I had visited Beacon Massage when they were on Newbury, so this was the first time I had been to the Beacon Street location. I haven't been in quite some time, but I had been gifted a Groupon that I needed to use before it expired, and since my regular massage therapist (at a different business) was away for a month, I decided to cash in my voucher. This massage was nothing like the previous ones I had received from Beacon Massage. For one thing, a good 15 minutes of my allotted massage time was spent on a lecture about my posture, my sleeping position, my stance, and my exercise habits. If I had wanted such advice, I would have gone to my chiropractor or my doctor. Second, a good 10 minutes was spent with the massage therapist seeing how "uneven" my body was, which required me to be on the bed in my clothes while I was told that one leg was slightly longer than the other, one hip was higher than the other, etc. Very strange. Third, I had asked for a focus on my upper back and instead most of the massage was spent on my arms. When I opened my eyes to peak at the clock, 15 minutes had gone of just arm work! I was told to flip to my front for only 10 minutes of back work (remember, 25 minutes had been spent on a lecture and fixing my "unevenness". After leaving the room, I was treated to another lecture about my posture and how I shouldn't ask for back work, and then the massage therapist immediately asked how I wanted to tip. I always tip, but I still find it rude to ask outright about it, especially after having just lectured me on things you think I need to correct in my life. I'm very disappointed by this massage, especially since I previously had some decent ones from Beacon Massage. I visited for a relaxation massage, but instead received a lecture about my body that was pretty condescending and anything but relaxing. I won't be coming back. read more

I purchased a one hour massage through Groupon and I was never able to book an appointment or reach anyone at this business. I would recommend saving yourself the hassle. Too many other businesses out there that are responsive and care about new business. I called and emailed them several times over the course of 2 weeks and never received any replies. I attempted to visit the business in person but their limited hours made the difficult for my schedule. I ended up getting a full refund from Groupon and now I'm posting here and there to share my experience. I also attempted to book the appointment through their website, but after trying 2 different browsers I could not get their scheduler to work. Over all very disappointing. read more

This place is great. It's inside a chiropractic office. Jason gave a wonderful massage and honed in on where I had the most tension. I'm sore today but in a good way! My back feels so much better. They were very accommodating. The room was nice and relaxing. Parking stinks so try to take public transit but highly recommended! read more

Beacon Massage is not a spa experience and I wouldn't recommend it to someone looking for that. They have an office setting and because they are in an older building, use a rather loud portable AC in the room during the summer. They try to cool the room down before your appointment and shut off the ac during the session, but depending on the day, could get hot again. I found Beacon Massage through Groupon and probably wouldn't pay full price. My first appointment was with Claire and I did not enjoy it. She didn't dim the lights or close the window shades so I didn't feel particularly relaxed. Her pressure was inconsistent and she'd use too little on some areas and too much on others. My second appointment, thankfully, was with Jason who was amazing! He was super knowledgeable and explained to me how certain muscles connect, why they would hurt and what I could do to help alleviate it. I would go back for Jason, but unfortunately they do not allow you to choose who you get as a therapist; this is something I strongly dislike. I'm also not a fan of the office setup. read more

I bought a couple massages via Daily Candy last year for my mom and me, thinking we could get massages simultaneously after a nice day in the city. Unfortunately, this (at least it was in 2011), is a pretty small operation and they weren't able to accommodate the two of us at the same time on the day we were available - they only offered that one day a week. We ended up making back-to-back appointments, which was actually kind of a pain because it was raining out (in October), and one of us just had to bum around and wander through Marshalls while the other was getting the massage. As far as the whole experience goes, the man who owns the business was very nice and friendly. It did feel a little bit like being in somebody's apartment though. We ended up having a little trouble gaining access to the building and getting buzzed-up, and the studio was definitely on the small side. My mom and I both had the same massage therapist who was very nice, but a little creepy in how seriously she took the appointment. We both had to have pre and post consultations behind closed doors while instructed to sit in a chair as we were asked questions. Maybe I'm just too lax (being from Calif.), but that felt a little strange to me... more so once the appointment was over. Once I got dressed (in private) and came back out to the lobby, the massage therapist was waiting with a cup of water (normal), and then instructed me to go back into the tiny massage room where she closed the door. I was standing drinking my water, but she asked me to sit down so she could discuss the massage. (why do I need to sit to discuss??) Her: "How do you feel?" Me: "good." Her: "Did you have any discomfort at any point?" (or something along those lines) Me: "no." Her: "is the tension in your shoulders released?" Me "um, yes" [It actually may have been interesting to have answered with challenging responses.] My mom went through the same rigmarole. Maybe they do this for insurance reasons? The massage itself was nice, but a little on the light side. Personally I don't think I would probably go back because the set-up felt more residential than commercial and I found the exit interview forced and uncomfortable. Barring those two factors, it was decent. read more

I've been to Beacon Massage for the third time yesterday, and every time I went, I felt so rejuvenated. It is definitely not a "spa" experience - the room is simple but comfortable, and both therapists I had (Patrick & Suzette) were there to get my knots out and relieve the overall tension in my body. I usually get a couple massages throughout the year to alleviate stress from work and to help with my back and shoulders issues. Previously, I had gone to a couple of different places in the same area and while I had great massages there, I felt I was paying more for the "spa" experience than the actual work. Beacon Massage is a very professional place. It may not be the "spa" like some of the other places around, but I actually liked that it is more on the therapeutic side and very relaxing. The place is clean and professional. It's definitely a place to go to if you're looking for a good massage to work out your knots. I had 2 appointments with Patrick and 1 with Suzette over the last 4-5 months. Both therapists were excellent. I told them my concerns and what areas I wanted to work on and they both accommodated my requests. I am totally hooked and will definitely be going back again. read more

I received a coupon to get a massage done at Beacon Massage for my birthday. I was really looking forward to this appointment because I needed this time to myself to relax but alas, it was far from relaxing. It was tricky getting in to the place as you have to dial up and have someone answer to let you in. It took about 10 minutes before I got buzzed up to the small studio. The man who let me in was very nice but the space was very cramped and seemed somewhat out of place. I went in to my massage and asked the woman for medium pressure and that my collar bone is a sensitive area, but it was the most painful massage of my life! I experienced more pain than pleasure. She used her elbows that were digging in and I could feel my body cringing, which I thought the masseuse would pick up on (even when I said it was sensitive again) but she was going hard. I ended up getting bruises on my back from the strong pressure. Also, the room where I had my massage was very bright and all I could hear was the traffic outside. It was hard to be in meditation with all the hustle and bustle. Don't get me wrong, the staff were friendly but I unfortunately I wouldn't go back. read more

I've been to Beacon Massage twice, and both times were stellar. This is not a "spa" experience - the room is simple but comfortable, and your therapist is there to get your knots out. Beacon Massage often runs promotions on bloomspot and similar sites, and they have an amazing student special ($39/60 mins relaxation). Another plus is ability to schedule online. I highly recommend checking it out. read more

I found a deal with Beacon Massage on Gilt City and took my girl friend for her first ever massage. I was eager to get my massage on and get those pesty knots finally worked out from my shoulders. I find out after I'm on the bed that Laura had only been there since April. I didn't mind but it does explain how hard she was working on my knot, so much that I had tears in my eyes and screamed in pain to tell her to stop. Only go here if you purely want a massage. They do have the relaxing music but the masseurs end up talking over the music. If you want to be pampered, go to G2O or some other high end salon on Newbury. Beacon Massage is great for the miser or the student (especially since they run so many student specials) and daily specials. My friend had a different masseuse and really enjoyed her experience. I'd check it out again just to make sure that my experience was not clouded by someone who just started kneading people. read more

Wow, what a massage by Judah! Those knots in my muscles & aches from various things went by the wayside. I can't remember ever learning something while getting a massage but certainly did then. It was good to have someone who knew what they were doing as a clinical massage differs from a relaxation one. There were muscles he worked I didn't even realize I had, like seriously, pretty damn good. Getting a groupon was easy but trying to get into this building is not. Even when you buzz to get in & go up the elevator the system didn't really work so then someone had to come down to bring me up in the elevator. I highly suggest you go early because you will lose time going through this process & you don't get to make up for lost time. read more

I am very picky about massages and had the same masseur for 6 years before I relocated to Boston. After trying several locations, I am very pleased with my past experience at Beacon Massage. Jason is such a welcoming person and he tries his best to accommodate schedule, inquire about any specific needs, answer questions and really put a personal as well as professional touch on his business. I was surprised to read a review that said this place is only for deep tissue massage, when I have at time requested relaxation Swedish massage and it was spot on. Great skills and really knows how to study the muscle before he starts his work on it. My neck pain started to feel better after he worked on it. In essence, at massage place you need three things; Comfort and relaxation, cleanliness and well-trained person and you get the three of them here. I am continuing to be his costumer. read more

I had an outstanding experience across the board at Beacon massage this week. The waiting area was very cool and comfortable which was a godsend on a sweltering hot day. Claire my masseuse was very friendly and personable. She did a brief intake with me asking about any problem areas i had in particular and then got down to the business of alleviating those aches and pains. She knows exactly what she is doing and after a few minutes i knew i was in good hands. Literally. By the end of my hour massage i felt like i could walk on water,but i settled for drinking the free poland spring available in the waiting area. I highly recommend this place & Claire in particular. read more

Has quite literally the best massage of my life with Claire!! She's such a darling. I feel so extraordinarily good in a way I haven't felt in a really long time!! Really want to come back!! read more

Wow. I just had an incredible massage earlier this afternoon with Jason. He was thoughtful, attentive, and really worked to relieve my muscle tension. The massage room was small but warm (in a good way) with soothing music throughout. I could only barely here the sirens outside on the busy Back Bay streets. In the room were hanging medical posters of the bones and muscles of the human body. Jason, while massaging, explained some of the muscles in which I had tightness. Additionally (presumably due to his knowledge and understanding of muscle fascia), he was able to access deeper muscles by orienting my arm/shoulders in different ways. This aspect was unique in that I have never had a masseur/masseuse do this. But the result is amazing, my back feels totally incredible! On my way out I was offered tea and/or water along with paperwork for stretching my problem areas. I really enjoyed my experience here and highly recommend Beacon Massage. I'm already thinking about when to schedule my next massage. (: read more

I went today and had a fabulous relaxing massage. I had a Bloomspot deal, but this experience was worth the full price and I will be going back. I had Patrick who took the time to listen to my specific needs and he handled them perfectly. One of the other two commenters here has mentioned that if you are looking for the "spa" experience, this is not the place. However it was clean and relaxing. Very professional and soothing. It's an easy hope off of Arlington on the Green Line. Or you can do what I did and walk through the Public Gardens & the Common. read more

I was a bit skeptical at first, as I sat in their closet-sized waiting room. Although I was significantly late to my appointment, They hapily greeted me and did their best to accomodate me, and give me the amount of time that I had originally scheduled. I felt that they gave me an extremely thorough massage, and I was more than happy with their work. I really felt that they contoured the massage around my unique stresspoints and were very knowlegable on what they were doing. My favorite part was that they were able to give me detailed explinations on what they were doing and why. Pros: professional, well trained, thorough, friendly Cons: tiny space. Not a big deal unless you're very claustrophobic. read more

This place is great for a legit massage and is a complete value play. If you are looking to be pampered go for $100+ massage at a spa. Just left a few hours ago and very happy I found it. The bed was very comfortable, clean, decor mediocre, and therapist (Laura) great. Laura was able to find the knots, work on them, and even advised on a long term solution. Great experience, will return for the routine "non-spa" massage. read more

Had a FANTASTIC massage with Jason! He was very professional and helpful. -1 star because the area isn't the best and it is hard to make an appointment (not many appointment times). Make sure you plan ahead, especially if you can only make times not during normal business hours. Given the price, it's wonderful, but keep in mind this is not an upscale spa if that's what you're looking for! Will definitely be back! read more

The massage therapist here do excellent work, but I have been trying to reach them for a week without success!

**Updated to reflect the WORSENING of the treatment I have experienced as a customer*** I was deeply disappointed with my experience at Beacon Massage. I purchased a Groupon for an hour-long massage here. I was unable to come in for a while and so my Groupon expired. I came in not expecting the deal to be honored but to receive credit for the amount I paid on my Groupon, which is stated clearly on the website and the groupon itself. At the end of my massage, the masseuse told me she would not be able to accept it, which I was extremely surprised by, and has never happened to me before. I received a refund from Groupon but was extremely disappointed with the professionalism and customer service at this place. Secondly, it's also very tricky to get into the business. You have to go inside the building, and then dial the building number. I had to dial their button 3 times before someone picked up and let me in--I called intermittently but no one picked up, all of which I was very confused by. The massage itself was satisfactory. I didn't feel progress was really made on my knots, but it wasn't the worst massage I've ever had. But any goodwill I had or enticement towards their student massage rates was completely dissipated by my experience. If you're not going to abide by Groupon's conditions, then don't participate. I definitely will not be back. --- In response to the owner's comments that I was quite dismayed to see I was accused of deceitful behavior instead of having my issues addressed: Hi Jason, I take serious offense to your comment that I posted this review and attempted to somehow make a deceitful transaction?! I paid for my massage in full so am unaware as to how this would be considered deceitful. As the masseuse refused to let me apply my store CREDIT to the amount that I was supposed to pay, I then contacted Groupon about receiving a refund, so in NO way did I deceive the system in any way. I am an honest customer and have always left honest reviews on my account. You can check my visit record to see which masseuse I booked. I did NOT ask her to honor the deal but to simply apply the amount I paid to the amount that was due, which she refused to do. I chose the "Student" option because I AM a student, and I expected to simply have the amount I paid Groupon to be applied to that price. Since I went to your business, received the massage, and did not have an experience that made me want to pay your business a repeat visit, I chose to request a refund from Groupon. I have consistently been both a loyal Groupon and Yelp user. The fact that you choose to accuse me of trying to cheat the system instead of addressing the issue I raised further cements the issues with customer service that I experienced at your institution and I will not be shy about preventing others from experiencing such unpleasant treatment at your business. --- Addendum: I am pretty sure it is basic customer service that if your customer is upset and has a complaint, it is NOT prudent to accuse them of something unfounded in return. This is the first time I have had to request a refund from Groupon and also the first time that I have experienced this kind of treatment from a business. I do wish that Groupon would exercise more quality control regarding which business they choose to partner with. Partnering with Groupon means not just honoring a deal while it is ongoing, but ALSO honoring store credit after the deal has expired. Beware and take your business elsewhere. read more

Quick Points: Very Professional. Convenient Location. Great Pressure. No Showers! Had Groupon (would not pay full price) Full Review: I found Beacon Massage from their Groupon promotion. A 60-minute massage for $49 was a great deal, especially for Boston's Newbury St. I had an appointment with Jason, and he was great about applying the type of pressure I was asking for. He was also very professional. I was a little thrown-off to find there was no receptionist or other staff members. There was literally just Jason, a small waiting room, and the one massage studio room. The website does say it's only one room. But I hadn't read it before I went - so that ones on me. I guess the lack of staff is how they're able to keep costs down and offer such deals. The reason for the 3 stars. First, is the difficulty to enter the building. I used the intercom system repeatedly and did not receive an answer after calling the suite. I was lucky enough to have someone happen to take the elevator down. So I was able to get into the elevator without needing someone to get it for me. The biggest reason for the lower rating is that there are no showers or locker room. One of my favorite parts of getting a massage is the shower afterwards. I was disappointed to not be able to do so. Overall, it was a very nice massage for $59 ($49 groupon + $10 tip). I did still tip him because he did his job well. If I could get another deal, I might go. But if I were to ever have to pay full price ($109 for a 60min relaxation massage), I would take my business to some place with showers/locker room. read more

The massage was fine, but the business practices of this place are terrible. They do not answer their phone, or return calls if you leave a message. Of the two email addresses I was given, one bounced and the other replied only once to 5 messages I sent. The web site says you need to enter a credit card just in case you no-show for an appointment, but my credit card was charged $50, even though I had a "groupon" with $180 credit on it, because of the way they "pro-rated" the value of the certificate. Avoid this place. read more

DO NOT GO THERE!!! You will be sorry all your life!!! This is not the place where you want to go. The guy Jason did the worth massage I have ever had. And it was so dirty.. ughhh There are so many good massage places in Boston, but not this one!!! read more

I received a massage from Beacon in the late spring. It was quite hot inside and there was no working air conditioning so it was tough to fully relax. I came in through the Groupon. It is an okay value with that but i probably wouldn't go back and certainly not for full price - might as well go to a more professional location. read more

I wanted to write and update to let everyone know that the owner, Jason, reached out to me almost immediately after this review to offer me a refund or another massage. I think this shows the integrity of the business and the willingness to make an unpleasant experience a little less unpleasant. Thank you. read more

I got on a list for last minute deals at Beacon Massage, so I booked my massage with only an hour and a half notice but that meant it was half price! The place is very small, two rooms on the second floor of a building. Not spa like, but very comfortable and relaxing. I really enjoyed the massage and will for sure go back. At $40, this is the most affordable luxury on Newbury! read more

I went with my girlfriend on a deal she got. I hit the gym hard the week before to get nice and sore. I am now sitting waiting for her to finish and am nice and relaxed. I have bad shoulders and she worked all the knots out. If it were ancient times my masseuse would be known as knot hunter. Anyone who can find and take out a knot solely with her elbow has my appreciation and respect. It hurts so good! read more

Why? I needed a massage because I had been sitting on a plane for 20 hours, traveling from half the world away. Where? The location is easy to get to, corner of Newbury & Berkeley. Two massage rooms form the letter L (they're not side by side); better this way so that I didn't hear the conversation from the other room. Who? I was seen by Patrick. Beacon Massage is new, they're trying hard & doing their best to try to get you as regular customer. And I think they're doing all the right things. Result? I got a great massage for 1 1/2 hour and felt better right away. I already made another appointment for my next massage with Patrick. read more

This place is great for those looking for a massage that relieves stress and sore or tense muscles. Jason is a very professional and knowledgeable massage therapist and did a great job relieving the stress in my neck, shoulders, and lower back. For those looking for a more spa-like experience, this may not be the place for you, as Beacon Massage is more geared towards treating deep muscle problems (this is the only reason for the 4 star rating). But as someone who works out frequently and has ongoing tension in my back, I was very pleased with how Jason worked on my muscles. I will definitely be going back here. read more

I went here with a Rue La La voucher but will definitely be back. I had Erin and she was great- asked me just the right amount of questions and then after the massage was over showed me exactly which muscles had abnormal tensions on the anatomy chart. As a runner, this was very important to me since it showed me what muscles I have been overemphasizing. To echo what other reviewers have said, the "spa" environment is not present here but it is clean, comfortable, and well run. As a person who loves spas and the whole spa experience, to say that I will be coming back here for a massage speaks volumes about the quality of the massage I received. One more thing- I tend to get bored with massages as I have a short attention span. When she said she was done with the massage I thought for sure she had shorted me on the time since it went by so fast but when I looked at the clock it had been exactly an hour. A massage that goes by fast and is targeted to what I need. Yes, please! THe ONLY problem I had with the experience was that she had me lie facing up to start and waited to come in, but the overhead light was on so it was bright on my eyes. As soon as she walked in she realized she had accidently left it on and apologized and turned it off. read more

My mother, who has shoulder pain, got a superb massage at Beacon Massage and suggested I give them a try. I'm glad I listened. The location is easy to get to, the ambiance is relaxing, clean, and professional. Treat yourself you deserve it. read more

I have had several massages here with different therapists and all have been fantastic - i don't really have a preference. One of my favorite things about this place is that, when they have same day cancellations, they offer the time slot at a huge discount. I always seen to get those emails on days when I really need a massage - like today! The atmosphere is more like a clinical setting than a spa - but it's not like you're on an examining table with a paper liner. It is very comfortable and quiet. I agree that the sunlight coming through the windows can be bright, but I have always been offered a hand towel or washcloth to put over my eyes. read more

Got a groupon. Was a bit nervous just because you never know with a groupon, but this was by far the best massage I've ever gotten. I've been getting routine massages for a few years now and this was the best! read more

I had a horrible experience here. Most painful massage of my life! It felt as though she was injuring me rather than helping me relieve tight muscles. Throughout the whole thing she didn't even ask me if I was uncomfortable or in pain, she told me it was "good for me" when she heard me audibly cry out in discomfort. I really don't recommend this place. Really weird location and almost creepy vibe too. read more

My headline would read: The client is always at fault (according to Jason, the owner). After two ok massages in the past (OK, though not the best I've had), I had appointment in August for the 2nd of a BOGO purchase. Made appointment on line far ahead as availability seems limited. On way to 262 Beacon St by MBTA and on foot, I called to confirm, only to find out he had moved (again). NOTE: Google "Beacon Massage Boston" and Google still says it is located at 262 Beacon St!! I realized I couldn't get to Court Square and was surprised and annoyed that he never sent an email to alert clients with appointments that he was moving. So I called and said I couldn't get downtown at last minute. Never got a phone or email reply. So I set up a new appointment for last Friday. Had to do it on line, gave credit card, and called office (virtually always get voicemail) to alert it was a make up (from my vantage point) for the missed appointment in August. So I take the T downtown and show up at Court Sq (btw it's a small space shared by at least 3 different businesses) and Jason is a no show. Called, texted, waited 45 minutes...nothing...no call, no response, no show. He sent emails afterward telling me that some mysterious office manager (she wasn't in the office...) had cancelled my appointment and sent notification not to the email I used to book the appointment. never mind a phone call....but to some non-working email they thought was mine. Jason said the 2nd massage was forfeited by my last minute cancelation in August when he had moved a few days previously. My fault for not showing up!! My fault for showing up last Friday and not knowing it had been cancelled!! I had expected an apology (silly me!) and perhaps a 90 minute massage at a discounted rate. Reasonable or unreasonable? Yes, the rates are inexpensive. But communication is really lousy (They've moved twice in a year...you'd think they'd be sure to let clients know) and willingness to make up for their errors is zero. Stay away! read more

TOTALLY AWESOME! I had a massage here yesterday with Patrick, and it was exactly what I needed. I am a dancer and choreographer, so my body needs a lot of upkeep. It gets pretty beat up. We had a great talk before the massage started about some injuries I am working with, and he did an amazing job working on the muscles that have been compensating as a result. I also fell asleep on the table a few times and he was great and just let me sleep as he kept working - we had talked in the interview about the fact that I have a toddler, and I so appreciate his sensitivity to my lack of rest! I will be going back as often as I can afford to, which will be easier than at most places because of the super-reasonable pricing. :) read more

I recently used my Groupon at Beacon Massage and was very pleased with the customer service displayed by Jason and Claire. Jason was very accomodating and professional when it came to me showing up late because of the parking situation. He rescheduled me to work with Claire and I'm glad that he did. Claire paid close attention to my lower back and gave me an extremely relaxing and therapeutic massage. There was very relaxing music playing and the temperature was perfect in the massage room. Overall very pleased and thankful for the work Claire did. The only reason for not a full 5 stars is because if you go during the day and you have to drive, you will most likely find it very difficult to find parking. I suggest getting an evening appointment or taking public transportation. read more

There was something about Jason and the whole setup that was creepy -- really difficult to get into the building even having an appointment, and i've never seen a massage outfit in a setup like that. no showers, and I felt very isolated going there -- turned around and left. His rates are cheap, and he didn't do anything wrong, but I felt completely uneasy about the place. Go somewhere else. read more

I bought this 60 minute massage from groupon. The massage was amazing! My therapist Jason did an excellent job working out all my knots and also educated me about what i can do to prevent future body strains as well as gave me some exercises to try for stretching out my problem areas. Yes it was a little difficult to get ahold of however all you have to do is leave a message and they call you back that day. Its not a spa, its literally just a room, however i was only going for the massage not the spa atmosphere. And i must say it was AMAZING and probably one of the best massages ive ever had! Will definitely be going back to see Jason read more

Incompetent staff, uncomfortable environment and poor technique. I frequently get massages and this one was by far my worst. I would suggest looking elsewhere. read more