Botica Spa Massage & Spa Playa del Carmen

"Found this place online after realizing the resort's massage prices were kind of insane - so glad we skipped the hotel booking. The resort doesn't let outside massage people come to you, so the spa just handled it: Maria, a driver they trust, picked us up and dropped us off, about 30-60 min each way. Super easy to deal with, too - they mostly do everything over WhatsApp, and Gina (the owner) had it all sorted out for us. Before we started they had us fill out a quick little survey on what we wanted worked on, and they actually stuck to it during the massage. The place itself has this industrial-but-cozy, zen vibe going on - very chill. They've got a shower to rinse off before you start, and they even give you your own little scrub for it, which was a nice surprise. The therapists were seriously amazing, some of the best massages we've ever had, and they use a little sound bowl to signal when it's starting and ending, which felt like such a nice touch. We got the 2-hour massage, and after they brought out tea and a fruit tart - felt way more like a retreat day than a spa appointment. Can't recommend it enough, especially if you're staying nearby and want a good excuse to escape the resort for a few hours. Thanks Gina and Maria for a great experience!"

Grace Chiam

3 months ago

"There simply aren’t enough stars for Botica Spa. And this is coming from someone who is VERY particular and an avid spa-goer. I’ve experienced beautiful spas and luxury resorts in many places, and Botica Spa was one of the most thoughtful and memorable spa experiences I’ve ever had. Before leaving the States for our vacation in Playa del Carmen, I researched several spas outside our resort. And by several, I mean about seven! After reading reviews, I landed on Botica. From my first WhatsApp communication with Gina, I felt I had made the right choice. She was warm, responsive and thoughtful, even helping us feel comfortable arranging transportation from our resort and back. We selected the two-hour customized couples massage. Upon arrival, Nadia greeted us outside and welcomed us into this gorgeous, serene oasis tucked away in the jungle. Gina was also there to greet us and was exactly as I had envisioned from our conversations: warm, kind and incredibly intentional. You can feel her personal touch throughout the entire experience. When Nadia and Marina led us upstairs and opened the glass doors to our private treatment space, every sense was awakened. Black wrought iron elements were softened by perfectly bundled dried eucalyptus hanging from the ceiling. Expansive glass allowed just the right amount of natural light into the intimate space while overlooking the private jungle. Lemongrass, cedarwood and ylang ylang drifted through the air while Gina’s beautifully curated spa playlist played at the perfect volume. Fresh-pressed mango juice, mineral water and fresh water were beautifully presented on a silver tray with cut-glass goblets. I notice details, and Botica understands that true luxury IS in the details. We were given complete privacy to shower before our treatments. Even this space blended rustic, natural and modern elements beautifully, with soft textiles, a calming monochromatic palette and Palo Santo burning in the bathroom. As someone who spends much of life moving at full speed, my nervous system needed this more than I realized. Then came Nadia and Marina. Their healing hands are truly a gift. Our treatment began with deep breathing and essential oils, followed by heated towels, hot stones, warmth for our feet and thoughtful attention from head to toe. It concluded with the beautiful vibration of a sound bowl. Nothing felt hurried. We weren’t rushed, and neither were our therapists. This wasn’t simply a massage. It was an experience. And remember when I said this was our first visit? We loved it so much that before our vacation ended, we knew we wanted to return and experience the same treatment again. Our resort was doing its best to sell us on its spa services, and okay, maybe a facial happened, but there was simply no comparison. I reached back out to Gina, and once again she graciously accommodated our schedule so we could return before leaving Mexico. Our second visit felt like returning to see family. Gina’s kind spirit is contagious, and the healing hands of Marina and Nadia were exactly what our bodies needed before heading home. Botica Spa embodies what I consider true quiet luxury: nothing forced, nothing overdone. Simply exceptional people, thoughtful details, beautiful surroundings and treatments delivered with genuine intention. Gina, Marina and Nadia, thank you for welcoming us so warmly. You captured not only our senses, but our hearts. If our travels bring us back to Playa del Carmen, Botica Spa won’t be an optional stop. It will already be on the itinerary. Five stars simply aren’t enough. The video I captured was gorgeous but this is all Google would allow me upload."

Casey Christine

2 months ago

"Amazing, amazing, amazing! The spa is tucked back in a neighborhood and we weren’t sure we were in the right place. As soon as the door opened you are in a relaxing, beautiful environment. The massage rooms are simple, clean, and work seamlessly into the exterior environment. I had the best massage I have ever had, no kidding. Bella was the therapist and I highly recommend her. I had a deep tissue and her pressure was deep but not too much. All the details are amazing from the water you are greeted with to the tea at the end. We got very oily so be prepared to take a shower after and don’t wear clothes that can’t get oil on them if you prefer not to shower. I can’t recommend this place highly enough. It was a great experience."

Lizzie Drucker

a month ago