The SB Post

Floating Zone: Day Spa Destination

With a name like FLOAT, it's no surprise that Float Luxury Spa in downtown Santa Barbara is a dreamy destination for spa-goers. Only a half a block off the bustling State Street shopping hub, Float is an oasis of peaceful pampering on Canon Perdido, set diagonally across the street from the Lobero Theatre. Sisters Stephanie Phelan and Natalie Rowe created and opened Float together in April 2009, transforming the space into a fresh, modern den of tranquility.

I entered the "floating zone" for the first time this week to experience the Float Signature Massage. Upon check-in, I completed the new client questionnaire, which allowed me to pick not only what amount of conversation I preferred during my treatment, but also what kind of music I wanted to listen to. After handing me my robe and Havaianas (love this beachy touch -- flip flops instead of slippers), Stephanie led me to the women's locker room. Once in my spa ensemble, I got a quick tour of the space.

It's a bit like a spa "house," with two levels of treatment rooms and a backyard tree-lined patio with a lovely, very Santa Barbara-esque fountain, complete twinkling white lights at night. I could easily envision guests relaxing on the patio reading magazines and sipping tea on a beautiful sunny day. I was left to await Jen, my massage therapist, in the sky room lounge on the second floor, where I had a choice of comfy nooks with cream-colored couches and chairs to settle into. A fire and candles warmed the airy room with a cozy glow, and I was enamored with the chandelier that, appropriately, looks like water bubbles floating in front of a segmented photograph of a dreamy tropical sea and clouds. I found myself already feeling much more relaxed than I was when I walked into the spa -- and my massage had yet to begin.

Of course, looks aren't everything and it's what's inside that counts! The space and vibe of a destination day spa are important, but it's the quality of the treatments and practitioners that truly deliver the experience and results spa-goers seek. And if my massage therapist Jen is indicative of Float's standard, no one will leave this spa unhappy. She was attentive to my needs, while not overly chatty (per my request on the questionnaire), and kneaded me into a state of melted bliss.

In addition to massages, Float offers a full range of spa services including facials, body treatments and waxing. They also have treatments specifically designed for men and rooms that can accommodate couples. The space is perfect for spa parties and bridal groups.  According to Stephanie, they are very popular with wedding parties -- I can see why given the attractive and spacious sky room and back patio, both ideal for gatherings. They are the official spa partner for the Canary Hotel, located just two blocks away. Guests can receive Float treatments in the comfort of their hotel room.

Whether you're a local or visitor, now is the time to take advantage of their current special package deal: book a Float Signature Massage and Signature Facial (same person/same day) for $195, which is a $40 savings. Float is open seven days a week. Visit them online at www.floatluxuryspa.com or call 805.845.7777 to book an appointment.