Reviews of Refuge (Spa)

Martens Marshall

You can expect a nice location/facility, but don't anticipate any luxury treatment from staff/management who could care less about your experience. I have never encountered such an apathetic team at a spa. The bad attitude from the employees completely overwhelmed the experience, leaving us with regret and embarrassment that we spent so much money there. If you don't mind being treated as though you're a bother, can ignore bugs and trash floating in some of the pools, and can turn a blind eye to wet, soiled towels draped over chairs, then this spa is for you. Otherwise, spend your money wisely elsewhere. Attempts to reach management, James Kellog, were ignored.

Sarah K

A highlight of our vacation. We left feeling impossibly relaxed.

Matt S. McKay

Always amazing.

Jon Corbin

Amazing

Lilian Tellez

I spent around 4 hours relaxing at Refuge on a Friday, the experience is unique! Essentially, it is a series of saunas (wet and dry) and thermal pools. You are supposed to follow a 3-step cycle of heat, plunging in cold water, rest outside the water and relax in a warm pool. Each cycle would take around 30 minutes to complete. Additionally, Refuge offers massages. I felt so much better after mine. I was afraid to get bored because of the no talking policy, but exploring the entire place, different pools and saunas, kept me busy and entertained.

Ashley C

Such a beautiful, relaxing resort with steam rooms and multiple pools in different temperatures. The jets left my muscles so relaxed. Gorgeous, quiet, retreat in nature.

Michael Hraba

I can't speak highly enough about this spot. I would come here *EASILY* before trying Carmel Valley Ranch, Post Ranch Inn, or other surrounding spas.... because I have (all of them), and this "turn 'em and burn 'em model is anchored by one of the most beautifully designed experiences. The *ONLY* thing is that it gets crowded, which is no wonder for $60 massages and $40 entry. Plan to stay for 3 hours or so. Bring books, some drinks, etc. There's a hidden pool up on a patio that is sometimes empty, early, and if you get to it it's a hidden, private space that people usually ignore if it's occupied. Get there early, go on a rainy day, go on a weekday, or go during bad weather. It will get busy by noon, and I mean packed... especially on weekends, etc. The Canadian massage therapist Jamie was unbelievable... one of the best massages in my whole life. The atmosphere is beyond relaxing... the sauna was designed by a Finnish or Swedish person, it would seem, because it is just PERFECT. Not poorly designed and tiny like most. The steam room gets crowded, but it's beautifully designed as well, and the infusion of the eucalyptus is some of the best I have experienced. I just love this spot, and know I will return again and again.

Santa Cruz Eyebrows

This is the most wonderful, relaxing retreat to go and enjoy! I highly recommend visiting and booking a massage, you will leave feeling like a new person!

Natasha R

Not impressed at all, the staff was rude espically one of the male ones. They lost our entire group's massage reservations also!

Chris Langston

What a fantastic place. I cannot say enough good things about this spa retreat. I especially love the fact that they do not allow any talking or electronics at this place. It is really good to detox from everything electronic. The steam and hot spa sections along with the cold baths afterwards are a fantastic release of the body. The prices are very reasonable for what you get. I would encourage everyone who is looking at this to give it a shot. You will not be disappointed.

Oksana Motronchik

A great day trip spot to relax and disconnect! A lot of reviews mentioned that they don't have a snack bar but you can actually buy snacks and juice in the lobby!

Rudy Escalante

Great place to relax. Having a hard time scheduling a massage appointment. Been calling for two days now and no one answers

Karina Gerstenschlager

I guess the secret is out. Like every other local and tourist that has enjoyed this spot, I’ve fallen in love with a lazy afternoon turned into evening turned into missed my dinner reservation (sorry!) at The Refuge. Go with friends, go with a date, go alone. Bring a white bathrobe and your own water bottle to save $12. Or pay $120 to get a massage + robe and water included. Whatever you choose, this spot is worth it. UV treated water means no chlorine dryness or itchiness. I’m a huge fan of the cold and cool pools; doing a classic cycle of hot/cold therapy followed by a relaxing time reading a good book by the fire or in one of the relaxation rooms is my favorite pastime here. The steam room is phenomenal if you’re recovering from a cough, but I don’t recommend going to the Refuge if you’re fighting something; germs will spread fast in the sauna/steam rooms. Note: recently the silence has been less enforced. I am hoping management develops a practice to maintain the silence even as popularity surges.

Cornelia Van Winkle

My first time. Culture shock. You can't talk...lol. Definantly will do that again and again

G Ven

Beautiful place to relax

Jon Faxon Hall

Always an excellent experience!

kk t

Beautiful and relaxing. I will definitely go back. There's massages, saunas, pools with different water temperatures, bottled water and a plush robe. Clerks were nice and informative. Clean atmosphere.

Christine Smith

my boyfriend and I were recommended this place, and we visited while we were in town on vacation. what an afternoon! its so beautiful there, and we enjoyed the "cycles" and then got a massage. amazing amenities and perfect for a solo day, couples, anything at all! I loved the "no phones" and "quiet" rules. it really made the afternoon serene :)

Saleh Binmahfooz

I had an amazing time. It was my first and there will be more plans to enjoy that place

Peter Farrell

This is the perfect place to come and unwind for an afternoon after a stressful week. The thermal cycle between cold, warm, and got pools is very relaxing, as are the saunas and steam rooms. The facility is basically one giant whisper only zone, so bring a book if you want some stimulation. Plan on spending at least 3 hours here. Finally, call ahead before coming so that your name is on the wait list - the Refuge has become increasingly popular over the years.

Yvette Robine

Refuge is amazing!

Makr Studios

The Refuge is quite a lovely experience. I have gone multiple times and it is very relaxing. I remember the first time I went I decided to just go the spa route with no massage. I was greeted and given a warm introduction once inside the spa. There is something special about being in a quiet environment and being able to completely relax, even fall asleep! I was there with my girlfriend and we absolutely loved the tranquillity. My numerous visits have gone just as expected. Always greeted by an awesome team, and guests. Friendly faces all around. I try to visit Refuge every time I am in Carmel/Monterey area. Top of the line for a great price.

D’ma Extraordinaire

Bucket List Alert!! :::: If you're anywhere even close to this area this is a must visit! And if you need to travel to get here, get here! The variety of relaxing activities, the grounds, the staff and pools are amazing! To begin my Refuge experience I had a fabulous massage. After the massage and a quick shower, I hit the eucalyptus steam room (which is incredibly relaxing with chroma therapy lights), then into the cold plunge pool, next a quick dip in the icy, cold *cold plunge pool. I didn't think I'd be able to plunge into the icy pool but found myself enjoying it. Then it was off to the relaxation room, and onto one of the anti-gravity chairs. I repeated the same cycle three times. I tried the HUGE Finnish (dry) Sauna once, very nice! There are several Thermal Waterfall Pools to relax in, which is lovely, not to mention romantic! Fire pits are scattered around the property and there are Adirondack chairs to lounge on while watching the stars. Many places to hang your towels (provided) and Robes. We brought our own White robes from home, or you can rent theirs. After this wonderful experience, I can honestly say, "I could literally feel my body sing. Refuge is serene, sensual, beautiful and rejuvenating. We will positively be back again, and again and again. If you’re visiting the Monterey Peninsula, do yourself a favor and visit Refuge. You’ll be glad you did!

Dmitry Berezhnoy

Shhh. Don't break the silence. Enjoy steam rooms full of eucalypt smell. Dipping into a cold bath and then soaking in a hot pool feels like hundreds and hundreds needles piercing your skin.

Maribel Delgado

Refuge is a great place to refresh and renew.

Nikolay Molchanov

Great, as usual, but now the price include bath robes, so no need to bring yours. We did not know, so we brought.:)

Michael-John Nelson

Holy smokes. This place is the most relaxed I have ever been. Make sure to plan on spending at least three hours here to go through the cycle a few times of hot and cold and then read a book or take a nap in their reclining chairs looking out at the spa. Editing review - I have taken multiple back to this spot and always have a fantastic experience.

Scarlett Lai

There is no talking at the pools. They take this white seriously.

Spencer Gray

What a DREAM this place is. I was visiting from Utah in March and had this place recommended to me from a friend. And, in short, WOW. I’m not sure how to put in words the level of relaxation this place brings with the peaceful California weather, beautiful natural sounds of birds and wind chimes, and the unreal tingling feeling your body gets after submerging yourself in the ice water following the eucalyptus steam rooms. It’s my dream to return to this place. However, the location of Refuge is quite off the beaten path. Which is a good thing (less tourists like myself) and an inconvenient thing. However, I cannot wait for the day that I can return and spend all day relaxing at Refuge. Thanks for the great experience.

dewey kwong

Awesome pools and experience!

Fractal Glow

Got a sweedish massage and then did 7 cycles. So good! I had never been in a steam room before and when you first walk in it's a little uncomfortable like I thought my contacts were coming out, but then gets better, then gets super hot, followed by cold dunk which is shocking but totally worth it for the relax period that follows, then relax more in a warm pool. Its like torture, torture, pleasure pleasure.... I can't wait to go back! (The torture part isn't actually that bad, and it's kinda fun.. not really torture, just sensation.) I also appreciate the no talking rule so you can really relax and chill. Some people brought books but I didn't have one and don't think I would have read. Also, I wore contacts and that seemed to be a good choice, and I saw others with glasses on in the pools but think it would be a bit of hassle taking on and off with the steam, although I did have sunglasses for the hot pools only. They didn't really give too much detail on instructions for us newbies, but easy to get the hang of it after one cycle and observing others. No photos because you are not supposed to bring your phone into spa area.

Jeff Rodrigues

This is a thermal cycle Spa. Which means they have hot and cold pools outside. There's warning rooms, two saunas, and 7 or 8 fire pits throughout. You can get a massage by appointment you can get facials, nails or hair done, hot rock treatment, the works. This is the only coed Spa around. My wife and I go here at least four or five times a year. I'm sure you'll love it if you give them a chance.

Manjit Gill

It was great place to be there, mind relaxing, peace of mind very quiet place. Thanks,

Samantha Tatum

Great place to relax and melt away your stresses. Sauna, cool and hot tubs, steam room and sun hits the spot. Love it here!

Gui Cavalcanti

We arrived at 2, were told there was a 45 minute wait for general admission and there were 7 people ahead of us, waited for 2 hours, and then were told there were 6 people ahead of us after they called at least 5. Don't waste your time.

Steven Peaslee

Incredible experience!

Andrew Ulanowski

Peaceful experience. The eucalyptus steam was amazing! My skin has never felt so soft.

Irina Shelestun

Couldn’t feel the vibe that everyone is talking about. Yes, there’s 2 different saunas, yes there are jacuzzis with different temperatures. That’s all. Nothing special. It is nice to soak a bit but I expected more variety in terms of saunas and aromatic rooms. Relaxing but nothing special at all. Wouldn’t go for the second time.

Sarah April

Amazing and unique experience. An absolute must go in Carmel.

Irina Semenikhina

Excellent! My favorite place to "recharge my buttery". Thank you, Refuge!

Michael Ward

My wife and I drive to Refuge about once a month to get a break from the boys. A very relaxing and inexpensive way to spend the day. The place is very well maintained and clean, definitely a refuge from the real world.

Alia Caravelli

Ah-maz-ing

Al Morgan

Nice experience every 6 months

Melissa Olson

The whole experience was miserable and I will never return.

Lauren Barnes

Mari gave me one of the best massages Ive ever had! Beautiful place and clean! We will be back!

Zach Miller

The most relaxing experience of my life. Add a swedish massage for ultimate relaxation!

Dashon Burton

Whoa. Epic. Cold pool is great. if you're medically able, just do it! Eucalyptus steam room is worth the price of admission alone.

Carole Lee

This is a wonderful escape from all the hustle and the bustle the environment is beautiful surrounded by trees it's a great place to recoup

Chris Auzenne

Place is nice, if a little pricey for the extra services. The power went out near the end of the day, which was a hassle, but they were happy to accommodate us. The masseuses we got were both very interesting. Very nice and quirky ladies.

Marina Lee

Beautiful place, true to its name, a real refuge in the hills. The grounds are gorgeous, the set up is just what is needed for a relaxing evening of steam saunas and warm pools under the open sky. If you go, please do observe the request to keep silent so as not disturb others. Lovely spot for relaxation.

Brandon Elkins

Serene, pleasant

Yuchen Zhou

Overall a very quiet and private experience, even on MLK weekend. $49 (as of Jan 2019) is not overly priced.

Chris Paulus

Amazing place to unwind!

Samantha kalb

I went to Refuge for my birthday, a Tuesday afternoon in February. It was my first visit by recommendation of co workers who suggested going alone, with a book and a journal. I didn’t really know what to expect accept a thermal cycle, and to feel awesome. Overall, the staff was friendly and it was the best birthday gift I ever given myself. The facilities were clean, I love the steam room and pools, and the Water bottles: which give direction on how to complete the thermal cycle for the most in depth experience. I recommend renting a robe if it’s att all windy, and going ALONE. If you want to spend time connecting with a friend or loved one, this is not the place. The Silent Policy is sacred to getting connected, while in a rare sanctuary.

Duc Duong

I love this place, and I love the Refuge Thermal Cycle, but it's too crowded on the weekend.

My email

Favorite place around here. Go in sauna the cold pool then relax. Cycle through 5 times and you will feel great

Peri Steffenhagen

Beautiful grounds, clean, unique commitment to silence while enjoying the hot and cold pools, sauna, steam and relaxation areas.

Rasima L

Love it. Wish to go more often, but it is expensive. Would be nice to have monthly/yearly pass

Bianca ponce

Wow looks so fun I will go some day

Maryia Arkhipava

It’s such a great spot to chill, relax, to think, to be calm, to become at least a bit more happy. There are many pools of different temperature marked Cold, Cool, Warm or Hot, there is a wonderful steam-room and dry sauna. What makes difference is that all this is an outside area with fresh air, fire pits, and chairs to relax. There are also resting rooms inside. And my favorite thing about the place - they have a rule: don’t speak, be quiet, and keep electronic devices out of the spa area

yelena kozlova

Gorgeous place, super relaxing. Make sure to bring flip flops

Randall Nacamuli

Really great experience. The thermal cycle, as they call it, is really very relaxing. The no talking rule is great, and there are enough nooks and crannies to whisper to your partner if you have one that it doesn’t detract from the shared experience.

Winter W

Love this place, quiet and relaxing. I drove all the way from San Francisco Bay Area and really enjoyed the time here. It’s normally popular on weekend and holidays, so make sure you call in the morning to check and they would put you In the waitlist.

Laura Rinne

We specifically stopped in Carmel during our California road trip because of Refuge. The eucalyptus steam room is amazing! Then a quick dip in frigid water, lay out in the sun, hang in the warm/hot pools for a bit and repeat. A strict no electronics and silence policy makes for a totally relaxing experience. Don't forget your book!

Graziella Zabatta

Great experience, can't wait to go back

Terrie Purkiss

A magical experience

Teresa Goss

Where to begin. This place is awesome. Great value. Spring for the deluxe package. You'll want that robe when a cool breeze blows in. Silent spa so no one droning on about their job or kids and men can't hit on you...unless their nonverbal game is on point. Eucalyptus steam rooms, multiple thermal pools, fireside Adirondack chairs all nestled into Carmel Valley. Get there early as this place fills up fast. I'm in love!

Mike S.

Wonderful spa with very natural/relaxed setting. I enjoyed the recommended hot/cold/relax flow. My wife had a great massage. Lots of pools. We were there on a holiday weekend and it wasn't too crowded. It was a bit frustrating trying to find seating around a firepit. Staff needs to find a way to remove towels left on chairs by patrons that have long since departed. Otherwise, there weren't enough seats by the firepits. It was too cold to use other seating.

Denise H

A lovely outdoor retreat among fresh air and rustling trees in Carmel Valley. There are several pools with different temperatures to relax in, as well as sauna and steam rooms (my favorite) with a wonderful scent of lavender and eucalyptus (?) escaping into the air. I went on a Thursday afternoon and stayed until dark, where I could view the night sky and stars above while in the pools.

dominic auger

Very clean and cozy place. The look is amazing and perfect for a relaxing day!

Christina Arakelian

This is a the most peaceful place I’ve ever been to! It’s a hot sauna to cold pool rotation cycle and I’ve loved every minute. It’s so clean. No phones and no talking are allowed. It’s $62 for unlimited hours of relaxation, a water, towels, a robe, and post hydrothermal cycle shower facilities. Perfect for a getaway, or that solo time you need.

Rosie Razak Schubsda

My favourite place in the world, tucked away in Carmel Valley. A great outdoor space with hot, warm and cold baths as well as dry and steam rooms. My favourite thing about is that it is completely quiet. You are encouraged to be silent and relax. After the baths I even got to have a nap in their relaxation room. I got the deluxe package which comes with the robe, water bottle and locker room. We visited on memorial weekend on Saturday morning and got pretty filled up by the afternoon.

Kelsey Barrion

This place is phenomenal. It's in a very quiet valley setting with a distinctly California feel. The steam rooms, sauna and hot and cold pools are well done and very attractive. I definitely recommend following the thermal cycling principle, even though the cold portion may be a little bit uncomfortable. Your body will feel so much better and relaxed. The fire pits with Adirondack chairs make a great place to hang out in your comfy robe and read a book. If you're more into the indoor thing, there are zero gravity chairs inside large rooms with glass windows so you can still see the lovely scenery. They're absolutely serious about the silence policy, though, and it's a great aid in the relaxation process. Breaking free from the distractions of the electronic world is probably the second best gift this place gives you.

vanessa king

Very expensive for one day, but it is very relaxing and nice. The no talking rule can be bothersome so just be prepared not to talk with whoever you go with. I will go again, but will be prepared to stay the entire day do I can get my monies worth. Ended up paying the $58 but only stayed for an hour and a half, had no idea the cost before I went.

andrew s

Been four times over the last year and always had a great experience. Love the steam rooms. Even when it's busy they do a good job of keeping the number of people at a level where it doesn't feel over crowded.

Lily Salas Zuno

Wonderful and one of a kind spot to come and pamper yourself. I've only been here during the week and it's nice with night too many people, but I've heard that on weekends they usually have a wait to get in. Once you check in the staff will show you to the locker rooms, where you will find showers with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. If you paid for it, your locker will have a nice bathrobe, 2-3 towels, and two bottles of water. On the bottles of water they will have the instructions of the thermal process, which you should definitely follow for maximum benefit and total relaxation of every muscle in your body. I usually start on the eucalyptus steam room for 5 min., followed by a dip in the cool pool for 30 seconds and then relax and perhaps fall asleep on one of the zero gravity chairs. Then I will make my way to one of the thermal warm/hot water pools for a few minutes and then start the process again. It's so addictive! The silence is amazing too, and after a few minutes you will appreciate it too! I always have a hard time leaving!

Lisa Michele

Visiting here from out of town, what an incredible place! I wish we had something comparable where I'm from, I'd be there all the time! So relaxing, luxe environment, chill crowd, and left my muscles feeling amazing.

Alvin Cura

Always a go-to place to relax. It is hard to evaluate it, because I don't personally know of an equivalent or comparable place. But I definitely recommend the Refuge cycle. It is not the least expensive establishment to visit, but most health and Rejuvenation Places come with a high price point. Still, a good value for the money. There's no time limit, and you can stay as long as you need to.

Butch Escobar

Complete 3 hour vacation from any problems or anything going on in your life. I love this place I recommend going in the middle of the week when it's not busy and at night.

Cyrus Bazeghi

So relaxing!! Love going back and forth from hot and cool/cold pools. The stream room and sauna room are also great. It is nice having the no talking rule as it creates a peaceful environment.

Cyrus Shahriari

Relaxing atmosphere and perfect for those people looking to recharge in a great location. The facilities are clean with a very friendly staff. Located in the beautiful Carmel and Monterey area, this is a great spot to get away from the hectic cities. Highly professional and courteous staff who make you feel welcome.

Cheryldee Huddleston

As beautiful as it is and as unique a spa experience as it is, if clients don't stop gabbing in what is supposed to be a "silence only" experience, Refuge will degenerate into a kitschy hang out for privileged snots. Employees are simply not enforcing silence. Only solution is to go during the week and early enough to avoid people who either can't read or have no manners.

Simon Bromberg

For $44 (+ $12 for a robe, which probably isn't really necessary unless it's a bit cold outside) you get all day access to a gorgeous series of outdoor pools, saunas, and relaxation areas (plus water and all the towels you want). It is surrounded by scenic hills covered in trees and flowers (saw a hummingbird while we were there). The weather when we went was almost perfect too. The thermal cycling was very fun and relaxing, even after we left. Felt amazing after only a few cycles. The eucalyptus sauna was fantastic. Can easily spend hours there, because you're not just lying around; instead you get a specific sequence of steps to do. Still, you might want to bring a book. The various pools (which are kept at a range of different temperatures) and resting areas are laid out such that despite it being a fairly popular attraction, many times we had pools / areas to ourselves. Will definitely return if ever in the area again.

Road Lez Traveled

Blissfully relaxed and sharing a wonderful and well deserved day with my Mom!

Connie Oh

I came here with four other people for a bachelorette party, and it seemed like most other attendees were an even mix of male and female singles or couples. They have a no talking rule that's observed but not enforced. I liked the eucalyptus room the best. It's a fine layout and is decently appointed, but given the amount of time that you can realistically spend there, I think they're a bit pretentious and way over-priced.

Logan Lossing

We always have a great experience at refuge. We do the thermal cycling at least 5 times. Facilities are very clean and well kept. Can be busy, come early. No talking or cell phones allowed in the pool area

Cammi Taranto

The atmosphere and the pools are amazing. The only reason I don't give it 5 stars is because my husband and I have been there at least a dozen times between the two of us and neither one of us has had a killer massage. The massages are just so, so, but the pools, fires, and quiet atmosphere keep bringing us back.

Kathryn Bacon

Peaceful

James Salyers

Great massage, great spa!

Szymon Jakubczak

Great facility during most of the day. A little bit frustrating at the end of it (sauna temps drop, robes start disappearing).

nate greig

Outdoor spa in Carmel Valley. What else do you need to know??? Drink lots of water

Scott Hoffman

Wonderful spa featuring hot, warm, cold and even colder pools. A spacious sauna and two steam rooms offer a whole body, restful experience.

Luxevaca Luxury Vacation Homes

Great place to get away and relax! Get a massage

Deanna Shaw

Best Day Ever, which will be repeated. This was a great experience, went about an hour before our massage and enjoyed the relaxing spas and saunas. You commit to being silent in this location, and it really adds to the peacefulness that I experienced. No electronics, no talking, only relaxing. The massage was great, they had plenty of appointments and I was able to get both my mom and I appointments at the same time. We spent a few hours after the massages enjoying the pools and zero gravity chairs. Left feeling fully relaxed and ready for the world.

Jason Costanza

Beautiful, quiet and relaxing. Perfect treat to yourself or anyone's you send.

Alexander Roman

An amazing place to relax.

Seung Gyu Han

It was very pleasant experience. We had a swedish massage and we both liked it. Highly recommend hours being disconnected from the world.

Preston Cherry

My gf and I went one cold evening. It was amazing. So relaxing. Sit in the steam room for 10 mins, then the cold bath for at least 15 seconds, then get in a hot tub. Would go again.

Eva-Marie Tordoff

It would be perfect if they provided a place for you to eat your lunch and/or allowed you to leave and return. I eat my snack/lunch in the locker room. It kind of takes away from the experience.

Ilam Mougy

Fantastic place to relax and enjoy hot spring in the Carmel Valley. Lockers are super clean. Friendly staff. Enough parking. I recommend getting your own water, no need to buy it from there (they do sell chilled water bottles). They have tennis courts but it is not included in the package. I recommend it for a date, just pick a nice weather and enjoy the relaxing environment.

Cristina Garcia

Great for spending the day at a very relaxing place!!! love it! Not expensive / Silence / A lot of different thermal baths

Nicholas Anderson

I left after a massage and then just using the facilities... absolutely amazing!!!!!

Korissa Singh

This place is co-ed so its great for a group or couples. Love the STEAM ROOM! It actually smells like eucalyptus. Keep in mind you get what you pay for. The massages are reasonably priced especially for the area but you do no get spa amenities like shoes, snacks and toiletries. Make sure to bring your own items and I like to bring my own robe. The pools hot, cold, cool and warm, take some time to get used to but you definitely feel refreshed afterwards.

Ali Olshan

I love this place! It is encouraged to stay calm! Just chill, reflect on yourself and enjoy the sounds of water! I love the triangle where to do the sauna, dive into cold water and then soak into the warm water!

Gina R

Refuge, you've really done it this time. I've been coming here for 5+ years and I'm annoyed to say today was the last time I'll be visiting. When I first started coming it was a little slice of heaven: quiet, clean, courteous staff, relaxing facilities. Now, it is overcrowded (on a Wed!!), noisy, and dirty. The whole point of this place is for you to be able to escape the hectic chatter and noise of everyday life and relax. Unfortunately the last 10 times I've been here, people have been very loud and chatty and the staff does nothing. Multiple times TODAY staff walked right by people talking and didn't do a thing. I've had to ask people to please keep it down. I shouldn't have to do that. That is not relaxing. This place is packed now with tourists and loudmouth men from Carmel & L.A. who are so narcissistic they can't stand to NOT hear themselves speak for ANY amount of time. The staff walks right by and doesn't do anything about it. Today, I'd say 60% of the patrons were chatting loud enough to be disturbing other people. It used to be quiet here. That is the whole point of this spa. I would like my money back...for the last 10 visits would be great. Anyway, aside from that: The steam room was horrendously dirty. I was there for 4 hours today and it never was checked up on or cleaned. There was dirt and hair everywhere. Disgusting. Also, someone was banging around upstairs and in the room next to the far-end anti-gravity room. It was really loud and went on for a long time. I had to leave. Again, I'd really like my money back. Look, this place has pretty nice facilities and is in a great location. It's unfortunate the management is running it into the gutter. I won't be back.

Tanya Hurzhyi

Awesome place! Definitely a must to go to and experience all that it has to offer. Google reviews pictures make it look like it's a small place, but it's actually quite big. Call in ahead of time to put yourself on a wait list the day you plan on going although lobby area offers hangout area, coffee and tea while you wait. No phones or talking permitted for the best experience in the saunas/pools. Lockers and towels are provided; there are showers with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash as well.

Karen Bell Runyan

My favorite place to rewind!!!

albert0 pante

Great place!

Hannah Fortunato

Very relaxing place, love the different cycles of hot and cold. Everything seems very sanitary.

Nicholas Ciesinski

Awesome experience spending the day in and out of the saunas and pools. The only part of the day that was just so-so was the massage, I’ve definitely had better.

Victor J Ramirez

Visited with the wife for our anniversary. We weren't sure going into it but we came out feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. You really have to let yourself go in order to get the full experience so if you don't have enough time to commit then wait for another time. The surroundings are beautiful and the silence policy is surprisingly refreshing.

Graham Johnson

This spa is super relaxing and professional: quiet, hot and cold baths, sauna and steam rooms, and awesome massage therapists. I lost my wallet while I was there, and staff found it in the towel laundry. They even sent it to me overnight! I have already recommended Refuge to a friend.

Jinsil Kim

A perfect weekend getaway at Carmel. Their massages are absolutely amazing and so are their staff. Everyone is extremely friendly and attend to your needs. The facility is mainly outdoors and bit small, but it's beautiful and relaxing.

Laura Gobin

This place is wonderful for silent relaxation. Got a Swedish massage from Alayna and she was the absolute best!

Angelei Singh

First time going. Its was amazing and will definitely go again.

Carmenann Besio

Great place! Invigorating, plush robes that embrace your body. Extremely clean with a great staff!!

Stephanie Gao

Close to Carmel, and a good place to stay for half day. They have many choices of hot spring and steam rooms. It would be better if you call before you went there to put you on the wait list. They provide everything such as towels and water and bathroom as a package which costs around $50. The whole environment is so comfort, relaxing and quiet.

o66cloud

If you need to relax and just need to get away from all the stress or worldly problems, even if it's just for the evening. I highly recommend refuge as I just left and I feel so relaxed and energetic. All the hot and cold pools, eucalyptus steam room, and sauna. Plus getting a massage beforehand is amazing. 5/5

Jacob Cuadrez

So incredibly relaxing. Wonderful staff. Can't wait to go back! Like leaving the country without the long flight.

Rachel Lader

My boyfriend and I spent an entire day here and loved every second of it! The massages were great and the cycle of heat and cold was so refreshing. We will definitely be going back.

Tammy Ballinger

The eucalyptus steam bath clears your lungs and your skin. The hot baths could be a couple of degrees hotter but the beautiful surroundings more than make up for it. Once you've relaxed in a hot tub take a cold lunge or just sit back and put you toes next to the outdoor firepit. There is a huge sauna as well. But, shhhhh, this is silent relaxation. No technology and no talking.

Devon Powell

Refuge is tranquil oasis in Carmel, and a delight to the senses. Friendly and non-evasive staff leaves you to multiple pools with ranging temperatures, fire pits, multiple saunas, and a hot steam room that is filled with the scent of eucalyptus. With the entry price of a minimum of $44~, this place easily comes with my highest recommendations. Don't just stop by if you're in the area, make it your destination.

Chip Chapin

This was my experience: An extra hot eucalyptus steam room, followed a plunge in my choice of four different cold pools, followed by quiet relaxation by the fire (or in a silent "relaxation room"), followed by time soaking in at least six different hot and warm pools. Repeat at least three times. And with a great massage mixed in there somewhere. It sounded great to me and I was not disappointed. Highly recommend this place.

Alleyne H. Long

Clean, relaxing, super nice cold and hot pools. I highly recommend. Make reservations if busy.

Sasha Firsov

Cozy to sit surrounded with 5 fireplaces, some recorded blues . And the bill with 1/3 on taxes and fixed tips on not bad fast kind of food.

LUXEVACA COM

Excellent place to get. Massage and enjoy the hot springs!

Bob Gallagher

This is the place to go if you want a relaxing experience in carmel. Massage, sauna, steamroom, firepits and variable temperature hot tubs. And best of all... no talking!

Andy Sudol

Excellent place to relax in silence, heat, and water. Good way for me to balance out the noisy, dry and cold.

Lady D

The BEST relaxing experience of my life. Serene atmosphere, beautiful soaking pools, roomy sauna and GREAT steamrooms. Also, relax in front of one their firepits.

David Lee

Always an amazing way to spend an evening. Highly recommended if you have the chance.

Courtney Campbell

After staying at Gardner Ranch, in Carmel Valley, my friends and I had the opportunity to go to Refuge. This is an experience that you do not want to miss if you are in the area! The combination of eucalyptus steam followed by a cold plunge, then an aromatic fire and hot tub soak helped me completely relax. The benefits I felt stayed with me for days. My skin was glowing! If only there was a Refuge in Colorado, I'd be going weekly...

Matthew Kyler

Very relaxing.

Rebecca Klein

Would love to have this back at home. So peaceful and a great way to relax. The hot-cold-relax cycle is spot on. I thoroughly enjoyed the silence and the no electronic rule. I would highly recommend a massage to go along with it; although it's great all by itself as well. It was a perfect way to unwind after doing the Big Sur Marathon on Sunday.

Lori Maupas

I love this place. It is the ultimate escape.

Ed Bierman

What a great place to relax in pool - pick your temp and enjoy soaking your cares away.. would be perfect if it were clothing optional but not everybodies thing.

Caroline Santander

The most relaxing experience given that silence is a imposed. All facilities are extremely clean and beautiful, nice meditative music is available in some of the relaxing rooms. The hot-cold-relax rhythm works! Complement with a massage with one of the amazing personnels, and you arrive directly in paradise!

Mehmet Hoops

An incredibly relaxing experience. I'd recommend having a robe if you're going to relax by the fire between hot, warm, cool or cold dips. The steam room is intense and invigorating. The zero gravity chair rooms also make for a wonderful break. Call ahead to see if there's a wait list. Otherwise, enjoy!

Jung-Ah Yum

Super cool. Hate that you can't talk but otherwise amazing.

Lupe Briseno

OMGOSH! ! Heaven on earth. So relaxing. Only thing is that it's better if u they tell u not have your contact lenses on. It's to hot in the hot rooms. But so loved it. Would definitely want to go back. Our son gave us this gift as an anniversary weekend away. Loved it. Next time I want to try the massage

Kimi Alli

Amazing health spa and best kept secret. It opens up to an oasis of warm pool, cold plunges, saunas, steam room. Great couples adventure and way to unplug from the busy world. A must try! Don't forget to pack your shower shoes aka flip flops so you don't have to buy some

Cara Good

Great service! Relaxing place. Take time to be quiet and enjoy an afternoon or evening at the Refuge.

Shirley Vuong

Incredibly relaxing and reasonably priced! Great way to spend the afternoon.

Aaron Lee

Definitely go again

Kristina Pontarelli

Loved this place, free access to the thermal pools w purchase of a massage, silence only policy is mostly adhered to so it is very relaxing, wish I had a spa like this back home

j Lee

I have been to the Refuge three times and have to say it is the best! I love this place! It's quiet, in a lovely setting with great amenities. I loved the Eucalyptus sauna and the steam rooms as well as the cold dips and hot tubs. It is wonderful to sit in the adirondack chairs by the fire pits as well as in the larger indoor sitting room. The dressing room is very good with multiple showers, an area to dry your hair and get dressed as well as equipment to drain the water out of your bathing suits. I also had a massage, which was wonderful. I am not someone who spends a lot of money on these types of activities but I loved the Refuge and do not consider it to be expensive at all, considering the benefits of what is offered. It is great! I plan to continue going there whenever I can get away. So relaxing.

Shannon Fry

Such an amazing, relaxing place!! I love the quiet and I always leave feeling like jello and with a renewed outlook.

B.L. B

An absolutely amazing way to spend the day and relax in hot tubs and saunas or just lay in a hammock . A good trick is visit on non busy days to get the most time in. Everyone must stay quiet and that keeps the serenity