At 73 years old, I have only recently learned the importance of taking good care of my feet. With neuropathy beginning to get the best of them, I decided it was time to do something about it. Last Saturday, while driving through San Marcos, I noticed a small nail and spa shop called Emily's Nail & Spa--coincidentally, Emily is my granddaughter's name. I took it as a sign and decided to stop in and give it a try. Saturday afternoons can be hectic in the manicure and pedicure business, so I wasn't sure what my chances were. The chairs were full, but I was pleasantly told the wait would only be about 15 minutes. I had barely sat down when I was escorted to one of their new, comfortable vibrating chairs and invited to soak my feet in a perfectly warm, whirlpool bath. The shop isn't large, but it is modern, clean, comfortable, and welcoming. My hostess, Ellie, soon began what turned out to be the most enjoyable and comforting pedicure my tired size 14 1/2 EEE feet have ever experienced. I relaxed through the massage and pampering, nearly falling asleep from the sheer comfort of the treatment. Next came my manicure, which was equally impressive--without question, the best I have ever had. During my visit, I enjoyed a refreshing conversation with Ellie. She is warm, kind, professional, and clearly talented at what she does. I highly recommend Emily's Nail & Spa to anyone looking for a relaxing and professional experience. Tell them old firefighter George sent you. read more

Nails by Kelly. She was lovely. Great conversation, also allowed for quiet time and me to relax. Did a wonderful natural manicure I will be back. read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

Thu took care of me and she was absolutely the sweetest! We did a gel pedicure and one of my big toes had a crack in the middle of the nail, she was able to repair it and save it! I also asked for a curved French and she took extra time to get it perfect. She was meticulous with each step. I was grateful to not feel rushed and be able to relax, plus my toes look so cute now Thank you again, Thu - genuinely. read more

I was in the area early for another appointment and decided to treat myself. I was able to walk in, no appointment, and get gel mani/ pedi with nails. They have a large selection of colors in all styles of nail prep (gel, powder, polish). This was a no frills kind of place. I was sat down and never asked what I wanted for my pedi. Usually there's a menu or something. So I had no idea what they were gonna charge other than the sign that's above the nail polish area with some prices listed. There was no small talk, eye contact or anything. That's fine, I enjoyed my time in peace. The pedicure lady was thorough. When the other gal came over to work on my hands she seemed upset I wanted Almond shaped nails and walked away. I said if it's too much trouble I would be fine with just the polish. Eventually a different lady came over and started prepping my nails. Again no menu or questions about what I wanted for my mani. Overall I am pleased with my nails but for $100+ I feel like my hands could have actually been manicured or massaged or something. First time here, more than likely won't come back. read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Inside and price menu - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

We have been going to Emily's for years and are always very happy. They rarely have room for walks ins though so be sure to make an appointment. read more

I've been going here for years and Emily and her team always give the best manicures/pedicures. The salon is clean, peaceful and very relaxing. Plus, their prices are excellent. read more

Had my first visit to Emily's. Kelly did my nails and I am very pleased with the results. I didn't feel rushed like I did at other salons. Will be going back. read more

The only place to get your nails done!!! Establishment is clean, friendly, and a great selection of colors. read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Barbie pink!!! Too much fun!!! - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

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The people were friendly, I was able to walk in, get service in a timely manner and it was not crazy loud like some other larger places. It was the peaceful, high quality experience I was looking for. read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Dip manicure - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

I went in today and got a pedicure which turned out good but she was a little rough on toenails and felt like they were going to bleed. I had also requested to get my acrylics removed and a gel manicure. She removed acrylics but she did not soak at all. Just cut the nail and popped off the rest which ended up damaging my nail way more. I decided not to get a manicure because of how damaged it was and I specifically told her that. She used the tool to take off the left over gel and massaged my hand a little. She ended up charging me for nail removal and a manicure. Does this look like a manicure to anybody!? I said something to her but she insisted it was a manicure and would not budge on charging me for it. I did not get the woman's name but just be careful with what you are being charged if you go here! $25 pedicure $10 nail removal $18 "manicure" read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - "Manicure" that I was charged for after just asking to get acrylics removed. - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

Jimmy took me right away and did an exceptional job!! Thank you for a wonderful pedicure!

Emily & Nikki are so great! Excellent service & reasonable prices! Love coming here for a gel mani! read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Gel manicure - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

I've been going to Emily for 15 years. She's just the best for my nails needs! Nikki is the best for pedicures!

Visiting the area for work and decided to stop in for a regular manicure and pedicure. They got me right in! I'm taking a break from dip and gel manicures and fully expected the regular polish to chip in a few days. A week later and they still look really good! Thank you! read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

I called ahead for a pedicure. I'm so glad I decided to give Emily's a try! I received the best pedicure I've had in years and a terrific massage too! Relaxing, peaceful vibe. Thank you for the kind service. read more

Emily's Nail's & Spa did not disappoint. I wish I had a picture of how my nails looked before this. They were hideous and damaged. Unfortunately I got engaged with those hideous nails but the next day this wonderful place made everything better. They cleaned up my nails and gave me a wonderful pink and white set. I finally feel confident posting photos!!! Thank you to this amazing place with these amazing women! read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Pink & White. Love. - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

I have tried many nail spots in Vista/San Marcos in the last 12 years and this one is THE BEST. . Most other salons run chronically late with their appointments...not this one! They don't overbook and only accept walk-ins if they're slow. They have built a loyal client base. Equally important, ALL the women who work here are super friendly and there's a good vibe in the shop. Last, but certainly not least, this is the best QUALITY in North county!!! read more

I went to Emily's Nails and Spa for the first time last Tuesday for a pedicure. I had not been to a nail salon for several years due to Covid and the closing of my salon of 20+ years. I was so happy with Emily's! Nikki did an excellent job and everyone was very pleasant. The shop was very clean and they clearly honor their appointment times. Great experience...I will be back! read more

My best friend and I have been loyal Emily's gals for the last two years! I attend CSUSM, so this is the perfect location: close to my work, school, and favorite breakfast spot. Every single nail tech provides consistently great results. I come every two weeks for a fill now (used to come every week for a gel manicure!), and every month for a gel pedicure. Amazing prices and always something fun to watch on the TV. This is your new go-to place, peeps! read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Full set of almond-shaped acrylics with gel polish! - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

First visit, came because of positive reviews. I was a tad apprehensive when I arrived, unassuming mall and basic of the basic nail salons. Negative for limited color options compared to other places. It seems they may be transitioning to another brand. I do not like the brand they're currently using I think the quality is low and the colors are sorta transparent. Ask for 3 coats -- I didn't think I needed a third but upon sunlight inspection the color is a tad spotty. Not reflective of her work...it's the pigment. Positive for friendly and detailed nail tech My manicure is great and the finished product is great minus the slightly inconsistent paint (gel) color. Positive it was inexpensive and looks neat. I made an appointment which seems to be appreciated. read more

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Found my go to spot for a mani/pedi. Today, I had two technicians working on me simultaneously. Mani/pedi done in record time. I even brought my own nail polish from home since I'm so hard on my hands at work and chip my nails within three days. They didn't bat an eye and even reminded me to take it home. Make an appointment. They really honor their appointment times. I'll be back! read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - I do have a thumb and they did polish it! HA! Great job at Emily Nails and Spa! - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

***UPDATE*** Another extremely satisfied appointment with Nina (yellow nails pictured) read more

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Love this little place. Today was my third time there and the owner Emily remembered that! I enjoy how quiet and peaceful it is here. Only three ladies, so always make appointment! Glad I found this gem. read more

I was referred to Emilys by a friend. I walked into Emilys a few days before Christmas and the place was so busy! They couldn't help me because I didn't have an appt but it's ok, I knew my chances were slim. I ended up going somewhere else and got my nails done super fast and the quality showed! I knew this time that I needed to call ahead to make an appt and I'm so happy I did! Got my pink and white fill today and they look so much better than they did before! She also did my nails super square, thank you!!! My nails were peeling and breaking off after less than 2 weeks! I actually appreciate the fact that they make appts and honor them, then you won't feel rushed. They do also take walk-ins but I would recommend calling ahead of time. Very happy with my nails today! UPDATE: I was getting my nails done for a few months. When I went to get a fill the lady took off the color of the gel with the drill and my nail was green underneath! I totally freaked! I had her take everything off and i will not be going back. I have to wait for my nail to grow out! read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

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Emilys place is nice comfortable environment I love the vibrating pedicure chairs that they have their staff are good at what they do I have been going to her for 10 years read more

I've been Emily's client for over 6 years. Her work is nothing but perfection. I've tried different ones when she is not available, but it is worth waiting for her. Nobody is capable of providing this quality of work (in my opinion), but I am very picky and perfectionist especially when it comes to my nails. read more

I always make an appointment before going to nail shops and even though Emily was by herself and was working on a girl prior to me coming in, she still took me at my scheduled time. She wasn't as talkative but she was really nice. She was gentle with my hands but very thorough. She did exactly as I wanted. The shape and polish was on point! Also a plus that you can tip on your card AND she gave me a frequency card so if you come here after 5 visits, you get $5 off :) Thanks Emily! read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Done by Emily - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

First time I tried this salon. They got me in quickly and 2 gals were able to work on me at the same time for a gel fill and pedi. Both took their time and didn't rush my services. I believe ones name was Thu and the other unfortunately I can't recall her name. Very nice ladies. Definitely will go again. read more

Great salon option for affordable, simple manicures with stylist who are not going to harass you to add additional services for additional fees. We paid $25 for a gel manicure & $20 for a pedicure. Both stylist did a great job, very detailed and attentive. I like how thing my gel manicure turned out; however, neither could do any designs. I shared a picture from Pinterest and asked if she could do something similar and the only thing she could do was one glittery nail. I was surprised as normally salons have stencils or design options you can select from. My mom encountered the same thing when she asked for a flower on her toe. Her stylist answered honestly and said she didn't do those often. Definitely a great go to place for simple, pretty nails, but if you want anything additional, maybe try a different salon. read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Pink nails with a touch of gold glitter - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

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Loved this place. Got a same day appointment. Emily did my nails and was very meticulous. It was my first time doing the dip nails. I picked lots of different shades :) This place has Awesome prices too! read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Fall nails :) - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

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After coming here a few times, I think I can say that I've finally found a good, reliable nail salon in San Marcos. My experience has improved each time I've come to get my nails done, and the women are all very down to earth and professional in their work. They honor your appointment time and don't keep you waiting! It's a very clean, calm, and pleasant atmosphere in the salon. Nicky did my gel manicure this time, and I'm hooked! She did an excellent job shaping my nails, and the polish alignment is perfect. She didn't rush, but she also didn't take forever- a nice balance of speed and quality. A couple things I love about this salon so far- 1) They have a couple great options in neutral/nude gel colors. I haven't been able to find this at other salons, only colors that are too pink or too brown. So far I've found a warmer tan color and a cooler grayish neutral, and I'm in love with both! 2) I love the way they remove acrylic nails and previous gel color. Instead of ripping off acrylic nails, which obliterates your nail bed, they gently remove the tips by alternating between remover soaks and sanding the leftover acrylic off the nail. When removing gel, they sand a bit off and then soak in remover to weaken the gel, then scrape it off instead of sanding all the way down to your nail bed (which I've found significantly thins and weakens the nails). I'm happy with this salon so far, and I'm sure I'll become a regular. You can tell that this place has generated a loyal client base, and I can see why! read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Gel manicure by Nicky- excellent job! Love the color. :) - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

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I've been looking for a place that I can trust not only with my nails but in price and that won't cheat me and charge me extra . I was really pleased with the staff that I had to bring my mom and sister and they left beyond satisfied from here as I did :) Had nails done 3 weeks ago and still look good. Thank you Ann and Emily we will be coming back . Trying to load up my picture I really hope they come up so you can see how amazing they look :) read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Three weeks old , looking great - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

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Nails done by Emily herself! It was my first time here and was recommended by a friend. It had, in my opinion, many colors to pick from and I couldn't decide which I wanted most. I have homecoming coming up, so I decided to do acrylic nails and she did a fantastic job. The wait time wasn't much of a wait at all, they gave me time to decide on a nail color and all that. The process went by fast as well! Would definitely go again! But they would prefer fo you to make an appointment first than a walk-in, which I did. It guarantees a spot! read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

During the COVID lockdown my regular nail salon closed. I found Emily's on Google and sat outside to get a fill and pedicure. I was so impressed and happy with my nails I never went back!!!!! Excellent service and wonderful staff!!! read more

My first visit... Very clean and I was seen right away...it pays to visit early morning. I want to give 5 stars...the ladies were friendly, accommodating, and my pedi and gel mani are beautiful...however, instead of using foil to remove old gel, I had to soak in polish remover. I don't like soaking because I don't like the way my fingers feel afterwards...usually for a few days. Before I return I'll call to see if they'll use foil, if not, I probably won't go back. read more

This nail salon is great! Had nails done by Emily. Highly recommend her. Also had a pedicure by Kim. She does a great job as well. They're working outside now. read more

I came in yesterday as a walk-in and luckily was able to get worked on right away (it was busy). Ann helped me with both my gel mani and express pedi. Despite my last minute color change, she did an excellent job on both my hands and feet...polish and shape was perfect. Very friendly and was extra careful with me getting in and out of the spa chair since I am 8 months pregnant. I like how they have the different options for pedicures (ex, express vs basic pedi) so you can save a few dollars...I opted to use the savings towards the tip. There might have been other options for gel mani's but I really enjoyed the full service option with the tiger balm and lotion massage...wakes you up and smells amazing. Next time I'll upgrade the pedi so I can get the massage...totally worth it. Ann recommended an appointment for my next visit since I witnessed other walk-ins get asked to come a little later, as all hands were full. Definitely will take that advice. read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Love my gel manicure:) - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

Great job and very clean! She fixed my nail which was causing pain for months. Came here last minute. Will return.

Always five star service. I've gone to many nail salons and this is my favorite. Kim always does a great job on my manicures and pedicures. It is clean and relaxing. I don't do a regular nail service, not gel, but I see many happy and satisfied people after having their nail treatments. read more

Emily's Nails & Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Marcos, California

Back in November 2015, I had my bridal party get their nails done here. I called ahead of time to schedule it and I asked about a group discount (they offered 10% off). We had a large group so we scheduled it where we had 2 groups go in 2 different waves. They did a great job on my gel manicure and reg pedicure for my wedding. Plus they use a bit of tiger balm with their lotion and it was a relaxing touch to help ease the wedding nerves! read more