Your First Massage: what to expect at W Spa

Updated October 2026 · 4 minute read

1. Booking

Book online, which shows the open times for the day you pick, or call (650) 272-6881. We're open every day from 9:30 AM to 10 PM, so evenings and weekends are easy. Payment is taken when you book, and you can cancel or reschedule up to 2 hours ahead for a full refund.

Not sure what to book?

For a first massage, a 60-minute Swedish ($80) is the gentle, relaxing choice. If you have tight shoulders, neck or lower back, choose a 60-minute deep tissue ($90). Still deciding? Read deep tissue vs Swedish.

2. Getting here

W Spa is at 441 Waverley St in downtown Palo Alto, half a block off University Avenue. There's free street parking in front (check the posted sign for the time limit), and Palo Alto Caltrain is about a 10-minute walk. Aim to arrive a few minutes early so you can settle in without rushing.

3. Before the massage

Your therapist will check what you'd like from the session. This is the moment to mention:

• Any areas to focus on, or to avoid
• The pressure you like (gentle, medium or firm)
• Injuries, health conditions, or if you're pregnant

4. What to wear

Undress to your own comfort level. You'll lie under a sheet or towel the whole time, and only the area being worked on is uncovered. Plenty of people keep their underwear on; it's entirely up to you.

5. During the massage

You can talk or stay quiet: many guests drift off. Speak up at any point if the pressure, the room temperature or anything else should change. Your therapist would much rather adjust than have you put up with something uncomfortable.

6. Afterwards

Take a moment before getting up, drink some water, and go easy for the rest of the day. After a firmer massage, worked areas can feel a little tender for a day or so; that's normal.

Booking for two?

Our couples massage lets two people be massaged at the same time, each in their own room, and costs $10 less than two separate bookings. Gift a first massage to someone with a W Spa gift card.