Spa by the Sea is a full service day spa offering a wide range of massages, facials, body treatments and wellness services. Enjoy your luxurious spa treatments and then relax in the sun at our ocean front location with resort amenities like a two-acre fantasy pool with a lazy river and water slides, sand bottom jacuzzis and poolside dining. We offer a luxurious selection of beauty, relaxation and wellness services by licensed and professional therapists. We use and sell fine Epicuren beauty products.
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Dr. Gregory Smith, Owner of Spa by the Sea and Chiropractic doctor, graduated from the Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa in 1994 and has had his own private practice on Kauai for 22 years. Our Massage Therapists are licensed and professionally trained in their respective massage modalities and body treatments.
We offer a luxurious selection of beauty, relaxation and wellness services by licensed and professional therapists. We use and sell fine Epicuren beauty products. Choose from Hawaiian Lomi Lomi, Hot Stone, Swedish or Deep Tissue Massage for singles or couples. Beach massages also available. Experience the waterfall Vichy shower and some of Kauai's richest elements like Hawaiian Sea Salt, Noni, Papaya & Pineapple. Enhance your spa experience with a add-on like a hot oil scalp massage, a soak in our Japanese Soaking tub and more.
The kahuna laau lapaau (Ancient Hawaiian Healers) and the olohe lua (Hawaiian Martial Arts Masters) performed Lomi Lomi massage on their Kings with great prayer and intention. Practitioners channeled Mana: allowing the healing energy of the islands to flow through them. Lomi Lomi was passed down from generation to generation.
Our Vichy Shower has seven adjustable shower jets to caress your body under an invigorating waterfall. The therapist adjusts the pattern, placement and temperature of the jets to achieve whole-body water massage treatment. When all 7 jets are on, there is about 50 litres of water a minute flowing over your body, producing in many people a sensation of floating on water.
Reviews (34)
Cathy Yang
May 27, 2022
Lanni Smith
May 26, 2022
I was so excited to be on vacation and have time for a massage. I thought I would try a massage by the beach since I am in Hawaii. This was a grave mistake. For the price I assumed the spa would have a spot for the massage to take place and they don't.it is just a random spot in the grass no seclusion so not very relaxing. Also, due to the wind, which as a tourist I am not familiar with it, I should have been pre-warned that it can be very windy and loud, and that the spot is not secluded from people.
I would have picked to just get the massage inside, but I did not know any of this until I was outside with no clothes on with just a robe. Also, I paid for an 80 minute massage and I definitely did not get an 80 minute massage due to the terribly windy conditions the therapist spent a good portion of the time dealing with the sheet and making sure I was not exposed (since children and adults alike are around to see all).
The therapist was clearly stressed by the wind and so the massage itself was not as relaxed I could feel the stress in her strokes. I think that as a customer I should be told exactly what They getting with a beach massage, because if I had been told all of that I would have picked the inside option and gotten what I wanted and not felt ripped off, due to the fact the spa is not setup or ready for outdoor massages.
I would have picked to just get the massage inside, but I did not know any of this until I was outside with no clothes on with just a robe. Also, I paid for an 80 minute massage and I definitely did not get an 80 minute massage due to the terribly windy conditions the therapist spent a good portion of the time dealing with the sheet and making sure I was not exposed (since children and adults alike are around to see all).
The therapist was clearly stressed by the wind and so the massage itself was not as relaxed I could feel the stress in her strokes. I think that as a customer I should be told exactly what They getting with a beach massage, because if I had been told all of that I would have picked the inside option and gotten what I wanted and not felt ripped off, due to the fact the spa is not setup or ready for outdoor massages.
John Riewerts
May 11, 2022
Kenny Johnston
Apr 16, 2022
Christine D.
Mar 21, 2022
The spa is nice but in the height of wearing masks on the Hawaiian islands, masks were optional in this spot?! None of the staff were wearing masks and this is at the end of Feb 2022 early March 2022 when they were required indoors. I opted to keep mine on as I'm risk-averse like that. They had a nice relaxation room and robes and they offered water and chocolate prior to the service.
The massage room was nice and quiet, despite the fact this spa is just off of the parking lot. Amanda was great and gave a nice massage. The massage was about $250 with a resort fee (kind of a scam) and the tip included for a 50-minute massage. I always expect to pay more while on vacation this was a bit much but I figured I would check it out. I asked about a coffee shop or anything on-premises, they had nothing and directed me to the Starbucks across the street.
All in all, it was nice but I'm not sure it was worth the money. I would consider other options before going back here. Also, directions on Google lead me way past the resort toward Hanalei. It's right across the street from Safeway in Kapa'a.
The massage room was nice and quiet, despite the fact this spa is just off of the parking lot. Amanda was great and gave a nice massage. The massage was about $250 with a resort fee (kind of a scam) and the tip included for a 50-minute massage. I always expect to pay more while on vacation this was a bit much but I figured I would check it out. I asked about a coffee shop or anything on-premises, they had nothing and directed me to the Starbucks across the street.
All in all, it was nice but I'm not sure it was worth the money. I would consider other options before going back here. Also, directions on Google lead me way past the resort toward Hanalei. It's right across the street from Safeway in Kapa'a.
Naomi L.
Mar 13, 2022
I always wanted to try this spa since it's located close to home. Recently treated my husband with a 80 minute Lomi Lomi massage for our wedding anniversary. He enjoyed it very much. I didn't want to feel left out so I had the Papaya Polish with Julia. It's Iike a scrub and mini massage in one, very relaxing. Wished it could have lasted forever or longer.
In the lounge they offer you h20 but it's like tap water. Not chilled. And we weren't sure if the glasses were for us since it was just sitting there. And a few pieces of chocolates? Therapists weren't wearing masks but thats okay because we didn't want to wear ours either. Massages and treatments comes with a pool pass to the Waipouli Resort pool. Yay! Someday I will try their massages and add ons.
In the lounge they offer you h20 but it's like tap water. Not chilled. And we weren't sure if the glasses were for us since it was just sitting there. And a few pieces of chocolates? Therapists weren't wearing masks but thats okay because we didn't want to wear ours either. Massages and treatments comes with a pool pass to the Waipouli Resort pool. Yay! Someday I will try their massages and add ons.
Bob
Mar 10, 2022
Meghan Silva
Feb 13, 2022
My husband and I got a couples massage by the beach. First off, you have to walk out into the lobby of the resort in your rob, which if you're overweight does not fit very well! Then you have to walk from the lobby by the pool and balconies of all the rooms about 100 yards to the spot where they have set up massage tables near the beach, but also near the public walkway and in the view from everyone's rooms. No privacy! The massage therapists did the best they could to reserve our modesty. The massage was not the best I've ever had and definitely not worth the price!
Carole J.
Dec 06, 2021
I went for the mermaid massage which I was excited to splurge on since I've been working very hard lately. The ambiance of the spa, locker room was quiet but also a little dark and not a lot of instruction. I was surprised they were not wearing masks and that my massage therapist was unvaccinated. For Hawaii's strict Covid rules, this seemed unprofessional.
It should have been disclosed upfront. My masseuse was friendly, but the massage was not very deep. I've had many massages as I spend a lot of time working in Bali and massages are very good, and obviously not expensive. The scrub & clay was fine but then you get up rather sticky and sent to the shower to rinse it all off. I've had similar massages where you scrub first then shower then massage.
It was $295 plus 20% tip. It was overpriced for what you got. They were all nice enough, but not wearing masks or disclosing their Covid procedures is just wrong. A customer should know up front.
It should have been disclosed upfront. My masseuse was friendly, but the massage was not very deep. I've had many massages as I spend a lot of time working in Bali and massages are very good, and obviously not expensive. The scrub & clay was fine but then you get up rather sticky and sent to the shower to rinse it all off. I've had similar massages where you scrub first then shower then massage.
It was $295 plus 20% tip. It was overpriced for what you got. They were all nice enough, but not wearing masks or disclosing their Covid procedures is just wrong. A customer should know up front.
Sarah Field
Nov 29, 2021
Let's start by saying I made my appointment for a couples massage at 11. The morning of, I received multiple phone calls my time had changed to 3:30. When I called back they informed me someone had called in, but my 11:00 spot was no longer available, one of us could get in at 12 (who wants to to a couples massage alone!?) when we arrived we were shown the locker rooms and asked to change into robes.
I used the bathroom in the ladies locker room when the doorknob fell off the handle leaving me trapped inside. By the grace of god someone heard me knocking and was able to let me out. We were then sent to a "wellness room" where there was water and chocolate waiting, per the receptionist but all we found were 3 dirty, empty glasses. The massage was for 90 minutes (the time started when we were first shown to the locker rooms) and Kim and Joseph did wonderful work.
The fire alarm and ping pong tournament made it hard to relax, but it is what it is. After our short massage we were shown back to the locker rooms to change, I obviously avoided the bathroom but my husband tried to shower off, when he moved the handle to turn on the shower, it fell to the floor smacking his foot and leaving an enormous bruise (visible this morning).
When were ready to go, we headed to the front counter to pay, we were greater with an astronomical cost, $27 more than the original price per person as well as the automatic gratuity. I don't mind paying for quality work, and the therapists delivered it, but the terrible way we were treated and the falling apart facility was definitely not worth it! Save your time and go somewhere else!
I used the bathroom in the ladies locker room when the doorknob fell off the handle leaving me trapped inside. By the grace of god someone heard me knocking and was able to let me out. We were then sent to a "wellness room" where there was water and chocolate waiting, per the receptionist but all we found were 3 dirty, empty glasses. The massage was for 90 minutes (the time started when we were first shown to the locker rooms) and Kim and Joseph did wonderful work.
The fire alarm and ping pong tournament made it hard to relax, but it is what it is. After our short massage we were shown back to the locker rooms to change, I obviously avoided the bathroom but my husband tried to shower off, when he moved the handle to turn on the shower, it fell to the floor smacking his foot and leaving an enormous bruise (visible this morning).
When were ready to go, we headed to the front counter to pay, we were greater with an astronomical cost, $27 more than the original price per person as well as the automatic gratuity. I don't mind paying for quality work, and the therapists delivered it, but the terrible way we were treated and the falling apart facility was definitely not worth it! Save your time and go somewhere else!
Jacqueline Protsman
Oct 23, 2021
Lily T.
Sep 10, 2021
This review has nothing to do with the massage therapist! - for one the spa was fantastic and beautiful! Had everything we needed after the spa which was outstanding and amazing! Although, we got a couples massage on the beach. We were not on the beach, we were 30ft from actual sand and 2ft from and walking path that everyone uses. I felt every out in the open, every not private, and extremely like I could not relax.
My whole massage I felt completely tense and like everyone was watching and could see me. My husband and I were a couple feet away from each other and it didn't feel every coupley. After our massage we felt great! We go back in to pay and our $275 massage on the beach came out to $750. We were confused, paid and left. We then went on the website and looked to see if it was per person.
On the website it had nothing to say if it was per person for booking. The massage & the place was 100% not worth $750. My husband & I didn't take a honeymoon because of covid and we were looking so forward to this and we left so happy yet very disappointed. For that money I could had got amazing massage back home. This place is way way WAY over priced. Very disappointed.
My whole massage I felt completely tense and like everyone was watching and could see me. My husband and I were a couple feet away from each other and it didn't feel every coupley. After our massage we felt great! We go back in to pay and our $275 massage on the beach came out to $750. We were confused, paid and left. We then went on the website and looked to see if it was per person.
On the website it had nothing to say if it was per person for booking. The massage & the place was 100% not worth $750. My husband & I didn't take a honeymoon because of covid and we were looking so forward to this and we left so happy yet very disappointed. For that money I could had got amazing massage back home. This place is way way WAY over priced. Very disappointed.
Laura Quinto
Aug 12, 2021
Dan Lineberry
Jul 18, 2021
Viren O.
Jun 30, 2021
We had the delight of getting lomi lomi massages at Spa by the Sea for my best friend's birthday. Johnathan was very professional, thorough, and focused on my trouble spots without much prompting on my end, he clearly knows what he's doing! I don't recall the name of the woman who performed my friend's massage, but she was delighted as well. Thank you for the lovely treatment, I highly recommend!
Imran Khan
Apr 10, 2021
Zara N.
Jan 03, 2021
We got the couples massage down by the beach and it was just amazing! Listening to the sound of the waves crashing while I got a full body massage next to my partner was surreal. The package was very expensive but it was an amazing experience. While waiting for our massage, we hung out in the lounge. We were also given some chocolates and a drink.
The changing room here was also so beautiful. With lockers, provided locks, large showers, and with all the hygienic products you would need to shower and get prepped for an awesome dinner. Overall, the entire spa experience was amazing and the ambiance was very relaxing.
The changing room here was also so beautiful. With lockers, provided locks, large showers, and with all the hygienic products you would need to shower and get prepped for an awesome dinner. Overall, the entire spa experience was amazing and the ambiance was very relaxing.
Lindsey Johnson
Dec 28, 2019
Lovely little spa inside hotel resort. Everything was clean and relaxing from start to finish. Harper welcomed me and was extremely patient. She also does yoga on the beach nearby so I'll be checking that out. Kelsey was my massage therapist and she did a great job. Extremely relaxing and great vibes the entire time. I highly recommend this location and will continue to drive from my own resort location about 15 minutes away to this spa instead. It certainly exceeds the spa at my resort.
Rachel S.
Sep 08, 2019
My friend and I decided to get a massage while staying at the resort here. The massage was good, my therapist was great. My only complaint is the price on their website is not what they charged us. Of course we paid before going in and I didn't catch that until after we were done. Including tip, this place is by far way more expensive than some of the other places we looked at. So moral of the story, the pricing on their website is less than what they will charge.
S. L.
Aug 22, 2019
Coming in to review a 2hr session I just had with Joseph who does Thai massage. This is my 3rd or 4th visit with him and, per usual, he was excellent. Joseph exudes a sense of genuine calm and courtesy setting the tone for therapeutic relaxation. More importantly, he has the skill and technique to provide a solid service, especially for someone like me who has never-ending neck and back issues.
It is worth noting that within the two years I have visited, I learned that he is makes the effort to enhance his skills by going back to Thailand for more training. I appreciate this as it gives me a sense that this therapist has a passion for his craft (I would argue that Thai massage IS a science of technique). It is reflected in his work.
It is worth noting that within the two years I have visited, I learned that he is makes the effort to enhance his skills by going back to Thailand for more training. I appreciate this as it gives me a sense that this therapist has a passion for his craft (I would argue that Thai massage IS a science of technique). It is reflected in his work.
Lisa M.
Aug 19, 2019
TIP: Do NOT use the Yelp directions! When it opens up to maps, yelp changes the location to some weird residential address. Google map the HOTEL. When you pull in, follow the signs for the spa, there is tons of parking. Kama'aina review here: The BEST SPA! It was so hard to find actual SPAs with amenities such as. well ANYTHING. Most of the "spas" are just massage services.
After TONS of Yelp research, I found only ONE spa with nice showers -- you guess it-- THIS one. This one has: + HUGE showers with excellent shower pressure, shampoo, condition, soap, with a HUGE shower head and a detachable one. + Spacious bathrooms + Luxurious changing rooms with lockers, bathroom, lotions, combs, etc. + Relaxation room with various furniture (super clean) while you wait in robes, drink water, and eat chocolate covered macadamia nuts. + POOL access to the resort after with Jacuzzi, etc. It's also a beautiful hotel -- not dingy at all.
My friend and I were actually thinking of staying at the hotel next time! + Under $200 for most services (including taxes and tip) The massage? Amazing! I had Karen and she SUPER focused on my problem areas-- more than any other massage therapist! My friend had Joseph whom she said was so smooth, he transformed her into an ocean! LOL!
After TONS of Yelp research, I found only ONE spa with nice showers -- you guess it-- THIS one. This one has: + HUGE showers with excellent shower pressure, shampoo, condition, soap, with a HUGE shower head and a detachable one. + Spacious bathrooms + Luxurious changing rooms with lockers, bathroom, lotions, combs, etc. + Relaxation room with various furniture (super clean) while you wait in robes, drink water, and eat chocolate covered macadamia nuts. + POOL access to the resort after with Jacuzzi, etc. It's also a beautiful hotel -- not dingy at all.
My friend and I were actually thinking of staying at the hotel next time! + Under $200 for most services (including taxes and tip) The massage? Amazing! I had Karen and she SUPER focused on my problem areas-- more than any other massage therapist! My friend had Joseph whom she said was so smooth, he transformed her into an ocean! LOL!
Lizzy Moore
Aug 26, 2018
I am revising my previous review below. After posting, two representatives from the spa contacted me to address my issues. The prompt response was much appreciated. Thanks for the good customer service. Eh, mediocre. This was the most expensive spa prices I have seen for a basic massage. $160 for 50 minutes is crazy even for a resort. I got a package with a scrub, mud and massage.
I wasn't impressed. The massage was just okay and the scrub and mud didn't make up for the price. Go down the street for a local massage rather than at the resort to get your money's worth.
I wasn't impressed. The massage was just okay and the scrub and mud didn't make up for the price. Go down the street for a local massage rather than at the resort to get your money's worth.
Alexandra H.
Jul 01, 2018
It was a nice experience with a clean locker room and chocolate and water waiting for you. However, it was way overpriced for what it was. The cheapest massage was $200 because they add 20% gratuity even if you don't want to. Definitely not the best massage I've ever had and to charge this much it should have been amazing. Also, I wish they would have warned me of the 20% gratuity charge because I would not have come here, my masseuse did not deserve that much. Overall, way overpriced. I'd go elsewhere.
Ray F.
Jan 19, 2018
This spa is a gem. the staff are exceptionally kind and the ambiance is perfect. From the moment you walk in you are welcomed, pampered, and can relax. The music is great. my massage therapist Joseph was one of the best therapists I have ever had. the jacuzzi and pools are in the common area in the resort. the facilities inside have everything else you would expect from a full service spa. Dr Greg Smith was the one who answered the phone when I came. He delivers such great service as a host you are welcomed before you even step in the door. Highly recommend! Will be back next time we are in Kauai!
Nicki H.
Apr 03, 2017
Booked massages for myself and my friend April 1st; outstanding! Deep tissue for myself and my friend's massage with Joseph, "was the best message I've ever had". They are very skilled. The facility is beautiful and bonus you get a code to enjoy the pool and Jacuzzi at the Waipouli Beach Resort which is gorgeous; we spent the entire afternoon there. This will definitely be a must repeat on my next visit to Kauai!
Tim R.
Mar 09, 2017
Rachel R.
Oct 25, 2016
Cindy M.
Jul 21, 2016
Based on Yelp reviews we booked here and couldn't be happier. We chose a couples message by the ocean. Amazing! Greg, the owner is more than happy to accommodate special wishes if possible. Taylor gave an outstanding message. The whole complex is very nice and you can't beat the views and service at the Oasis restaurant.
Maureen C.
May 29, 2016
Judy R.
Apr 11, 2016
I deleted my previous scathing review of a pedicure and manicure at this spa after receiving a voice mail from both the owner and the manicurist along with a personal message from her. I appreciate both of their offers to address the issues and to either re-do or refund my pedicure. The water they give their clients is not tap water as I'd assumed.
I believe the owner's message said that it's purified water. I only mentioned it because I have never been served water at room temperature. I do know it's healthier than iced water and that's probably why they serve it that way. Our tap water on Kauai is clean so it's not an issue with me. I'm not a water snob. Assuming it was tap water, I thought that it would have been nice to have some ice in the glass.
No biggie. In my original review I mentioned that I was disappointed that the dry skin and small cracks in my heels weren't removed with what the owner referred to as a "cheese grater" like I'm used to having done at another nail salon. But the owner said in his voice mail that this is illegal and that's why they don't do that at his spa.
I appreciate that. I mentioned the lighting in the spa which I liked in the "resting room" but my point was that if the room where the pedicures and manicures are done weren't so dark perhaps mistakes could be avoided and the end result more satisfactory. The price was not the issue so much as the end result. I know that shellac manicures are more time consuming than a regular manicure and I expect to pay more I also expect to pay for the time and products needed to remove a gel manicure.
My receipt says $91.50 for both and my friends all expressed shock at the price. Having not asked what the price was ahead of time, I'm not complaining. It's just that for that amount of money one expects perfection. I'm sure if I went back that's exactly what I'd receive.
I believe the owner's message said that it's purified water. I only mentioned it because I have never been served water at room temperature. I do know it's healthier than iced water and that's probably why they serve it that way. Our tap water on Kauai is clean so it's not an issue with me. I'm not a water snob. Assuming it was tap water, I thought that it would have been nice to have some ice in the glass.
No biggie. In my original review I mentioned that I was disappointed that the dry skin and small cracks in my heels weren't removed with what the owner referred to as a "cheese grater" like I'm used to having done at another nail salon. But the owner said in his voice mail that this is illegal and that's why they don't do that at his spa.
I appreciate that. I mentioned the lighting in the spa which I liked in the "resting room" but my point was that if the room where the pedicures and manicures are done weren't so dark perhaps mistakes could be avoided and the end result more satisfactory. The price was not the issue so much as the end result. I know that shellac manicures are more time consuming than a regular manicure and I expect to pay more I also expect to pay for the time and products needed to remove a gel manicure.
My receipt says $91.50 for both and my friends all expressed shock at the price. Having not asked what the price was ahead of time, I'm not complaining. It's just that for that amount of money one expects perfection. I'm sure if I went back that's exactly what I'd receive.
Pakalana M.
Jan 20, 2016
This is a beautiful spa! The people that I've met that work there are all amazing. Very friendly and knowledgeable. I highly recommend this tranquil setting to get pampered from head to toes. I can't wait to try the Vichy shower or soak in that killer tub. I love that the Owner is, a Chiropractor. Especially for travelers. What a compliment to the spa. Such an easy access. Great parking too.
Norm K.
Jul 21, 2015
Viola L.
Jan 08, 2015
To be honest, if no stars were an option I would have given this place no star. This place is very fancy in appearance but the customer service is the worst Ive had on the island. For the extremely high price of the menu of services I had high expectations. Not only were the therapist rude and unprofessional but the spa owner was manipulative, unappologectic and unappreciative of the business I was giving him. I would not recommend this place.
Ted Batycki
Dec 24, 2012
My wife's back was all torqued after flying. This spa also has a chiropractor who is awesome. We popped in the morning after we arrived and the chiropractor gave her a quick adjustment and we followed up with an hour massage later that day. My wife says it was the best massage she ever got. The chiro/massage treatment saved our vacation. They were also really nice the whole time. Couldn't ask for better service.