Thailand is world-renowned for its tropical jungles and beaches, authentic and delectable cuisine, and rejuvenating spas. The beautiful country is home to several islands and cities, all rich in culture and the remnants of historical Thai values. One of Thailand’s most prominent islands is Phuket, a blend of everything Thailand stands for.
Known for its pristine waters, white sands, and world-class hotels and resorts, Phuket is a prime vacation and wedding destination for tourists from around the world. But this all-inclusive destination is also one of the best places in the world to practice yoga, immerse oneself in nature, and see some of Thailand’s most beautiful sights. Whether you’re into scuba diving, taking an Ayurvedic or holistic retreat, or simply relaxing on the beach, you’re sure to find the perfect balance to recharge.
What Is a Thai Massage?
Thai massage is a holistic therapy derived from ancient Thai medicine, which is based on the premise that the body is a system that can be used to improve the quality of a person’s life. The main goal of Thai massage is to bring the body into balance, physically and mentally, through the use of various techniques. With the right attitude and a little knowledge, Thai massage can be a great way to relax and feel pampered.
Unlike other forms of massage therapy, Thai massage is all about the hands and the feet and is practiced entirely on the body. A massage therapist pulls, pushes, stretches, and rocks the body to stimulate blood circulation to relieve tension and stiffness in the muscles and joints.
Recipients are guided to perform a series of yoga-like postures to release tight knots in the body, relax the mind and body, and set the body on a healing journey.
Why Are Thai Massages So Special?
This massage technique has several benefits that many recipients have felt following an effective Thai massage. Although not scientifically proven, the feelings of relaxation and better health cannot be denied. Below are some of the additional benefits of a Thai massage done right.
- Improved blood circulation
- Better range of motion
- Higher quality of sleep
- Reduced stress levels
- Calm mind and body
- Relieved stiffness, tension, and pain
- Better immuno-response
- Improved energy levels
Where Is Phuket in Thailand?
Phuket is the second smallest province in the country, consisting of Phuket Island, which is the largest island in Thailand. Located at the southern tip of Thailand, it lies on the country’s west coast in the Andaman Sea, along with 32 smaller islands off its coast.
Phuket as a tourist destination has become very popular, especially on the Koh Phi Phi Islands, which lie just off the coast of Phuket and offer some of the most unspoiled beaches in the world. It’s a very tropical island, and you can find shades of green throughout the year.
The beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere support a great deal of tourism and make Phuket an excellent destination for people who want to get away from it all. Beaches and greenery aren’t Phuket’s only offerings, and the island is filled with relaxing and enjoyable activities.
Phuket: What’s There to Love?
Phuket is an island with beautiful cities and villages, fantastic beaches, great shopping destinations, ecstatic nightlife, a plethora of restaurants for Thai and international cuisine, and relaxing spas. However, each town and city in Phuket is not the same. Some are quiet, tranquil, and serene, while others are bustling with people and traffic.
No matter where you go on the island, you’ll find something interesting to see and do. You can find the best of Thai culture and heritage in Phuket Town, the best shopping in the city of Kata or Bangla Road in Patong, the most exciting nightlife in Patong, the most laid-back atmosphere in Rawai and Nai Harn, and the best beaches in Karon, Bangtao, Patong, and Surin.
Tourism is one of the largest industries in Phuket, and the island is brimming with attractions to visit. You can visit beautiful viewpoints, such as the lighthouse at Promthep Cape, one of the most famous in the country, the Wat Chalong temple to honor the country’s Buddhist background; or the Kata Noi Beach or Kamala Beach, both quiet and secluded spots. In Phuket, spas are the perfect ending to your journey after shopping or island hopping! What better place for a traditional Thai massage than Thailand?
10 Spas in Phuket Recommended for an Authentic Thai Massage
Thai massages don’t have to be experienced at only a luxurious spa, but it is undeniable that luxury improves the atmosphere in numerous ways. However, we love a good balance of affordability, amazing traditional Thai massages, and great ambiance. Here are 14 spas that fall safely between the affordable and luxurious ends of the spa spectrum.
If you’re looking for a list only of luxury spas, click here to check out our list of luxury spas in Phuket where we’ve reviewed amazing spas like the Oasis Spa, Banyan Tree Spa, Mandara Spa by JW Marriot, Coqoon Spa and many more.
Please Note: The prices mentioned below are from the rates which were available at the time of writing.
#1 Spa Burasari
This spa is in the Burasari Resort, in the heart of the lively city of Patong, famous for its nightlife and its most beautiful beach, Patong Beach. Spa Burasari has a calming ambiance, and refined and soothing music, and is well-known for its professionalism. Massage therapists are highly trained and popular for their skillful massage techniques and attentiveness to client preferences.
The spa offers a variety of treatments, from facials to manicures, pedicures, foot massages, neck and shoulder massages, deep-tissue massages, the famous traditional Thai massage, and much more. The services are offered in private treatment rooms and are available for individuals, couples, and families.
Location
Burasari Resort, 18/110 Ruamjai Road in Patong, in the Kathu District of Phuket.
Affordability and Review
- Massage treatments start as low as THB 1,200 for a reflexology massage and THB 1,400 for a 60-minute Thai massage session.
- “Excellent massage”, “exceptional experience”, and “fancy and friendly” are some of the general opinions expressed by clients on the ambiance, hospitality, and every massage treatment at Spa Burasari.
#2 Ni Massage
Ni Massage is a humble massage spa, extremely popular amongst locals, ex-pats, and tourists for its extraordinary massage treatments. Despite the lack of a luxury atmosphere, the spa is still immaculate and comfortable for clients, with a tranquil interior setting, and soothing music to accompany it.
The star of Ni Massage is its exceptional massage therapists, who carry out the Thai massage and deliver a strong but rejuvenating experience at extremely reasonable rates.
The spa provides a series of western and traditional treatments, from aromatherapy massages to herbal oil massages, facials, gentle massages, powerful Thai massages, and more. Ni Massage is one of the best local spas in Phuket, perfect for budget travelers and even affluent globetrotters.
Location
Street 4233 on Soi Ya Nui, Rawai in Phuket. (Less than 9 minutes by vehicle from Nai Harn Beach, so people in Nai Harn can make an appointment too.)
Affordability and Reviews
- The Thai massage starts at only THB 300, with the sports massage at THB 500 and onwards.
- “Ni loves what she does”, “fabulous massage”, and “without a doubt, the best in Thailand”, are some of the commonly expressed feedback on the owner’s professionalism and every spa treatment at Ni Massage.
#3 Siladon Spa
This sophisticated Thai spa is located in the 4-star Marina Hotel in Patong, the most prominent tourist attraction on the island. The spa is renowned for its calming ambiance, great hospitality, and relaxing spa treatments. The combination of this luxury spa and the wellness resort together provides complete relaxation through any body treatments you require.
You can choose from an effective foot massage, a Thai herbal facial, a body scrub, a Thai traditional massage, and many more. There are also many spa packages with a combination of the spa’s massage and beauty treatments that provide a complete body massage for individuals, couples, and families.
Location
‘The Marina Hotel, Phuket is located at Phangmuang Sai Kor Road, in Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150. It is only a 15-minute walk from Patong Beach.
Affordability and Reviews
- The foot reflexology and Thai massage both start at THB 800 for 60 minutes. The spa has many offers year-round, and you can get a Thai massage for as little as THB 400 with the offer.
- “Highly recommended”, “great atmosphere and massage”, and “high quality and reasonable prices” are some of the repeated feedback given about Siladon Spa, Phuket.
#4 NARA Massage and Spa
This brilliant Thai spa is a great choice between high-end luxury spas, and humble local massage parlors for a serene ambiance, with soothing music, splendid architecture, and the choice of private rooms, and spa services handled by professional therapists. This is one of the best spas in Thailand itself for its amazing Thai massage experience and great hospitality.
The spa welcomes people with the calming scent of sweet lemongrass, which stands out like a sweet lemongrass massage. Nara Massage and Spa provides various spa treatments that you can choose, whether you want a foot massage, head massage, facials, aromatic massages with quality herbal and essential oils, and many more.
Location
Located on Patak Road, Chalong.
Affordability and Reviews
- A 60-minute foot massage, or Thai massage, starts at just THB 300.
- “Very professional and excellent service,” “best massage in Phuket,” and “amazing massage” are testimonials that Nara Massage and Spa is accustomed to easily receiving from its happy clients.
#5 RandR Massage (formerly Sabai Sabai Massage)
This humble Thai spa is a popular local and tourist favorite. Known for its strong and authentic Thai massage, this spa is in Chalong, not too far from people indulging in sports training, especially the popular Thai sport of Muay Thai. The restorative massage and spa treatments have effectively released pain and tension in some of the most damaged bodies and are acclaimed for their skilled therapists.
The spa offers a range of treatments from beauty treatments like facials, and nail care to massage treatments like the aromatherapy massage, head, neck, and shoulder massage, the wonderful Thai massage, or a more intense ‘Thai warrior massage’ and more. It is loved by tourists, from solo travelers to couples and families, ex-pats and locals alike, to recover and relax. Spa Sabai Sabai is a common recommendation from all.
Location
It is located on the popular road, Soi Ta-iad, also known as Muay Thai Street in Chalong.
Affordability and Reviews
- Starting price of THB 300 for the traditional Thai massage or a foot massage.
- “Real authentic Thai massage,” “best massage in Thailand,” and “great service and friendly staff” are some of the spa’s most popular feedback.
#6 So Thai Spa Phuket Privilege
Located in Bang Tao Beach, this is one of the chain’s best spa and wellness centers, adorned with the calming effects of nature-led design and atmosphere. The spa is curated to make customers feel comfortable with its immaculate environment and professional staff.
The spa offers a variety of services, from body scrubs to facials, aromatherapy massages, herbal ball compresses, rejuvenating Thai massages, and much more.
Location
The Residence Resort, 258/40 Moo 5, Srisoonthorn Road, Choeng Thale, Phuket
Affordability and Reviews
- The traditional Thai massage starts at THB 750 for 60 minutes.
- “Good value for money,” “best massage we have ever had,” and “the best spa service” are some of the spa’s most common praises for their treatments, reasonable rates, and great hospitality.
#7 Sansabai Massage and Spa
A beautiful, refined spa that stands tall amidst the old Phuket Town, which is famous for its culture and historical architecture. The skilled massage therapists are popular for their exceptional massage techniques, known to relieve age-old pain and muscle tension.
The spa is famous among customers visiting alone or with family, for both the hospitality and the wonderful massage experience.
Location
21 Thalong Road, Phuket Town.
Affordability and Reviews
- The Thai massage starts at THB 350 for 60 minutes.
- “Best massage in town,” “best masseuse ever,” and “reasonable prices” are common expressions of delight and satisfaction by clients.
#8 Devlaya Massage
This airy and bright massage spa is popular for its sensational massage experiences, carried out by the most experienced therapists. The spa is known for its warm welcome with a refreshing drink, immaculate environment, and calming atmosphere, setting the mood for the wonderful massage treatments.
Devlaya Massage offers aromatherapy treatments, body scrubs, aloe vera treatments, an exceptional Thai massage, and many more at extremely affordable prices.
Location
221/1 Moo 8, Pa Khlok in the Thalang District of Phuket.
Affordability and Reviews
- The Thai massage is priced at THB 300.
- “Fantastic place,” “wonderful Thai massage” and “hidden gem” are some of the great reviews of this splendid spa.
Acclaimed for its facilities, Ton Mai Spa boasts an underground central pool, deep-soak baths, and a revitalizing steam room. The spa is extremely popular with special packages including food and beverages after a wonderful day spa experience, followed by the pool and a hearty goodbye.
#9 Ton Mai Spa
The spa’s fame doesn’t stop there and extends to including qualified massage therapists, guiding the most relaxing Thai massage experience, and other treatments.
Location
6/11 Moo 2, Wiset Rd, in Rawai.
Affordability and Reviews
- 350 THB for a Thai massage, with free sauna and pool access.
- “Perfect place to relax”, “will recommend to everyone” and “best sauna experience” are some of the popular reviews about Ton Mai Spa.
#10 In Balance Spa by Novotel Phuket Vintage Park
Basking in excellence with immaculate and spacious rooms adorned with high-quality products, In Balance Spa is a high-end massage indulgence. Bagging the ‘World Luxury Spa Award 2019’, this spa in Phuket’s liveliest city, Patong, has well-trained therapists popular for their excellent skills. The spa offers many treatments, from body scrubs to body wraps, hot stone massages, and many more.
Location
89 Rat U Thit 200 Pee Road, Patong.
Affordability and Reviews
- A 55-minute Thai massage is priced at THB 1,090.
- “Amazing massage”, “luxurious spa” and “excellent service throughout” are general compliments the spa receives.
Become a Thai Massage Fanatic after a Rejuvenating Restoration Process for Your Body
Thai massages are amazingly restorative massage experiences, and this blog explores the most affordable ones. The massages set the body on a healing journey, and there are many spas around the beautiful island of Phuket where you can bask in the sun and beach before unwinding with a relaxing massage.
Book a Thai massage on your next trip to Phuket, Thailand, and unleash your worries and tension!
FAQs
Depending on which type of Spa and massage you choose, you can start as low as 200 THB for a only a foot massage at a local roadside spa and go up to 5000 THB for a full body massage at a luxury resort.
Generally, yes. You can wear your own loose fitting clothes or massage towels or scrub-like garments provided by the spa for a comfortable stretching experience.
