Wowza, Vanessa is AMAZING! One of the best massages of my life! I cannot wait to go back, this was my first massage with her and everything was awesome. The vibe in her studio just oozes calm. There is a cozy fireplace, she uses essential oils, and I think her table is heated! I also think she uses a weighted blanket when she finishes with your back. (I cannot confirm the last two because I was in such a zen state, I forgot to ask ‍) Every part of the massage is perfect. I cannot wait to book my next appointment! read more

This massage has had lasting positive effects and I generally feel less tense all over. She has the strongest hands and so if you like deep tissue you've met your match. I opted for something more Relaxing but she still really helped with my lower back. Her place is so relaxing and beautiful. You feel as though you're in a little cozy cottage. Truly the nicest little massage studio I've ever been in. I booked a massage for my sister too and she loved it! read more

My official go to. I've gone maybe....6 times by now. I can no longer go to any other masseuse. Vanessa really gets in there and works out the kinks in your muscles. I always feel like a new person afterwards. The little room is so cute too. The ambiance is great. Make sure you arrive early to secure a parking spot. I don't go into La Jolla often so I forget about the traffic. Vanessa is the sweetest person ever. I seriously won't go to any other masseuse ever again. read more

WOW! Everything about Mahina Massage and Wellness is superb. During the 90 minute deep tissue massage, I marveled at how strong Vanessa's are and how she deeply but gently massaged the tension out of my body. The room, the music, the essential oils make you feel as though you are in a 5 star spa. Generally after such a massage, I am sore. Amazingingly, the day after, I felt so relaxed as though Vanessa just finished another massage. Feeling like a different person and planning on Mahina being my go to..........What a sweetheart! read more

I was in serious need of a massage that was close by and Vanessa popped up in my search. Because of poor posture, sitting at a desk all day, and shoulder workouts, my shoulders and upper back were beat. I thought I needed deep tissue but found myself lately not being able to handle it, so I reached out to Vanessa for a recommendation through Yelp. She recommended that we go with a Swedish to start, and if we needed, she could add more pressure from there. I booked a 90 minute Swedish massage and requested an add on for a sugar scrub (free with Yelp check in!) Fast forward to day of, Vanessa recently relocated to this new location in November 2019 so if walk down the courtyard, it is Unit D on the left. Her studio is very nicely decorated and super clean. She also had a sign that said, 'Welcome Karen' which was a thoughtful touch! The message with Vanessa was AMAZING! My body just melted at her touch and my deep knots were soothed. Vanessa also used some aromatherapy during the massage, which I loved! I was also relieved the massage oil she used wasn't too oily so I didn't feel like I was being greased up for a body building comp. Highly recommend! read more

Mahina Massage & Wellness - Super cute!!! - Massage Near Me - La Jolla, California

See all

I have been going to Vanessa for about a year and she is FANTASTIC! She is able to work on tough spots in my muscles and get the knots out. I feel like I get the spa experience in her soothing room with calming music and aromatherapy, while still getting a deep tissue massage to address all the tension in my muscles. I feel like a different person after getting a massage from her! She's also one the nicest people you will ever meet. I'm so happy I found her! read more

See all

I had the best experience! The ambience immediately puts you in a zen mood. Vanessa's energy is amazing, and she is very skilled. This hands down was one of the best massages I have had. Book an appointment- you will not be disappointed! read more

See all

Super professional owner and her massage (according to my wife) was one of the best. Perfect for a gift for your spouse.

I would give Vanessa 10 stars if I could because my deep tissue massage exceeded my expectations. I loved everything about Vanessa: her demeanor, empathy, attention to detail and her healing hands! If you are in the San Diego area, especially La Jolla, Vanessa is the best there is! Thank you for providing such care for me; my body had been traumatized through several months of stress and the sudden death of my father and this experience was everything I needed and more-physically, mentally and emotionally. Thank you Vanessa! read more

Vanessa is the best massage therapist I have ever gone to. She takes her time, is very attentive and accommodating. I am picky with who I go to for massages. I have gone to five star spas and tend to find myself feeling I have wasted my money on mediocre service. Not even these facilities can beat Vanessa's expertise, skill and overall service! Vanessa is absolutely fantastic and is WELL worth her reasonable rate and a generous tip. Plus she is located in beautiful La Jolla. I couldn't recommend Vanessa more! read more

I had been very stressing lately so I want to get a massage and I had been trying different places. I found Vanessa on Yelp and I spoke to her over the phone many times to get into my busy schedule. I finally got a chance to have a 60 minutes massage. She is very amazing! She took her time to listen to you about your concerns. She fixed the problem that I had in my neck and my lower back. The key that I like about the massage therapist is to be positive energy and very patient! She has them all!! I highly recommend this place because I felt like my stress is relieved. Because of her healing hand, I will come back often! Thank you, Vanessa! read more

Vanessa is nothing short of fabulous. Everything from the aesthetic, to her welcoming and calm energy, to the massage itself. 10/10 and will forever recommend. read more

Vanessa is magical! I scheduled an hour deep tissue and went in with so many knots in my back and shoulders and she REALLY worked at them before putting me to sleep with the leg portion of the massage. I left feeling brand new and like I was walking taller! I know I still have some knots, and I didn't expects for them to all be gone in one go, so I will definitely be making another appointment soon! Also, she takes cash, card and Venmo and you have to wear a mask durning the massage but she had more breathable masks available! read more

Vanessa is awesome. She's so sweet and attentive to what you want out of your massage. I feel comfortable at Mahina Body Work and the place is so cute. I finally found my go-to place for my monthly self care. read more

If you are looking for the best massage ever, then you REALLY need to give Vanessa a try. Don't hesitate. I'm surprised she doesn't have hundreds of reviews! I've experienced good massages, great massages, and then there are the ones that make you go whoa.. wow. She is it. Going to her makes me regret all the money I ever spent on Groupon massages at other places, because she is way worth it. You are getting really good value for her talent. You are paying for quality. I still haven't found anyone else comparable... This is my third time seeing her and I booked a 90 min appointment because I knew that 60 min would make me sad when it was over. She's just that good! Pros: 1. You will be transported to paradise 2. AMAZING technique and skills - she did part of her training in Maui and I can tell that her techniques are unique in the best way possible 3. The essential oils smell heavenly 4. Really welcoming atmosphere 5. Special touches - she had a sign that said welcome with my name. After the massage, she offered water or tea, and even a yummy macaron on my way out! 6. Reasonably priced and SO worth it 7. She's so nice yet professional! 8. Five star experience - Okay you're not going to actually be at a 5 star resort spa but you'll feel like it as you're going to be either facing down or closing your eyes most of the time anyways while aaalll your stress gets massaged away. Cons: absolutely none (and I usually find something lacking at other massage places) Tips: 1. Street parking should be easy to find within 5 min. 2. Location is a hidden gem. Go up the stairs next to the Nautical History Gallery & Museum and she's the 1st door on the left. 3. Do the yelp check-in for a free foot scrub! She uses one of my favorite brands, Pure Fiji (I'm obsessed with their lotions), for the sugar scrub. I had a choice of coconut or noni. Omg they both smell so good...like a tropical vacation. TL;DR version: Vanessa will give you the best massage of your life. Will make you wonder why you ever spent money on massages anywhere else. Book an appointment. Be warned you will wish that the massage never ends and will end up booking another appointment. read more

One word,"Magical"...Hands down best massage experience I've had.... If I could give 10 stars I would! I was on vacation and my back/neck issues started up; stiff neck, headache, shoulder pain, back/neck pain, so I scheduled an appointment with Vanessa (Mahina Body Works-Inside the Ka-Lai' Spa) for a deep tissue and shiatsu massage. I walked in and was immediately impressed with the level of cleanliness and the calming serenity of their waiting area. Once inside the room was so warm and pleasant, smelled divine and Vanessa was very polite and curious to know about my ailment, I explained my scm and scapula problems from a car accident years back, and we got to work. Immediately Vanessa could feel the pain I had been carrying far too long she immediately recognized I would take some special care and she was up for the challenge as we explored the problematic areas of my back and neck; knot after knot, the grinding omg I was in such terrible shape.lol. By the time she was done with me I felt 1,000 times better, I was immediately able to sit up straight, shoulders back, loosened neck, no pain...I hadn't been pain free in years. I felt absolutely incredible I felt like I was floating! A month later I came back to San Diego and made it a point to see Vanessa AGAIN! She was so happy to see me return so she could monitor my progress, since my neck/back was soooo terribly bad. And again she worked her therapeutic magic on my neck and back. If I can find my way to SD every month it would be worth it just to be touched by these magical fingers again. Don't miss your opportunity to be healed, see Vanessa! read more

Vanessa is the best!!!!! I love that she uses essential oils, aromatherapy is amazing! She is super attentive to problem areas when I come in with them. There is always parking. She's very reasonably priced. The soft music sets the perfect atmosphere for an overall phenomenal massage. Doesn't hurt that she's simply the sweetest. read more

Wonderful massage! She went easy on me as I asked- super relaxing. I fell asleep at one point! Beautiful, peaceful location, very professional and very caring. I highly recommend and will go back soon! read more

Vanessa is the absolute BEST!!! I have been looking for a good massage therapist in San Diego for years and have tried out many different people but believe me, Vanessa is the best out there! She has great energy and you can tell she really loves what she does. I never feel like she's just "getting through" the massage or going through the motions because she has to. She asks me each time what my problem areas are and does a great job focusing where I need her to while also still managing to address my full body in the time frame allotted. I've never felt more relaxed than after a massage with Vanessa and I think everyone in San Diego deserves to have her in their life! =) read more

Vanessa was amazing! She was very attentive to the more tense areas of my back. I will definitely be booking with her on the regular!

Vanessa was wonderful - super welcoming and comforting environment. Had the deep tissue massage to start working out some golf ball knots that have flanked my shoulder blades for years. Will be booking my next appointment shortly! read more

Vanessa is the best and I highly recommend her! Pros: -She customizes my massage every time. - She has special touches like a super comfy table/bed, aromatherapy and heated blankets -Her room is quaint and decorated to perfection -She gives a discount if you book monthly! -Easy street parking Cons: -I can't go more often! read more

My first visit here, and it won't be my last. Vanessa made sure that I was comfortable with the pressure she exerted, and it was a great experience. I went in feeling stiff, tense, and sore, and I walk out like a brand new person, relaxed and feeling amazing. Vanessa was very meticulous and skillful in how she does the massage. She would ask if you've had any prior injuries and work on the issues you highlighted to her. She even managed to find all the right spots without me telling her. Her skills are extensive, ranging from massage, aromatherapy, specialty massages and more. Her touch is smooth, gentle and strong, always flowing from one area of the body to another. She seems to intuitively concentrate on the areas that need attention and healing. This all happens in a clean and quite establishment. I can't wait to schedule my next appointment read more

Vanessa is the best massage therapist I've had in years. She'll start by asking you what's going on with your body, where you'd like her to concentrate and any other specifics. She has the best touch making sure you're comfortable with whatever pressure you desire. Because of what I do for work, I get extremely tight in my shoulders with a lot of knots and typically massaging those out is uncomfortable but not with Vanessa, it's soooo relaxing and she uses the best smelling/relaxing oils. She'll focus on where you want her to concentrate and will check on you throughout the massage, but it's never too much. Super professional and I left feeling amazing. Also, just have to say, for her quality of massage her prices are a steal. She's definitely worth every penny and more! read more

Such a cute place! I had the Herbal Poultice Massage and it was perfect! The space smells relaxing and is super duper calming. It's also off the main road so you don't hear any outside noises. Will definitely be back! read more

I went to see Vanessa for the first time today. It was hands down the best massage I have ever gotten. To top it off she incorporated essential oils and a foot scrub! I was in absolute heaven. She is very sweet and seems to be truly passionate about what she does. I highly recommend seeing her! read more

I was very nervous to get a massage in covid times but she instantly put me at ease, followed precautions, and really made me feel so much better. I would definitely return again! read more

Vanessa is Amazing!!!! I moved to San Diego from San Francisco and was looking for a local massage therapist and I found one! Vanessa is truly one of the Best massage therapist I've experienced! Recently I had a soar ankle for 2 days and after my massage the next day the pain went away. Try her, you won't be disappointed! She has strong hands and I always feel fabulous after my massage. read more

I am writing a review on behalf of my mom. It has been so hard to find a perfect masseuse for her to take care of her knots and stress! She left her 90 minute massage feeling renewed and refreshed. Vanessa focused on the specific areas that needed the most attention. She will definitely be back soon! Thanks again! read more

Definitely a place I will revisit, without a doubt! Vanessa provides a clean, friendly atmosphere, and shows passion in her craft as well as in her customer service. From beginning to end you feel at ease and leave feeling rejuvenated, no exaggeration. I rated them 4/5, because of parking, but that's beyond their control. -Ed read more

I just had an amazing Deep Tissue Massage from Vanessa, at first I thought Vanessa might be kinda small to really dig in to get the knots out. I was wrong as Vanessa has incredibly strong hands, yet She can also have a gentle and relaxing touch. I'd definitely recommend Vanessa and I will be going back next week! read more

I have been coming to Vanessa for massages for a couple years now. She is amazing! She is always professional and caring to help you melt away all of your stressors. She always caters the massage to your wants or needs pulling out all the bells and whistles (deep tissue, Swedish, pressure points, hot stones, aroma therapy, and the list goes on). I have large knots and need someone to work hard on them. Don't let her size fool you, she is one of the strongest massage therapists I've ever had. Her prices are very reasonable for the quality of her work. The environment is always clean and calming from the moment you walk in to the complimentary beverage and snack on the way out. read more

Vanessa is incredibly talented and has the ability to give me a strong massage as well as be gentle at the same time. I work almost 60 hour work weeks on the daily and I never get any downtime or relaxation but every time I go with Vanessa I learn to relax again and forget about my problems. The atmosphere is very nice and relaxing and she is even kind enough to tailor her relaxing playlist to suit your tastes if you wish. All in all 12/10! read more

I've been meaning to write a review for a while now, but I have to share how fantastic my massages have been with Vanessa! I am so lucky I found her-she has great prices, a flexible schedule, but most of all gives AMAZING massages! She is the perfect combo of strong and relaxing. Plus she is just the sweetest. I'm even booking an appointment for my mom (who lives hours away) to get a massage with Vanessa during her visit:) read more

Vanessa is truly a master of her craft. I have been going to KaLai Spa for years and she is an excellent addition to the team. She is communicative, while still allowing the massage to be soothing and effective. I highly recommend her! read more

I love Vanessa. She is my go to person for massages. Her suite is adorable, relaxing, and even has a fireplace. She is sweet, professional, and gives really amazing massages. Everyone needs some Mahina Bodywork in their lives. read more

Vanessa is amazing, completely relaxing and really knows how to target the spots that are bothering me. The spa room is large and peaceful and there is parking right out front. For a long time I just went to a different place every time I wanted a massage but now I am a loyal client. I highly recommend her! read more

amazing work so knowledgeable about the body and listened to what you have to say so she knows what areas to work on by far best massage iv had!! dont let her size fool you if u need a deep massage she can work on those spots u need. i have to say best attitude knowledge to make your body get back to the way it needs to be.! price is very fair for the amount of work she puts into your body it's. i haven't been in months and im back to a stiff board ,Id give her a shot and i guarantee she will change the way ur body feels and reacts..!! thank you vanesaa read more

Vanessa is meant to be in her career very compassionate healer. Accommodating in booking appointment time. Has many special touches that add to the experience....hot towels, essential oils and heated table. Will make it a point to book in advance for my next trip to Pacific beach. Thanks for giving a beneficial massage that was very relaxing. read more

Not only did Vanessa give a great massage, she was also very informative. I didn't know there were so many different massage techniques they can be applied depending on the situation. Not only her knowledge but the massage she gave was amazing. I felt much looser and relaxed afterwards. You can tell she is someone who does what she does not only because its her job, but because she is very passionate about it. I highly recommend seeing her whether its your 1st massage or 100th. read more