Boathouse Spa

Spa services are amazing and easily my fave place to go to relax. Both massage experiences have been amazing with both technicians providing a unique experience each time. I had the sea salt hot stone massage both times. First experience was in November and I added the pool pass, as I'd booked on 11/11 it was $64; not really worth it in my opinion as it was terribly busy. Every lounge chair occupied, hot sauna busy, pools and hot tubs busy and full of chatting people. My massage this visit was PERFECT. Second experience was this afternoon and I had booked a pool pass, but was running late and couldn't make it, I wish I was able to this time as the temps were perfect and there was not a lot of people around the pool, but the spa waiting room and interior hot sauna were busy. I feel like some people in there weren't spa guests but people looking to dip in from the cold. Also, there was a guy in the room and was holding his phone up oddly, I think he was just holding it awkwardly and scrolling? With the way the seats are, I made sure not to sit across from him, but 1 of the other 2 ladies had to sit across from him and I think she was awkward as well. I feel like this room should be a no phone space? My massage was amazing this time as well, different technician and I feel like she did better on my back and left side overall, right side used a lighter touch felt more like she was just rubbing lotion in. Some of the stones this time also felt more luke warm than hot. I have no doubt had I asked for more pressure and warmer stones she would have accommodated that request. I didn't ask though so thats on me. ☺️ I hate to say it, but perhaps capping pool, sauna ,spa waiting room numbers are in need? Its kind of small spa space to accommodate hotel guests and spa guests. Ill definitely be back to try different services and hope the pools aren't too busy!

Boathouse Spa is by far my favourite spa on Vancouver Island! It’s located right on the ocean in the BEST hotel ever, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel. Boathouse offers exclusive evening Pool Passes for guests between 5:00-10:00 pm every so often. They go quick so follow on Facebook/Instagram for the best availability. The staff make you feel so special right from the moment you walk through the door. You’re greeted with a friendly, warm smile and graciously shown the locker room where they’ll supply luxurious robes, sandals and fluffy towels. They have a licensed bar on site and offer takeaway food from the “Snug Pub” (hotel restaurant). There are 2 hot tubs, 1 extra large (warm) pool, lots of nice loungers, fire pits, sun umbrellas and an indoor sauna. It really is a paradise! You just kind of melt away listening to the ocean waves crash and the birds chirping. They also have a full spa menu - book in early to reserve a good spot. Free hotel underground parking too! Do yourself a favour and check this place out! It’s worth it every penny!

I was taking videos of myself at the pool then some Karens told the staff they don’t want to be in my pictures. The staff nicely took me to the seaside to take picture of me so no one else was in the picture. I appreciate that the staff try to make both sides happy. However, it’s a crowded spa and it’s not against policy that I was taking pics of the pool. Next time, people should have the basic freedom to take pictures of themselves. If bitter Karens afraid they appear in others photos, it’s their problem. It does not feel good as a single colored woman being targeted by a group of white women. Overall it was a great experience. Beautiful seaside, met a newly engaged couple, and the massage was professional. Love it!

I so enjoyed my quicky little getaway so close to home!. As i arrived at the hotel I was greeted by such a happy and courteous valet which got my day off to a lovely start. As i made my way to the spa, i thought to my-self, that’s going to be my next job ;) The reception at the spa was so warm and professional and welcoming made me think surely, it’s a lifestyle for them … Sheila gave me an amazing massage and hot oil hair treatment and the mineral pool time and hot tub was absolutely divine. The spa lounge provides healthy refreshments and snacks mint and cozy chairs to sit and relax as you lookout onto the pool area. I’m living the dream here in my new “Home Sweet Home”

Spa services were 5 star treatments however almost $200 for a facial is getting to be a bit too much. Carmen was great. The facility is just ok compared to other spas within 2-3 hours on Vancouver Island. The $40 pool fee is not worth it, we would not pay for that again. The lounge chairs were pushed so close that they were touching so it was quite uncomfortable lying that close to a stranger. It was just too crowded. I would give the pool area and spa a 3 star review but our treatments were so good that I increased overall rating to 4 stars. Bottom line, there are better spas out there.