Like many others on this yelp chain, I have been coming to this place for a decade. It has recently changed to "Ripple Spa" and apparently it's under new management. The woman, her daughter, and her dog were there. The dog was very loud and barked a lot. Apparently I led the charge because when I got there, there was no one - and in the matter of the hour, I counted four people coming in, and I stopped counting at six interruptions in my massage when she had to go and answer the phone, talk to people in the lobby, get people settled in another room. And every time she answered the phone she told people to come down because it's not busy.... I could have forgiven all of that, and I might have even come back because historically the price has been right. The $50 massage, $10 tip, not bad for someone with no Massage training. But when I was leaving, she stopped me and asked me for $30 tip. She pointed to a new sign that they have that says that a good massage is $20 tip and a great massage is $30... and I'm wondering why would I pay 60% on a substandard massage that was interrupted 6+ times... I leave both excellent and not so excellent reviews here. Unfortunately, today was not so excellent. Would definitely not recommend because you'll be incredibly disappointed, if not incensed! :( read more

The lady was nice. However, I was never asked what pressure I would like. I ended up getting a 1hr hot stone massage for $80. At first she was too rough so I asked to go medium. It felt like she was just going through the motions. Not really hitting the right spots. The quality of the massage did not match the price. My experience was worth $50-$60 if that. It was cold in the room but I noticed they had a small space heater in the room which helped. Until I heard someone come in. She stopped the massage to help them then proceeded to unplug and take the space heater out to put in another room I'm guessing. Which I'm sure it took up some of my massage time. As we finished she left the room and I got my things together and started to walk out. I saw her helping someone as I was leaving and she stopped me to ask for a tip. Although I feel like the massage didn't deserve one, I tipped her a little because she asked.... Almost a week has passed now and I have already had 2 strains in my back. I am 25, this does not happen. She really fucked up my back. I love to support small businesses but in my opinion, if you are going to be in the holistic healing field....make sure you know what you're doing. read more

This is my first time leaving a review ever, but I am so angry that I had to! My mom called yesterday to get a massage, the lady that answered told her it would be $50. When the massage was done, the lady told my mom the total was $60. Okay cool, maybe we heard wrong and what's $10 more. My mom leaves a $10 tip & the lady holding the bill with such disgust says "that's it?" I'm sorry, what do you mean that's it??!!! I understand everything is going up in price, but tipping is appreciated not expected. How dare you question how much someone tips. We will never come back here. Such a sad business read more

You get what at you pay for. If you go when they are busy, the front desk lady/ manager will do your massage. She answers the phone while doing your massage and even leaves your room to jot down notes back at the front desk. I would have preferred if she was honest when I called to book the appointment and told me they were busy, I would have scheduled an appointment for a later date. Staff and management talk a lot during the massage. She's not the best at giving massages. This lady has also tried to force me to pay tip before the massage has even started...umm NO MAM...I've come here many times. This is happening more often. I won't be coming back. read more

I was there today. it's new owner not as same like before. . I get combination i do combination but the same like before she's great.

Amazing! If you get the foot massage they also do a bit of head shoulder and back included the prices did change but it's still super affordable and amazing to have ! It's really relaxing and something I tend to fall asleep here. Thank you serenity! I felt sooooooo relaxed today ! read more

Do not come here...I've been going to this massage center for years, however recently they changed ownership and it is called "Ripple Spa". When I went to go get a massage a couple weeks ago we were told that the massage was gonna be $60 flat. When the massage was over we gave each masseuse a tip of $10. Little did we know that there is a mandatory tip. Tips should be appreciated but not mandatory!! Turns out we had to leave a $15-$20 tip and we were not allowed to leave until it was given. This was a very rude experience. If tips are mandatory it should be stated in the beginning. Do not go here, it is expensive and the massage is mediocre at best. read more

It was a decent, clean place and served okay for a quick rub down. I think depending on who you get to massage you makes a difference. The woman who massaged me went in on me a little way too hard and I found my self having to keep reminding her to please go softer. I mentioned to her no pressure at all on my low back L5 S1 area because of a spine surgey. She made sure to not touch that spot. When she went softer and applied not such harsh pressure it was way more enjoyable. It was also cold inside, this is a problem when your asked to get undressed for the massage. Every time you get chills you tense up and it's complicated to relax and enjoy the massage. The lady who performed my massage was also taking calls and talking throughout my massage which was also unpleasant. On the likes I would say - I liked that we had the option to walk in, my girlfriend and I were able to walk in and have our own rooms with a opening in the middle that allowed us to see one another and chat before and after. read more

My spouse received a two-hour massage at this place. She described the massage as very professional, without any sketchy stuff. The masseuse used a sheet to keep her covered and warm. She was surprised it went so quickly and wanted more time. It was Swedish style, kind of strong. She felt she got her money's worth. It was a late evening appointment, so the front doors were locked for safety after-hours, which I appreciated. The facilities are relatively basic, but clean, and she received a private room for the full-body work. There were no obligatory demands for tips, although we did pay beforehand and not after. The masseuse was friendly. We would definitely try this place again. read more

This spa is amazing and the employees are always helpful and respectful, I love it here and I always leave here very relaxed and joyful for about four years now!!! I highly recommend this spa to everyone!!! Bernard & Nicole read more

This place is inside the mall plaza and for some reason its camera galore but the massage was extremely week maybe because it was in the middle of the day but she basically chased me down saying tip. Tip is earned but not here. Never coming back. read more

Luther is heaven sent. I'm a nurse who spends 4 days a week on her feet for 8-12 hrs walking non stop so my lower back and legs/feet take a toll. He patiently worked on my back, with good pressure that I could feel the muscles and air pockets melt away. Thank you Luther! You are the best! You have another loyal customer. read more

Message was ok when I was done I realized I didnt have enough for a tip. Lady said you have to tip!! I told her I will go to ATM. She then followed me to ATM. When I realized she followed me I drove off and left. Really!! read more

I came here with my boyfriend for a couples massage and the massage I thought was good and my boyfriend thought it was okay. We would have came back BUT when we paid we left a 20 dollar tip and the receptionist who seemed to be the manager gave us a nasty look and told us to tip more. To me that's very bad service, I feel like at any place you are allowed to tip as you'd like. I think that's super rude and because of that we will never back. read more

I called 2 hours in advance and reserved a massage. When I got there the owner lady said I had to wait 15-20 minutes because they gave my spot to someone who requested a 2 hour massage. I was disappointed and annoyed. Bad business practice in my opinion. read more

First time getting massages and loved it. Very comfortable setting and rooms. All three ladies were really nice and offer tea or cold water towards the end. Today I did 30min body massage but Next time I'm going to do 60min Tipped 50% , well deserved! read more

Serenity Relaxation Center is the newest massage place from the owners of Golden Island, which is located inside the Pacific East Mall. If you've ever been to Golden Island, you know they have great prices on full body massages, but an even better foot reflexology deal. For $20, you are treated to 60 minutes of foot work, head and shoulders, and arms and back. Golden Island can get pretty busy at times and besides I was interested in going to their new location. The San Pablo Towne Center is pretty much a ghost town, which leaves Serenity with very little (if any) foot traffic. Unlike Golden Island, we did not call ahead, but simply walked-in and were quickly taken to the back. The front office is a little on the small side, but the back is very open and houses plenty of massage chairs and private rooms. An over-sized flat-panel TV and a faux fireplace welcomes guests. On my visit, I believe there were only two CMT's on duty, as we could hear customers being told to come back in an hour. The massage is exactly the same as from Golden Island; however, my massage chair was squeaking way too much and became a little distracting. I have to admit I was a little disappointed in my massage, as I felt the CMT put rather little effort. However, there have been times where the same can be said about Golden Island. Ultimately, it can be a roll of the dice, as every massage therapist has their own style. I will come back, especially with this location only being two exits down from my home. Also, I do hope I simply had an "off" experience, as I'm a fan of their Pacific East Mall location, but I wouldn't mind avoiding the crowds and saving the time and money by coming to Serenity. read more

See all

I like this place enough that I bought the "buy 10 get 1 free" package for feet reflexology. I paid $200, and got to take home 10 feet reflexology passes to use as my leisure or to pass them to others as gifts. Awesome! I used to go to this place in Oakland, but it's quite a drive. A solid 20 miles to Grand Avenue. I loved the place though, don't get me wrong. But I needed a place closer and living near the ghettos has it perks! $20 for an hour long massage is worth it. Why? I had my ass handed to me on a plate today. I screamed in pain and the dude laughs. I like it. It's in a dead shopping center. Check your car twice for being locked and belongings well hid. But the perks of paying low low prices for living near the ghetto? Priceless. Reading the reviews prior to going, I was concerned about "HOW MUCH TO TIP"...I wasn't asked before the massage to tip and I only brought a $10 anyways. I wasn't going to read body language or faces, but I felt like that was just right. read more

Ok let's go! Upon entering this establishment it was a very small reception area which provides instant in your face service. Today I requested the 2 hour $60 special (which is very thorough and inexpensive). After paying 1st ( I always bring cash but they accept debit/CC so I can tip afterwards based on the service provided). After navigating around the desk past the dimly lit area which sits 8 stations to one of the rooms in the back I disrobe. They have soft music playing low with a dim light inside the room. Hooks for your coat /hat, and a basket for the rest of your belongings. I lay down on the table. No complaints whatsoever. Everytime I've come their default pressure is hard and deep so if you want mild to light you should request prior to your massage. In walks "Luther" after a soft knock on the door. He comes in and goes to work on my sore muscles ( sore from working out) and he goes deep tissue on my back! It hurt so good and at no point did I ask him to be gentle. Luther methodically worked my neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, fingers(which I can feel him touching my nerves as my fingers would begin to curl involuntarily), and legs sparing no muscle whatsoever. A few times it was almost to much but I just breathed deeply and let him do his thang. After an hour working on my body I was instructed to come sit at one of the stations I passed by on my way to the room so he can do my feet. Another blissful moment that put me to sleep a few times. I actually had some numbness in my right foot and once he was done it was like new. So all in all I'm a very happy customer. The service was great, the place was clean and they were very professional. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because they never ask if it's to hard. read more

Soon as I walk in she tells me, " ok you pay now and leave tip" I said" ummm no" she's like ok you pay now " I said I'm not leaving a tip until after my massage how do I know I will like it" which was a complete turn off I should have just walked out. So finally the massage therapist said "no she can leave a tip afterwards" and I was like that's what usually happens when you go somewhere Anywho They need to close this place, I went for a chair massage and he literally massages my life out of my body and when I would say "OUCH" he just kept going and I finally I made a move to say "ouch" very firmly and than he got the picture! After I tipped him he grabbed the tip paper and stared to see what type of tip I gave him and stared at me then stared at the tip and than was just staring so I told him thank you good night walked out. The next day I was so in pain it felt like I had got into a fight I work at a massage place myself so I asked one of the therapist how can I be this much in pain when I receive a massage. Come to find out the guy from this place massaged me so hard he could have damaged my tissue surrounding my muscles. I am STILL currently in pain I can't turn my head all because of this damn ungrateful place I will never come back here! read more

I have never before gotten a full body massage. I expected there to be awkward tension but i felt completely comfortable. It was a great first experience. The staff was friendly, very professional, and polite. read more

May is super sweet and nice. I LOVEEEEEEEED my massage. I love the setting. Its nice and quiet and relaxing

Stopped by for a late night massage after realizing that the place I regularly go to has already closed. I asked for the combo (40 min. body+ 30 min. foot) massage. The staff was kind and the massage was probably the best I've ever gotten. They definitely won me over as a regular client from now on! read more

I've been to many different places for massage but this place just really rubbed me the wrong way, pardon the pun. I booked a 1 hour body massage and 1 hour foot massage for myself but when i got there I found out they assumed that i was booking one of the treatments for someone else and were annoyed when i came in alone. I understand that it was lost in translation and that happens sometimes but he was clearly frustrated and started saying something under his breath in his language. He then demanded "you pay now!", so i paid for my service (cash since its cash only) and he walked in the back with my money ( no cash register or POS system, just a notebook where they record appointments with a PENCIL ) and grabbed someone to help me. I was brought to a small room and just left there with no instruction so i was under the assumption that i would receive my foot massage first (My usual place does foot then body). When my masseuse came in and saw me still clothed she was annoyed that i wasn't ready for my body massage. I told her i would prefer to do foot massage first but she told me " No, you do body then foot, take off now" then left the room. I quickly got undressed and got ready but i could tell she was rushing the whole massage, i kept having to tell her to go softer and I'm not a wuss, definitely not relaxing! After that, we went to the foot massage area which has maybe 12 chairs all in the same area with no partitions or privacy of any kind. People are walking past you to go to their massage rooms, doors are opening and closing, guests are talking between each other during their foot massage and my masseuse started chit chatting away with another masseuse that had some down time between clients. I actually considered walking out on my massage a few times but since i already paid i knew it would be a big fight to get them to refund me my money. Bottom line, I think this is a "Happy Ending" type of massage place. They have signs everywhere that say that they aren't but i doubt it. They also have signs that tell you how much you need to tip your masseuse based on the length of the service. I'm sorry but a tip is based on services rendered. I would be surprised if they even have a licence to practice massage which is really scary as they could seriously injure someone. I WILL NEVER BE BACK!!! read more

I booked my appointment today and when I got at the place and the lady said that I have to wait 45 minutes or I'll pay 2 hours massages and they will take me. Because my appointment was given to someone else. I thought it's rediculous to drive all the way and discharge my appointment. read more

I went in there because I had a crook in my neck and I was a little stiff wanted to be worked out when I left I was in more pain than when I went in I also have a bruise on my back and then the next day my knee swelled up I got a full body massage and a foot massage I'll do not recommend this place read more

This was my first time to get a massage. I was very pleased with Tony's massage skills. I got the combo massage with body and foot massage. I was nervous at first, however, Tony got right into the massage and I was so relaxed immediately. He used oil and got every spot that needed attention. The foot massage was great too. A nice warm pre foot soak and oil and warm cloth at the end. I will definitely be going back again. I highly recommend serenity massage spa. read more

I really love this place. Super affordable. Every massage I've gotten here (I've been coming here for about 3 years now) has been very satisfying! They really know where to apply pressure and how much pressure. For the foot massage, they soak your feet for a little bit and they start off with a head and shoulder massage while you lay back or recline in a big comfortable chair. They even put a towel over your eyes to help you relax. The full body massages are worth it too. They bring you to a tiny private room and really do a great job getting all the knots out. They are very knowledgeable. I would recommend the combo- foot massage and full body massage. After a stressful week at work, this is well deserved. read more

I have been going here every few months ever since this place opened. I have had some decent experiences however today was just horrible. One of the big problems here is the high turnover rate. Every time I go there, there seems to be a new receptionist and new massueses. Today, I got "Tim" an elderly gentlemen after being assured by the receptionist that I would be getting someone who could deliver an extremely hard massage. Let's just say I have had massages by quite a few women who were stronger than he was. To make it worse, he sneezed and farted during my session. What really got me was when he said "Are you Indian." After I said yes, he says "Indian people don't tip good." This really ticked me off - although I normally tip $15-20, due to the poor massage and stereotypical comments, I tipped 0. I also mentioned his comments to the receptionist, who suddenly couldn't understand English... read more

Okay... so I tried to make an appt to get a full body massage and wrap. Well, their hours specify 9:30a-9:30p, but what is the point of having these hours when I call and you tell me I can only schedule for the morning, during the weekdays! I work 8a-5p, M-F-- like most full-time worker bees... there is no way I can schedule a massage for 10a on a Monday without taking time off of work! Can you say... "frustrating?" I thought calling in and scheduling ahead of time would help me to get an appt, but they basically told me "no. sorry. you can't come in morning time, on weekday... then... no massage for you!" Oh well!! I REALLY wanted to try and get a massage here... if they were good, I would have given mad props on yelp. Again... oh well. :( read more

Recommended for all . Clean and friendly staffs . Local to San Pablo Casino best place to go for relaxation

This place does not honor their own gift certificates! I was told even though it was purchased here with their name and address it could only be redeemed at one of their other locations. This did not sit well with me! After arguing with the receptionist for several minutes and having her actually laugh in my face my gift certificate was finally honored! My gift certificate was for a 60 minute massage but I only received 50 minutes which included someone knocking on the door and my masseuse actually leaving the room to go talk to whomever was knocking! I will NEVER return to this place! Why do you sell gift certificates and not honor them? These people could use some lessons on customer service! read more

This place is similar to other Chinese/Taiwanese owned massage places in that: - It's cheap. - The receptionist/front desk person may not be able to converse more than what is necessary to book, get you in for a session. - The therapists usually speak basic English, or very little. - They have their massage routines. Any requests that deviate from their massage routines may cause confusion, or they may not do what you want. - The therapist will give you a courtesy hot tea or cold water at the end and will expect a tip from you. Some are more aggressive than others. The foot massage is $25 for 75 min. And it is really a head/face massage, foot soak and foot legs massage. Then clothed full body compression/shiatsu style massage front and back. Don't expect a spa like environment or treatment. For that go to the high end spas and pay more. This place is good for a "quick fix" when you feel your body calls for it. read more

Learning about this place and its other location has been one of the best things! A one hour foot reflexology massage for $20, you can't go wrong. A friend introduced me to its other location Golden Island a while back but once we learned about this location which is a little closer we decided to give it a chance and see what it had to offer. I was pleased to know it offered the same Foot Reflexology special which is right up my alley. So we went in on a Sunday night and it was empty which for us was a great thing, not so much for them. We walked in a were taken to the back right away. Thought the receptionist part is very small the back is very spacious. Since the only thing in between the reception and the area in which they massage you is a thin wall you can hear customers coming in and conversations that are being held in the receptionist area which can be a mood killer. The back area has nice relaxing atmosphere which is great for why we are there. Its lightly lit with soothing decorations and light music. The gentlemen came out right away ready to get to work. The seats they sit you on are comfortable but one downfall is that they give you a towel to cover you which I was hoping they would give me a blanket. They also offer you a container to put your personal belonging in while you are getting your massage which is nice. I can't complain about my massage the gentlemen who worked on me was very nice and used the perfect amount of pressure which for me can be a deal breaker. Walking out I felt relaxed and rejuvenated. Definitely will be paying them another visit soon! read more

This is my first time here and my experience is great. The staff are very friendly and cheerful. The foot massage package I bought covers the body also the $20 was worth it! The place is clean and neatly arranged. It's not a fancy Hollywood style massage ambiance but for me it's okay. The area has plenty of parking spots and surrounded by a lot of food place and Starbucks is just a minute away. Don't take my word for it try it yourself. My overall experience is great. read more

Serenity Relaxation Center - Nice - Massage Near Me - San Pablo, California

See all

I came here twice once by myself and the second time with my friend. When i came here the second time i called for an appointment so me and my friend could get a massage together but when we got there i still had to wait. The massage was good but at the end of the massage they went up to my friend and asked wheres my tip. Ok i thought that was kind of rude. I think that was very unprofessional. We told them we were gonna get change from the cashier and a lady came out from no where said we can give you change here and we basically stood in the employee area and watch her get money from her purse. and when we gave them our tip they looked at us as if it wasn't enough. So remember to tip right away \ read more

Came here for the first time yesterday, and do not feel like I would be coming back. The place just looks and smells simply dirty. The waiting area has this old dirty couch that looks like it was picked off of the street. The nice little water fountain they have in the pictures is just sitting up on a table not working. As you start walking in to the back you can smell something funky and the bathroom had a funky smell too (the kind of smell you would expect from the bathroom in the gas station of the sketchy part of town?) And the room looked very dirty too. Foot prints all over the walls, a random hole on the wall caused by the door nob and the carpet just looked DIRTY... the massage itself was ehh.. she kind of knew what she was doing but she still wasn't doing it right. And yes, they do ask for a tip before hand, not that that was a problem to me, just confirming it. read more

Today was the worst. The 130p appointment I got was very disappointing. Didn't like the experience at all. Don't like that the bathroom was next door. The toilet flushes so loudly. I feel worse now, before I came in :( read more

Serenity Relaxation Center - 10 minute wait. - Massage Near Me - San Pablo, California

I got a special combo massage wish one hr foot and one hr body . I been here for about 3-4 years now .I fell to sleep most of the time it's was super relax.. I love the music...ask for LUTHER .. he is very good hands .. read more

I had a great body massage today with Cece. She was intuitive, gentle, effective, and beautiful. Very pleased. Too bad this place has high turnover. Who knows when Cece will be gone. read more