Business Details
42 Years
experience
Your Sanctuary for Relaxation in Santa Cruz
Tea House Spa has been a sanctuary for relaxation and cultural connection since its founding in 1984. Our roots trace back to the late 1940s when Anne Sunlight established a Japanese tea garden to foster East-West understanding. The Nelson family revitalized the space in 1978, transforming it into a spa that opened in 1984. After a major renovation in 1996, we became a premier destination for massage therapy, cedar saunas, and curated tea experiences. In 2022, new local ownership ensured our historic preservation while modernizing amenities. We specialize in adult-only private spa experiences featuring seasonal artisan teas, saltwater hot tubs, and personalized massages.Our commitment to tranquility is reflected in private rooms with bamboo garden views and eco-conscious body products. With over 40 years of combined operational history, our team maintains rigorous standards for guest safety and comfort. We enforce strict policies against alcohol, smoking, and disruptive behavior to preserve our serene environment. Our facility requires advance reservations with 24-hour cancellation policies to ensure optimal service delivery.
Services
Massage Therapy
Saltwater Hot Tubs
Cedar Saunas
Artisan Tea Service
CBD Add-ons
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We offer private adult-only spa experiences since 1984
- Our facility features historic bamboo gardens and cedar saunas
- We provide seasonal artisan tea selections from Steven Smith
- We maintain strict tranquility policies with no alcohol/smoking
- Our 2022 renovation preserved historic elements while modernizing amenities
What people say
Amazing private experience
Historic ambiance
Professional staff
Perfect couples retreat
Excellent tea selection
Services
Room One Experience
Our signature 2.5-hour experience features 70-minute side-by-side massages, private heated soaking bath, cedar sauna, and seasonal tea service. Guests enjoy exclusive access to bamboo garden-view rooms with plush amenities and Bonny Doon body products. Ideal for couples seeking comprehensive relaxation in a luxurious setting.
Gemini Package
This 2-hour package combines 50-minute massages with hot tub and cedar sauna access. Features saltwater purification systems maintaining 103-104F temperatures. Includes tea service and organic body products. Designed for guests wanting balanced therapeutic treatment with private soaking facilities.
Hot Tub and Sauna Rooms
90-minute private reservations for saltwater hot tubs and cedar saunas. Rooms include natural slate walls, redwood decks, and bamboo garden views. Water maintained at therapeutic temperatures with ozone purification. Available for two guests maximum with optional single-occupant pricing.
Artisan Tea Service
Curated selection of Steven Smith artisan teas changing with seasons. Complimentary service available throughout visits. Features traditional Japanese preparations and specialty blends served in private rooms or garden areas. Enhances relaxation and cultural experience.
CBD Add-ons
Vital Body CBD products available as massage oil upgrades. Provides additional therapeutic benefits for muscle relaxation and stress relief. Available upon request through reception for qualifying treatments. Integrates with standard massage therapy sessions.
People
Anne Sunlight
Founder
Established Santa Cruz's first Japanese tea garden in the 1940s to promote cultural understanding. Created a space for post-WWII reconciliation through traditional tea ceremonies and dialogue.
Randall Nelson
Former Owner
Purchased property in 1978 and transformed overgrown garden into award-winning spa. Oversaw 1996 renovation that introduced shoji rooms and cedar saunas while preserving historic elements.
Aimee Nelson
Former Co-Owner
Partnered with Randall Nelson to develop spa facilities. Instrumental in maintaining cultural authenticity while modernizing amenities during 1978-2022 ownership period.
Questions
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit and debit cards for reservations. Payment processes automatically at checkout with card on file.
Can I book single massage sessions?
We currently only offer couples packages at this location. Single sessions available at our new Santa Cruz Spa location.
What are your age requirements?
All guests must be 18+ with valid ID required at check-in for safety and compliance purposes.
Are there clothing requirements?
Clothing is optional in private rooms. Massage guests undress to comfort level with full sheet coverage during treatments.
Do you have parking facilities?
We don't have private parking. Metered street spaces and adjacent paid lot available with ParkMobile app integration.
Can I add massages to hot tub rooms?
Our current layout doesn't accommodate massage additions in hot tub rooms due to space constraints.
