As someone who swears by the rejuvenating power of a good massage, I know the joy of finding that perfect spot for a much-needed unwind. Cape Town, buzzing and beautiful, is also a haven for some amazing spas.
As a digital nomad, these spots are more than luxury – they’re a recharge station. Think about it: what’s better after a day of exploring or working remotely in sunny Cape Town than a soothing massage to ease those travel-knotted muscles?
Cape Town’s spas offer more than just the usual massages or facials; they’re a completely immersive experience. You can enjoy everything from reflexology to unique water-based treatments in settings that can only be described as serene bliss.
I’m here to help you find your ultimate spa experience with my guide to the best spas in Cape Town. Ready to kick back and relax? Then let’s dive in…
Table of Contents
- 1 1. The Twelve Apostles Spa – Best Versatile Spa Experience
- 2 2. One&Only Spa – Best Luxury Spa Experience
- 3 3. Heavenly Spa by Westin – Best For A Spa Treatment With A View
- 4 4. Babylonstoren Garden Spa – Best Spa Setting
- 5 5. The Marly Spa – Best For Affordable Treatments
- 6 6. Cayenne Spa at the Pepperclub Hotel – Best For Massages
- 7 7. Angsana Spa at Vineyard Hotel – Best For Fusion Therapy
- 8 8. Librisa Spa at the Belmond Mount Nelson – Best For De-Stressing
- 9 9. Steenberg Spa – Best For Full-Body Treatments
- 10 10. The Alphen Spa – Best For Facials
- 11 11. J Wellness Circle at Taj Cape Town – Best For Holistic Treatments
- 12 12. Sanctuary Spa at the V&A Waterfront – Best For Spa Specials
- 13 13. Africology Spa – Best For A Meditative Spa Experience
- 14 FAQs
1. The Twelve Apostles Spa – Best Versatile Spa Experience
- Where to find it: Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 8 am to 6 pm (including public holidays)
- Recommended treatment: The Apostles Touch (R2,700)
- Average price you’ll pay: R1,050+
For a retreat where the ocean breeze meets luxury, the Twelve Apostles Spa is your ultimate escape. Perched on the edge of the Atlantic, this chic-five-star hotel screams stress-melting indulgence.
Imagine yourself unwinding in a white-crystal cave with calming blue lights that make you feel like you’re under the sea. Here, you can treat yourself to a range of treatments, from full-day packages to hot stone massages and invigorating Thai techniques.
Twelve Apostles Spa continues to impress with its seven cosy treatment rooms, perfect for solo relaxation or couple’s retreats, complete with hydrotherapy pools, a rasul chamber, a tranquil lounge, and a salon.
I highly recommend The Apostles Touch, the star treatment that combines essential oils, local fynbos, warm stones, and even sea shells. For R2,700 per person, it’s an all-in-one journey: a body scrub and a full-body, head, and foot massage for deep relaxation.
2. One&Only Spa – Best Luxury Spa Experience
- Where to find it: One&Only Cape Town, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 8 am to 8 pm
- Recommended treatment: Only Here African Journey Experience (R2,165 for 90 mins)
- Average price you’ll pay: R1,500 – R2,000
At the One&Only Spa, right on the marina’s edge at the V&A Waterfront, you’ll find one of Cape Town’s most exclusive retreats. Think of it as your own personal oasis, where every detail is about making you feel as relaxed as possible.
This place is a world away from the usual hustle and bustle. It’s all about African-inspired serenity with steam rooms, saunas, and vitality pools that make you feel like you’re floating on a cloud. And the treatment rooms? They’re your own personal havens of peace.
While here, you can munch on healthy snacks or treat yourself to something sweet, sip on bubbly, and just bask in the good vibes.
Picking a treatment here is hard given the variety, but you definitely have to try one of the ‘Only Here’ spa experiences. They’re exclusive to One&Only Cape Town and are all about giving you a unique South African spa day. Trust me, you’ll leave feeling like a new person!
3. Heavenly Spa by Westin – Best For A Spa Treatment With A View
- Where to find it: Convention Square, Lower Long Street, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 9 am – 7 pm
- Recommended treatment: Heavenly Indulgence Package (R3,490)
- Average price you’ll pay: R1,250 – R1,550
Up on the 19th floor of the Westin Hotel, there’s a little slice of paradise called Heavenly Spa. The name’s fitting considering you’re enjoying relaxation and rejuvenation up in the clouds.
Imagine diving into a rooftop infinity pool or unwinding in a sauna, all while gazing out at Cape Town’s stunning cityscape. The spa has a whole lineup of rooms where you can indulge in massages that melt away stress, facials that leave your skin glowing, and body treatments that nourish from head to toe.
If there’s one treatment you absolutely have to indulge in at the Heavenly Spa by Westin, it’s the Heavenly Indulgence Package. Sure, it’s a splurge at R3,490, but it’s the ultimate pamper fest.
This luxurious experience starts with a 30-minute full body scrub and a 30-minute body wrap, followed by a 60-minute Heavenly Spa Signature Massage and a 60-minute facial. And to top it all off, you get a 45-minute spa manicure and pedicure.
4. Babylonstoren Garden Spa – Best Spa Setting
- Where to find it: Klapmuts – Simondium Road, Simondium, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 9 am – 6 pm
- Recommended treatment: Hammam honey-and-salt scrub with steam (R1,600)
- Average price you’ll pay: R1,500 – R3,000
Babylonstoren Garden Spa is all about embracing the natural wonders around it. Think therapies infused with farm-grown herbs, and the healing power of water and heat, all set in spaces that’ll make your jaw drop. It’s tucked into a bamboo forest at the back of the farm.
What sets this spa experience apart is the thoughtful integration with nature. The heated indoor pool area, complete with vitality pools and a fireplace, is the perfect spot to lounge and let go.
And get this – there’s a room crafted from pink Himalayan salt blocks. It’s all about creating an environment that’s both soothing and invigorating.
You’ll find every kind of indulgence here. Five treatment rooms, a rasul chamber, tropical rain showers, a sauna, a steam room, and not one, but two hammams. Ever tried a traditional Turkish bath? Here’s your chance, right in South Africa!
For treatments, the Hammam honey-and-salt scrub with steam is a must-indulge. A full-body exfoliation with a honey-and-salt scrub, steam, plus a blissful scalp treatment? Yes, please! You can even combine it with a 30-min full body wrap or a 60-min full-body massage.
5. The Marly Spa – Best For Affordable Treatments
- Where to find it: The Promenade, 201 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 9 am – 6 pm
- Recommended treatment: Himalayan Hot Salt Stone Massage (R1,250 for 60 mins or R1,350 for 90 mins)
- Average price you’ll pay: R850 – R1,350
At The Marly Spa, tucked away in Camps Bay’s Marly Hotel, your self-care takes centre stage. The spa has this luxe French boutique vibe that’s both refreshing and laid-back. Picture a place where every detail’s got a touch of glam but still feels like a cosy hideaway.
Inside, the treatment rooms are plush, gilded, and marbled. It’s the kind of spot where you feel a bit fancy, but totally at ease.
They have a range of treatments that hit the spot, whether you’re after a skin-pampering facial or some TLC for your back, neck, and shoulders.
But, let me tell you about their Himalayan Hot Salt Stone Massage. It’s something else! The warm stones work out all the knots and leave you feeling all kinds of good. Choose between a quick 60-minute unwind (R1,250) or a luxurious 90-minute escape (R1,350) – either way, you’re in for a heavenly time.
The experience doesn’t end in the treatment room. Outside, the Baptiste Rooftop pool bar and lounge beckons. You can unwind further with views over Camps Bay.
6. Cayenne Spa at the Pepperclub Hotel – Best For Massages
- Where to find it: 167 Loop Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 8 am to 7 pm
- Recommended treatment: Soul of Africa Body Journey (R1,280)
- Average price you’ll pay: R1,200+
Cayenne Spa at the Pepperclub Hotel is a slice of calm right in the heart of Cape Town.
When you walk in, the first thing you’ll notice is how the hustle of the city seems to disappear. Thanks to some clever soundproof glazing, it’s like you’re in your own peaceful bubble. The vibe here is warm and welcoming, with a touch of that unique Capetonian charm.
For a truly luxurious experience, the Soul of Africa Body Journey is the perfect experience. It’s 90 minutes of pure bliss, starting with a back exfoliation, and then this amazing warm mud treatment that just melts the tension away. The Marula oil massage that follows is like a journey in itself – it hydrates, fights ageing, and just feels amazing.
The spa’s setting, right in the Pepperclub Hotel, means you can enjoy views of Table Mountain that you simply can’t beat. And don’t get me started on the wooden sauna and outdoor pool – perfect for chilling before or after your treatment.
7. Angsana Spa at Vineyard Hotel – Best For Fusion Therapy
- Where to find it: Vineyard Hotel, Colinton Road, Newlands, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 8 am to 7 pm
- Recommended treatment: Floral Chic Treatment (R2,000) or Fusion Massage (R750 for 60 mins or R950 for 90 mins)
- Average price you’ll pay: R800 – R1,700
Nestled amidst the lush gardens of the historic Vineyard Hotel, Angsana Spa feels like a world away from everyday life. You’re surrounded by Table Mountain, the Kirstenbosch Gardens, and the gentle flow of the Liesbeeck River. It’s the kind of setting that just naturally eases you into a relaxed state.
Inside, you’ll find 10 intimate spa rooms that ooze luxury without being over the top. There’s even a special Rainmist room that’s all about enhancing your spa experience.
Your senses are going to love the treatments; they use natural fruits and flowers. I highly recommend the Floral Chic treatment. For 180 minutes, you’ll give your body a well-deserved tune-up. A soothing massage, nourishing body wrap, floral scrub, and a facial of your choosing.
And if you’re into massages that really work out the knots, go for the Fusion massage, which uses Thai and Swedish techniques.
For those who need something a bit deeper, the Javanese Massage is a winner. It’s this awesome mix of ancient Balinese techniques that just melts away tension and leaves you feeling super chill. You can opt for 60 or 90 minutes, costing R850 and R1,100 respectively.
8. Librisa Spa at the Belmond Mount Nelson – Best For De-Stressing
- Where to find it: 76 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Recommended treatment: The Mount Nelson Rose (R1,900)
- Average price you’ll pay: R1,300+
You’ve been exploring every inch of Cape Town, your to-do list never seems to end, and you’re just craving a moment of peace. That’s exactly when a place like Librisa Spa at the Belmond Mount Nelson becomes your haven.
The Victorian houses that make up the spa have this old-world elegance, but inside, it’s all about modern comfort and relaxation. Even the conservatory, where you’ll wait for your treatment, feels like a treatment in itself!
You’re surrounded by plants and some of the most beautiful orchids you’ve ever seen. They start you off with tea and snacks – nothing too fancy, but just what you need to start unwinding.
Of course, the treatments certainly don’t disappoint. They have all the classic massages and facial treatments, but you just can’t beat The Mount Nelson Rose treatment. It’s a centuries-old massage that enhances deep relaxation, muscle recovery and increased lymphatic flow from the tips of your toes to the tip of your nose!
There’s also the steam bath, sauna, and plunge pool – perfect for chilling out after your treatment. And wrapping up the day with their high tea is like the cherry on top.
9. Steenberg Spa – Best For Full-Body Treatments
- Where to find it: Steenberg Road, Tokai, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 8 am to 6 pm
- Recommended treatment: Bellabaci Signature Massage (R1,210 for 60 mins) Scented Bliss package for two (R3,300 for 90 mins)
- Average price you’ll pay: R1,500+
In the upscale yet serene Constantia Valley, Steenberg Spa promises a tranquil spa day among the vineyards. The spa is cosy and intimate with just four treatment rooms. There’s also the Quiet Zone, a great little spot for relaxation in winter, complete with a tea station and a cosy fire.
You’ll certainly want to visit the spa during the summer, where you can enjoy treatments in a secluded garden enveloped by greenery and flowers. If you’re coming along with a special someone, this is the ideal spot for couple’s massages, ending with a poolside glass of cap classique.
You’re spoilt for choice with treatments but there are some suggestions I just have to give. For a unique and effective treatment, try the Bellabaci Signature Massage. This therapy is a tailor-made experience where you can enjoy 60 minutes (R1,210), 75 minutes (R1,350) or 90 minutes (R1,500) of deep relaxation.
The cupping techniques used in this massage enhance circulation and eliminate toxins, all while relieving tension.
For couples, I recommend the Scented Bliss package for two. This package combines a side-by-side herbal oil massage, scalp ritual, and pressure-point foot massage. This combination is excellent for easing tight muscles and melting away stress. You can opt for 60 minutes for R2,700 or 90 minutes for R3,300.
10. The Alphen Spa – Best For Facials
- Where to find it: Alphen Drive, Constantia, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 9 am to 6 pm
- Recommended treatment: Elemental Bliss (R3,000 for 150 minutes)
- Average price you’ll pay: R1,250+
Just down the road from Steenberg Spa is another calm and classy sanctuary – The Alphen Spa. Set in 11 hectares of stunning gardens and an urban forest, this place is all about giving you a moment of peace in a world that just doesn’t stop.
The vibe at the spa is simple and serene, making it perfect for zoning out. And with only two treatment rooms, it’s the kind of intimate setting that makes your spa experience feel really personal. Just picture yourself lying back for an outdoor massage, surrounded by nature, or taking a dip in the heated pool.
Here, you’ll find a range of facials designed to give your skin that glowy boost. If you’re looking for some of the best facials, this is where you’ll find them.
But, Alphen Spa has this Elemental Herbology range that’s just amazing. It’s all inspired by nature’s five elements, and each treatment feels like it’s tailored just for you.
If I were to recommend just one, it would be the Elemental Bliss. You’ll start with a body polish and then ease into a relaxing massage. A deluxe facial and a lovely lunch finish off your treatment. You’ll feel so rejuvenated you’ll need to take a nap after!
11. J Wellness Circle at Taj Cape Town – Best For Holistic Treatments
- Where to find it: Wale Street &, St Georges Mall, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 8 am – 8 pm
- Recommended treatment: Vishram Massage (R1,800 for 120 mins)
- Average price you’ll pay: R1800+
At J Wellness in Taj Cape Town, you’re not just getting a spa treatment; you’re embarking on a journey that’s deeply rooted in ancient Indian traditions.
Here, it’s all about awakening the senses and finding a harmony that resonates with your inner self. The atmosphere is a blend of tradition and luxury, creating a perfect setting for a holistic wellness experience.
For a truly transformative and relaxing occasion, I recommend the Vishram Massage. It’s a deep muscular massage that reaches into the core of your tired muscles with a hot compress of therapeutic herbs.
They also have three great holistic healing therapies for pain, sleep, and detoxing – so you can find the perfect fit for your needs!
12. Sanctuary Spa at the V&A Waterfront – Best For Spa Specials
- Where to find it: Moorings 5 & Portswood Ridge Portswood Ridge, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Sunday: 8 am – 8 pm
- Recommended treatment: Africa’s Healing Touch Experience (R1,990 for 105 mins)
- Average price you’ll pay: ≈R1,200
You might assume that a spa tucked right on Cape Town’s popular V&A Waterfront wouldn’t be the best place for a spa day. But Sanctuary Spa promises to keep you away from all the bustle in its cosy corner.
Step inside and you’ll find three beautifully appointed treatment rooms, including those dreamy candle-lit ones for couples. If unwinding on a terrace with swaying palms and a sparkling pool sounds like an idyllic spa day, you’ll want to visit Sanctuary Spa.
Of course, the atmosphere isn’t the only reason! They have a stellar collection of full and half-day packages, couple’s treatments, and specialised therapies. Plus, regular monthly specials!
Definitely go for their signature treatment, the Africa’s Healing Touch Experience. Imagine a massage with hot herbal poultices, a warm oil facial, a scalp massage, and a foot rub – it’s an all-senses journey to relaxation.
13. Africology Spa – Best For A Meditative Spa Experience
- Where to find it: 40 Constantia Main Road, Constantia, Cape Town
- Operating times: Monday – Friday: 9 am – 5 pm, Saturday & Sunday: 9 am – 6 pm
- Recommended treatment: Nirvana Signature Treatment (R1,230 for 90 mins), Intonga Amasatchi Full-Body Experience (R950 for 75 mins)
- Average price you’ll pay: R1,250 – R1,850
Africology Spa in Constantia is your go-to for an escape into all-natural luxury. As soon as you step in, you’re greeted by the calming scents of flowers, setting the stage for deep, holistic healing. Here, it’s all about nurturing not just your body but your soul too.
With three intimate treatment rooms, plus a romantic spot for couples, this spa is your quiet corner in Cape Town. The unique glass-cube infrared sauna and the meditation room with its labradorite crystal floor add a touch of magic.
If you’re heading to Africology Spa, definitely book the Nirvana Signature Treatment. The feeling you get from it is pretty much in the name! The treatment involves gentle stretches, energy balancing, and soulful meditation that leaves you refreshed and realigned.
I can’t help but also recommend the Intonga Amasatchi Full-Body Experience. You’ll enjoy 75 minutes of a unique deep-tissue treatment that’s perfect for melting away stress. Your therapist uses different-sized wooden sticks in skilful movements to stretch and roll out those tight spots.
FAQs
How much should you pay for a spa day in Cape Town?
A spa day in Cape Town can cost anywhere from R500 to R4,000. It really depends on where you go and what’s included. For a luxury experience like at Heavenly Spa by Westin, expect to pay more. But places like the Marly Spa offer great experiences at more affordable prices.
What should you wear to a spa in Cape Town?
When visiting a spa, comfort is key. Opt for loose, non-restrictive clothing to fully enjoy your experience. All the best spas in Cape Town provide luxurious robes, adding to your comfort and relaxation. And if the spa has a pool, remember to bring along a bathing suit!
Can I find spa treatments suitable for specific health or skin concerns?
Absolutely! Many of the best spas in Cape Town offer treatments that address specific health or skin issues. Many spas allow you to customise their services to meet your individual requirements, whether you need help with stress relief, muscle healing, enhancing skin health, or aiding in detoxification.