Just over the Bay Bridge, located in Berkeley, the Clarmount Spa is dedicated to embracing your mind and body.    The people who frequent this spa or work here, understand the need for serenity and respect each other’s need for privacy.  It’s a refuge away from chatty people.   The palatial white resort has a well known restaurant called Paragon and houses the Spa which offers treatments such as acupuncture, salon services, facials and aromatherapy massages, just to name a few.   After a sugar scrub, rinse away your tension in a 10 head deluge shower.   The 15 minute drive out of the city and over the bridge will make you feel like you traveled away to a time where things were simpler and grander.

Known for their stunning skyline views from the pool, Nob Hill Spa offers sanctuary from the tireless grind of the city below.  The Spa is conveniently located in the Huntington hotel, right at the very top of Nob Hill.  They offer wonderful escape packages for either a half (3 hours) or full (7 hours) day away and include massages, facials, manicure/pedicure treatments as well as light dining options.   Relax and detox after a treatment in their Zen room.

Despite having to share it's facilities with Sports Club L.A. (not a bad partnership at all!), the Four Seasons brings with it all the luxury details the hotel is known for to it's Spa offerings.  The signature de-stress massage and body cocoon start with the feet and end with a head and neck massage, all the while your body will be enveloped in a de-stressing cocoon.  For those under a lot of pressure, take a half day and spoil yourself with the total relaxation programme where after more than 4 and 1/2 hours of spa treatments, you will emerge rejuvenated.

Spa Villagio's soothing fountains, cascading waterfalls and serene reflecting pool welcome one to a sanctuary of wellness.    The staff is thoughtful and always is a step ahead of you to ensure a seamless visit.  Slippers, robes and a glass of champagne are always at hand.  The treatment rooms are spacious, many with fireplaces, adjoining outdoor terraces with pools and cavernous, multi-headed showers.  We loved the aromatherapy scrub massage - that was total bliss.  With its location on an epicurean's dream dining street, the spa menu holds its own with light but flavorful offerings.  The seafood salad and lemon tart are must haves.   This is truly a place where one comes out renewed.

After a full day of shopping in Union Square, one’s arms tend to get tired and aching from carrying all those bags.   Located right in the middle of the Westfield Mall, it may seem a little pedestrian to get some spa action inside a retail space, but the cheery,cheeky and very trendy décor embraces its surroundings.   Combine their unique mustard detox bath with a Swedish message to get all the stress and soreness out.  Furthermore, become a member if you know you’re going to be visiting about once a month since members receive better pricing.