I wanted to treat my fiance with a massage for his 1st Father's Day. He was a little nervous about getting a massage bc he doesn't like pain and I needed a prenatal massage. I spoke to Koko on the phone and let her know about my pregnancy and my anxious partner. She set everything up and, despite wearing masks bc of covid, it was the most relaxing massage either of us had in awhile! Fiance said he even caught himself drooling a couple of times he was so relaxed. They gave me a couple of pillows to hug for my prenatal massage and I was just imagining hugging the baby while Natalie massaged my back, head and arms. It was such a loving and relaxing experience, and exactly what we needed after how crazy 2020 has been. We felt really safe with the new covid guidelines and liked that we were the only customers there. They gave us hand sanitizer and masks to wear. We had a wonderful experience and hope to return the next time we are back in SD. read more

It's been a long time since I've given a massage place 5 stars but this one has earned It! I've been to a few massage places in my neighborhood including -Karma relaxation -Happy head massage -the water cube spa Just to name a few so you can have a general idea. What these establishments lack are real massage therapists. Nothing pisses me off more than paying damn near 100 dollars for mediocre work meaning someone just basically rubbing lotion on my body in circles. This is what lead me to massage by design. I was desperate for a professional due to having liposuction and was in need of a Real 100% government stamped masseuse for aftercare to avoid lumps from fluid collection. Massage by design has 5 stars on yelp, please believe these reviews. These great masseuse"s are sent from heaven above to knead your tired body parts and whip them into shape honey! I have been here 4 times already and have decided to keep the same masseuse by the name of Nick because he is the best! read more

Massage By Design - Huge pendulum reiki rock in the waiting room - Massage Therapy Near Me - San Diego, California

Went here for a lymph drainage massage after plastic surgery. It was horrible and damaging koko clipper did the worse job. Causing damage after surgery she used cupping and went way to deep causing problems a week later along with extensive pain. Horrible service . I do not recommend this place. For you to comment on my name on Yelp shows your horrible service. I'm not your friend I hired you for a service... just horrible... read more

Koko is amazing!! I absolutely felt so comfortable and cared for while I was receiving my massages. I had 5 post op massages over about a month and I really enjoyed my time there. My body always felt so much better, swelling would go down and I would be relaxed for the rest of the day ! Koko was very knowledgeable and answered so many of my questions. She was such a cheerleader for me as I quickly recovered from surgery. Likely, with her help. 1000% recommend. read more

This was an amazing experience. My husband and I came here and both came out of our massages with exactly what we needed. We were both relaxed and feeling much better. I was with Jenny, who I went through an entire emotional spectrum with. We laughed, I cried, and she helped work out my back. She was also very informative and made sure I knew how to work out my trouble spots. My husband was with Beverly. He said it was just what he needed. Give these ladies a try! You'll be glad you did! We will certainly be back for more real soon! read more

Massage By Design impressed me as soon as I called to book an appointment. The appointment was for a couple's massage the following day. Surprisingly they had availability at a great time for us, whereas most places will need at least a few days before a time slot open. The booking was easy and the staff was very friendly and helpful when I had questions about the massage styles and pricing. They offer a range of options from Swedish and Hot stone to deep tissue and Thai, integrating techniques into a customized therapy session. The morning of our appointment, I am greeted by Beverly via text. A nice message to confirm our appointment which makes me that much more comfortable when we arrive. The place is a small multi-room office unit on the third floor, but they make the best of their space and it feels welcoming and calm. After a few minutes finishing up with their previous client(s), Beverly and Jenny greet us and have us fill out standard pre-massage consent forms. The massages begin shortly after this. The rooms are surprisingly big and feel cozy with their heated massage beds, subtle mood music, and calming decor. After a short consultation about what I aim to achieve from the session, Beverly proceeds to hit many of my problem points and works diligently to ease tensions and soften tight muscles. Beverly is very responsive and succeeds in achieving my goals for the session. From what I hear, Jenny is a perfect massage therapist for my wife. She provides a powerful experience complete with emotional relief and tension release. Both my wife and I are feeling renewed after a short transition back to the real world. We will be going back to see them again. read more

Although they have great introductory discounts, I felt like I've had better massages elsewhere, so I would not come back here. My masseuse didn't really give me great kneading or anything; his style seemed very light and pressure point- oriented (not a good mix of techniques). Customer service is great. Parking on street is not so great. read more

I went in a few months ago for some Trigger Point therapy work for some really long existing back issues I've had forever. Beverly is AMAZING! I've tried a lot of places and people but I've finally won and found someone who really knows what they're doing. I've never had bodywork done like Beverly does it. It wasn't your go-to relaxing massage, but her techniques and dedication to help you feeling better are unmatched. My FAVORITE part was actually slightly painful but really rewarding, the slide cupping technique she ended with made a big difference too in all my knots and tension in my back. I workout quite a bit and my back always gets tight beyond belief and this makes a big difference. I'm calling to make my next appointment soon! read more

Massage By Design - Aftermath of the slide cupping, SO WORTH IT. - Massage Therapy Near Me - San Diego, California

I came to Massage by Design for some post op lymphatic massages, I got the pleasure of having koko preform my massages. She is simply the best, very knowledgable, personable and sweet. Her place is super relaxing, comfortable and clean. She was very quick to respond and made sure all my needs and concerns were met. Very comfortable/professional environment! Will most likely be returning every few months for touch ups. Highly recommend. read more

I have my first half marathon this weekend. Two weeks ago I noticed my right knee started to feel a bit wonky and unstable. I rested it a bit and did the whole heat/ice thing, but still felt really tight all around my right knee. I've had massages before but always told them to not touch my knees as they are always tender (old sports injuries from 15+years of competitive tennis). With the half marathon right around the corner, I decided to have a massage done to loosen things up in hopes of easing any extra tension in my legs and knees. I called on Tuesday and they were able to book me with Beverly today (Wednesday) for 90 min. The place is small but cozy and easy to find. Beverly sat down with me and went over everything to decide what the best game plan would be for my massage. Let me just say... WOW! Beverly knows what she is doing! I have never had anyone go near my knees, but I trusted her. She used heat to ease into starting on my knees and it helped so much. Yes at first there was discomfort (tightness all around my knees) but with the heat and her massage, it slowly went away and before i knew it she was massaging in and all around my knees making them feel better than I've ever felt before. I am still amazed how my legs feel and know this will help me feel prepared for the half marathon this weekend. Just a note - if you are expecting a gentle and relaxing spa like massage then you need to go to a spa. This is the place to go when you need someone to really work on your trouble spots. It can be a bit painful but that goes away and the release and results are amazing. I look forward to another massage with Beverly soon! read more

I have received massages from many places in San Diego, at many price points. Koko at Massage by Design has by far provided the most therapeutic and helpful massages at the best value. Her knowledge of physiology is impressive, and she has made a real difference in addressing neck, shoulder, and hip pain. Her massages not only are relaxing but also provide real therapeutic benefit. I also appreciate Koko's professionalism, wide range of scheduling options, and flexibility in rescheduling when necessary. Koko's studio is clean, comfortable, and tranquil. I am so lucky that I found her! Update: I have now branched out and received massages from Lisa and Isa at Massage by Design. They are both terrific and provide real therapeutic benefit, just like Koko. Everyone at Massage by Design is very professional and knowledgeable. The whole team is top notch and customizes the massage to suit your needs exactly. read more

Jenny is THE BEST! She listened to my concerns and went to work. I asked for a deep tissue massage and she delivered! I work at a computer all day and I try my best to stretch throughout the day, but I know I have major trouble spots. My main priority for this massage was to loosen up the muscles and to relieve tension. Jenny hit spots that I didn't even know were bad. She addressed her concerns and suggested ways that I could help relieve the tightness in between visits. I will absolutely be returning to Jenny for all my massages. She knows her stuff and I can tell that she is very passionate about improving overall quality of health. Thank you, Jenny, for the feel good pain! lol read more

My husband and I booked a couples massage for our wedding anniversary after reading other yelp reviews. There is a lot of competition in San Diego for massage therapy, and these guys really do stand out. First of all trying to get 2 appointments together seemed to be a rare thing with most other places, but not here. Seth was my therapist, he did an excellent job, while also being polite and enthusiastic. My husband had Jenna, he was amazed at the power of this woman's hands. Hubby weighs in at about 175 @ 5'-10", an I could overhear her asking him was it too much? (that is gold!). These people know what they are doing. Book your appointment with Yelp and get $10 off each person! read more

OMG this place is a lifesaver...so I hurt my back and neck area from a combination of things- heavy lifting, stress, holding my phone between my neck and shoulder, bad posture, etc and my back finally had enough. I tried Advil, Ibuprofen, Vicodin, stretching, ice packs, heat packs, etc and nothing seemed to help so I figured massage was the way to go..I called to make an appointment and then offered me a discount for being a new client (score!) and when I arrived, they had me fill out a form to pick out what kind of massage I wanted and how soft/hard it should be. I picked medium to be safe because my back was so angry...I can normally handle pain, but I didn't want to make it worse. Jenny worked on me and gave me a deep tissue massage and it was glorious! I could actually feel the knots going away as she worked on it! I've never really had a massage before this but it did help me out a lot. I can carry a purse now lol (I couldn't because it hurt my shoulder area too much). I probably need to go back a few more times to get all of the knots out but this definitely improved my back tons. I just need to remember to drink water afterwards to clear out of the toxins...and probably have better posture.. read more

My review is for Nick. I went in on a Tuesday last minute mind you . do they take walk in massage? well sort of 1 hour is all they require so as far as I am concerned yes they takes walk ins. I get there early and the place is quiet and smells amazing. Nick comes out of the room and asks if I was at all confused as there was no receptionist when i walked in. I explained I was not as there were sign that said massage in sessions. I assumed all staff were in a massage. I wont drag this whole review out but I will highlight I get massages and do chiro regularly. This massage by far was superb because it was truly targeted to the areas I have that always hurt. Neck and shoulders. He did some pressure point type of technique I think. It was painful but tolerable. Just two days later my neck and shoulders feel completely relieved which I can say I haven't had that in more than 10 years. He did a great job afterwards explaining their specials and other services. I do plan on going back and buying their 4 sessions for 260 and 1 free session. Parking may be an issue but i parked on the side street so I wouldnt have to pay the meters. read more

This review is for Seth. I came here after finding this place on yelp, and I made a same-day appointment using the yelp coupon. The massage was just what I wanted--normally, I feel like I have to keep repeating myself in telling masseurs to use more pressure, which can feel a bit uncomfortable by the 3rd time saying it, but Seth was very receptive and easy to communicate with, and he made the massage as deep as I wanted it. Seth also helped me stretch out my legs, something I've never had a professional masseur or masseuse do for me as part of a regular massage. I was wanting a massage to be able to do a 5K in a couple days, and Seth tailored the massage to that. I think a lot of professionals are afraid to do too much work on my glutes, even though I have never specified that I want that area to be avoided (and I have no qualms about being touched there), so I was glad that Seth was also thorough in this area, in addition to the rest of my legs. Seth actually spent a little over an hour with me. Usually, an hour massage seems to get cut down to 45-50 minutes, with being brought into the room a couple minutes after the hour, getting undressed, waiting, and that time being factored into a massage which is really 50-55 minutes. Seth definitely went overtime with me,which was a first. I won't have overly high expectations and expect this again if I go back, but it was nice to know that Seth was that committed to doing a thorough job. Seth was very friendly and we chatted before and after, but he didn't force a conversation or anything during the massage, as I think it should be. I definitely want to try to come back before leaving town again. read more

I was so impressed!!! Koko was incredibly thorough and relieved my shoulder and neck pain. I've had many massages before and was immensly impressed how knowledgeable she was with the human body. She explained to me why she was working the muscles that she was, and how they were causing pain in other parts of my body. She was very intuitive on the amount of pressure to use, even though i love to get deep tissue work done, she didn't go extremely deep on the area because it was injured and didn't need that. Rather she focused on the muscles that were causing the pain. All I have to say is that I thought I was going to be out of work for a while, and after receiving bodywork from her, I felt better within the week! I will definately continue to see her in the future! She is an absolutely talented massge therapist! read more

Revisited a massage location I previously frequented. It has always been a great establishment, w quality, top-notch masseuse. But I tried a new therapist yesterday (Jenny), and WOW. I'm not sure where they make hands like this. I couldn't identify one bad minute of this 90-minute massage. I received a Deep Tissue, and got 100% just that. I'm sure everyone has their go to for massages...but you will be doing yourself a disservice by not arranging an appointment w Jenny! I highly recommend her, and will be visiting again! Is there a Yelp app that allows me to recommend 6 stars? Just asking. read more

Thank you to other yelpers for the awesome reviews! I've had pain in my shoulder from and injury, repetitive movements, and arthritis. My husband has back issues. I've taken and done everything to the pain, but massage therapy has been the best way to manage it for me. I had a regular massage therapist that I was seeing, but our schedules were not working out with her schedule. Long story short, I was in so much pain and needed to find a massage therapist available last minute and on a Saturday! I called all over and Massage By Design had 2 spots available for my husband and I. I had Shannon and my husband had Jenny as our massage therapists. They have a few holiday specials from Nov 1 to Dec 31. We did the Swedish couple's massage for $129 for 60 minutes. It's usually $159. We were in a nice size room and of course had the nice music and aromatherapy scents. My husband said Jenny was awesome!! His back felt so much better. Shannon was also amazing! My pain and stress melted away as soon as she started working on me. Of course my extreme pain didn't completely heal. I know one massage isn't going to cure years of wear and tear. We loved each massage therapist so much and scheduled appointments in 2 weeks. They also have massage packages and you can share the sessions with someone. I've been to other massage therapists and we didn't always connect. Shannon was extremely nice, comforting, and she just worked on me the entire time. She didn't talk at all during the massage, which I APPRECIATE! Some people just talk the whole time while you're trying to relax. Another weird thing that I really appreciated from Shannon was that while she was hovering over me when I was faced up she breathed through her nose. She didn't exhale through her mouth. So I didn't inhale her breath. They're located in a big brown office building on Park Blvd on the same side as Le Stat coffee house. We just parked on the street. read more

Getting a massage by Seth is like having your own personal physical therapist. He will explain why you're having pain or stiffness and will make it go away. He has an obvious passion and commitment to his craft. Unfortunately, before finding Seth, I had purchased a few massages through Groupon, so when I went to those other therapists, it felt like I was flushing money down the toilet -- there is no comparison. If you're browsing around Yelp, looking for a massage therapist, stop right now, pick up the phone, and make an appointment. You'll never go to another therapist again. read more

After two days of being on my feet at Comic-Con, I called it early on the second day and turned to Yelp for a massage place. This place was ~5 minutes from my motel in Mission Valley and they called me back immediately and were able to get me in within about 30 minutes, which was great. When I showed up Seth wasn't really expecting me (since I'd booked the appointment during his previous one and they hadn't gotten in touch with him yet to let him know), but got me in right away anyway. Seth asked which areas I wanted to work on, and actually listened. At a lot of places I've been to, they really go into auto-pilot mode after awhile and start doing their usual routine for an hour or whatever amount of time they need to get through. Seth spent almost the entire time on my neck/shoulders and back, as I'd requested, which was great. I could have used a bit harder pressure at times, but he also seemed to know where to ease up a bit, which is important -- too many people, when you ask for hard or deep tissue massage, just end up pounding on pressure points, with little actual effectiveness. Still, there were times when I would've liked a bit more elbow grease going. Overall, I would go back if I find myself back in town. read more

After reviewing the many awesome reviews Massage By Design received from Yelp, I decided to give it a try. And they were right!!! Five stars! It was very easy to schedule an appointment (which I did via their website). I received a prompt email confirming my reservation . Easy peasy! I was scheduled to have a massage with Lisa. Every little detail she puts into the massage makes a world of a difference! Details such as the comforting light touches right down to lotion she used! (No greasy stinky stuff!) I had such a great massage that I booked my next appointment before I even left! I highly recommend Lisa and Massage By Design! read more

I used the Yelp deal and man was it worth it. She worked like crazy and got about 99% of a really crazy set of knots out of my neck which were bothering me for weeks. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because I was all relaxed waiting for the massage and then she came in and talked like crazy. I was hoping she wasn't going to talk the whole time, and she eventually let me relax. But the massage overshadowed the first bit of my time there by far. Even with that one little thing, it was the best massage I've probably ever had. I will be back, for sure. Oh, and I using the Yelp deal was awesome. She probably could have charged $100+ for what she did, but I got it for $45 +tip. Amazing. read more

Lisa saved me from excruciating and debilitating neck pain. They have a great early bird special, be sure to check the website or utilize yelp deals. The three masseuses I've had have all been very knowledgable. I even arranged a home visit for my husband and I and the prices were reasonable. Not having to leave home was well worth it. read more

Came here thanks to a yelp coupon I received as a birthday present. Got the couples massage with my BFF, and it was nothing short of heavenly. Located in a small business building but they did a great job with the small space. The room had soothing music, ambient lighting, and comfortable table beds. I had Josh and he was great; I'm a girl and I never felt uncomfortable or nervous (and this is my first time at a massage parlor.) Swedish massage with the perfect amount of pressure. Great technique, felt like he took his time. Came out feeling refreshed and pampered. If you have the cash, definitely a comforting girls date option for when you want to feel spoiled :) read more

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE THIS PLACE!!! I see Lisa and Koko and I love these women. Both do amazing work. I had back surgery in 2006 and am normally feeling pretty good. I started seeing Lisa (at her previous place of employment) in 2010 because my back started acted up and my migraines got worse. When I followed her to Massage by Design I also started seeing Koko. I use to get the light, fluffy massages and I have to admit there is not much of this going on in my sessions. Both Lisa and Koko are really good at getting in there and doing WORK. They do exactly what I need to feel better. I'm not really sure what kind of massage I'm getting when I go there....I tell them where I'm in pain and they get to it. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for a massage. I've actually taken my dad here when he came in from out of town and he can't stop talking about Koko. Getting a massage from Koko is a must whenever he comes into town now. He was having pain in his neck and she worked it out. Thanks ladies!!! read more

Always a great massage by talented and friendly therapists. Massages are tailored to your particular problems and I always leave feeling great. read more

Do yourself a favor - just go get a message. You'll know too. Koko not only has a great knowledge about the physiology of the body, but she the kind of person you can feel comfortable around. And of course that's a little important when your clothes are off, right? I always feel better, never feel like it wasn't worth it. Great sports therapy stuff and usually willing to work on a target or problem area. read more

I really needed a massage and heard Massage By Design had the best therapist. Shannon worked on me. She's amazing! Really nice and made me feel comfortable right away. I have 4 kids so I'm always sore and achy but she knew exactly where to go and what pressure I needed. I added on the aroma therapy and foot scrub. HEAVEN! I felt like jello when she was done. Everyone I dealt with was really friendly. It's not a rushed or impersonal atmosphere like some other places I've tried. Thanks to all the other Yelpers for reviewing them. Glad I took your advice. read more

April was wonderful! I did a lymphatic massage and felt great afterwards. She had a lot of good advice too. She went above and beyond. Thanks April!! read more

The best. Ever. Jenny has magic hands. Their happy hour specials make it totally affordable. I have a lot of tension and issues due to heavy sports and exercise, and she knows just where to put the pressure and just when its too much. I am recovering by leaps and bounds - and you know what? Its better than my physical therapist for half the cost. I will continue seeing Jenny for as long as I can! read more

I went to see Natalie three weeks post-op (lipo and fat transfer) with a ton of fibrosis already formed. I was so anxious that my body would heal all types of crazy and it would take months to break down the scar tissue. She was so nice and knowledgeable which made me feel at ease. She took time to explain what she was doing throughout my sessions and recommended a ton of stuff that would ease my recovery. Our first session was 90 minutes long and let me tell you- it worked wonders!! My body responded very well to her technique! By the time I was done with the session, I had to pee, which is a really good sign that things are moving. Afterwards, I had weekly massages (90 minutes) for about a month and oh my gosh I cannot rave enough about how helpful they were! I had super hard lumps in the beginning that were so uncomfortable and painful. By the third session, the pain had subsided significantly and now I barely have any lumps and the pain and discomfort is gone My body is healing really well and I've already lost two inches off my mid-section which had retained a lot of water previously. After working with Natalie, my water retention significantly went down, the pain and discomfort pretty much disappeared, and I'm healing so much better! Thank you so much Natalie and Massage by Design!! read more

It seems like everyone already said what I was going to say! This place is perfect for a couples massage, they have great discounts and their massage therapists are the best I've experienced! The ambiance is so relaxing, I almost fell asleep because of how comfortable I was while getting the massage, and I'm not the type to fall asleep in the afternoon after drinking some coffee and having back pains for well over two years. After coming here my back has been feeling 70% better, only because I haven't been doing what they told me to do in order to help with my back pains. Ha ha. I'm definitely going back soon. read more

I absolutely recommend Seth at Massage By Design to anyone! Today was my first experience getting a professional massage, so I was a little shy and unsure of what to expect. Seth immediately made me feel totally comfortable and well taken care of. He listened attentively and seemed very intuitive to what work needed to be done and where. He addressed my headaches and shoulder tension with an hour long therapeutic massage - SO worth every cent. I was bummed when the session was over! The pressure was right on, and my shoulders still feel relaxed. Afterwards he even spent some time passing along some of his professional knowledge on how to maintain the effects of the massage. Also, the space is really clean and looks great (for those who appreciate good aesthetics). The next time I get a massage I know where I'll be going. He is truly gifted at his profession. Thankyou Seth! :) read more

I can not express how wonderful a massage is by Koko and her staff. They are always professional,friendly and very honest. You leave feeling so relaxed and stress free! Massage by Design is awesome! read more

Just moved back her from VA. Needed a massage and came across Massage By Design. So glad I did. Beverly is awesome. I got a 90 min deep tissue w/ cupping. It was amazing. I like to be really worked & she did just that. She knew exactly where my pain was and worked out all the tension & pain. Not kidding. Very impressed. Thank you so much, you made sitting back at my desk the next morning not as bad. I will be back soon! Thank you again :-) read more

Massage by Design is lovely, easy to find, and happens to be located next to a fantastic coffee shop. The studio is just beautiful. I felt relaxed just walking into the place, and the therapists are just as lovely as the place it self. They really make you feel comfortable and they are so sweet. They really add to the experience. read more

Beverly is an amazing massage therapist!! After having her massage me just once, I will never go to anyone else but her. I had a pinch behind my right shoulder so I called her and she worked my back out and now I feel amazing!!!! She cares and really makes sure she works out all the kinks. GO SEE BEVERLY FOR BODY WORK, IT'S A MUST!!!! read more

COUPLES MASSAGE Went today at 2pm My Husband and I went and got a couples massage. The standard package comes with Swedish massage with hot towels and aromathearpy. Great customer service. Made us feel comfortable. I wanted to try the couples massage. It's not all that cracked up to be. Hot towel doesn't really do anything. The aromathearpy... it was alright. It smelled nice. I breathed the smell about 3-4 times which is better than other massage places i've been to. I recommend not getting a couples massage. Just fet a regular full body separately. You really don't need the hot towels or aromathearpy. The the massage therapist is good... u will relax wihout anything extra. Not worth the money. I had Shannon... very nice person. I hurt my head an hour before my massage so she gave me a light Swedish massage. She is awesome! I waa relaxed. She checked up on me to make sure my head wasn't hurting. I don't like light massages but I completely understand why tmshe didn't give me a medium/firm massage. I appreciate the concern. ^^ My husband enjoyed his massage as well. He felt a little better than the other massage place he went to. Overall... I give it a strong 4. read more

I've been to Massage by Design twice now and the 3 stars is a combination of the two visits. I was really excited to find it as it's only a few blocks from my house, so being able to walk home after a massage, definite plus! My first impression of the space was that it was nice, small and a little strange, with what seems to be concert memorabilia on the walls. My first massage was with Jenny and she was very professional, not warm and friendly like I expect from a massage therapist, but it was a great Swedish massage. Very relaxing and I would give her and the experience 4 stars. I went back last Friday for a massage and booked a Swedish massage with Nadia. Unfortunately this was not a good experience. There was no flow to the massage and the pressure was so hard it was painful. I asked her to lighten the pressure and she did, a little. It wasn't a relaxing massage. I feel like she might specialize in acupressure or something very specific, rather than relaxing massage. She seemed to focus on digging into muscles with her fingers and possibly elbows and trying to loosen up muscles. Any flowing massage movements seemed perfunctory and an afterthought. I'm kind of annoyed that I paid $80 including tip for a poor experience, but will probably return to Massage by Design at some point. read more