Photo by Steve Greer
When life’s ups and downs leave you in need of some serious pampering, New Jersey is the place to unwind. Immerse yourself in quiet relaxation, snuggled inside a plush robe as you savor herbal tea and a therapeutic treatment. Grab your significant other for a romantic, indulgent couples massage. Or opt for a fun girls-day-out package with facials, mani-pedis and refreshing mimosas. With hundreds of spas statewide from Crystal Springs in the north to Cape May in the south, your biggest challenge will be deciding which ones to visit for a holistic mind, body and soul experience. Here are some of our go-to favorites.
Alchemy Mind & Body, Princeton
The historic Jedediah Higgins House, dating to the early 1700s, was once home to the Japanese-inspired spa Onsen for All. It closed in 2015. The red building sat vacant until February, when the former director of Onsen, Denyse Thedinga, returned with an oasis of her own, Alchemy Mind & Body. The light-filled spa features a bright and airy relaxation area, windows in each treatment room, and original architectural accents that imbue the space with a rustic, soothing charm. Alchemy offers Swedish and deep-tissue massage options, as well as rehabilitative services such as myofacial release and shiatsu, personalized facials, chemical peels and eyebrow design. For a taste of everything, opt for the Ultimate Alchemist Package: a 30-minute foot soak, 60-minute custom massage and 60-minute custom facial.—Shelby Vittek 4551 Route 27; 609-430-9999
Avanti Day Resort, Manalapan
Spend an hour or spend the day in this luxurious and elegant spa. The atmosphere is serene and tasteful, and the spa treatments unique. Try various body therapies such as Sea of Senses, a gravity-defying, womb-like flotation experience that includes a full-body exfoliation massage followed by a steam shower. Thermofango is an application of a slimming and detoxifying agent of brown algae rich in iodine. Or opt for O2 Awakening facial, which promises to infuse every pore with pure oxygen. Avanti also specializes in bridal parties; come for an updo, lash extensions and teeth whitening.—Lauren Payne 345 Route 9; 732-780-0222
Bangz Salon & Wellness Spa, Montclair
The Bangz beauty experts believe in “the transformative power of a great salon and spa experience.” The goal is to enhance overall well-being, image and self-esteem. Relax to the sounds of falling water and tranquil music within this deconsecrated church. Lounge in one of five treatment rooms and indulge in a stress-relieving massage, microdermabrasion, waxing or WowBrow service. Skin treatments include Bangz’s signature 24K-Gold Facial. For a real escape, try an experience package such as Pre-natal Bliss, Gentleman’s Retreat or a Gold & Caviar Couples’ Ritual—with champagne, of course. Also enticing: the Blueberry Soy Slimming Body Wrap, the Herbal Cellulite Treatment, and the Arctic Berry Peel and Facial. Can’t decide? Try a Spa Sampler.—Susan Brierly Bush 23 South Fullerton Avenue; 973-746-8426
Bellezza Si Esthetics, Morristown
The very best spas make you feel as though you are their only client. At Bellezza Si Esthetics, you are. That’s right, owner Catarina Castaldo lavishes her nearly 30 years of experience on one patron at a time. Her full-service skin-care offerings include cutting-edge facials, power peels, microdermabrasion, hair removal and exfoliation services. Each one-on-one session is tailored to the client’s needs. Along with individual care, guests can enjoy the secluded grounds and swimming pool of this luxurious oasis in the heart of Morristown.—Deborah P. Carter 10 Headley Road; 973-540-0764
Depasquale the Spa, Morris Plains
PhotoSteve Greer
At 24,000 square feet, DePasquale is one of the largest spas in the country. But don’t let that throw you. Each client is individually pampered with deep-cleansing facials, manicures and pedicures, waxing, peels, eye remedies, exfoliation and body bronzing, foot scrubs and more. The Experience, a standout treatment performed in DePasquale’s signature suite, includes a soothing soak in a Japanese steeping tub, an Italian rain shower and a massage. Pre-Natal Pampering, Gentleman’s Choice and Couples Retreat packages are also available. This mega-spa is known for everything for the bride and her bridal party: bachelorette parties, hair services and photo-ready makeup that lasts all day.—SBB
4 Gibraltar Drive, Route 10 East; 973-538-3811
Eden Organics Salon & Spa, Allentown
Eden Organics, located in an old bank building, specializes in all-natural treatments—to the delight of those with sensitive skin. All products used are certified organic and free of parabens, GMOs and synthetic fragrances; most are also vegan and gluten free. The serene upstairs spa has exposed brick walls, salt lamps and chaise lounges. Facials are the most popular treatments; options include an Oxygen-Infusion Organic facial, the Even Brighter Vitamin C facial and a Diamond Microdermabrasion treatment. Melt stress away with a classic Swedish or deep-tissue massage, or relieve your tensions with a warm bamboo massage, which employs bamboo reeds along with Swedish massage techniques. —SV 9 N Main Street; 609-259-3537
Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa (at the Stockton Seaview Hotel), Galloway
The historic Stockton Seaview Hotel and Golf Club, a sprawling resort about 20 minutes from Atlantic City, features an Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa. Book a getaway weekend and build your schedule around the indulgent services. Treatments include hair, nails and make-up services, but also full-day spa packages. The Ultimate Indulgence features a signature facial, mani-pedi, shampoo and blow-dry, makeup refresher, and hot-stone massage, followed by a spa lunch. The detoxifying Seaweed Wrap is a cocoon-like experience that draws out toxins and restores the skin’s vitality. The Red Door Body Remodeler is a custom massage that reduces the appearance of cellulite. And if you’re into golf, the resort is home to two of New Jersey’s best public courses.—LP 401 South New York Road; 609-652-1800
The Fountain Spa, Ramsey and Hackensack
The full menu of spa services at both Fountain Spa locations includes such must-try treatments as the Satin-Smooth Crème Wrap, Wake Up! Coffee Scrub and Seaweed Body Wrap. Bringing your sweetheart? Splurge on a 4-½-hour Couples Suite Serenity adventure with private whirlpool bath, side-by-side massages, facials, pedicures and a Spa Cuisine treat. Both locations offer makeup, airbrush tanning, waxing, lash extensions and microblading; the Ramsey spa also has a hair salon. Bridal and special-occasion services are available. Ask about Botox and dermal fillers, performed on specific days by a board-certified physician. The membership program provides monthly facials and massages.—SBB 1100 State Route 17, Ramsey; Route 4 at Riverside, Hackensack; 201-327-5155
Immersion Spa/Spa Toccare (at the Borgata), Atlantic City
The glitz and glam of the Borgata and its sister tower, the Water Club, are deftly carried into its spa facilities. Immersion Spa is a 21-and-over, bi-level facility with 16 treatment rooms on the 32nd floor of the Water Club. The views are spectacular. Immersion has two pools—one exclusively for spa guests—and a co-ed Jacuzzi. Immersion and Spa Toccare share the same extensive menu of services, from the lavish Borgata Glow facial, which includes an enzyme peel and skin-tightening masks, to the 100-minute Immersion LuLur Bath Ritual, a Balinese-style massage followed by skin-polishing treatments and a relaxing soak in essential-oils infused water.—DPC 1 Borgata Way; 609-317-7555
Lotus Health & Wellness Spa, Red Bank
Devoted to total wellness, Lotus Health & Wellness Spa focuses on complete body relaxation and healing, from facial and body treatments to medical aesthetics. The serene environment encourages lingering; book a full day and take advantage of a morning yoga class, followed by a Slimming Oil Massage—a treatment that targets fatty deposits and cellulite aimed at toning the skin. Microblading is a permanent eyebrow treatment that pigments the skin. Board-certified physicians are available to perform medical peels, Botox injections, laser hair removal, Coolsculpting and other procedures. Lotus Health also features a steam room, sauna and hot tub. Ask about monthly memberships.—LP 46 Newman Springs Road; 732-219-8699
Milagro Salon & Spa, Red Bank and Manasquan
Tucked away in a quiet space within the cavernous Atlantic Club fitness centers, both locations of Milagro provide locker rooms outfitted with robes and slippers, hair-care amenities and spacious saunas. Salon treatments include hair, nails, waxing, tanning and lash extensions. Specialty spa body treatments include a detoxifying Espresso Mud Body Scrub to exfoliate and purify, and an 80-minute Healing Stone Massage to relieve tense muscles and joints. The 50-minute Signature Massage aims to reduce stress while improving circulation. The spa includes access to the fitness facilities.—LP 325 Maple Avenue, Red Bank, 732-450-4400; 1904 Atlantic Avenue, Manasquan, 732-223-2296
Ocean Place Resort & Spa, Long Branch
The newly renovated Spa at Ocean Place is located in the Ocean Place Resort, a rare oceanfront hotel on the Jersey Shore. Start your pampering in the stunning relaxation room overlooking the ocean. Treatments include the Ocean Place Fire & Ice Facial, a clinical smoothing and softening procedure designed to reduce lines and wrinkles. Special Soaking Bath treatments include a 25-minute Pure Bliss Red Poppy & Hemp Soak of natural essential oils to relax and soften skin. A couples massage is the perfect addition to a romantic getaway weekend. The spa includes access to the resort’s indoor pool.—LP 1 Ocean Boulevard; 732-483-5717
On the Side Spa, Westfield
On the Side Spa sets the ideal mood for a mind-body experience. Set on a quiet, mostly residential street, the vibe is calm and welcoming. The experience begins in the waiting room, where clients luxuriate in a soothing, modern setting highlighted by a tranquil water feature. Services include facials, massages, body treatments and mani-pedis, plus an infrared sauna with color-light therapy, and energy therapies, such as reiki and shiatsu. Seasonal offerings suggested by the staff keep things fun. In the spring, the Mellow Mojito pedicure included a citrus-oil foot soak, followed by a lime-and-mint sugar scrub and an avocado mask. Yummy! Bridal parties are welcome.—DPC 740 South Avenue W; 908-232-6595
Qua Bath & Spa (at Caesar’s Palace), Atlantic City
This luxe retreat inside Caesar’s Palace sports three Roman-style baths, Vichy showers, a dry sauna and steam room. The long and tempting list of treatments includes the 110-minute Cleopatra Body Ritual—a kiwi exfoliant followed by a green-tea body masque and a foot massage (while the mask sets), ending with a full-body massage and scalp treatment. If this queenly indulgence doesn’t suit your fancy (or your budget—it’s $300), there are lots of other options, including couples massages, facials with peels or microdermabrasion, and a variety of waxing and tinting services. Between services, enjoy the naturalistic setting of the indoor baths, where stone-clad walls and trickling waterfalls set the mood. The spa features 15 treatment rooms, four facial rooms, an outdoor pool and a fitness center. Special deals are posted on the website.—DPC 2100 Pacific Avenue; 609-343-2400
Reflections Spa/Elements Spa (at Crystal Springs Resort), Hamburg and Vernon Township
A year-round oasis in the northwestern corner of the state, Crystal Springs is a true getaway and vacation destination. The resort’s two properties include two hotels, nine restaurants, an award-wining wine cellar, six golf courses and two spas, each with its own unique offerings. A ceiling shimmering with crystals—8,000, to be exact—greets guests at Reflections (in the Grand Cascades Lodge). With luxe details such as water features and backlit art glass, the spa sets an upscale, pampering mood. Innovative treatments using organic components include Warm Gemstone Therapy, full-body massage using natural stones to balance the chakras, and the 100-minute Red Carpet Facial, which incorporates a cell-stimulating protein enzyme, coined liquid gold, followed by a cinnamon enzyme peel. After treatments, guests receive a complimentary foot soak. At smaller sister spa Elements (at the nearby Minerals Hotel), expect a similarly soothing setting. The décor motif is natural stone surfaces, textured wall coverings and copper fixtures. The pampering theme is drawn from the Earth. Minerals are integral in treatment options, from scrubs to muds and cosmetics.—DPC Reflections, 3 Wild Turkey Way, 855-421-3533; Elements Spa, 1 Stonehill Drive, 844-217-7099
Sea Spa (at Congress Hall), Cape May
Follow the framed vintage swimsuits down the hall to the entrance of this pocket-sized haven inside a historic beach resort. The Sea Spa welcomes hotel guests and the public to its brightly hued, cabana-striped space. The marquee skincare brand, Thalgo, is a high-end French label that incorporates marine elements like seaweed and algae into its products. “Thalgo representatives trained the staff with the hands-on specifics of how treatments are to be performed,” says spa director Yvette Bertsch. “The techniques are based on the bathhouse style of France, where water therapies are central.” Thalgo-based experiences at the spa include the Ocean Memory Marine Ritual, a 100-minute session that includes a massage designed to mimic ocean waves, followed by salt-scrub exfoliation and a self-heating algae mousse.—DPC 200 Congress Place, 609-884-6543
Sojo Spa Club, Edgewater
Sink into the open-air baths and indoor saunas at this Bergen County retreat. The rooftop infinity pool boasts a selfie-worthy view of the New York skyline. Relieve stress and muscle pain in the hydrotherapy pool, equipped with jets targeting different body parts. Other amenities include an ice room, a waterslide, a foot-massage walk and bathhouses with standing and seated showers. For ultimate tranquility, indulge in spa treatments, such as a Korean body scrub or a marine body sea wrap. Deep-muscle, reflexology and heated-stone massages are also available. Not ready to go back to reality? Turn your spa day into an overnight getaway at SoJo’s 30-room hotel. The complex is open from 9 am-10:30 pm daily. All-day admission is $70 on weekdays and $85 on weekends and holidays. Treatments and massages are extra.—Jacqueline Klecak 660 River Road, 201-313-7200
The Spa at Forrestal (Princeton Marriott at Forrestal), Princeton
The 15,000-square-foot day spa is nestled on 25 scenic wooded acres, a serene spot for a relaxing escape. Spend a day of pampering with various massages, facials, body treatments and nail services, or book an overnight spa getaway. The one-night Scenic Spa Escape package features a customized DeStress massage, Marine Dream facial, cleansing salt body scrub, manicure, pedicure and a poolside spa lunch. Other treatments include the Superfood Pro-Radiance facial, Thousand Flower Detox Wrap, and a Targeted Toning Tightener, focused on reducing cellulite on the hips, thighs and abdomen.—SV 100 College Road E; 609-897-7520
Urban Muse, Denville
The two-story Urban Muse outfits its eight spacious treatment rooms with candlelight and the natural sounds of wind, water and the woods. Unwind in a relaxation room while you sip a cup of tea or enjoy a complimentary steam shower. The spa provides Swedish, deep-tissue, prenatal, sports and warm-stone massage; aromatherapy; and reflexology. Mud wraps, body treatments, waxing and customized facials are also available. Holistic services include Zen rituals, Reiki, angel readings, nutritional/life coaching and intuitive counseling. Ask about the Ultimate De-Stress package, a 23/4 hour retreat with a 75-minute spa facial, along with a 90-minute Surrender massage.—SBB 82 Broadway; 973-627-3455
Zanya Spa & Salon, Lambertville
Find your bliss at this 10,000-square-foot retreat in Lambertville’s historic Laceworks Factory building. Head downstairs to the spa, which features a maze of private rooms and a soothing relaxation area with dark tan walls, candles, adult coloring books, and cozy sofas for stress-free lounging. Take your pick from more than 50 spa treatments, including organic facials, body wraps, chemical peels, foot reflexology and various massages. The East-West Massage incorporates Thai massage and deep-tissue work, with hot towels and essential oils for maximum relaxation. A session in the full-spectrum infrared sauna is designed to increase oxygen flow and circulation to help relieve muscle and joint pain, boost the immune system and provide a healthy detoxification. Be sure to take advantage of the complimentary steam before any treatment.—SV 287 S Main Street; 609-773-0770
