The Zen Room

Kanna Spa is truly a hidden gem on the Peninsula! Tucked away on a lovely, quiet cul-de-sac just…read moreoff El Camino in San Mateo, it feels like a peaceful retreat while still being incredibly convenient to reach. Even better, parking is easy--a rare and much-appreciated bonus! From the moment you walk through the door, you're greeted by the most calming aromatherapy scent that instantly puts you at ease. The front desk team is warm, welcoming, and wonderfully organized. Before your service, you'll complete a thoughtful intake form that allows you to personalize your experience. One detail I especially appreciated was being able to indicate my conversation preferences ahead of time, so there was never any awkwardness about whether I wanted to chat, relax in silence, or enjoy something in between. It's such a thoughtful touch that immediately sets the tone for a truly relaxing experience. For my Swedish massage, I also appreciated being able to mark areas of tension directly on a body diagram so my therapist knew exactly where I needed the most attention. My appointment was with **Owen, and he was exceptional.** He quickly reviewed my intake form, asked a few thoughtful questions, and immediately understood what my body needed. His work was truly magical. He relieved the tightness in my upper back from international travel and long hours at the computer, and the cupping add-on was exceptional. Owen is a true master of his craft. I also have to give a special shout-out to the front desk team. Whether communicating by email, over the phone, or in person, everyone is genuinely kind, welcoming, and accommodating. Their customer service is every bit as exceptional as the treatments themselves. From the tranquil setting and outstanding care to the convenient location and stress-free parking, every detail of the experience feels thoughtfully designed. I can't recommend Kanna Spa highly enough. I already can't wait for my next visit!

From start to finish, everyone we spoke to and received spa services from was amazing…read more My sister opted for a spa day before her wedding instead of doing a bachelorette party. Her only request was a hydro facial and deep tissue massage at the same place. I found this spa offered both services and my mom and I decided to take her here. My mom called to schedule the services and I called for more information about facials and recommendations for my eczema and sensitive skin. I found out the day we requested might not have an esthetician available, but Jenny and Tiffany texted us and really helped try to find a good time and day that would work. They figured out how to schedule both sets of services so they would work with just one esthetician and made it feel very smooth. I ended up getting the City Life facial with Kim plus the lymphatic drainage add on. She was wonderful!! From start to finish, I knew I was in great care. I also got a deep tissue massage with Sammy and she was just as wonderful. I left feeling incredibly relaxed and I know my sister did too. She said she fell asleep during her massage ‍ Thank you for all your help and care!

Entrance to tea lounge area

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Waiting area

W Body & Foot Spa

4.7(356 reviews)

1.5 mi

Free parking

What a nice chance discovery. While walking around the plaza, something I rarely do at this plaza,…read moreafter my lunch. My friend and I decided to drop in and check this place out. We had no idea what to expect from a foot spa. After asking some basic questions, we decided to check it out. The timing, the price was right and they had immediate availability. We were directed to the back and all we had to do was to take off our shoes/socks and roll up our pant legs. No changing of the clothes was necessary, SIMPLE. There was a cubby right next to you to store your belongings and you lie down on the bed. They put a tub of warm water at the base and in go your feet. While soaking you get an amazing massage, on your arms, legs, torso, head, back...so relaxing and easy to fall asleep--an hour passes by so quickly! Bright in the reception area, but dimly lit in the back the evoking a quiet relaxing atmosphere, meditative/relaxing music in the air and a view of the lagoon.

I've been an avid customer of this place for years. It's a…read moreshame to give this review because the masseuses are talented and the location is convenient. That said, this place leaves much to be desired in terms of relaxation. The reception is open you can hear every transaction with the customers outside. You can also hear noise from people talking in the neighboring restaurant. This last time, I booked a 1 hour massage, the masseuse was 10 min late and the bed wasn't even ready. And then he finished at the top of the hour, so I only really got 50 mins out of the 60 I paid for. It's such a small thing- to make up for the time that he was late but because of this, it'll definitely be my last time here. I also would recommend management to invest in some sort of door so that people don't hear the noise from the receptionist and guests that choose to just talk at a normal volume as if other guests aren't trying to catch a break.

W spa

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Business Card

Body Central Spa

4.3(301 reviews)

1.0 mi

10 years in business

Great spot to relax and unwind, the best therapists ever! Shout out to CiCi and Sweet, they're both…read moreawesome! The facilities are always clean and the beds are warmed. I've always had a great experience here. * Make sure to get an appointment online or over the phone. They do take walk ins, but are usually booked unless you have a reservation.

Improved from last bad experience, I just didn't update review…read more I think it helps, when you give direction upon arrival of how you would want your massage. It helped me after the last bat experience I had there. I've returned several times since.

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Thiparpa Thai Massage

4.5(390 reviews)

3.2 mi

Hands down the best massages in the Bay. All of their therapists are extremely skilled and are…read moreconsistently checking in with you about pressure, pain points, etc. I have a very physical job and am also extremely bad at stretching, so I have extremely bad knots in my back, and tightness all over my body. Unlike other massage places that focus on only being able to give a gentle relaxing experience, Thiparpa can also do the other end where they really work into your sore and tight areas and don't hold back. Prices are extremely reasonable for the quality that you get! I couldn't recommend this place more! (Ask for Usa, she's amazing at deep tissue massages!)

Best Thai massage in the area! I've been a long time patron and service has always been on point…read moreand consistent. I usually get Deep Tissue to support muscle recovery. All the therapists are professional and well-trained. Let them know at booking if you have any preferences and they can make sure to assign a therapist to match. Easy to book in advance and they are accommodating with last minute appointments. The space is typical for a traditional Thai massage establishment. Spaces are securely separated by curtains, some with tables, the rest have thick padding/cushion on the floor. Very clean and comfortable space.

Lobby

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Water Lounge Spa

3.6(758 reviews)

1.2 mi

Available by appointment

Amazing service and an introverts dream…read more I've had about 15 massages here. Only 1 massage therapist spoke more than 2 words to me. All of them simply do a light rub down and then immediately pin point my troubleshoots and get to work fixing them. I've had knots in my upper back, a pinched nerve in my glute, and a variety of aliments. They are able to figure out exactly the problem just by touch. It's amazing! And I don't have to deal with small talk when I'm there to try to get fixed up and am in a bad mood. But I always leave in a great mood! I also love how they have the tip suggestions posted based on time which makes it very easy to calculate especially since they are great at giving lots of good deals so it can be confusing calculating. One of my favorite things is that they accommodate last minute appointments. I find it very hard to schedule anything in advance. I consider this place an important need for my health, and am happy to be able to afford to come here and tip well without braking the bank. They have great prices and give deals if you purchase a package. Some parts are not the most fancy....but I'd much rather have massages that I can afford on a regular basis than go somewhere more pristine and only be able to go 1-2 times a year. Also the front desk woman has always been very professional and kind, even when I'm running late.

TRIGGER WARNING: SA…read more My boyfriend specifically requested a female massage therapist for me when booking due to prior trauma. I was surprised when I was assigned a male therapist while my boyfriend was assigned a female therapist. I did not realize this until after they started massaging us. During the massage, the therapist began massaging and touching my glute area without my consent, which made me extremely uncomfortable. It was difficult for me to speak up in the moment, but I eventually worked up the courage to ask whether we could switch therapists. When I raised my concerns, I did not feel that they were taken seriously. They laughed and said "ok" which made me feel dismissed. I left feeling embarrassed and uncomfortable, and I also did not receive any apology for the distress the experience caused me. What was particularly confusing to me was that my boyfriend did not receive any glute massage during his session, so our experiences differed despite being there together. This experience was deeply upsetting for me and brought back memories of prior trauma. While I cannot speak to anyone else's intentions, I can speak to the impact the experience had on me. What should've been a celebration for a special occasion left me feeling distressed, violated, and shaken by what happened. This review reflects my honest recollection of the experience and the impact it had on me, and I stand by it. I am sharing it because customer comfort, boundaries, and therapist preferences matter. I hope future customers who make similar requests have those requests respected and that concerns raised during a session are met with compassion and understanding instead of what I experienced. Note: this was from well over a year ago and I have edited the review to clarify my experience and feelings.

14.5 mi•Bayview-Hunters Point

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Archimedes Banya

3.9(737 reviews)

I would definitely recommend this banya! I'm going pretty…read moreoften there, have never complained about it, affordable price and replaced for whole week! Highly recommend!!!

Came here for a dinner experience as well as a 3 hour soak in the banya experience!…read more Good: - It wasn't busy Saturday at 4:30 pm! We got a lucky break - They added a super beautiful sauna with an amazing view on the top floor, loved sitting here and reliving the feeling of being in Finland Saunas - I love the aromatherapy experience! It's super hard to sit through it all and I didn't make it all the way but I basically got through the last round and the cold plunge after felt so great - The food experience was amazing, I loved the tom yum soup with chicken - it feels great to do 2 hours into your experience - Ample spots to sit and I have only felt the squeeze in the hot tubs Bad: - It can get quite packed during peak hours so try to visit when there's less people, otherwise it gets messy and a bit dirty too

Banya photo

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Entrance

Bua Thai Wellness Center

4.6(245 reviews)

0.0 mi

This is way overdue…read more I went to Bua Thai when it first opened years ago, under different owners. i think it's changed hands a couple of times since then. So this review is for the current services. I am full of gratitude for Bua Thai and Tammy especially for helping me so much. Over the years I've become quite the connoisseur of Thai massage. And I find Tammy very skilled and consistent. She has definitely helped me more than many rounds of PT. Swedish massage and oil does nothing for me. My tight muscles and fascia (and several repetitive-use injuries) mean I'm here for the real deal -- Traditional Thai. And Tammy brings it. Prefer more gentle? I'm sure she can provide your preference. Just let her know. As for the location itself, there is typically plentiful parking and easy access. In its inception, the place was well-designed in my opinion. You don't overhear other goings on. It's always peaceful and clean.

I've been to Bui Thai before, and today's visit was exceptional. I booked a 60- minute traditional…read moreThai massage and arrived right on time. I was taken back into the room - it was immaculate. The massage therapist, Tammy, arrived and got to work. She continually checked in with me to ensure the pressure was okay. The entire venue is quiet and the staff are incredibly professional. I will absolutely be back soon!

Pricing and aroma

Massage room

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Verona Massage

4.9(57 reviews)

2.1 mi

Available by appointment

Free parking

My husband booked me a prenatal massage with Shirley since I kept asking him daily for massages…read more Finding the spot was a bit tricky at first, but turns out we were in the wrong parking lot. Verona Massage is located on El Camino, which can be hectic, but there is free parking in the back, and once you enter the building, it gets a little bit quieter. There are some cool crystals and geodes on display in the main building. There are 2 rooms for Verona Massage, and it is not a spa or foot massage place. Shirley takes appointments, and I am so grateful my husband booked me one with her. It felt very private, relaxing, and I didn't feel rushed at all. This was my second time getting a prenatal massage, and I can hands down say that this was better than the one I got in Hawaii. She focused on my knots that I didn't even know I had! I appreciated the quiet environment and calm she creates. She has great technique and applies just the right amount of pressure, although she checked in on the pressure as needed. There was not a moment where I felt like I needed to tell her to apply more/less pressure. The 1 hour was simply pure bliss. It was truly a relaxing and healing experience, and I'm looking forward to my next session with her!!

Wow. Best masseuse I've had the chance to get a massage from in quite awhile. I've tried a ton in…read moreSan Mateo (and all over Asia). Shirley is very talented, has very strong hands and has a deep understanding of the body. She was able to get some of my deep knots to the surface by massaging other parts of the body. I booked a two hour deep tissue and she definitely delivered. The place is professional and clean, but note that it is not a spa. I don't think I'd come here for couple massages or a "luxurious typical relaxing" experience, I'd come here for a truly relaxing massage that'll help heal your body. Also, this is not a cheap foot massage spot if that's what you're looking for. I think this is actually the perfect spot if you're looking for a real massage. Would definitely come again!

Massage room

Shirley Yang, CMT

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Massage room

Izumi Spa

4.4(335 reviews)

0.0 mi

Free parking

Niko was wonderful, asked several times if all was good. Highly recommend this location for a great…read moremassage at a great price. The ambiance is not high end but the massage is!

I have been here several times and usually request Candy or Lulu because of the quality of massages…read morethat I have received. However, even when they are not available, I have had a very positive experience. A few things to note: the facility is a pretty small location and rooms are often only separated by a curtain or thin walls. In other words, you hear a lot of the chatter coming from the reception area or even other rooms. This is not your peaceful Zen spa if that is what you are looking for. That aside, the quality of the massages are the best I have found. The combination of types of massage available, plus the strong hands of the therapists are unmatched for the price. I am someone who needs very deep pressure and like someone to stick their elbows into my knots and I get this here more than any other place I have been to. I think more importantly, the therapists seem very intuitive in their ability to find my knots. They don't just go through a standard routine, but try really hard to work on things that need work. Again, this may not be for everyone because the intensity can be quite high and even painful. But this is the type of massage I prefer. Five stars for quality of massage.

Best Spa

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Odile S.

3 years ago

I've had my fair share of facials throughout my life, but none have left a lasting impression or compelled me to return to the same esthetician. I've always held a high standard for facials, as I often treat my friends to homemade facial massages. Most of my previous experiences felt like mere product application and occasional extractions. However, if you're seeking an exceptional facial experience tailored to your unique skin needs, personal concerns, and a genuine sense of pampering and rejuvenation through skillful massages, then look no further than JEN's Zen Room. I've been searching for someone like Jen for over five years, and I can't express how eagerly I anticipate my next visit. During my initial session with Jen, she expertly performed a gentle microdermabrasion, handled extractions, conducted dermaplaning, and applied a brightening mask. But what truly set this experience apart was her attention to detail, unwavering effort, and the ample time she dedicated to me by giving me a scalp, arm, hand, neck and traps massage!!! There was no doubt in my mind that I was receiving the royal treatment. Jen's hands have that magical healing touch! If you've been yearning for a facial that matches the description I've provided, don't hesitate any longer--call Jen today to secure your first appointment. You'll be grateful you did! read more

Aman K.

5 years ago

I made the best decision in choosing this place for my first facial. First, the place is immaculate clean and as the name suggests- very Zen inspired. Second, the owner, Jen, is so nice, very kind and guided me through the entire process. She recommended that I do a combination of Microdermabrasion and LED light therapy. And best yet, the detox massage in the end not only of my neck and shoulders but even my arms! I didn't want to leave the bed! I highly recommend this place for a complete relaxation. My face is glowing the next day and I just feel like a new person. She will not disappoint! read more

Annika O.

4 years ago

I love going here! My face is super sculpted and my skin gets so bright after facials from Jen. The massage is also incredible. I highly recommend The Zen Room! read more

Betty W.

5 months ago

It was a very disappointing and an unsatisfactory experience to say the least. I would not recommend. read more

The Zen Room - skincare - Updated October 2026

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Best facial I have ever had! My eyebrows were tinted perfectly, the massage was absolutely amazing,…read moreand the music created the perfect relaxing atmosphere. Everything was wonderful from start to finish. Highly, highly recommend! Highly recommend Renza

I came here for a facial to help with postpartum skin issues and left feeling really disappointed…read more My main concern was clearing whiteheads and blackheads, but barely anything was extracted during the service. I even called afterward to share my concerns, hoping they would make it right. Unfortunately, instead of offering a fair resolution, they suggested I come back or offered only 25% back--which just isn't reasonable given the experience I had. As a mom of four, I don't have the time to keep coming back for something that should have been done properly the first time. Overall, this was a frustrating experience, and I won't be returning. I'd recommend sticking with an esthetician you trust.

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I think I found my go-to facial spot! Gina is lovely, and I had the most relaxing facial this past…read moreweekend. We started off with a conversation on my skin goals and concerns before Gina recommended that we do a dermafile treatment. I had never gotten one of those before, but it was really great for exfoliating. Her treatment bed is also soooo comfy - I fell asleep several times during the facial. I also really enjoyed the Le Mieux products Gina used and will definitely be purchasing the toner spray when I go back. Lillian at the front desk was also very sweet and attentive. Overall, 5/5 experience and I'll be back for more!

Gina does an amazing job making you feel relaxed and cared for. She offers a variety of services…read morefor your skin. Currently, I'm loving the micro-current treatment. Love the organic products. Body oil too!

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I can't recommend this place enough for your skin care and maintenance needs! I'm so sad I've moved…read morefurther away or I'd want to come here every month. Seriously the attention to detail and pampering is unreal, I feel so relaxed and squeaky clean every time I come out of that room. The extractions can be painful but so worth it to feel clean again! From your face to your neck to your hands everything is pampered! Can't wait to go back!

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I've had two facials with Busha so far, and both times I've left the spa with my skin soft and…read moreglowing! She is so sweet, knowledgable, and gives great recommendations/tips on how to keep your skin beautiful. During my first appointment, she thoroughly assessed my skin and I trusted her to curate a set of treatments specific to my concerns. I take care of my skin consistently but have issues with sensitivity, dehydration/dryness, and texture. Bushra did a combination of microdermabrasion treatments, extractions, along with hydration masks. My blackheads were bad... and are always bad lol but she took care not to extract for too long so that it doesn't irritate or cause damage to my skin. (I've had other blackhead extractions in the past that literally make me cryyyy but she is so gentle!) Throughout the facial, she's giving facial massages and also gives a neck/shoulder lymphatic. I'm not sure if I'm just overthinking, but my face does seem slimmer and less puffy afterwards. My skin when I left was bright, glowing, and soft! I was so impressed, I ended up buying a package for 3 facials. My second facial was no different! I've had other facials elsewhere where I leave hydrated, but the clearness/redness is unchanged. But here, I feel a new person. I highly recommend Bushra! She's available via email or text for an appointment.

Bushra was recommended to me by Hope at Audia skincare in San Francisco. I have had several facials…read morein the past and this one was absolutely the best! Bushra is very knowledgeable and gave me excellent guidance about my skin and the use of Audia products, which I love using. I will definitely return!

AvantGard Spa

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•$$$

I asked for a recommendation for a good masseuse and Pacha was suggested. I'm over 60 with…read morearthritis, a frozen shoulder and mobility issues. He is very intuitive and focuses on the areas that you need relief the most. Breath work is also involved in the work he does in order for you to relax and allow for a deeper level of massage. Pacha always makes me feel comfortable and checks in to make sure that I'm okay. I've gone days without pain after seeing Pacha. If you're looking for pain relief, more mobility and achieving a sense of peace and calm , I highly recommend Pacha. The spa is beautifully designed and the rooms are comfortable. The price is comparable and even less than most spas. There is no shower, sauna or jacuzzi at this facility. Only calm, relief and peace.

I had the best massage of my life with Oi. I have had three treatments elsewhere over the last few…read moreweeks trying to address some shoulder and neck pain. 75 min with her professional skills and I am so so so happy. She is truly very talented and skilled and I highly recommend her.

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HIGHLY RECOMEND!!!!…read more I CAN NOT BELIEVE it has taken me this long to write a review! I LOVE Laura. She is not only super accommodating with bookings and very fair with pricing, but she is just overall amazing as what she does and you can tell she loves doing it. When I first met her I has calcium deposits similar to "ball like white heads" under my eyes (VERY close to my eyeball) that a dermatologist would charge crazy amount to get rid of and she did it in only a session or two. After that I was so impressed I never saw anyone else. She always makes me feel so warm and welcome and I've been seeing her for YEARS. I wouldn't trust anyone else with my skin. Try her out, you 100% wont be disappointed.

I really like this place! I come to Laura to get my upper lip waxed, she fits me in…read moreeven at last minute. I've also had a facial,she uses Eminence organic skin care line which was very lovely , going there is very relaxing and her prices are decent too.

OuterSoul Wellness & Healing Arts

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WOW Kimberly is amazing! She is so knowledge about Eminence products and skincare, and her hands…read moreare absolute magic! I went in for a consultation, then left and immediately booked her soonest availability. The facial treatment itself was wonderful - I felt incredibly pampered, and not rushed at all. Now even a few days after my appointment, I can tell my skin is more glowy and even. Kimberly's energy is fantastic, you can tell she's a master at her craft, and so passionate about what she does. I can't wait to go back!

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I saw yulia for a basic facial a few months ago with extractions and generally had a great…read moreexperience. The place is very basic - part of a little plaza - on the left side of the courtyard. Budget time for finding street parking, as with anything downtown San Carlos. Yulia was on time and took even a few minutes over to take care of the full problem (a LOt of blackheads / clogged pores on cheeks) . My favorite part was probably her advice on resolving the persistent clogged pores and blackheads I had been battling for almost a year. Talking to me about the products I use, she quickly deduced my problem was most likely dry (not excess oil) skin and a lack of hydration from overusing bha's at too high of a concentration. I was skeptical at first but doubling down on moisturizing and discontinuing harsh acids ultimately fixed the issue . I plan on still coming for a tume up her or there. Only crit is that the skincare products sold there are ok (I got the toner and it unfortunately didn't get along great with the rest of my products but maybe you'll have better luck).

The quality here is outstanding. I loved the vibe when I walked in. It's a small location but It…read morefelt like I got VIP service. I booked online for a 1 hour facial. Yulia said my skin was in good condition. She told me that I probably only needed a professional facial every 3 months. I did answer a few questions to ensure that I was no allergic to anything or have had any past reactions. This is great due diligence on her part. This made me fell great as a customer as well. I did a deep pore cleaning facial ($90). After removing my shirt, I laid down on the comfy table face up for my treatment. This helps so you dont get any products on your shirt or jacket. She performed all the layers and removals seamlessly. We identified that I need to use moisturizer 2 times per day to maintain good skin. She also recommend that I do an exfoliation more regularly to ensure my skin can accept products. I left with my skin bright and glowing. I'll definitely be back before summer to get another treatment. Time to be acknowledged 5/5 Time to be serviced 5/5 Return value 5/5 Bathroom 5/5 Customer service 5/5 Parking 1/5

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