The concept of spas dates back thousands of years to ancient civilizations. The Romans were famous for their public baths, which served as centers for socializing and healing. Ancient Greeks used natural hot springs for their therapeutic properties. In the Middle Ages, towns in Europe developed around mineral springs, giving rise to the modern spa culture. The term “spa” itself is believed to come from the Belgian town of Spa, known for its healing waters. In the 18th and 19th centuries, spa towns became popular destinations for the wealthy seeking health and relaxation. Today, spas have evolved to offer a wide range of treatments beyond water therapy, including massages, facials, and holistic wellness practices, catering to the growing demand for stress relief and self-care in our modern world.
Here’s a round-up of the highest-rated spas in and around Portland.

Northwest Portland 

Kanani Pearl Spa: 1111 NW Marshall St (503-242-5500) 

Nestled in Portland’s Pearl District, Kanani Pearl Spa is an urban Hawaiian-inspired wellness sanctuary. Their unique offerings include Lomilomi Hawaiian massage, Ashiatsu deep tissue therapy, and specialized treatments like Hawaiian Hot Stone and pregnancy massage. Signature experiences feature exotic body treatments such as a Volcanic Clay Wrap, a Green Tea Seaweed and Ginger Body Wrap and Signature Kanani Pearl Experiences. With four waterfalls creating a tranquil atmosphere, Kanani Pearl provides personalized, therapeutic experiences rooted in traditional Hawaiian healing practices. Their comprehensive services blend natural ingredients, advanced techniques, and the spirit of aloha to deliver transformative wellness. https://www.kananipearl.com/

Kiva Tea Cafe and Spa: 1533 NW 24th Ave (971-229-1368)

A tranquil escape with global spa therapies for beauty, healing, and wellness. Their Energy Healing Room features a BioMat with Binaural Beats & Infrared Healing, providing deep relaxation and pain relief. They also offer Chi Machine sessions for muscle relaxation and improved circulation. KIVA’s Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna provides various health benefits, including detoxification, stress relief, and pain reduction. These wellness therapies complement their massage, facial, and foot treatment services, creating a comprehensive spa experience focused on holistic rejuvenation. https://www.kivaspapdx.com/

The Dragontree Holistic Day Spa: 2768 NW Thurman St (503-221-4123)

The Dragontree Spa prioritizes high-quality massage services delivered by exceptionally skilled therapists and instructors. They view massage as a fundamental form of healing, benefiting both body and soul. Their treatments aim to reduce stress, boost immunity and circulation, improve organ function, and enhance overall flexibility and comfort. The Dragontree emphasizes the importance of regular massage as part of a wellness routine, offering a compassionate and awakening experience through their skilled practitioners’ hands. https://thedragontree.com/pages/portland-oregon-day-spa-massage-and-skin-care

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa: 25 NW 23rd Pl., Ste. 7 (503-894-7163)

Known for its accessibility and affordability. Offers a wide range of spa treatments designed to help clients relax, destress, and feel their best. Their services include various massage therapies, facials, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and hair removal treatments. The spa environment is designed to be relaxing and soothing, promoting comfort and satisfaction. Gift cards are available both in-spa and online, making it easy to share the spa experience with others. https://www.handandstone-nwportland.com/

Luxe Massage and Spa: 325 NW 21st Ave (503-300-8755)

Offers customizable massage and spa services for beauty, rejuvenation, relaxation, and recovery. Specializing in individual and couples massages, clients can blend multiple modalities and choose their preferred pressure. Luxe also provides mobile massage services in Portland and surrounding areas. https://www.theluxemassage.com/

Northeast Portland 

Zama Massage Therapeutic Spa: 2149 NE Broadway (503-281-0278)

Unique for its salt caves and infrared treatments. Ideal for those seeking innovative spa experiences beyond traditional massages and facials. Good for respiratory health and detoxification. Zama offers a number of spa packages, including a Men’s Wellness Package, which includes a 30-minute foot soak, scrub and massage, a deep tissue massage, and a custom organic facial. The treatment addresses common men’s skincare concerns, such as issues from daily shaving, and includes a steam treatment to enhance the facial’s effectiveness. This package is particularly popular for men seeking stress relief and full-body rejuvenation. https://www.zamamassage.com/

Knot Springs: 33 NE 3rd Ave Suite 365 (503-222-5668)

Offers an urban spa experience centered around natural hot springs. The spa features a series of soaking pools with varying temperatures, including hot and cold plunges, designed to promote relaxation and wellness. In addition to the thermal springs, Knot Springs provides a range of services including massage treatments, skincare services, and foot rubs. The spa also offers movement classes, likely focusing on fitness and wellness activities. The spa’s urban setting and diverse offerings make it a distinctive destination for both locals and visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in Portland. https://knotsprings.com/

The Everett House Community Healing Center: 2927 NE Everett St (503 232-6161)

Offers a spa experience focused on tranquility, inner peace, and community wellbeing. This clothing-optional sanctuary provides a welcoming and inclusive space for all guests. The spa features a large salt hot tub, saunas, steam room, cold plunge tubs, and an outdoor shower area with a patio and fire pit. Massage services are available by appointment with their skilled therapists. The Everett House emphasizes creating a safe and comfortable environment for all guests. Beyond spa services, they offer their grounds as a retreat for members to relax, meditate, or unwind away from daily stresses. The center is housed in two classic craftsman homes, adding to its unique and inviting atmosphere. https://www.everetthousecommunityhealingcenter.com/

Löyly: 3525 NE MLK Jr Blvd. (503-914-4303)

A Portland wellness sanctuary, Löyly offers a transformative spa experience rooted in Scandinavian sauna culture and holistic healing practices. Their carefully curated services blend traditional and modern wellness techniques, featuring cedar sauna sessions in both public and private settings, massage therapies that combine Swedish and deep tissue approaches, and facial treatments using premium organic products like Dr. Hauschka. The spa’s minimalist, calming environment creates a serene backdrop for clients seeking physical and mental rejuvenation. Beyond treatments, Löyly provides a thoughtfully curated retail space with wellness products and self-care gifts. Their philosophy emphasizes creating a healing journey that nurtures body, mind, and spirit, offering Portland residents and visitors an authentic, restorative spa experience that goes beyond typical massage and sauna services. https://www.loyly.net/

Mudra Massage: 2906 NE Glisan (503-706-2225) 

Offers a range of high-quality massage and bodywork services, Mudra specializes in addressing chronic pain, tension, and sports injuries. Their services include Ashiatsu, deep tissue massage, Swedish relaxation massage, hot stone massage, cupping, stretching, post-injury massage, and prenatal massage. The studio is located in the quiet Kerns neighborhood, providing a serene sanctuary for clients seeking pain relief, stress reduction, or sports injury treatment. Mudra also offers customizable facial treatments using organic skincare products, going beyond typical spa experiences to nourish and improve skin health. With a commitment to exceptional bodywork and a range of therapeutic techniques, Mudra Massage aims to provide a unique and effective healing experience for their clients. https://mudramassage.net/

Common Ground Wellness Cooperative: 5010 NE 33rd Ave (503-238-1065)

Provides acupuncture, Bowenwork, chiropractic care, cranial sacral therapy, massage therapy, movement therapy, naturopathy, skin care, structural integration, and reiki. The center emphasizes personalized care, allowing clients to book appointments online or through their front desk staff. The team accommodates various insurance plans, including Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) claims for select services. The center’s approach focuses on integrating multiple modalities to address clients’ unique health needs, promoting overall wellness through a combination of traditional and alternative therapies. https://cgwc.org/services/

Southeast Portland

Loyly Sauna Southeast: 2713 SE 21st Ave

Focuses on the traditional European sauna experience. Perfect for those who appreciate the health benefits of heat therapy. Offers a more social spa experience compared to private treatment rooms.  See summary for NE location for more information.

The NOW Massage Portland Hawthorne: 4516 SE Hawthorne Blvd

Offers a range of therapeutic massage services designed to cater to various wellness needs. Their menu features three signature massages: The Journey, a Swedish-inspired massage for total relaxation; The Healer, an energy balancing massage for calming the mind and spirit; and The Stretch, a sports-inspired massage ideal for athletes.  The NOW provides additional enhancements such as Deep Tissue technique, Gliding Cupping, Hemp Calm Balm application, Herbal Heat Therapy, Scalp Renewal, Gua Sha, Prenatal Glow for expecting mothers, and a Fresh Eyes treatment. Each enhancement is tailored to address specific concerns, from muscle tension relief to promoting circulation and reducing inflammation.  The NOW Massage emphasizes a holistic approach to wellness, combining traditional techniques with modern therapies to provide a customizable and rejuvenating experience for their clients. https://thenowmassage.com/portland-hawthorne/

Xenana Spa: 2024 SE Clinton Street (503-238-6262)

Nestled in Southeast Portland, Xenana Spa offers a holistic and inclusive approach to wellness and self-care. Their comprehensive services blend massage therapy, holistic skincare, and specialized treatments designed to nurture both body and spirit. With a focus on deep tissue massage and highly regarded prenatal services, Xenana welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, creating a supportive environment that celebrates personal wellness journeys. The spa’s skilled therapists provide personalized treatments, from targeted massage techniques to rejuvenating facial services, and offer flexible membership options for those seeking regular self-care. Clients appreciate Xenana’s calm atmosphere, expert practitioners, and commitment to creating a healing space that honors individual needs and experiences. https://xenanaspa.com/

Yomassage: 8288 SE 13th Ave (503-477-9037)

Yomassage Social Spa offers a unique blend of traditional and innovative massage experiences. Their services include customized Swedish massages, mini-facial massages, and CBD-enhanced relaxation treatments, all featuring their signature mind-body relaxation techniques. The spa provides both individual and semi-private group sessions. All sessions are 75 minutes long and include hot towels, essential oils, and refreshments. Yomassage emphasizes inclusivity and mindfulness in their approach, making it suitable for regular self-care, special occasions, and group events.  https://yomassage.com/

Southwest Portland

Sassé Wellness and MedSpa: 630 SW Alder St (503-228-8266)

Combines traditional spa services with medical spa treatments. Ideal for those seeking both relaxation and aesthetic improvements. The women-owned aspect may appeal to those who prefer to support female entrepreneurs. Spa Sassé in Portland offers luxurious spa packages designed for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. Their offerings include the Ultimate Spa Day, a 5-hour experience featuring a custom massage, rain treatment with body scrub and Vichy shower, body wrap, facial, and ultimate spa pedicure. The Spa Retreat package provides a 3.5-hour indulgence with Cleopatra’s Envy body scrub, Vichy shower, choice of body wrap, and spa pedicure. For those seeking a shorter but comprehensive treatment, the Divine Renewal offers a 100-minute session combining a customized massage and facial on one table. https://www.spasasse.com/

The Ritz-Carlton Spa: 900 SW Washington St (971-900-4500)

Offers the height of luxury and indulgence. Perfect for special occasions or those who want a truly high-end experience. The Ritz-Carlton Spa in Portland offers an extensive array of luxurious and innovative wellness services designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. Their Wellness Journeys feature unique treatments like the Awakening Bamboo Massage. The spa’s massage offerings cater to various needs, from deep muscle relief to prenatal care, using methods such as hot stone therapy, CBD-infused treatments, and aromatherapy. Whether seeking stress relief, muscle recovery, or overall relaxation, The Ritz-Carlton Spa provides a comprehensive menu of treatments designed to promote physical and mental well-being in a luxurious setting. https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/pdxrz-the-ritz-carlton-portland/spa/

North Portland

Blooming Moon Wellness Spa: 1417 N. Shaver St (971-279-2757)
Offers a range of vegan-friendly and cruelty-free spa services with an individualized approach to treatments. Their seasonal offerings showcase their commitment to addressing specific wellness needs. For winter, they feature a Hydrate & Brighten Facial to restore dull skin, a Wintery PNW Pedicure that embraces the cozy spirit of the season, and a Brown Sugar Vanilla Hydrating Body Treatment for intense moisturizing. The spa emphasizes the use of natural ingredients and aromatherapy in their treatments, such as Vitamin C, marine algae, and essential oil blends. Blooming Moon also offers gift cards and an online shop for those looking to bring the spa experience home. With a focus on quality services and eco-conscious products, Blooming Moon Wellness Spa aims to provide a rejuvenating and environmentally responsible spa experience.  https://www.bloomingmoonspa.com/

Spas with multiple locations:

Dosha Spa Salon: Multiple locations

Offers a number of luxurious day spa packages designed to provide a comprehensive relaxation and rejuvenation experience. Dosha Salon Spa has six convenient locations throughout the Portland Metro Area to suit all guest needs. Their stylists, estheticians and massage therapists are ready to help you relax.  They are committed to pampering you, and keeping your body healthy and beautiful. They believe your relationship with your stylist or spa technician should be healthy, happy, and long lasting. https://dosha.org/contact/contact-information