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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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5 of the best Sunshine Coast day trips

City buzz, gourmet trails, surf breaks and art scenes are all at your fingertips.

When it comes to planning a trip, picking a holiday destination is the easy part. The real dilemma is where to set yourself up for the night. Do you go coastal, city, or countryside? Somewhere remote and rugged, or right in the action? Luckily, the Sunshine Coast, and huge number of amazing Sunshine Coast day trips, have kindly made the choice for you.

Ditch the hotel-hopping and suitcase-lugging. Instead, base yourself at Novotel Sunshine Coast or Mantra Mooloolaba , where big-city culture, vine-covered valleys, and theme parks are all within a two-hour drive.

1. Sunshine Coast to Brisbane

Drive time: 1 hour 20 minutes (105km)

Shake off the sand from your sandals and swap the beach for the throb of the Queensland capital. Ease in gently with a bougainvillea-filled stroll through South Bank, iced latte in hand, before cooling off at Streets Beach lagoon – Brisbane’s answer to the coast (but without the waves).

Once firmly in big-city mode, hit up the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) , home to Australia’s largest collection of modern and contemporary artworks. Dive into the past at the Queensland Museum, where prehistoric fossils of Australian dinosaurs and megafauna collide with First Nations cultural collections and interactive science exhibits.

All this learning got you hungry? Howard Smith Wharves calls. Here, riverside dining delivers breweries with meat-forward menus, Japanese fine dining and overwater bars. If you’ve got room for more, Fortitude Valley’s shopping boutiques await you and your wallet.

woman walking around Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)
Wander the Gallery of Modern Art. (Image: TEQ)

2. Sunshine Coast to the Scenic Rim

Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes (170km)

Make your way inland to the Scenic Rim for the state’s best vineyards and age-old volcanic slopes. Start your day early (like, sparrow’s breakfast early) at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in Lamington National Park . Here, take a treetop walk through the canopy and hand-feed the wild birds who flock here.

Next, it’s your turn to eat. Here, the food scene operates where locally sourced produce is an expectation, not an exception. Order a picnic basket crammed with regional wine and cheese to devour next to the creek at Canungra Valley Vineyards . Or perhaps a grazing platter of vegan and non-vegan cheeses at Witches Falls Winery .

Feeling bold? Tackle the Twin Falls circuit in Springbrook National Park. Or keep the gourmet life going with a Scenic Rim Brewery tasting paddle, best enjoyed while taking in the rise of the Great Dividing Range.

woman with cheese and wine at Witches Falls Winery
Enjoy a cheese platter at Witches Falls Winery. (Image: TEQ)

3. Sunshine Coast to the Gold Coast

Drive time: 2 hours (180km)

Surf, sand and sparkling skylines might be the Gold Coast’s MO, but there’s more to Surfers Paradise and beyond. Kick things off with a beachfront coffee at Burleigh Heads, then hike through Burleigh Head National Park to look over the ocean and whale sightings (dependent on the season, of course).

Cool off in the calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek before chowing down on the famously buttery Moreton Bay bug rolls at Rick Shores . Travelling with the kids? Then you can’t miss Australia’s theme park capital, with Dreamworld ’s big rides and Warner Bros. Movie World ’s Hollywood treatment at hand to keep the family entertained.

aerial view of Tallebudgera Creek
Dive into Tallebudgera Creek. (Image: TEQ)

4. Sunshine Coast to Tweed Heads

Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes (200km)

Dare to cross enemy lines? Then welcome to New South Wales. Tweed Heads blends the laid-back attitude of the Northern Rivers with high-quality dining, experimental art, and farm-fresh indulgence – a combo worth the drive.

Start strong with a long, lazy brunch at Tweed River House , then swing by Tropical Fruit World for exotic finds like red dragon fruit, handfuls of lychees and black sapote. Next, hit M|Arts Precinct – an art deco hub of micro galleries, artist workshops and one-off boutiques.

Round off the day with sunset drinks at Husk Distillers among the glowing cane fields, and order one with their famous Ink Gin. You’ll thank us later.

exterior of Husk Distillers
Taste the famous Ink Gin at Husk Distillers. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Drive time: 1 hour (70km)

Strap on those hiking boots and make tracks inland, where volcanic peaks, misty rainforest and hinterland townships beckon. Ease in with the Glass House Mountains Lookout Walk, or, if you have energy to burn, tackle the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk for a 360-degree sight of the surrounding summits.

Next: Montville. This township delivers European-style architecture and old-world appeal. Nearby, settle in at Flame Hill Vineyard, where a large pour of estate-grown wine comes with encompassing views of the countryside.

Not ready to leave the hinterland villages just yet? Of course not. Meander past art galleries and indie shops at Maleny. Nab some fudge from Sweets on Maple for a sweet fix. Or go salty at Maleny Dairies with a farm tour and a chunky wedge of their deliciously creamy cheese.

End the day among the eucalypts and rainforests of Kondalilla National Park. Here, the Kondalilla Falls Circuit winds down through trees humming with life to a rock pool beneath a waterfall – as if designed for soaking tired feet before heading back to the coast.

view of Mount Ngungun on the scenic rim queensland
Take on the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk (Image: TEQ)

Start planning your Sunshine home base at all.com.