On a recent hot Sunday on Long Island, I watched the traffic on the Southern State and could feel the drivers’ stress as they inched up ever so slowly towards Jones Beach, or the parts further east. I, however, was cruising along in the opposite direction, anticipating my day experience at Spa Castle, a spa sanctuary in College Point, Queens.
What was at one time an abandoned warehouse is now a wellness center offering traditional Asian and European treatments. It’s been on my list to visit for a while, and this perfectly warm spring day seemed the best time to do it.
Upon arrival, there were plenty of staff members to greet guests and direct them to the first stop: the small lockers for shoe storage and where we receive our robes, towel and comfy croc-like slippers. Then, we head up one flight to store away bags and clothing in the larger lockers. Once completed, we were ready to be pampered, sauna-ed, hot-tubbed, steamed, salted, and ultimately relaxed in this oasis just north of Flushing, Queens.
The Gold Sauna improves mental acuity and concentration
Since there are so many amenities to try, it’s best to stop at the information desk on the second floor to get an idea of where to start. After an overview, we were advised to simply wander and try whatever grabs our fancy. We saw plenty of soaking baths to explore, rooms with various heat therapies, info panels by each one describing its benefit, guidelines to remember, and cautions if one has any health issues.
While there’s no traditional cold pool on the premises, albeit one for a “cold plunge,” the Spa offers room temperature or heated soaks for achieving wellness benefits. Controls beside the tubs will operate pulsing jets to provide aqua-acupressure, another treatment that’s good for the body and mind. The staff at the Tonic Bar, located by the indoor pool, can take your orders for beverages and cocktails while never having to leave the soothing waters.
When not floating in one of the tubs, there are seven saunas to try out. Guests can choose from a wide variety of experiences like the Himalayan salt sauna to destress and relax; a color therapy room that balances the energy; the gold sauna to improve concentration; and jade sauna that emits healing rays to strength the immune and digestive systems.
Relaxation area near the treatment rooms
There’s also the Halotherapy room, Far-Infrared Sauna, and Ice Land. And that last room was true to its name with ice formations on the interior walls. It was a nice break from the heated areas, but it also stimulates the body’s antioxidant capabilities. Since it’s advisable to only remain in each room for about 15 to 20 minutes, it’s possible to give them all a try on your visit.
Grab snacks or a sit-down meal at one of their five eateries spread out around the spa. On our visit, the staff cranked up the outdoor BBQ for hamburgers and hotdogs. But there are places to get a salad, a fruit smoothie, snacks and ice cream, or a Korean dish in the Sky Garden. My iced mocha latte’ hit the spot!
The day pass includes all the amenities, but since this is a full-service spa, expect to find a menu of personal treatments that come with an extra fee. With the extensive offerings, it’s hard to imagine anything’s been left out. From Swedish Massage to a Korean Scrub, services can be booked in advance, but walk-ins are welcome with times to be arranged.
Especially enjoyable were the rooms set aside for quiet and rest. When one wants a break from the activities, there are plush recliners and peaceful atmospheres to concentrate, read, or “catch up on tasks outside the spa.” For me, however, there wasn’t anything else I felt compelled to do except decide what area to try next.
Everything has been thought out for the perfect day, even parking. For a small fee, there’s valet parking, but there’s also street parking if you don’t mind the hunt. The place has event space and can cater parties, showers, or almost every type of gathering. It’s family friendly, and while they can accommodate those with mobility needs, please call ahead.
Spa Castle is made for guests’ comforts, even down to the shoes. Upon leaving the place, I was almost at my car when I noticed the spa slippers still on my feet. They were more comfortable than the shoes I came in with, I told the staffer at the desk. Maybe it was my way of trying to keep the experience lasting long after the day ended.
Spa Castle is located at 131-10 11th Avenue, Queens, NY 11356
Visit: Spa Castle
Top photo: Drone shot of Spa Castle in College Point, Queens
Photos courtesy of Spa Castle
