Soakology is a small spa and cafe in Portland, Maine, they primarily offer foot massage, foot soaks, full-body massage, and fair trade teas. They also have a small gift shop too, where they sell housemade spa salt cubes and lotions. You need to make a reservation for spa services here. I visit a lot of these types of places. I was surprised at how different Soakology was compared to most of my other experiences. We were taken to a large communal space which was divided into semi-private rooms made from dark curtains, and the lights are down low. They ask for no phones, and quiet. I sat in a raised arm chair and they wheel in a copper tub under us, that they filled with hot water and whatever scented salt cube you choose. The soaks range in price from $35 to $53, depending on which scented salt cube you pick. I choose the CBD (to attempt to make up for my lack of massage, $53). They came and refilled our hot water in the tub twice, and refilled our tea water. We visited on a warm day, and I image this service would be a staple for me in winter. I left sweating! I have inflammatory arthritis, and it did helped me to soak. Anyhow, the experience surpassed my expectations in terms of relaxation. When we left my feet were like 75% relaxed, which is not bad. I could do this all at home at a fraction of the cost, but there is something more luxurious about not having to set up, and clean up. If you are in Portland, check them out! read more

I came here as a treat to myself because I had gone on hikes that were kind of challenging and my feet hurt so I wanted to get my feet soaked because my foot really hurt. It definitely did help the pain that I was experiencing in my foot. However, I felt like it was really challenging for it to be just right because sometimes it was too hot and then it would cool down. Service Needed some work and could've been better. The latte that I got was really good. It was kind of sweet for a chai latte but not bad. read more

Soakology - Massage Near Me - Portland, Maine

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We had a large group that we made a Reservation for in advance. The reservation process is not straight forward and they did not respond to emails. We thought the soak came with a foot massage but it does not and you have to book that separately. When we got there they said they were booked solid for massages and could only offer a soak. This was disappointing and on top of that they were extremely rude at the front counter during the entire process. They ended up having a cancellation for a massage so some of our party was able to receive them. Even delivering this positive news, they were rude and sarcastic which wasn't appropriate. The soak itself was very relaxing and comfortable. You can take a beverage back and they ensure you have hot water in your bowl throughout. The attendants in the back were kind and customer focused. Unsure if we would return when visiting again due to the rude staff upfront but this experience was enjoyable if you ignore the customer service piece. read more

Soakology - Massage Near Me - Portland, Maine

I'm here right now with my feet sitting in a large copper tub filled with decadently relaxing honey infused water. This is definitely a must do activity if you need some time to relax and soak your tired feet. Service is absolutely friendly and the ambiance is just right. They also serve amazing teas and beverages. I had the iced chai which was wonderful and a real chai, not the fake stuff they peddle at Starbucks. If you get a foot soak, you get to sit in these high comfy sofa chairs and you're closed off by curtains from other guests. read more

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Delightfully relaxing. If you're going to book a session here, I recommend leaning in: getting a 20min add on massage, getting a pot of tea, and a snack (macarons, shortbread). You get to spend a bit of time relaxing with the soak and it is absolutely lovely to spend the time sipping tea and nibbling on things. I came here in February and it was a perfect way to relax and warm up. read more

Never thought my new addiction would be tea. I'm an avid coffee drinker, at least a pot a day, but I've added tea to my mix now. I recently got a soak and massages; it has become a winter staple in my house hold. I always order a tea and a nosh as a treat. But this last visit got me curious. They have a lot of teas on the list, I began asking questions about them, just out of curiosity. Which turned into a world tour of teas and how to prep them. Did you know that certain teas should be brewed at different temps? I didn't. I realized a lot of care went into these pots. Something I had no idea about. I appreciate the time they took to answer my silly and ridiculous amount of questions. The masseuse recommended a blend they do of the chais. I don't need to tell you I'm how much I like it... I left with a large bag of it, and a small Ginger mint tea. I also tried the honey rim with sugar. I can't do it as well as them, but I'm trying. I highly recommend going in for something warm. It's like Starbucks but for tea drinkers, you can get lost in the ordering, so don't be afraid to ask. One pump of chai, dash of green, top with black tea. read more

Soakology - Chai tea - Massage Near Me - Portland, Maine

Overall a great experience and I would almost give this a four just for the great massage but the actually soakology part, I wasn't that impressed with. My heals are pretty dry, so I did the soak for that but then they don't do anything with your feet after. I needed my heals scrubbed and you just let you feet soak with nothing else. We all paid extra to get the message and that was the best part. I got the neck and head massage and Donna was amazing. I almost fell asleep. I went here for my friends birthday and their were four of us, and we had our own little section which was very nice and relaxing. I wouldn't come back just for the soak but I would come back for a massage if I get Donna. read more

Soakology - Massage Near Me - Portland, Maine

I came here with two friends, and while we ended up having a great experience, I do have to say the service and timeliness of this spot need some work. We arrived 15 minutes early to our appointment check-in (which was itself 15 minutes before the beginning of our appointment). One of the girls welcomed us and gave us menus, but she did a horrible job explaining how the services and spa works. We had to ask a few times to get some answers and she answered with an attitude. eventually another waitress helped us clarify things. We ordered our treatments and food/drinks. we were let into the spa 30 minutes after our appointment start time, and ended up being in there for a whole hour (which is 15 minutes more than we paid for, technically). What was supposed to be a one hour appointment ended up being two hours. This is fine for us because our next plans were not for another hour or so, but had we made dinner reservations earlier we would have been late, not mentioning that no one apologized for the tardiness of the services. The hot chocolate chai we all ordered was good, and the sweets were too, though overpriced ($5.5 for a single macaron). The foot scrub, which cost $25, consisted of someone rubbing a scrubbing cream on my feet just with their hands, no tools. Definitely a waste of money. In the end, it was a relaxing couple of hours, but I would have liked at least an apology for how late it all ran. read more

I am so glad we booked this experience. It is a very unique spa establishment . We started out with sitting and ordering what service and drinks we wanted. I ordered a chai iced tea with almond milk. My husband ordered an iced black tea and we both had some hot green tea. I did the eucalyptus soak and had my legs massaged. My massage therapist was Jane and I am grateful for their kind soul. That goes without saying my massage was so beneficial to my feet and legs. My husband also enjoyed getting his back massaged and his soak. read more

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I came in with a friend, at checkout I tried to use a gift card. They told me it was in their "old system" and I would have to pay full price and then email the manager with the gift card number and they would reimburse me via check. 2 weeks later I have not received a check. the manager at info@soakology was rude and short. They told me to mail in the gift card in order to receive my reimbursement, which I did and then I never received reimbursement or another response. What a scam. Buyer beware. Stay clear of this establishment read more

Amazing place, great service, many options, a cool way to bring relaxation to such a busy area. Have been a customer for years, and will return again. read more

Soakology - Soaking in the pots in a private sitting relaxation room - Massage Near Me - Portland, Maine

I wasn't sure what to expect with this but gave it try since I was on vacation. The staff was very nice. Ambiance is great. Pretty inside with the teas displayed and a calm inviting space. Waited with a bunch that would all go in around same time and get set up. They have it down with getting people in and out. Once in my area the curtain is moved and that's your 'room' which was not as noisy as I thought but it depends on who the guests are. The soak was relaxing and water stayed warm. Stones in there and they even add some more hot water. Also got a message which was excellent. Walked out in a better mood than when I entered. And the chai latte was delicious. If you want to treat yourself this is a good place to do that. read more

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The most relaxing hour of my life. When I tell people about Soakology, they're always like "so, you just put your feet in a giant bowl of water while someone rubs your shoulders?" No no, my friends. You must experience it firsthand to understand the magic that comes from this place. You'll be sitting in a giant comfy chair with a warm neck/shoulder wrap on. The room is draped in dark velvet curtains and the lighting is perfectly dimmed for ultimate relaxation. Someone then rolls a large copper bowl of perfectly warm water with smooth stones and a mixture of essential oils for you to soak your feet in. Then someone delivers a drink of your choice to you and another person comes in to give you a delightful head, neck and shoulder massage. You have to try it! read more

This was an incredibly fun way to hang out with my sister. We loved the tea and the massages.

I took my sister who was visiting from out of town on Sunday March 17, 2024. She had picked out her tea selection the night before we went to the spa. I picked my soak flavor. When we arrived they told us there was no lavender soak, which is what I wanted, and there was no orange tea, a blend they make there and we both wanted to try. Ok 2 strikes so far. They put us in a space and next to us was a very loud talkative man. I believe we are all there to relax and to listen to him the whole time was not pleasant. I thought the foot massage was much longer and better on previous visits. Needless to say I was not happy with my visit. Terri Stork read more

Don't add the $25 polish service - it's a 30 second foot scrub that should be included in the soak honestly. Not worth the money. But the technicians were nice and professional!!! Front desk staff not so much. read more

While the experience was great the customer service is lacking by the front deck. The people in the back were delightful. Made reservations for a foot soak however they never mentioned you had to prebook all extras. I could only get them by email never a returned call. I would not pay for the foot polish as it was a 60 second scrub max per foot. Some were able to get a foot massage because another group canceled. Only 4 out of the 6 of were able to get this service. read more

Soakology - Massage Near Me - Portland, Maine

I was a little skeptical about the soak experience, but we really enjoyed our hour long soak. You have a private, curtained room for four people (not sure if you'd have to share with less people). The soak is very relaxing - bring a book! - and they bring you heated shoulder pads. We ordered teas and snacks as well. All in all, a great way to spend a cold day in Maine! read more

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The most relaxing and one-of-a-kind experience. Jane is the most amazing massage therapist; they were very detailed and attentive. I got a head/neck/shoulder massage and WOW - Jane really left a great impression on our group from beginning to end. The business is run seamlessly - someone is there to care for you at every step. Bachelorettes in Portland cannot miss this experience. read more

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We had a wonderful experience at Soakology! Yes it's a different experience and not your traditional lay down massage. But just close your eyes, relax and enjoy yourself! Our massage therapist Bryce and Andrew were amazing. The soak felt so good after a long weekend walking all over Portland. My husband and I wish we had a place like this where we're from! Bonus points for the tea being so yummy. We hope to come back again one day! read more

Soakology - Cozy waiting area! - Massage Near Me - Portland, Maine

Great experience! This place was amazing - the teas were wonderful and the staff was very accommodating. I highly recommend read more

Soakology - Chai tea hot and cold with ginger snaps - delicious! - Massage Near Me - Portland, Maine

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This place is fabulous. The atmosphere is so welcoming, and not to mention the staff is friendly and so knowledgeable about everything. I got a soak with a massage and a deep lavender package. And boy was it relaxing and a much needed after a fun girls weekend! We will be back! read more

Soakology is my happy place! The atmosphere is so warm and relaxing. The aroma that surrounds you when you walk through the door - can someone bottle that up? - it's like a smell you remember but you can't put your finger on that makes you feel at home. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about their services and teas. I've been in at times when there is a full seating area and they always make sure they greet everyone. Even during busy times I've never had to wait long to get an order in. The soaks are amazing - I recommend the Muscle Ease Package. I usually request Keely - she has magic fingers - but I have had other therapists and wouldn't mind seeing any one of them again. The macarons are the best thing I've ever had and I always get the staff tea of the week - which is usually something I had never tried and now are some of my favs. I love that I can just go in to grab a tea to go and hang out in a comfy seat for a few before heading back to work. You've got a customer for life Soakology! I'll be in soon. read more

I have been here many times for just a soak and some tea and treats and because I never plan ahead of time, I don't usually get to book a massage as well. This summer I finally got to have a massage and the experience was heavenly. It is the very definition of decadent. The concept of tea, foot soak and massage seems weird but it is totally worth the feeling of relaxation that you leave with. read more

Loved the accommodation they made for my son who had a pre-birthday soak to relax his mind and body! Thank you for your positive energy and the pristine soak room which was very conducive to rest and respite! He had a wonderful time. read more

I get monthly massages but here I got the best foot and lower leg massage I've ever, ever had. Thank you, Jane! Their strawberry mango smoothie was so naturally sweet and the setting was very relaxing. I loved it here. read more

Very very expensive! It's complicated to order and everything was individually priced. Both my husband and I had the soak and massage. And my husband ordered one nonalcoholic drink. Cost us about over $343 plus tip!! Don't do the neck and back massage. It's awkward with your feet in the bucket and trying to get a neck massage. The chair doesn't lean and can't get comfortable. Also if you're somewhat tall the copper bucket was hitting my husband's calves in the wrong spot and it wasn't comfortable. The message therapist were nice and did their best. The cashier wasn't very helpful as to expect etc. She didn't explain the process. So I wouldn't go there again even though we needed the soak from our long travel read more

I found out about this place on a travel blog on Pinterest. Loved the pictures and loved the concept. So I had to book an appointment when I visited Portland for a quick vacation. I loved their selection of teas they have interesting flavors like Smoke lavender and spicy pear. Their foot soaks are great and relaxing. I hate I couldn't get any add on because they were too busy. They gave us warm neck wraps. Very nice experience except for the fact you can hear other people in the next room. That is my only complaint. But I will be back definitely. Nice spa and tea room. read more

I really appreciate all that Soakology does. I love the premise of having a variety of foot soaks catering to a variety of needs, having some snacks and tea, and just having a holistic time relaxing. I had been to their old location and absolutely fell in love with the experience, but since then, they have moved to Congress Street, and although the venue lost it's charm, the core of Soakology remains. I have been to the Congress location a few times now, and although it's not the same, it still does the job that the owners of Soakology intended it to do. At Soakology, you can get a variety of different foot soaks, ranging from soaks to help with dry feet, to those prone to fungal infections, and to those who just want to soak with a nice aroma. There is something for everyone. With your foot soak, you have the option to add on a 20 or 40 minute massage on your shoulders or legs. Soakology also has an extensive tea list with various snacks ranging from cheese and crackers, to fruit, etc. Every time I have come here, I have loved the soaks that I have ordered. Once your water gets cooler, the workers consistently come around with hot water to add to warm up your soak. I have also got the massage add-on to my legs and feet, which has always been AMAZING. The workers who work here really know how to give massages! Overall, I would recommend Soakology to anyone wanting a little "me" time. Be careful as your bill can really rack itself up, however, it's always worth it when you leave feeling rejuvenated. read more

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Our experience was less than ideal, despite looking forward to and booking this experience months in advance. We arrived on time to be asked if we had called to say we would be late (we didn't call and we werent late). When we answered "no, we aren't late" we got a passive aggressive answer. Despite telling us we were late no less than 3 times, she still offered us tea samples, made us wait for directions from staff etc., unnecessarily taking time that we supposedly didn't have. She then told us that since we were "late" we may not get the full 45 min treatment that we would pay for. At this point, we were not relaxed at all, and were feeling anxious we wouldn't get the service we paid for. I will say the service during the soak was great (not the same woman) and our tea arrived promptly. At checkout, my sister noticed that the pricing online for the soak that we selected was 7$ less than what was charged and on the "menu" we were physically handed. When she inquired as to the discrepancy, we were told "it just changed", the staff member "didn't even know until today and the manager said it was an IT issue". There was no offer to correct the pricing. We should have been told since we booked the appointments that there had been a price change and at the very least the website should be indicative of the pricing in the physical store. Lastly, the website says that the foot soak experience includes robes, which we were not offered. So not only is the pricing inaccurate the services are marketed to be misleading as well. read more

It was so good, we went back 2 days in a row. My sister hosted my bachelorette party there. The staff was very friendly. We did the package with appetizers, a drink, and a soak the first day. We had a private section, and it was super quiet. For those of you wondering what it is... Here I go! First, you are greeted with a questionnaire and a cup of hot tea. Then, you're brought into the back with your group (or alone) to very comfortable chairs. The staff brings your choice of a foot soak to you, where you soak your feet. They also give you a hot neck pillow. Periodically, they refill the water with hot water. It sounds so simple but is amazingly relaxing. If you order drinks or food, they bring it to you over the hour or so that you're there. No alcohol or pictures are allowed. The second day we went (yes, I repeat, we went back the next day), we just did the simple soak. Three ladies of my party got neck massages. They said they were amazing. Those who chose to get a massage changed before they came into the room. Overall, amazing experience. It's pricey, but we enjoyed ourselves. Next time I'm in town, I will definitely be visiting. read more

A more expensive, less comfortable, partial pedicure. I was really looking forward to coming here while visiting Portland. It was definitely a let down. The music playing while you're waiting in the reception area is strange. They play jazz music, which was not expected at a spa like business. But whatever. They wheel in a bucket of water with some petals and rocks and let you soak. The chairs are pretty uncomfortable with pillows you have no idea what to do with. We were the only ones inside, but I can imagine it would be less relaxing with other people behind the curtains chatting. We had the 20 min massage add on, it was definitely not 20 minutes. Thank god we didn't upgrade to 40 minutes. Go to a nail salon, get a pedicure, get a 20 minute massage, pay a fraction of the price for a better service. Ultimately it cost $120 including tip, for water with some rocks and pedals, which I could do at home. Would not return, would not recommend. read more

This place is great for listening to middle-aged, overweight women talk with their mouths full, snore, or flirt with the masseuse while your toe-jam slowly steeps into weak tea the next round for the soon-to-be divorced women. The soundtrack is reminiscent of the sad milk-crate of Kitaro records that your mom left at your dad's house before she started working at that bookstore and stopped shaving her mustache. Great gift for expectant moms! read more

This place was a letdown. Someone recommended it to my husband and I as a nice place to relax and get a massage. We both got foot baths and massages. The foot baths were awkwardly too far from the chair they sat you in and the rooms were not private. The chairs were large recliner type chairs with too many pillows and it made it difficult to soak your feet while in them. There was people talking loudly to each other and we could see them through the curtain. Shoulder massage was fine but super awkward as the therapist could barely reach over the chair to rub shoulders. I felt bad for her. Also there were no hooks for purses or jackets. They offered me a robe but not my husband. The whole thing was odd. The foot baths were just fancy buckets and didn't even have running water - the poor massage therapist had to run and keep refilling them with hot water. We also paid extra for the aromatherapy and you could barely smell it by the end. I don't see the appeal here, which is a shame because the waiting space was beautiful and the location was good. Staff was friendly and nice but this concept isn't for me. read more

My feet are kind of gross. Really, they always have been. A life of wearing no shoes and doing yoga every day has made them a bit worse for the wear. Forever I've been meaning to come to Soakology to try and give my scaly bottom paws some much needed restorative love, and only recently did I finally get the chance to do so. And? This is my new favorite thing ever. We made an appointment in the morning for later the same day without a problem. When we arrived, we were warmly greeted before taking a seat in the charming, fairy tale-esque tea room/store front. A very patient, very kind woman took our soak order (for me, "Healing Hydration": a sea salt blend infused with seaweed, green tea, lavender, rosemary, vitamin E and aloe vera) and our tea order (for me, a sharing size of smoked pine that smelled and tasted like something off the Scottish island of Islay); another very patient, very kind woman then led us around the back of the register to the shoe area, asked us to turn our phones off, and then slid open a wooden barn door that lead us into the depths of the belly of the beast of ultimate relaxation. Met with dark colors, low lighting, calming music, and intoxicating smells we hopped into oversized, indescribably comfortable chairs and pulled the awaiting blankets over our laps. We were brought warm, heavy neck wraps to drape over our shoulders, and then our tubs - the bottom of which are covered in rocks for for you to press the pads of your feet on - arrived. Shortly after, our tea order arrived. And then: bliss. Therapeutic bliss. It was a very, very quiet atmosphere. And we tried to be respectful of that. If I was alone and enjoying some me time, I would appreciate it. But - as others have said - it's quite hard if you're with friends because, well, friends talk. And sometimes laugh. So, just be thoughtful? Read the room? Finally, our soak ended after about an hour and some change with a lavender spritz and powder. Went back into the tea room/store front, covered my hands and arms in some teak lotion out of one of the sample bottles, paid, and left a happy girl with less gross feet. I can't wait to try their Full Moon Special (which happens every - you guessed it - full moon: $50 for a soak, tea, and a snack). I can't wait to bring my mom here. I can't wait to come here by myself for a little podiatry sanctuary. Is this for everyone? Maybe not (especially if you're looking for privacy like you might get at a normal massage place - the layout of the soak room is a bit bizarre, and some chairs feel a bit more exposed as they lack curtains or wall dividers from people walking by; if you've done communal acupuncture before, then this won't feel much different). But, as an introvert with a lot going on all of the time who should take time to heal her beat up body, it's for me. read more

Seriously do not understand the high ratings at this place. They took us an hour late for our appointment that had been booked for months. Then we paid $85 each to sit in extremely uncomfortable chairs while soaking our feet in water with some petals inside. The only service of this was when a lady came around twice to add hot water to the foot bowl. It also came with snacks which was good but just hummus and pretzels.... this was a serious waste of money. Oh and you are in the same room as other people so you can hear strangers talking. Also should be noted some of the sandals were not clean read more

What a fantastic relaxing experience. Jane was AMAZING - the soak was delightful and the massage was deep pressure like I like.

Employees of Soakology: why is it so hard to answer the phone? Unlike so many massage studios in this town, Soakology has no option to book online. This means, every time you want to make an appointment, you have to call. And when you do, you'll listen to the most annoying, patronizing fucking voice of Matt: the voicemail dork, telling you to leave a message. You can call every hour on the hour or ten times in a row - you will not reach a human being. When you do leave a voicemail, it will take at least 24 hours to get a call back or sometimes not at all - at which point, you're over it and have already booked elsewhere. Considering the outrageous prices Soakology charges, and it's certainly not going to the employees, they really need to get their act together and offer online booking or a dedicated employee to schedule clients. In the meantime, I've moved over to Health Resonates, also on Congress, which has wonderful services, plenty of street parking and ONLINE FUCKING BOOKING. read more

I have been to Soakology twice now, once at the new location and once at the previous locale. Although th original space was more intimate and had just an overall cool vibe, the new space is beautiful and they have created quite the sanctuary in such a large space. I came here on a whim and they had soak space available but sadly no massages (my bad) so I will just have to come back! This is a great experience to do either alone (and take a nap) or come with a friend and chat quietly. The tea and macaroon selection is delish, although be careful because the macaroons are $4 a cookie. Come here to sit back, relax, and leave feeling refreshed. The attendants will take care of you right down to toweling off your feet! read more

Ok first of all, apparently nobody followed the no-cellphone rule. The staff specifically mentioned that no picture is allowed yet many of y'all were taking pictures? What's up with that? I was visiting Portland for a thanksgiving getaway. My train wasn't going to depart for another two hours and I had nothing to do. I decided to do a walk-in and they were able to find a spot for me within half an hour. My experience was great. Sipping some ok white pu-er (my standards are high for tea) while soaking my feet. I actually did fell asleep for a solid 20 minutes. I think the neck wrap did some magic, too. The water temperature is just right. And my feet felt super moisturized and relaxed afterwards. My only thing with this place is the communal space concept. There was a group of old white ladies who just couldn't stop talking with their high pitch voices. That was annoying and I wish the spa could do something about it. read more