Spa Guide: Spa Etiquette

Plan to arrive 30–60 minutes before your treatment, especially if it’s your first visit or you plan to use the spa amenities. This gives you time to check in, complete any health forms, change into your robe, and begin relaxing before your appointment.

If you’re visiting a day spa without additional amenities, arriving about 15–20 minutes early is usually sufficient. At resort and destination spas, however, the sauna, steam room, whirlpool, and relaxation lounge are all part of the experience and worth enjoying before your treatment begins.

Starting your spa day without feeling rushed is one of the easiest ways to get more from your visit.

If you’re running late, call the spa as soon as possible.

Most spas will do their best to accommodate you, but your treatment may need to be shortened so the next guest’s appointment isn’t delayed. In many cases, you’ll still be charged for the full scheduled service.

Arriving on time—or a little early—not only helps you enjoy the full treatment but also allows your day to begin in a calm, relaxed way instead of feeling rushed.

Check-in is usually quick and straightforward. After arriving, you’ll confirm your reservation, complete any necessary health or intake forms, and let the staff know about any injuries, allergies, or preferences that could affect your treatment.

Most spas will provide a robe, sandals, locker, and directions to the changing rooms and relaxation areas. If it’s your first visit, don’t hesitate to ask questions—spa staff are accustomed to helping first-time guests feel comfortable and explaining how everything works.

The goal of check-in isn’t paperwork, it’s helping you transition from your busy day into a more relaxed state of mind.

Absolutely.

In fact, your therapist expects it. Massage pressure is highly personal, and what feels relaxing to one guest may feel too light or too intense for another.

Don’t hesitate to ask for lighter or deeper pressure at any point during the treatment. You can also mention areas that need extra attention or areas you’d prefer your therapist avoid.

The best massage isn’t the one with the deepest pressure—it’s the one that’s right for your body.

There’s no right or wrong answer. Some guests enjoy quiet conversation, while others prefer complete silence.

Your therapist will usually follow your lead. If you’d like to chat, that’s perfectly fine. If you’d rather simply relax, closing your eyes and remaining quiet naturally signals your preference.

Many people find they relax most deeply when they allow themselves to disconnect from conversation altogether. Remember, this is your treatment, and the experience should feel comfortable for you.

It’s completely normal (and many therapists consider it a compliment).

Massage and other spa treatments are designed to help your body relax, so drifting off to sleep simply means you’re comfortable and letting go of tension. Your therapist will gently wake you when the treatment is finished.

There’s no need to apologize if you fall asleep. You’re certainly not the first guest to do so.

Yes. While the goal of relaxation is universal, spa customs vary considerably from country to country. Expectations around attire, draping, tipping, conversation, gender-specific facilities, and even treatments themselves may be very different from what you’re used to at home.

Understanding these differences before you travel can help you feel more comfortable and confident during your visit. Many customs that initially seem unfamiliar are simply part of that destination’s wellness traditions and are completely normal for local guests.

If gratuity isn’t already included, a tip of 15–20% is customary in many spas, particularly in the United States.

Some luxury resorts and destination spas automatically include gratuity or a service charge, so it’s always worth checking your bill before adding an additional tip.

If you received exceptional service and gratuity isn’t included, tipping is a thoughtful way to recognize your therapist’s care and professionalism.

Usually, no.

Many resort and destination spas automatically add a service charge or gratuity to your bill. If that’s the case, there’s generally no expectation to tip again unless you feel your therapist provided exceptional service and you’d like to offer something extra.

If you’re unsure whether gratuity has already been included, simply ask the front desk before paying.

Most spas encourage guests to silence or put away their phones throughout their visit.

Relaxation lounges, treatment areas, and wellness spaces are designed to be peaceful environments where everyone can unwind without distractions. If you need to make or answer a call, it’s best to step outside the spa or into a designated area.

One of the greatest benefits of a spa visit is the opportunity to disconnect, even if only for a few hours.

Yes.

Relaxation lounges are intended to be quiet spaces where guests can read, rest, meditate, or simply enjoy a few moments of peace before or after their treatments.

If you’re visiting with a friend, keep conversations soft and brief, and be mindful of others who may be enjoying the silence.

One of the nicest things about a spa is that everyone shares responsibility for creating the peaceful atmosphere.

Spa etiquette isn’t about following strict rules—it’s about helping create a relaxing experience for everyone.

Arrive on time, silence your phone, speak quietly in shared spaces, communicate openly with your therapist, shower before using pools or thermal facilities, and respect the privacy and personal space of other guests.

Most importantly, remember that spas are welcoming places. You don’t need to know every custom before you arrive. Simply being considerate of the people around you, and communicating your own needs, is the best spa etiquette of all.