Yesterday was my first experience at Stellar Spa. It had been awhile since I've had a facial and it was long overdue. I was looking for something that would be relaxing as well as have a long term benefit and their Essential UM - Ultrasonic Microdermabrasion Treatment looked like what I was looking for! It's a non-invasive skin-resurfacing treatment that addresses skin issues such as acne, rosacea, skin discoloration, sun damage, uneven skin tone, and overall age-management. The treatment claims to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, firm and tighten slackened skin, lighten pigmentation, and improve clarity, tone and texture - I couldn't wait! I called and was able to get an appointment the same afternoon. I arrived on-time about 15-minutes prior to my appointment as requested for check-in. After changing into a nice luxurious robe, I headed to the "Quiet Room" and completed a new client questionnaire as I waited for my esthetician (Paul) to collect me for my treatment. I waited for quite some time not knowing exactly how long because there are no clocks in the "Quiet Room" and none of the spa staff came in to advise me that my esthetician was running behind schedule. When Paul finally arrived he was pleasant and apologetic for making me wait. He showed me to my treatment room and explained the facial in 3-phases. The treatment was intensive but also very relaxing and was fortunate to get an extra procedure due to a monthly promotion they were having of a Chianti & Grape Seed Crush Foot Scrub which was quite nice. I really felt like I treated myself. Paul was really fantastic through the whole treatment and gave me a few product recommendations once we were done. When I went to checkout, I opted for one of the products Refining AHA Serum which Paul recommended I use every other day to help with skin-resurfacing. When I was given the total due, it sounded way more than what I had planned for but I thought maybe the product I chose to purchase was pricey-so I paid and left the spa. Upon leaving the spa, I checked my watch because I had another appointment at 5:45 pm which I should have been able to make as my treatment was only supposed to be an hour long (4:15pm to 5:15pm). In looking at my watch, saw that it was almost 6:30! Immediately called my other appointment to apologies and to reschedule. After the call as I drove home, I kept thinking about the cost of my treatment and that the math really didn't seem right. I got home and checked the Stellar Spa website and sure enough the treatment is $175 and the product I bought is about $40 - I cross referenced the receipt and the spa had in fact charged me $250 for the treatment!!! They were closed at this point so I sent them an email via their website about the over charge. I'm happy to report that I received an immediate response Sunday morning with a phone call about my email. It turns out that Stellar Spa has two Ultrasonic Microdermabrasion Treatments one for $175 (shown on their website) and another for $250 (not displayed on their website). Once the front staff understood that their was an omission on their website and that the person who took my booking actually booked the wrong procedure (even though I quoted the exact treatment name on their website), they quickly agreed to refund the difference in treatment costs and were apologetic. Would I go to this spa again? Absolutely yes! Paul the esthetician was knowledgeable and made the treatment a relaxing experience for me - and I'm satisfied with the quick response and resolution by the staff regarding the over charge. read more

I have 2 gift certificates for facials that cost over $200 each. I have called numerous times, and have spoken to Steve, an extremely RUDE individual, who would not give me either the name or contact information for the Owner or Manager to discuss a resolution. I have stopped by, and left messages without any response. I am PISSED! They say they are renovating after having been flooded, but I don't believe them or I feel they would not ignore my attempts to communicate with them. I have spent thousands upon thousands of dollars at the spa and by and large enjoyed my experiences. NOT NOW THOUGH! read more

I stole a pear from you! I really should say "thank you for an easy dinner" from Stellar Spa, but instead I will declare my thievery. I have gone here on several occasions and have never left not happy relaxed. They have a nice selection of goodies to buy when you arrive, and the back area is very relaxing before your appointment. You can make tea or have juice and a cookie before your time. All the ladies who work there are totally professional and sweet, they are super accommodating and know how to work your stress away. I usually don't like a "talky" massage and they know when to interject --roll over-- --lift your leg-- you get the idea. I would say try it if you want to spend a nice chunk of change on a massage and a treatment, but aren't you worth it? read more

A dear friend gave me a gift certificate to Stellar Spa, and I had the privilege of using it recently. First, unlike some of the other reviewers, i had no issues with the front office staff. The people who checked me in and out of the treatment were very kind. The space is fantastic. There is a nice, large changing area with lockers. You're given a comfy robe and slippers to wear as you transition. The "quiet zone" waiting area is very peaceful...water, tea, nuts, magazines. I had a facial from Paul, and he was great. Super informative, friendly, and obviously very into his work. I appreciated his enthusiasm and suggestions. All in all a great experience. It's a little more expensive than some other places, but I think it's well worth the money. Highly recommended. read more

I decided to login and write a review for Stellar Spa because the last review was written some time ago, and I didn't want that to prevent anyone from enjoying the best spa experience of their lives at Stellar Spa. I started going to Stellar Spa a couple months before my wedding, nearly a year ago. We discussed that I had a wedding coming up, and that although I had a makeup artist hired for the day I didn't want to give them any more work because of my bad skin. Over two months my skin changed to crystal clear, soft and radiant. Turns out it was a good thing because my hair and makeup ended up NOT showing up that day, and I did my own makeup. Couldn't have handled that if it weren't for the fact that my face was glowing and perfect without the makeup thanks to Stellar Spa. I have since been back for massages, facials and their crystal-free microdem. I highly recommend the first time you go, trying the signature. It gives you a little of everything. I am a faithful fan of the Thai Facial with the Pumpkin Enzyme peel. TO DIE FOR! The facilities are clean and calming, nothing too over decorated. They always half soft music playing in the background, and they have towel warmers in each room to put your luxurious robe on while you're getting your treatment. Before or after your treatment, while you're relaxing, they offer cucumber water, mini cliff bars, nuts and tea. It's just heaven on earth. They always give suggestions on product recommendations, but never pressure sell. It's nice to have one place to go for all my skincare needs, rather than wandering around Sephora for endless hours. read more

Wanted to send my wife and mother in law somewhere local to get a massage and/or facial. Found Stellar via Yelp. The receptionist was very professional, kind and accommodating. Made an appointment for Saturday morning for 2 half hour facials. They thoroughly enjoyed it. Each had their own room. My wife said it was the best massage/facial she's ever had. read more

I got a 90 minute Swedish massage from Will, and it was the most relaxing 90 minutes of my life! I've never had a male masseuse before, but Stellar Spa makes sure to hire the most professional and talented people out there, as evidenced by Will's expertise. From the beginning I was greeted by calm, friendly concierge staff, guided to a beautiful locker room that offered a range of relaxing things to do. After that I waited in the waiting room where they give you water, tea, fruit, mints etc. The atmosphere was always calm and relaxing, an important key in the spa industry. Even though Stellar Spa's prices are higher than its competitors, their services are worth it. When I need relaxation, I will continue to seek out Stellar Spa. PS - Free goodie bag if you check in on Foursquare. read more

I had a totally stellar spa experience. If I could afford facials on a regular basis, this would be my go-to place. I had the 30 minute facial express ($80) and it was absolute heaven. After getting a parking spot two feet from the front door, my pampering session began in the spacious changing room, which has lockers, a bathroom stall, and showers, as well as other accoutrements. There I put on a luxurious robe with comfy sandals, and headed to the waiting area, a peaceful room with baskets of mixed nuts, Asian mix, energy bars, healthy drink mix (those latter two I took home with me), water, and a nice selection of hot tea. Right on time I was whisked into my private facial room, whose ambiance was warm yet elegant, with simple decor and soft instrumental music. Shauna was soft spoken (I appreciated that she wasn't chatty) and had a soothing, delicate touch, and the included head/scalp/neck massage had just the right amount of pressure. Besides being able to relax for a half hour, my favorite thing about facials is the aromatherapy. This was no exception. Rose and lavender--especially lavender--are my favorites, so it was wonderful that I experienced those scents throughout the time, as well as others, like orange and oatmeal (the scrub), and a few others I couldn't deduce, but definitely went easy on my nose. At one point, the steam was on a few minutes too long, but just when I was getting ready to say something, she turned it off. Other than that momentary interval of minor discomfort, it was pure bliss. Afterwards, Shauna recommended a few products from their own line--I really liked that they were all natural and smelled so good--but they were $30-40 each, which unfortunately is not in my budget at this time, but shouldn't break the bank for most Marinites. My friend also had a facial, as well as a massage (the eucalyptus aromatherapy one), and said they were both wonderful. A bunch of women pitched in to give us these treatments, so I'm really thankful to them, and so glad they recommended Stellar Spa! read more

Love Stellar spa, however I feel like you are paying more for the atmosphere versus the actual service you are having preformed. I love the body scrubs though! Always a new "flavor" of the month! read more

I've always had a good experience at Stellar Spa. I've had a few massages there and all were good, but I regularly go for waxing and facials. I live in San Francisco and go to Corte Madera for this. Why? Because although there are 9000 waxing places in SF, I find it intimidating to go into a tiny back room in a cramped nail salon with someone who doesn't speak English very well to get my lady parts waxed. For my eyebrows, forget it... i want someone who knows what they're doing so I don't end up looking surprised all the time. I had one Esthetician that I really liked and then she left. I was really nervous about getting a new one, but I wasn't disappointed. last visit I had a different esthetician and she was also wonderful. read more

LOVED my experience here! Came as a group of 5 for my daughter's 18th birthday, and had a fabulous experience. The spa is beautiful! Relaxing, spacious, and convenient. Parked right in front, were checked in immediately, and received graciously by person at the front desk, and all the therapists. I had a facial, and it was the best facial I have ever had! Others had massages and they also raved. Very happy no one tried to hard-sell products, but all products were wonderful! Really happy to have found this spa, this will just be the first of many visits! read more

I have come to Stellar Spa on and off for years and I think that Camille's review is totally unfair. I must admit that I have never had a facial there but have had plenty of massages. I have been getting them at least once a month for the last 15 years in various locations and when I travel. The spa has a lovely ambiance, the staff is extremely professional and the massages have never disappointed. The robes are indeed fluffy and lush and it is very relaxing to sit in the lounge while waiting for the treatment. I would happily recommend them to anyone. read more

As a stubborn person, rarely do I change my opinion of something. However, with Stellar Spa, I have. At the request of the spa manager I decided to return to try a new experience with a facial. Wow! I genuinely felt like I was transported to a far off land, only to return with amazing looking skin. The esthetician was sweet, gentle, knowledgable and made my experience such a great one. I came home gushing to my husband about how fantastic it was, and that I've forgotten how relaxing a good facial can be. Not only will I now recommend Stellar for facials, I've already booked my next appointment. read more

We had a massage last weekend, we came 15mn earlier than our massage appointment to enjoy spa facilities, my massage therapist Barbara was extremely pleasant. the lounge was clean with modern decor but very quiet, the front desk team was very nice especially Nadia she was very helpful and professional. I will definitely go back. read more

The best place in Marin to get a massage, facial or body treatment. Their staff is well trained, knowledgeable, and very professional. They take massage and skin care very seriously and approach the body in a holistic way - from a detailed intake to a personal treatment catered just for you - it's amazing. One thing the other reviews leave out is their amazing skin care line. With natural active ingredients, it's the perfect line if you are eco conscious but also want products that do something to your skin, not just smell nice. I love this place. It leaves me feeling truly stellar! read more

Contact the following person if you have gift cards with the amounts David C. Macpherson, Esq. Law Offices of David C. Macpherson 145 Corte Madera Town Center, # 656 Corte Madera CA 94925 Telephone: ( 415) 924- 1235 Facsimile: ( 415) 927- 0678 Email: DCMLAW@pacbell.net read more

Every therapist I've had here is super knowledgeable, and I leave feeling relaxed always. One of the cool things they do is leave your robe on a robe heater so when you leave the massage table, your robe is warm! I've never seen another spa do this. It's a nice, very thoughtful touch that I definitely appreciate. They also do at the end of the massage a foot scrub of some sort. Each month the scrub ingredients are different. Parking is also super easy, and I've never gotten a ticket (which is nice, especially compared to spas in San Fran where I've definitely left the spa and seen a large ticket on my car window). read more

The Spa is closed leaving many high and dry with, what appears to be, worthless gift certificates. An owner with any integrity would contact the hundreds of customers who have these gift certificates and reimburse them. Don't hold your breath although I would love to have the owner respond and convince us all that we are wrong. read more

I think the other reviewers work at Stellar Spa since this place doesn't deserve even a single star. My boyfriend gave me a $250 gift certificate for Stellar on my birthday (not the most thoughtful gift, since I think spas are disgusting...I'm a former esthetician). I had a bad feeling about it, but I made an appointment for a facial. At the beginning of the facial, the esthetician asked me what I hoped to gain from the facial and I replied, "relaxation," meaning that I wanted to just be massaged in total quiet. That didn't register with her at all and she began telling me about how bad my skin is (I knew that...I'm a student and don't have a lot of time to fret over my skin). She went on and on about my poor skin texture, the redness, and then even said that I must have a "histamine problem" since my "face is so puffy." I'm a nursing student and I couldn't believe the audacity of her to be giving medical advice when she's merely a 21 year old esthetician! And I don't have a histamine problem, I'm just chubby! She didn't shut up for a minute! Oh, and she faked the extractions. Spas think people are so stupid. It was the worst facial I've ever had (this is including the beauty school facials I've suffered through). My skin looked awful afterward. The cheap products really made me look worse and I got cysts on my cheeks the next day. I never wanted to ever see this spa again, but I had $150 left on my gift certificate so I grudgingly returned. Ugh! I made an appointment for the hot stone massage. I really really really wish that I wouldn't have been so polite and that I would've requested to see the "massage therapist"'s license. There is no possible way that the person who was "massaging" me had ever studied massage therapy. She had no idea what she was doing. I just lied there, face down, for an hour thinking "why has this happened to me???" She had the stones on the floor and was half-heartedly stroking me and then just plopping a stone here or there. I never knew when or where a stone would land. I had one in my right had for part of the "massage" and one in the left for the rest. It was so odd that she didn't even have the common sense to at least balance the stones. I don't remember the names of my therapists, I think because I have PTSD from the experience, but I do remember that the esthetician was thin with whitish blonde hair and the hapless hot-stone lady was tall (thin, of course) and had very curly hair. I can't believe so many wealthy people come here. It seems that people in Marin have very low standards when it comes to personal services. read more

Have been going here since it opened, over a decade ago. I have never missed an appointment and have never arrived late. I've had facials, massages, and waxing over the years. I've brought my mom there for birthdays etc and have reccomended it to many. I've never had any issues and the services have always been great. But today I received poor service and was pretty frustrated. I guess my continued patronage over the years doesn't count for anything and that's what is the most disappointing. I called to book a brow wax (they are the best at brows, and have wax that even hurts less), and I was told they had one at 3:15 (about 2 hrs away). I said great let's do it! Gave her my name and she wanted to confirm my mobile. Said the system was adding wrong numbers? My mobile was correct, same phone for the past 10+ years. Then she wanted to take my credit card. Pretty standard, however I was driving (Bluetooth), and since my appt was in 2 hrs I asked can I add it when I get there? She said no and cant I just pull over?! I told her I was on the freeway and couldn't easily pull over. Mind you the brow wax is like $30 and takes 10 mins. She still refused and said "the system" won't let her. Whatever. I'm not going to get into an accident trying to pull off the freeway on to the shoulder, or try to give you my card while driving. If I was a 1st time customer, had no-showed in the past, or if I was booking a long or expense treatment, maybe, but brows? come on! How much $$$ do i need to spend over the years to get them to tst that i will show up, card in hand, 2 hrs from we are speaking? I told her I would book somewhere else and I'm really glad I did, they were awesome and friendly, and appreciated my business. Tip: hire front desk staff who can take initiative and use common sense, and have basic service skills, in order to avoid losing long-time customers. read more

Can do better. I am a regular at Stellar Spa. I come for the whole experience, the calming environment and soothing atmosphere. It is true, as many reviewers mention it, that it is somewhat frustrating to not be able to get the same massage therapist twice! Why are they not staying? Management, please think about retaining your staff, so that you can retain your customers. It is also true, that the front desk staff is not outrageously professional. This place could be an A+, but it is only a B+, especially for the price. The place is beautiful though, and if a few details could be fixed, it would be great. read more

had a great experience here last night. Decor might not be a big deal for people but it is for me. For example, Bliss Spa's waiting room was designed to feel like a cold doctor's office. SenSpa's Eastern Indian inspired layout really isn't my thing. Stellar spa hit the nail on the head for my taste. Clean and calm, using lots of whites, sea inspiration, and dim candles everywhere. Their relaxtion room was just that- SUPER relaxing. Got to enjoy a few non-mainstream magazines while munching on fresh fruit and tea. Amber, my facialist, did a great job. I felt like I was really getting my money's worth. read more

I received a gift certificate for my birthday for Stellar's Signature Massage Indulgence ($230) and was looking forward to an afternoon of relaxation. I've had numerous massages and facials at all price points and this was by far the worst I've experienced anywhere - very unprofessional and sloppy. There's no way the woman had ever given someone a facial before and I have a 3" bruise on my arm from the massage. I couldn't wait for it to end - who feels that way during a spa treatment?! Upon leaving, I was asked if I wanted to leave a tip, and I told the woman at the front desk that the experience was bad and not worthy of a tip (I've never not left a tip before). She just said, "Thank you" and didn't inquire further. Very disappointed. read more

Vaness-ahhh! I wish they packaged you so we could take you home. This really is a spa. You will sit in a robe in a Quiet Room with healthy snacks and tea while you wait to be whisked off to a heavenly treatment. Vanessa took care of my problem skin with her facial. She really took her time and although $$, worth every cent. Get this: they suggest treatments and then tell you the cost before you start so you decide and you're not fainting from sticker shock afterwards. What a concept. Sure, I've tried other places. Some were just as $$ but not nearly as nice and professional. Go to Stellar Spa. You won't be sorry. read more

A thoroughly wonderful experience. I booked a massage for an early Valentine's Day gift. We've both been extremely busy recently and have been needing to unwind. I found reviews on Yelp and decided to book us for a massage. While I have not had a lot of spa experiences to compare to, we had a wonderful experience. From the warm and friendly greeting at the front desk, the efficient and professional booking process, the comfortable and serene 'quiet room' it was a terrific experience. We both had a Swedish massage and were both thoroughly pleased with our therapists. In addition, the location is very convenient for a post spa meal or glass of wine. We look forward to making this a regularly scheduled event. read more

I agree that in the past the front desk staff left a lot to be desired, but today the woman who checked me in and out was just lovely -- hopefully that's true of all of the front desk staff now. I've had all types of services at Stellar over the years, but I consistently go in for a brow wax and it's usually very good (with one exception, who I believe is no longer there, so I won't mention her name). But today I had Paul do my brow and lip wax and I have to say it was the best I have ever had anywhere - here, in the city, or in various spas around the country. He is fantastic and as a bonus did not talk the entire time like some do, so although it isn't a long appointment, it was a relaxing one. Truly -- do yourselves a favor and book with him -- you will not regret it! read more

I have never had a great massage at Stellar Spa. It is unfortunate because I love the experience leading up to it...the waiting room is beautiful with warm lighting that creates such a nice environment, the fresh fruit when I was there was a nice touch...but I have had four massages all with different people and none of them have been great, just so so. After trying four different therapists I gave up. If I am going to treat myself to a massage I want it to be a good one! I read some of the other posts here on yelp about Stellar, and it sounds like a lot of others are saying they have a high staff turn over rate, so that may be the issue. I hope they realize the benefit and importance of keeping good therapists on staff. At this point I would only go back if the place changed ownership and they had a new fresh crew. read more

Even though I get basic, regular facials, nothing compares to the amazing facial I just got from Amanda at Stellar yesterday. I had a gift card given to me from some dear friends, so I was able to splurge a little and get their Signature "the works" facial. 90 minutes of pure heaven. The facial starts with a back massage and scrub which really gets you relaxed and ready for the rest of the treatment. During the facial you get a foot massage and scrub, hand mask and massage and an incredible neck and shoulder massage .My skin glowed and my body was loose and relaxed. If you go, ask for Amanda. She has really strong hands and is so nice and knowledgeable. read more

Best spa "experience" in Marin. The waiting is room is spa-like, restful, relaxing. There are nuts, lemon water, tea, etc. The shower room is immaculate, with all the little extras; robes, towels, shampoo, Q-tips, etc. I go for the facials, and my daughter for the massages. The treatments cost more than other places, but you're paying for the extras and the experience. read more

A once great service run in to the ground under new management. Scheduling system is frustrating and time consuming. Front desk staff is distracted and sometimes surly. Decor has changed dramatically. No longer a comforting oasis, but now just cold, not coordinated and offsetting. The services are the real problem. Had a HORRIBLE waxing-my "professional" wouldn't stop talking, actually made fun of my body and was very ham handed. I complained to the management, but it's clear they could not care any less. Too bad it's the only service like this around. Oh, wait: there are several other better reviewed competitors within a few minutes drive. Avoid this place at all costs. read more

Had the absolutely best massage here this weekend. It was so heavenly. It was so relaxing. I go to a lot of spas. Haven't been here in a while but I will be back way more often. The service and staff were exceptional. Thank you for the wonderful experience. read more

It was my husbands birthday yesterday. I suggested he go to Stellar Spa for a deep tissue massage. He had an unfavorable expierience. he described it as someone putting oil on you with out using pressure. Nothing relaxing or theraputic about this massage. He came home dissatisfied. read more

My daughter and I came in for my usual yearly visit around my birthday and enjoyed the experience tremendously. I could sense there was something new going on with the management but the overall experience was very very nice! They all tried so hard and were so kind to us. The massage was dreamy! Liz was sweet and kind and certainly had to be one of the sweetest humans on earth. I am a business owner and understand what it takes to create a perfect experience for each person! I am a fan! Thank you! read more

The new management is driving this place to the ground. The reception staff: terrible, they don't know how to use the point of sale system, the reservation system, or the inventory system (assuming there is one). The woman who is in charge of reordering the beauty products has not been trained on what the spa carries. She could not answer my basic questions about the differences between two products from the same line. Initially, she pretended that she could answer my questions, but it was painfully obvious she had no clue. If she does not have this knowledge, the management should not put her in this position, someone with the correct training should be available at all times. I asked if someone with that information was available and she said no one was available. Really sad and embarrassing for the business owner. Owners: get your house in order. Get the chip off your shoulder, lose the attitude, get a strong spa manager who can make your staff feel appreciated. Train, train, train your staff. Lastly, appreciate the revenue that long time clients (and their referrals) bring in and treat us accordingly. There are many convenient options out there for a better experience at this point. PS: the esthetician who does my treatments is wonderful. read more

Another amazing experience at Stellar Spa with Jaime. Just when I thought the Signature Facial could not get any better they went and made it out of this world. I actually fell asleep during it and Jaime makes the entire treatment an out of this world experience. Again, from the moment you walk through the door and are greeted by the ever so gracious staff, to the moment when your enjoying a lovely tea or water and a healthy snack and everything in between, I give my highest compliments to Stellar Spa. Well done !!!! read more

Stella Spa is indeed a gem! Set upon a sunny stretch in Corte Madera, it's a great way to spend a day outside of the city. The atmosphere is friendly and calming. Treat yourself to a vanilla body polish or one of there superb facials. Rachael is great! read more

I went there for a 1.5 hour deep tissue massage on a recent visit home over Labor Day weekend. I had Natasha and she was great. She was thorough with a good, firm technique that was "just right" (ie, deep but not excruciating). I used to splurge on treatments when I lived nearby in Greenbrae. I was a little nervous about going, since I hadn't been back in 6 years. I was very glad to see the spa is still clean, intimate and very customer service oriented. The prices for the treatments are reasonable considering how overpriced spa massages generally are at other places. Highly recommended! read more

Best spa experience I have had in Marin, and I've frequented many. Sarah gives the best facials. Always thrilled with the experience and results. read more

The first time I went to Stellar Spa was immediately impressed. The staff was friendly considerate and very attentive to what I wanted. I just recently moved here and didn't know what I should expect, but I was pleasantly surprised by the massage. I would come back in a minute. read more

I had a facial done by Paul and it was great! He was super friendly and knowledgeable. The woman who greeted me at the front desk was also extremely nice. Overall it was a great experience. I highly recommend asking for Paul if you go in for a facial. read more