The spa's roots go back to the late 1940s, when a Santa Cruz native known as Anne Sunlight established a traditional Japanese tea garden just off Pacific Avenue. Memories of World War II and the internment of Japanese Americans were still raw, and Anne wanted to create a space that fostered understanding between East and West - a radical move considering the animosity many Americans still harbored against Japan.
Dressed in a kimono, Anne would serve tea to her guests while facilitating conversations on how to heal the wounds of the recent past.
Dressed in a kimono, Anne would serve tea to her guests while facilitating conversations on how to heal the wounds of the recent past.
Services
We honor our location's history with a large selection of complimentary tea to enjoy with your spa experience. We currently feature artisan teas made by Art of Tea, and Steven Smith Teamaker. Tea selection changes with the seasons. We Request reservations be made at least 2 weeks in advance due to high volume.
For over 20 years, the Tea House spa offers locals and visitors a getaway for relaxation, refuge, and rejuvenation among a historic Japanese bamboo groove found tucked away from the hustle and bustle of downtown life. We are passionate about providing clients with a rejuvenating experience they can count on as part of their regular self-care routine.
Reviews (24)
Jeri G.
Jun 28, 2022
Dinah S.
Jun 26, 2022
My husband brought me here tonight and it was such a wonderful experience. We had the couple's massage, spa tub and steam shower. Damian is an excellent masseuse. He found every knot and skillfully, without pain even though it was deep tissue took care of them. My husband also really liked his masseuse. After the massage they set your plush massage table upright and bring you a pot of tea. (You select the flavor before your service).
They left us to sit and enjoy our tea and then we got into the tub. The scenery outside the tub is gorgeous. The plants are all so healthy and there is a water feature in the garden that is very relaxing. The steam shower was was lovely and the shower and room were both stocked with very good quality products. They also supply robes, towels and slippers.
The linens were impeccable and the facility was pristine. The room next door to ours was a hot tub and open shower with an even more gorgeous view of the gardens than our room. My husband wouldn't tell me how much he paid for the services but we are definitely going back even though it is an hours drive from home. Street parking is metered
They left us to sit and enjoy our tea and then we got into the tub. The scenery outside the tub is gorgeous. The plants are all so healthy and there is a water feature in the garden that is very relaxing. The steam shower was was lovely and the shower and room were both stocked with very good quality products. They also supply robes, towels and slippers.
The linens were impeccable and the facility was pristine. The room next door to ours was a hot tub and open shower with an even more gorgeous view of the gardens than our room. My husband wouldn't tell me how much he paid for the services but we are definitely going back even though it is an hours drive from home. Street parking is metered
Jenise G.
Jun 26, 2022
Booked a package at the Tea House Spa (Gemini package) and it did not disappoint! From the moment we arrived the customer service was top notch. The front desk receptionist greeted us by offering complimentary iced tea or refreshers-- we chose the "Main Squeeze" which was a grapefruit/lime/sage/soda water mix and it was served in a carafe for us to enjoy during our tub soak.
The room offered a private hot tub overlooking the beautiful garden, personal sauna and shower where we spent 50 minutes relaxing and sipping on the main squeeze. This was followed by a 50 minute massage. Our masseuses were Damian and Candy-- Damian's deep tissue was perfection. And my husband can't stop talking about how much he enjoyed his massage from Candy. Tea House Spa-- we'll be back!
The room offered a private hot tub overlooking the beautiful garden, personal sauna and shower where we spent 50 minutes relaxing and sipping on the main squeeze. This was followed by a 50 minute massage. Our masseuses were Damian and Candy-- Damian's deep tissue was perfection. And my husband can't stop talking about how much he enjoyed his massage from Candy. Tea House Spa-- we'll be back!
R. DAWg
Jun 05, 2022
Mandy C.
May 31, 2022
We were a little skeptical since there were a few homeless men sitting outside of the area but it ended up being a beautiful oasis hidden within downtown SC. A bit more instructions on what to expect and what to bring would've been helpful though. We got the Gemini package. We weren't sure if we needed to bring swimsuits and once we were finished with the sauna, we didn't know if someone was going to come get us for the massage or if we should go to the room ourselves. The massage that I got (given by a guy masseuse - forgot his name!) was absolutely heavenly.
Brandon J.
May 25, 2022
Ashley W.
May 11, 2022
Made reservations for 2 for a Saturday (we got the Gemini package) and we were able to get street parking right in front. I was expecting a harder time to find parking from the reviews that are on here. The "Happy" tea from Art of Tea was amazing! You also get an option of adding honey to your tea. However, the walls are super thin (or maybe the people next to us were just really loud) but we heard every word to their conversation which honestly ruined the experience.
The massage was not too bad- the masseuse kept trying to engage in a conversation though. I guess ultimately for the price and the information on their website, I was expecting something more peaceful.
The massage was not too bad- the masseuse kept trying to engage in a conversation though. I guess ultimately for the price and the information on their website, I was expecting something more peaceful.
Casey Kampfe
May 09, 2022
Wonderful visit all around. Massage therapists were very talented, kind, and relaxing. Both of them did amazing jobs. The front desk was also very attentive and friendly. Our private time in the tub and steam shower were extremely relaxing and peaceful(room #1). Exactly what my boyfriend and I needed. We will forsure be returning
Roxann Burdick
Mar 30, 2022
William H.
Feb 20, 2022
If you're looking for a relaxing time, look elsewhere because this place is FAR from relaxing. You don't even get decent service with the amount of money you are paying; you're getting below average! On top of that, you have to pay for the full service before even receiving it. Right outside the establishment, there was a group of homeless loitering on the side of the parking lot.
Be careful where you park your car. The front desk receptionist did not provide any guidance into what we were supposed to do when we went into our rooms. So we had to ask for someone for assistance. By the time I had someone to help, we already wasted 20 minutes. At least they had tea, but wait, the tea they gave us was from tea bags. I seriously urge you to please do not come here.
Be careful where you park your car. The front desk receptionist did not provide any guidance into what we were supposed to do when we went into our rooms. So we had to ask for someone for assistance. By the time I had someone to help, we already wasted 20 minutes. At least they had tea, but wait, the tea they gave us was from tea bags. I seriously urge you to please do not come here.
Patricia N.
Feb 13, 2022
Booked the room 1 experience for our anniversary+valentines date, everything was amazing and so soothing, we left feeling 100x more relaxed The place is so cute and the entrance really sets the vibe. It's so adorable and lush, the walkway feels like you're getting spirited away to another world. There's another garden that you can see from the room, and it's just as enchanting as the entrance. We went at night so it was a different feel than the pictures we saw but they light it up so it feels just as magical, just a little more. romantic
Kristin S.
Feb 07, 2022
First time coming here and enjoyed our visit. We just tried the sauna and spa package without the massage option to try this place out. It was $170 for 2 people in a private hot tub and sauna room for 90 minites. It comes with 2 different tea options and some honey if you desire it. It was definitely a good time with a hot tub and back massaging jets. It's nice to look out to the garden view and drink your tea. It's cool that the private room opens to the garden without any windows.
Definitely a good place for some mediation. The sauna is also nice because I was able to lay down on the bench since I have more of a petite stature. Also, when your skin gets wrinkles from the hot water it's a nice alternative to keep warm and relaxed. They also have cold water available so you don't get too dehydrated from the from all the hot tubbing and sauna room.
The only thing you need to consider is that there is only street parking and you need to pay even on Sundays, so arrive earlier. We also had to walk through groups of homeless people even though we parked around the corner. Thry seem harmless but just wanted you to be aware. The walls are also thin between each room so definitely talk in quiet voices to be respectful.
You can also hear people walking up and down the walkway to the rooms too. There is music playing in the background, but since it's an older building and there are hardwood floors you can hear a lot. Definitely a cool place to check out and try for yourself!
Definitely a good place for some mediation. The sauna is also nice because I was able to lay down on the bench since I have more of a petite stature. Also, when your skin gets wrinkles from the hot water it's a nice alternative to keep warm and relaxed. They also have cold water available so you don't get too dehydrated from the from all the hot tubbing and sauna room.
The only thing you need to consider is that there is only street parking and you need to pay even on Sundays, so arrive earlier. We also had to walk through groups of homeless people even though we parked around the corner. Thry seem harmless but just wanted you to be aware. The walls are also thin between each room so definitely talk in quiet voices to be respectful.
You can also hear people walking up and down the walkway to the rooms too. There is music playing in the background, but since it's an older building and there are hardwood floors you can hear a lot. Definitely a cool place to check out and try for yourself!
Caneisha H.
Feb 07, 2022
We visited room 1. Awesome. Steam room plus tub. We had the couples massage package. This is the only room with a steam room. The steam room is big enough for two and was exactly what we needed after recovering from a cold. They have complementary mints, makeup wipes, tampons and shower caps for use in the room which is a great touch. You also get to choose a hot tea to drink while relaxing. We chose the same tea and had a whole pot. We will definitely be visiting this location again!
Emilee Durand
Feb 04, 2022
Really cool private hot tub and sauna with a great view, and good tea. Massages were pretty good but the massage rooms themselves were very bright and open (not the most relaxing environment). Some sketchy people hanging out in the parking lot next to it but overall a good experience. Staff was nice and welcoming with a calm atmosphere. You also have to take into consideration that there are no refunds once you book an appointment. Definitely check it out though!
Sophia C.
Feb 03, 2022
Go to Well Within still $30-$35 per person I used to come here all the time when I lived in town. It used to be an affordable way to treat myself and incorporate more self care. I was going to book a room on my next visit, but I am shocked at the price increase, DOUBLE the old prices! Even with the upgrades, their money would have been made back but this is just greedy.
Maxwell Anderson
Jan 19, 2022
Great place to relax and have a spa (jacuzzi) along with complimentary teas. The staff is amazing and have great customer service skills. They are very pleasing and the massages are amazing. If you're in Santa Cruz or planning a visit, you must contact this place to have a wonderful experience. Note* You should test negative for COVID 19 and have no cold or flu like symptoms 5 days prior to coming. Protect the staff.
Christina L.
Dec 20, 2021
Loved this experience! This was the cutest place and I've been wanting to come here for so long. I booked it as a late anniversary present for my boyfriend and I. I paid $170 for 90 minutes in room 3 and it came with the hot tub, sauna, 2 pots of tea, towels, and a shower with body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. It was a wonderful experience but the sauna turned off after a while so that was the only issue we had.
The two staff members were extremely nice and friendly and we even got to stay a little longer because I don't think there was anyone after us. In terms of parking, there's a paid lot right next to it that was like $1 an hour or so, super cheap! $170 was a bit pricy for this experience so I don't think we'll be back often but definitely some time in the future!
The two staff members were extremely nice and friendly and we even got to stay a little longer because I don't think there was anyone after us. In terms of parking, there's a paid lot right next to it that was like $1 an hour or so, super cheap! $170 was a bit pricy for this experience so I don't think we'll be back often but definitely some time in the future!
Andrea S.
Dec 20, 2021
Han V.
Dec 02, 2021
My boyfriend purchased the Gemini package for our four year anniversary. We understand the price increase and the importance of supporting a small business during this time, but when we left we mutually agreed that it wasn't worth the money. The restroom had long hairs stuck to the sink. Some staff members had their masks dangling below their noses or they weren't masked at all. They'd only push it up around guests.
There weren't clear instructions regarding the use of the tub - were we supposed to bring bathing suits? Soak in the nude? We ended up browsing through Yelp for answers. As for the sauna, either it didn't work at all or we just couldn't figure out how to use it. It wasn't hot and there was absolutely no steam. The only instructions we were given was to be dressed in robes and slippers after the ten minute warning bell.
We dressed and waited close to 20 minutes, but no one came to lead us to the massage rooms. When someone finally did come, they said that the slippers were still being washed so we'd have to put our regular shoes back on. It was a Monday afternoon and guests had arrived before us. How were they not prepared? My boyfriend's massage was average - no hot stones and hot towels.
I had a traditional Chinese massage which did include hot stones and hot towels. You'd think we'd be getting the same treatment considering the Gemini name. I guess it was somewhat of a trade-off since my masseuse made some comments about the size of my limbs. It's been days and I still feel a little sad about it. Imagine how someone who's had more body image issues than me would feel if they received these types of comments, even if they were coming from a place of care.
I finished before my boyfriend, and when I came back to the waiting room, two staff members who were on the younger side were just talking. The one who wasn't directly behind the front desk barely moved when I opened the door. The two of them barely said anything when we were prepping to finally leave - as if they can turn off the nice act now that they've got our money. It was a nice dip in the tub and otherwise relaxing massage, but we wouldn't come back.
There weren't clear instructions regarding the use of the tub - were we supposed to bring bathing suits? Soak in the nude? We ended up browsing through Yelp for answers. As for the sauna, either it didn't work at all or we just couldn't figure out how to use it. It wasn't hot and there was absolutely no steam. The only instructions we were given was to be dressed in robes and slippers after the ten minute warning bell.
We dressed and waited close to 20 minutes, but no one came to lead us to the massage rooms. When someone finally did come, they said that the slippers were still being washed so we'd have to put our regular shoes back on. It was a Monday afternoon and guests had arrived before us. How were they not prepared? My boyfriend's massage was average - no hot stones and hot towels.
I had a traditional Chinese massage which did include hot stones and hot towels. You'd think we'd be getting the same treatment considering the Gemini name. I guess it was somewhat of a trade-off since my masseuse made some comments about the size of my limbs. It's been days and I still feel a little sad about it. Imagine how someone who's had more body image issues than me would feel if they received these types of comments, even if they were coming from a place of care.
I finished before my boyfriend, and when I came back to the waiting room, two staff members who were on the younger side were just talking. The one who wasn't directly behind the front desk barely moved when I opened the door. The two of them barely said anything when we were prepping to finally leave - as if they can turn off the nice act now that they've got our money. It was a nice dip in the tub and otherwise relaxing massage, but we wouldn't come back.
Livier M.
Nov 21, 2021
So, this is my second visit at tea house spa and I'm obsessed. The first visit was not so great so I wanted to give it another chance before I wrote my review. I'll start by saying that the first visit was of no fault to them. Our masseuse had called out last minute so there was no one to do our massages. My friend was able to talk to the manager/owner and she was able to reschedule us another visit for a discount which is great!
The second time around was much better! The tea was great like we remember and the masseuse was really good. Only complaint I have is to maybe turn the lights down during the massage. It was bright the entire time which kind of made it hard for me to relax but other than that everything was great!
The second time around was much better! The tea was great like we remember and the masseuse was really good. Only complaint I have is to maybe turn the lights down during the massage. It was bright the entire time which kind of made it hard for me to relax but other than that everything was great!
Kenya Sanchez
Oct 14, 2021
Candace K.
Sep 06, 2021
Booked a reservation for our anniversary as a surprise. Ambiance was nice and the facilities were clean. They do provide towels, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Signs on the wall were misleading for turning the tub jets on and it was not explained by staff. The tea was disappointing as it's from tea bags and the water temperature was lukewarm.
We were able to bring in our own food. The reason for the 2-star review is because we got cheated out of almost 45 minutes. When I made the reservation, the appointment clearly stated that we would have the room from 10:30am-12:30pm. We arrived on-time, but weren't shown to our room until 10:45am. They then gave us a 10-minute warning at 11:50am to leave the room.
I even left our room at to ask the staff if there was a mix-up with the reservation times and the only explanation I received was that there was "another reservation coming in soon". I definitely feel ripped off. It was a nice one-time experience, but for the price point, $170 for just the tub & sauna, we won't be returning.
We were able to bring in our own food. The reason for the 2-star review is because we got cheated out of almost 45 minutes. When I made the reservation, the appointment clearly stated that we would have the room from 10:30am-12:30pm. We arrived on-time, but weren't shown to our room until 10:45am. They then gave us a 10-minute warning at 11:50am to leave the room.
I even left our room at to ask the staff if there was a mix-up with the reservation times and the only explanation I received was that there was "another reservation coming in soon". I definitely feel ripped off. It was a nice one-time experience, but for the price point, $170 for just the tub & sauna, we won't be returning.
Pauline N.
Aug 02, 2021
Surprised my boyfriend with this spa date after taking him out to Mount Hermon. We had fun but we were so dehydrated. I'm glad I got to experience this, but I wouldn't visit again. First thing, you choose two types of teas and the staff gives you two pots of tea (from tea bags, nothing fancy). The staff then leads you to the 3-in-1 shower, jacuzzi, and sauna. Shower- People complain about the small shampoo/conditioner size but it is standard travel size.
I do wish it was bigger though, I don't want to feel conservative when treating myself out. My main issue with it was the firm containers it was in though. So hard to get any product out. Jacuzzi - Super hot. I liked it but my boyfriend did not, LOL. The staff gave us cold water in addition to the tea, but we were quick to finish. My boyfriend also wished they iced the water. Sauna - Small closet.
We dried any wet clothes there while we bathed. Overall: Good one-time experience. My reservation was for 4:30 - 6:30. Got there on the dot, but the 10-minute-warning timer rang at 6:00 (?). We debated if it was actually a 10 minute or 20 minute timer, but staff knocked to remind us at 6:17 (so 10 minute). Did I get cheated of 10 minutes? Hmm. 3/5
I do wish it was bigger though, I don't want to feel conservative when treating myself out. My main issue with it was the firm containers it was in though. So hard to get any product out. Jacuzzi - Super hot. I liked it but my boyfriend did not, LOL. The staff gave us cold water in addition to the tea, but we were quick to finish. My boyfriend also wished they iced the water. Sauna - Small closet.
We dried any wet clothes there while we bathed. Overall: Good one-time experience. My reservation was for 4:30 - 6:30. Got there on the dot, but the 10-minute-warning timer rang at 6:00 (?). We debated if it was actually a 10 minute or 20 minute timer, but staff knocked to remind us at 6:17 (so 10 minute). Did I get cheated of 10 minutes? Hmm. 3/5
Fiamma Giger
Jun 23, 2017
I love this place. So relaxing on a Sunday after brunch. and such a good deal. I've been going here for years and will as long as I can. They have local all natural lavender soap, shampoo and lotion from bonny dune. One piece of advice: get two sessions back to back because one flys by so fast (even though it's 50 min!) you'll be wanting more tub and sauna.