The NOW Massage Santa Monica

The entire experience was disappointing. On the way to the appointment I get a text saying my appointment has been canceled because a therapist called out. I called and then they said never mind come. The front desk clearly doesn’t have hospitality experience as they weren’t welcoming or apologetic. The therapist was mediocre and her attitude was that she didn’t want to be there. At the end she just walked out and left me covered in oil. I had to put clothes on covered in oil and ask for a rag? From beginning to end one of the worst massage experiences I’ve ever had. If their rates were half the cost I still wouldn’t go.

AVOID MEMBERSHIPS. I frequented here for about 6 months and my only problems with this place are regarding memberships.first issue: they let someone use a credit of mine without confirming it with me. They were supposed to get their first time member RATE, instead the employee used my credit. They wouldn’t let them use this rate next time since it was no longer their first time. LOLSecond issue: i wasn’t using the membership frequently enough so I cancelled online. I was still charged for 2 more months. I had to call them to remind them this membership has been cancelled. They refunded one month but I had to pay for one month due to the 30 day notice they require to cancel (noted on the website). I was told that these credits would be available to me in the future, so I didn’t mind.Third issue: It was never communicated that said credits needed to be used within 90 days. I don’t live full time in LA. I went back today specifically to use 1 of 3 credits, only to be told at the END of the massage that the credits had expired. (I don’t think it was a coincidence that this wasn’t discussed before the massage when we were reviewing the service details). I explained the situation looking for some service and staff just said “well someone would have told you about the 90 day policy”… they didn’t. I reviewed emails, tried finding where this is stated anywhere on the site. Nothing. Just the misleading “roll over unused massage credits” (with no expiration disclaimer) on their website.Thanks to their sketchy membership & lack of communication, I’ve now paid for 4 massages and gotten 1.Memberships are a SCAM. Will not be returning.

The massage experience was mediocre especially because there was no surround sound massage music in which throughout my massage I could hear all everyone footsteps and whispers. It wasnt a relaxing experience at all and I was embarrassed because this isnt my first time frequented the Now locations but that time I did bring a guest whom it was their first time and the werent as pleased with the experience as well.

Ive been here a bunch of times Now and its been solid most of the time. I have had one of best massages and more recently one of the worst. Just like any place, its all about who you get. The place itself is nicely designed, warm, inviting and features a bunch of nice enhancements to add to your experience. For the price, its hard to beat it.

I’m not sure how this is legal but they raised the membership price and did not notify me. It went from $110 to $120 for an 80 min massage. I only realized when I checked my credit card statement. This is very deceptive. I’ve been a member for a year, but I canceled my membership this month. It’s really unprofessional and illegal to raise your subscription prices without notifying your customers.FYI - Their reply says someone will contact me. No one ever contacted me. It’s a facade of customer service.

Great experience here today! I had the 80min Now massage and I left feeling relaxed and feeling amazing. A bit on the pricier side but well worth it!

Horrible customer service. It should not take well over 24 hours to receive a gift receipt and it definitely shouldnt take 10+ calls to get a response. I was very disappointed in the way that the employees and the manager handled customer concerns. They claim to have eccentric customer service but it left much to be desired. I hope that they address these concerns with their management and staff for future customers.

The Now Spa in Santa Monica and had a mixed experience overall. While the service was generally good, there were a few aspects that left me somewhat disappointed.Firstly, the spa ambiance was pleasant, with a serene and relaxing atmosphere. The staff members were friendly and professional, creating a welcoming environment. However, I encountered some issues during my session that affected my overall satisfaction.One particular concern was that the therapist applied oil to my hair without informing me beforehand. This caught me off guard because I just paid to get my hair blow dried. While the scalp massage was a pleasant experience I was not told there would be one beforehand.Additionally, I noticed that my massage was cut short by approximately ten minutes. It was disappointing to receive a shorter session than what was expected, especially considering that the allotted time for the service was predetermined.Despite these shortcomings, I must highlight that the service itself was good. The therapist was skilled and provided a satisfying massage, and I appreciated the effort they put into making me feel comfortable throughout the treatment.THE NOW reached out to me and accommodated for this inconvenience! Their service and team is great

The massage wasn’t bad, however receptionist rude and has no hospitality skills.It was last minute booking on Tuesday at 2:45.First, couldn’t book it online because of some login issues so decide to book by phone. Had to call 4 times before someone answer the phone. After I arrive on time they telling me to sign the form. Ok no problem I get it they gave me iPad that was broken then they have to figure out the other IPad so it took more time. Ok finally after signing all the forms my therapist invite me for the service.I booked 50 mins massage but massage was 10 mins less so I bring this to the receptionist and her answer was because I was late. Nooo I wasn’t I had to sign your forms that has no benefit to me and only benefit the business to avoid any legal issues. So why it should be my problem? The answer was that how much time I had left.Ok thanks for the service I guess..

Quite average massages, I dont get the idea behind their enhancements! Deep tissue is an elementary thing in the world of massages, so it seems like they just want more money.Not enough privacy and atmosphere harm communication with the therapist; all messages are between curtains, and you can hear everything around you and other rooms. At the same time - It has a very annoying and loud sound effect of waves all around the place. The therapist couldnt even hear what I tried to tell him and overall felt like this whole situation has zero communication and zero personalized experience. Moreover, the bad was too hot!Also, I would expect that the therapist will wait to see me at the exit to ask me how it felt and just smile for goodbye.I had the massage at 8:45 so maybe he was in a rush to leave. It felt weird that he just disappeared, very not appropriate. It felt rude to ask for gratitude at the check out for this lame experience, but i felt uncomfortable leaving without leaving some money *that wasnt worth it. Massage was nothing but below average. Get yourself a cheaper Thai massage anywhere in the city at half price instead, they dont offer anything better.

I’ve had to reschedule my couples massage appointment for the second time, as their therapist called in sick. While I understand this is out of their control, they did not notify me of his cancelled appointment, nor did they offer to accommodate or rebook it when I followed up myself. The rating would be higher if I could ever get into the Santa Monica location. Disappointing experience, particularly when the reservation needs to be made weeks in advance.

Updated review: I went back recently because I was desperate for a massage (and they’re a block away) Still the same-same : both times the massage was just barely ok.FYI : facility is a long alley with cloth room dividers. You are secluded visually, but there are no real walls so you hear everything. This has the effect of dampening communication between you and your therapist. It’s a sort of a group event, minimally private. Just be aware before you book.

Had a fabulous massage today with Lois Atwater. I had the The NOW 50 with the Herbal Heat Therapy treatment. Today was my first time visiting, and it was wonderful from the start. After I was checked in, she spent a few minutes asking me if I had trouble areas, if I was ticklish and if I liked lavender. Once the massage began, it was heavenly. I’m sorry I don’t live local, as I would return again and again!

I had a dilemma where i didn’t want to leave a bad review, but given the high prices and ratings i think I need to tell my experience. I Had “The Healer” with “Deep tissue” enhancement and overall it was a pretty underwhelming experience. My massage was at 8pm and i could tell the masseur was dying to leave asap. Even though my wife and I started at the same time she was in there for 20 more minutes. As I was waiting for my wife’s massage to end i see my masseur bolting out of the door. I also couldn’t hear anything the masseur was saying, between trying to anticipate what he would be saying and reading lips the communication was lost… I’m 6’2” and did not fit on their tables, the headpiece was digging into my face and sinuses and it felt suffocating.The massage was disappointing at best, first time in my life a massage just dreaded on, with the exception of the scalp massage, which was good, but short. I was between melting due to the extreme heat of the heat bag, confused due to the overly soft general massaging sudden sharp pain from an elbow “deep tissue”.Overall I cannot recommend “The Now” and wont be returning.

When I raised an issue to NOW they promptly made it right and then some. Their customer service is fantastic.I also really like the format - nice atmosphere with just a really efficient operation bringing corporate efficiency and reliability into the massage business model - love.

The staff at this location is absolutely delightful. The massage therapist place a strong emphasis on communication and consent , being sure to check in on my pain level. Not to mention, the beautiful ambiance puts you at ease before even laying in the massage bed. I love this place and would give them my last dollar lol

Stephanie provided my massage and it was amazing. She clearly was able to read my body and needs and tailored the massage to give me complete relaxation and restoration. The bed was so warm and comfortable and all the touches to make the experience serene were great.

[6/19/2023 - 4 stars] True to their word, The Now reached out to me after the most recent review to make some adjustments to the service and offer an experience with a new masseuse. This time the massage was significantly better - they asked me what I was trying to work on, and checked in throughout on the various elements (e.g. pressure, aromatherapy scent). Only thing I’d recommend adding is a moistened towel at the end to remove the oil. Raising the overall score to the average of these two reviews.[5/29/2023 - 2 stars] Great ambiance and really friendly front of house staff. The location is beautiful and well placed. Unfortunately, I’ve been here twice - and now back to back, I’ve received what I’d rank as the least and second least impressive massage experiences I’ve had (so far). This suggests to me that The NOW has not yet dialed in their staffing quality control - so I’d at least recommend you the customer consider this - along with the few other reviews that I’m now reading that illustrate a similar, lackluster experience - if you’re deciding on a place to get a massage.

I will not be returning to The Now.After booking a sports massage, my masseuse was using the lightest pressure I have ever experienced in a massage, closer to a feather dusting than a massage.Upon asking for more pressure, my therapist tried to upsell me to deep tissue, which I did not want, I only wanted a firmer (or atleast average) pressure.This seems like a clear strategy by the management to extract more money from customers, so I cant really blame the therapist, but it certainly felt like price gouging given the already exorbitant pricing for a subpar experience.

Best massage of my life. GET LOIS. She clearly understands what feels good and knows how to get a knot out without making you suffer. My body was a mess and I haven’t had a massage for years and she still somehow made my muscles feel good afterwards, not achey like some massages make you. I requested medium pressure and got the now Swedish massage.The ambiance is beautiful, it smells nice and the beds are heated which I love. It’s very cozy in there. I could hear few sounds from the other “rooms” behind the curtain, but they whisper and keep sounds to a minimum so it didn’t bother me. I’m moving and am sad that I just now discovered this place (and Lois).

Pre-Covid I loved The Now and had a membership. Post Covid I cancelled my membership bc it was almost impossible to book an appointment. Then the last time I was able to book, they cancelled via email (which I didn’t see bc I get about 100’s of emails daily) with no offer to reschedule. I then decided to give them another chance (bc I love the ambiance and the massage therapists have been great) so I returned, and had a very underwhelming massage. I had booked the massage that I always did - forget the name - but when I complained, the front desk told me that I should have “upgraded,“ so left disappointed and confused.

The facility and lobby is nice and sleek. I don’t remember my massage therapist’s name but he was good and provided extra pressure for my deep tissue. I had a gift card for here but otherwise it’s so expensive for 50 min and I wouldn’t spend money here on my own. I love really strong massages and this isn’t the type of place I would normally go to get those.

My favorite treat every time I’m in LA! 80 mins massage ❤️

Massage was fantastic but i did the cupping upgrade figuring it would be massage then cupping. They just intergrated the two services together so it was a cupping massage? Would be nice to see that clarified when booking online. Was looking forward to a 50 min massage followed by the add on service.

A fantastic place to relax and soothe my sore muscles after a heavy workout. Highly recommend The NOW!

UPDATE: The manager reached out to me to clarify that their policy is that 80 minutes means 80 minutes of hands-on massage time. I really appreciated the personal outreach, and that the policy is actually not as I described below. I will gladly go back—again, do think their therapists are quite good.---Good therapists, shady time policies. My massage started at least 8 minutes after my booked time, and it ended exactly on time. The front desk told me their policy is that the time begins when the massage therapist comes to meet you in front. This is not what I’d expect when you market specific massage times.I noticed that (1) my therapist did not get me on time, and didn’t make up for 3 minutes there, (2) I waited ready in the room for several minutes before the therapist came back, and (3) once in the room, the therapist left to ask the front desk about wave sounds, which did not come on, and took up another minute or two.

The place was clean, nicely decorated, and smelled good. My masseuse Julian did a fantastic job and communicated well about my needs and his technique.Only downside was the barriers are curtains so you hear people talking in the hallway and going in and out. Competitive pricing.

The setting is beautiful. The massage therapists are hit or miss. And the front desk people are disorganized. I have 4 unused massage sessions left from the time that I used to pay for the membership. Yet every time I call or come in I get charged or they cant find my paid but unused sessions. I have to tell them the whole story over and over. Then the manager would call me back just to hear the same story one more time. Is it really that hard to put a NOTE on my file?

I just happened to be in Santa Monica on a Monday morning (visiting) and was lucky enough to basically get a walk-in appointment. The staff was friendly, the vibes were fantastic, and the massage was superb. I dont get massages often, so I couldnt compare to other spas, but the atmosphere was so calming I felt like I drifted out of that place on a cloud. Would absolutely return if they had a location in my city.

I’ve had two massages at The Now and am planning to continue going back. Each time is like an incredible experience — by the timeI’m done I’m super relaxed, speechless and basically feel like I’m floating. What I love is they take the time to speak with you and understand what’s going on, where you are tense, what you are expecting, and for me it’s been amazing. I used to feel like massages were just an extra luxury but since going to The Now I feel like it’s make a huge contribution to my overall health and well-being.

I booked the healer massage because it said it would help with sore muscles. I asked the therapist for firmer pressure and he said I’d have to upgrade to deep tissue for that? Firm pressure and deep tissue not the same??? I also gave him one specific area to work and he barely touched it even after I reminded? I would say it’s definitely worth the extra money to go down the street o Alchemie.

Everyone was very friendly and attentive. The spa smells amazing and they use a nice lavender oil for all the massages which was super relaxing. My massage therapist was Asha who hit all my problem areas. All for a great price! Highly recommended and I will be back.

Love this place. Right from walking in the lobby my head just calms. Service is great and ambiance is fab! Beachside look and feel. Quiet so no therapists chatting with you while you try to relax. Love!

I’ve been a member since they started this location. Today they cancelled the Valentine’s day gift massage I had given, only 1.5h before. I understand that cancellations happen because of a sudden sickness or smth, but just give something else than a sorry and re-schedule, when a really unfortunate thing like this happens. I will have to consider my membership here, since they don’t seem to value a loyal customer that much.

I really wanted to love this place, which is why I took my honey and treated us both for a massage, but the woman up front was very cold, short, and rude, as if she couldn’t be bothered or didn’t want to be there. Yikes. Additionally, the therapist did not even remotely work on the areas I asked him to. I kept thinking maybe he would do them in a bit... but it never happened. Pretty disappointing :(

Made an appointment on a Wednesday, called back 20 minuets later to cancel (not having been aware or told their cancelation policy) and received a very rude call from the staff their claiming that I canceled knowing their 12 hour review policy. I had gone for a massage previously a few weeks prior and had a great experience, but wouldnt go back because the staff was so rude to me on the phone.

I’m in LOVE. had the BEST massage of my LIFE. the lovely peeps at the front are amazing and all the massage therapists i’ve had so far have been incredible! 🙏🏽

Theyve been great and as a repeat customer I’ve never been more relaxed since i’ve been to them! Super accommodating and a great place to have staff appreciation events!

Had a fantastic massage here. Recommend massage therapist named Lois at Santa Monica location.

This was my first visit to The NOW and I can’t say enough positive things about my time there. The place was sparkling clean, staff was exceptionally nice and my masseuse Johanna was incredible.

The Now at Santa Monica is stacked with serious therapists. Every massage Ive had there has been transformative. Ive paid a lot more and received plenty less in quality and care. This spot is a local Gem.

How unfortunate. I wont be going back. The massage was ok. Please remember to take cash because the woman at the register added $5 to what I told her to charge for tip. And she didnt give me a receipt, so I didnt know until I got home.

Every time I visit LA I make my appointment in advance so that I arrive going into a nice body massage getting me quickly into the LA vibe of chilling. Feeling refreshed and relaxed after every visit.

My massage with Kevin was amazing. Who knew breath work was included!

Not remotely accommodating with respect to a legitimate cancellation in the event of an emergency, and was charged for a massage I couldnt make due to a car accident. Decent atmosphere, but would rather have decent people.

Very nice environment. I really enjoyed the massage. The staff was welcoming and knowledgeable. I would totally go again. I loved the sound of the waves

One of my favorite places in the Santa Monica/Venice area. Every time I am here I feel super relaxed and welcome + the massages are great very relaxing , stress relieving and worth the money spent!

I had a massage with Cheryl and she was AMAZING! She listened to exactly what I needed and the pressure was perfect. Would go back just for her!

1) Not their fault, but the horrendous parking situation in the area will take away any butterflies you may have had approaching your soon to be sent experience2) My massage therapist was 7 minutes late calliing me in and didnt compensate in massage time for the tardiness3) I was assigned someone since all the recommended people were already prebooked online and she was on point half the time and the other half would use wasted motions as if she was just trying to burn up the 90 minutes$150 all-in, Id rather go to a trusty Japanese or Thai place for a third of the price but twice the satisfaction

Not good enough massage. Too soft and mediocre hand movements from the master. For 50 minutes - $ 110 is a robbery

The setting is lovely and the price is right but the massage therapists can be hit or miss so find someone you like and stick with them!

Loved it! The only complaint is - its hard to get a spot, but really love the massages here

Bad massage and daily use of personal email for marketing. Unsubscribe doesnt work. The only good thing is the interior design..

Fantastic massages at affordable prices in a hip and serene setting. Look forward to my monthly massage so much!

Best massage and experience I’ve ever had at a spa. Incredible

Wow, unbelievable foot massage. I don’t think I’ve ever received anything as intense yet so good for my feet.

Nice clean and tranquil environment with well priced therapies. Can be crowded during peak hours and appts are recommended.

Love the easy service, therapists and zen space. Makes weekly spa life reality!

This place has the greatest vibe of any massage place Ive been to

Very clean, strict protocols, excellent masseuse.

Love this place - so happy they are on main street!

Loved my massage here. Will be back!

Please please please open in New York! Amazing massage and ambiance

The place is beautiful and the therapists are great. Love it.

Beautiful Relaxing Spa...very free feeling...love that...

My guy was great.

Good massage and relaxing environment

Great and peaceful

The Massage was amazing !!!!