Swedish massage. read more

GREAT. AMAZING. Called in at 5pm for a couples massage for an anniversary gift. They politely invited me over at 5:30 when NO ONE else in the city was answering the phone. The prices are extremely affordable and worth it. Also there is a parking lot in the back so it was an easy location to go to. Upon arrival we were escorted to a dimly lit quiet room and asked to dress down. Our therapists, Jai and Cati started with a hot towel wipe down and proceeded to a full body massage. We got the deep tissue which included an oil rub down of our entire back, shoulders, arms, legs, and neck. My partner is about 5'3" 120 lb and her therapist was not too heavy when giving the back massage. I am 6'1" 170 lb and my therapist was able to give me the strong deep tissue massage I needed even though she was bit smaller than me. This treatment is amazing and I would recommend it to anyone who lives in the SB area or is passing through. Our therapists were very polite and professional and gave us a glass of water after our massage to refresh us. 5/5 read more

Aree will transform your body and her feet are magical tools. This type of massage isn't for the faint of heart. She will take you on a journey that involves some crazy acupressure and traction-like moves that will affect you breathing. The leg walking is amazing if your legs are not already sore. She adjusts if you tell her, but if you want intensity and precision, you will get it. read more

Well, we made reservations a month in advance, called that morning to confirm said reservations, 2 people, 2 hours. Show up 15 minutes early. No clue! You come bak tomarou. What?, no! We have reservations, oh, yeah, you come back 2:30, no time now, umm, we had 2 o'clock, No! 2:30 now, we had a tight schedule? So, I guess, only 90 minute now.. my therapist was just ok..seemed to spend a LOT of time in and around my junk?? I especially like my head and neck area worked! So, it was Not what I expected or looked forward to.. My wife on the other hand had an awesome massage! She was sore the next day, which is, to me a sign of a great massage. Left her junk alone I guess. Just a note: they do walk on you and I've had that done many times before, my therapist didn't seem sure of herself or comfortable doing it? They do ask first, sort of :) I'd would have gone to massage envy, they're too busy! Gotta book a month in advance, actually I tried booking with them first..oh well read more

Lovely massage. Great experience. All it needs is to be on the beach. I'm going to become a regular.

Malai Thai is a legitimate massage place and I will be back. A friend told me to try it out and I am glad that I did. Maggie gave me a massage that was just as good as I have received at expensive vacation resorts paying several times more. Their quality is not a secret though, they were completely full when I was there so call ahead for reservations first. read more