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The best Brisbane day spas to instil deep calm

Release those shoulders in sublime style at our pick of the best Brisbane day spas.

A Brisbane holiday is never short of incredible things to do, making my deep desire to momentarily switch off even more crucial. Delivering delicious dollops of Zen across the city, the best Brisbane day spas are found within the finest hotels and hottest emerging suburbs, as I find a quality fix no matter where my adventure takes me. Here, my list of the top Brisbane day spas to get you floating.

In short

If you only visit one of the best Brisbane day spas, make it The Bathhouse Albion. You’ll lap up always-alluring affordable bathhouse pricing amid one of the most high-luxe, immersive day spa fit outs across the state.

1. KAILO Wellness Medispa

KAILO Wellness Medispa at The Calile Hotel
The spa at The Calile is in a league of its own.

Like you needed another reason to drop into The Calile Hotel. KAILO Wellness Medispa , located within the globally acclaimed Fortitude Valley hotel, is a sanctuary dedicated to self-care. I step into Pinterest-perfected surroundings to discover every spa classic I’m looking for, as well as vitamin therapy, advanced skin treatments, medical treatments, brow and makeup services, and laser. In signature Calile fashion, the space trickles with tranquillity and the service is world-class, mirroring the same soaring bar that puts The Calile into a league of its own.

Address: Level 1, The Calile Hotel, 48 James St, Fortitude Valley

Prices: View their treatment menu here

2. Sukha Skin and Wellness

I don’t visit Windsor often, but stumble across a very cool collective of retailers when I find Sukha Skin and Wellness one weekday morning. Located one level up from the ground level’s buzzing Boy Bear Espresso and the cult-favourite By Roxy brow salon, this Brisbane day spa is as aesthetically blissful as its greenery-speckled counterparts. A softly dressed waiting area soothes before my Sukha Signature Start facial, led by the lovely Sinead, examines my shin in detail and drenches it lovingly with exactly what it’s craving. My favourite bit is the extra-spacious treatment table, layered up with a concealed quilt to provide maximised fluffiness as I drift into heaven knowing long-lasting results are on the way.

Address: Colwill Place, 180 Albion Rd, Windsor

Prices: View their treatment menu here

3. The Bathhouse Albion

Stepping up Brisbane’s bathhouse game to spectacular heights, The Bathhouse Albion dazzles from the moment I enter. A muted palette of Instagram-perfect beige embraces timbers and natural stone to create a dream-like setting. Hopping between the traditional Finnish sauna to the steam room and cold plunge, I’m entirely focused on me (which, with young kids, isn’t always possible) before a herbal tea enjoyed in the Brisbane day spa’s phone-free lounge provides the cherry on top. A 38-degree hot pool is equally wonderful, darkened to allow for the lights beneath to glow as I sink in and lose track of time completely. This place is so beloved, they’ve just opened a Queenstown, New Zealand outpost.

Address: Albion Fine Trades, 64 Narial St, Albion

Prices: 60-minute bathhouse sessions start from $59 and 60-minute float therapy starts from $79. See the full services menu for comprehensive pricing

4. Soak Bathhouse

mineral pools at Soak Bathhouse in Brisbane
Soak Bathhouse invites you to switch off and recharge.

Originally a Gold Coast spa day stalwart, Soak Bathhouse in Brisbane’s West End has been wholly embraced by Brisbane locals and visitors like myself. A photogenic spot for hydrothermal therapy, it’s beautifully designed to facilitate seamless dipping between mineral pools, hot spas, cold plunges, a cedarwood sauna and a steam room. Basic entry will score you 60 minutes to do the rounds at your own pace however 90-minute sessions are recommended, and more in-depth packages include snacks and beverages are also on offer. I also love Soak’s quiet areas, and I recommend booking an LED facial and meditation service to extend your self-care

Address: Level 2, The Eaves at West Village, 111 Boundary St, West End

Prices: A 60-minute session starts from $39 however prices increase depending on when you go (and what you add).

5. SOL Elements

the SOL Elements bathhouse, Tamborine Mountain
SOL Elements bathhouse is a calming wellness destination on a lake. (Image: Timothy Birch)

Just an hour’s drive from the centre of Brisbane, SOL Elements takes my breath away when I visit for Australian Traveller’s exclusive first look. Situated amid rich Tamborine Mountain hinterland and adjacent to a fairytale lake dotted with resident ducks, the Brisbane day spa is a romantic ode to traditional Japanese-inspired wellness. Lean into the Himalayan salt room and float therapy room, or book a treatment before your obligatory saunter between three outdoor thermal mineral pools, a cold plunge and a cedar wood sauna provide idyllic hot-cold therapy. Don’t miss the Earth Lab, where I blend my own body scrub to shower with, or one of the Secluded Suites which elevate the experience via a private sauna, shower, outdoor mineral pool and suite of refreshments

Address: Tamborine Mountain Glades, Tamborine Mountain Rd and Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain

Prices: 90-minute sessions start from $85. View the services menu here

6. Merse Wellness Spa

indoor pools at Merse Wellness Spa, Brisbane
Escape the rush of the city at Merse Wellness Spa.

Located across two Brisbane sites, Merse Wellness Spa is a gorgeous wellness brand that offers bathhouse-style contrast therapy. Spanning traditional sauna sessions, cool plunge pools and hot spas, both locations serve as multifaceted oasis’s of self-focused love. If you’re extra serious about results, investigate their body contouring, magnesium float and compression therapy services. The Brisbane day spa also rolls out massage treatments and spray tanning if you’re feeling cash splashy.

Address: 1904 Sandgate Rd, Virginia, and 31-49 Logan River Rd, Beenleigh

Prices: View their services menu here

7. Atama Head Spa

Obsessed with that Japanese head treatment on Instagram? Atama Head Spa is your reality fix, a niche Brisbane day spa renowned for its famed traditional head and scalp-based treatments. Broadening the love out to the shoulders, face and neck, this place is basically the massaging messiah of cranium proximity, drawing a cult following for its expert therapists but also the blow dry that’s included in some of their popular spa packages.

Address: 2/92 James St, New Farm

Prices: View their treatment menu here

8.  Away Spa

the Twilight spa treatment room, Away Spa
Get pampered in the Twilight spa treatment room.

Tucked inside the glamorous W Brisbane, Away Spa is a suitably slick Brisbane day spa oozing trademark W-style character. Ultra-modern relaxation pods, complimented with drinks and snacks, overlook the Brisbane River, creating a beautiful kick start to your wellness journey. As for the treatments, there’s a buffet to choose from spanning massages, body exfoliation, facials, peels, hair masks, mani-pedis, waxing, brow beauty and beyond. Want more? Guests are granted access to the hotel’s Level 4 Wet Deck which consists of a pool, gym, saunas and steam rooms.

Address: Level 5, W Brisbane, 81 N Quay, Brisbane

Prices: View their spa menus here

9. Stephanies Spa Retreat

a woman relaxing at Stephanies Spa Retreat
Schedule a wellness day at the French-inspired Stephanies Spa Retreat.

Bypass the Sofitel’s rooftop pool on Level 3 to find Stephanies Spa Retreat , a French-inspired Brisbane day spa. Soft blooms and sweet-scented candles set the scene as 11 treatment rooms including one designated just for couples, a five-person pedicure lounge and a steam room, roll out the classics. Opt for a deluxe package to get the royal treatment, otherwise indulge in their list of massages, body therapy and facials as well as a brilliant 30-minute Sole Healing ritual perfect for those explorative footsies.

Address: Level 3, Sofitel Brisbane Central, 249 Turbot St, Brisbane City

Prices: View their treatment menu here

10. Heavenly Spa by Westin

the spa relaxation pod at Heavenly Spa by Westin
Settle in for a quiet and relaxing treatment at the Heavenly Spa by Westin.

Elevate your self-care routine with premium skincare at Heavenly Spa by Westin  in the middle of Brisbane’s CBD. Found within The Westin Brisbane, the day spa features an ultra-luxurious minimalistic fit-out with soft lighting and sheer drapes, plus the staff are delightful. Take your pick from massages spanning hot stone, aromatherapy, remedial and more, plus there are also scrubs, wraps, facials and peels.

Address: Level 3, 111 Mary St, Brisbane

Prices: View their treatment menu here

11. Archon

Archon, Brisbane day spa
Rest and rejuvenate at Archon.

Desperate for the out-turn rather than the Zen? Archon  in Teneriffe, about a 10-minute drive from the CBD, is a slick space that offers results-based treatments for men and women. The facial menu alone is packed to the rafters, ranging from standard to advanced, plus there’s laser hair removal, micro-needling, waxing, cosmetic tattooing, tattoo removal and more. A day spa in Brisbane for serious beauty enthusiasts.

Address: 100 Commercial Rd, Teneriffe

Prices: View their services via the website

12. Petrichor Day Spa

the treatment room at Petrichor Day Spa, Brisbane
Relax in pure bliss at Petrichor Day Spa.

Making magic with a product range that’s all organic, Petrichor Day Spa  is a calming Brisbane day spa built in a beautiful 100-year-old Queenslander. Step inside for instant homely vibes before your treatment commences and total relaxation ensues. There are a few signature packages to consider, with some including a light lunch and beverages, however, if you’re there solely for your favourite fix, choose from massages, facials, beauty treatments and more.

Address: Level 3, 48 Orchard St, Hawthorne

Prices: View their treatment menus here

13. SkinSpirit Day Spa

the SkinSpirit Day Spa, Brisbane
SkinSpirit Day Spa is tucked down a quiet street.

Located on a quiet street in Tarragindi, just a 10-minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD, SkinSpirit Day Spa  is a local gem that’s swept up multiple industry awards. Offering a menu of beautifully performed treatments, the staff are professional and knowledgeable. Find uninterrupted me-time in the way of high-performing facials, massages, hydro-microdermabrasion, LED therapy, body treatments and a large range of beauty services.

Address: Shop 1, 212 Cracknell Rd, Tarragindi

Prices: View their treatments via the website

14. TotalFusion Spa

the treatment room at TotalFusion Spa, Brisbane
Indulge in Ayurvedic treatments at TotalFusion Spa.

TotalFusion, a Brisbane wellness chain with locations in Newstead, Springfield, Chermside, Mt Gravatt and Morningside, TotalFusion Spa  is found in three of them, renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and results-driven treatments. No matter which venue proves more convenient, expect striking modern fit outs and extremely attentive service. The menu spans facials, massages, facial peels, beauty therapy, laser skin treatments and laser hair removal.

Address: Check the website for Newstead, Morningside and Springfield locations

Prices: View their treatments via the website

15. The Healing Stone

The Healing Stone, Brisbane day spa
The Healing Stone is inspired by the healing power of ancient Japanese rituals. (Image: Supplied)

Inspired by the healing power of ancient Japanese rituals, The Healing Stone  offers unique experiences across two locations. One is set within the Emporium Hotel South Bank, and the other is in Paddington and caters to women only. No matter where you land, don’t miss their incredible Ganbanyoku therapy which pops you into a hot stone chamber of Himalayan rock salt to allow for its detoxifying powers to enlighten you. Shiatsu bodywork, reflexology and oil massages can also be experienced across both venues.

Address:  Level 21, Emporium Hotel, 267 Grey St, South Brisbane, and 79 Latrobe Tce, Paddington

Prices: View each location’s treatments via the website

Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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8 experiences that make Moreton Bay the best getaway

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience
Explore Bribie Island with G’Day Adventure Tours.

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Morgan’s Seafood
It doesn’t get fresher than Morgan’s Seafood. (Image: Ezra Patchett)

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

woorim beach bribie island
Hang 10, or relax, on Woorim Beach.

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park
Admire the landscapes of D’Aguilar National Park.

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay
Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay
Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine.  Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.