Athena Spa at Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo - Mission Viejo, California

Robin S

I haven't had as nice of a spa experience as I did yesterday at this spa. Mary was so kind and went above and beyond to make me feel comfortable. The wrap was amazing as well as the massage. I can't wait to come back!

John Kosecoff

I have been looking for superior massage in Orange County since moving to the area in mid 2023. Massage is, by my experience, a healing treatment and aesthetic pleasure. A neighbor with a similar appreciation of massage as an uplifting way to be good to yourself recently referred me to Mary Martin at Athena Spa located at the Ayres Hotel in Mission Viejo.

That Mary is expert is evident in her training, experience, attention to guest preferences and expectations, and her delivery of a total caring massage session.

My preference is massage that combines shiatsu pressure point, deep tissue release, and restorative large muscle movement. Mary understands these methods and how a body responds. She and I spoke at length before the session and she recognized that beyond relieving my old sore muscles from moving and punishing physical labor, I wanted to assess her suitability for treating my 95 year-old stepfather who has only once enjoyed massage.

An hour treatment with Mary was far from being perfunctory: it was performed with engaged intelligence. This was much more like she and I were beginning a therapeutic relationship than a spa transaction. Her strong hands and guiding instruction opened my breathing, unwound tight muscles, and eased my senses with touch, aroma, appropriate music and a calming decor.

Although it had been several years since my last massage of real quality, I compare Mary with outstanding practitioners at Watercourse Way in Palo Alto (Steve Jobs' favorite spa), The Esalen Institute in Big Sur, athletic trainers in New York's Catskills, luxury hotel spas such as the Ritz Carlton, premier cruise lines, and a host of sports and physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and alternative practitioners including Feldenkraus, Reiki, Rolfing, and Reflexology.

Over many years I have known couples who indulge massage to seeming excess and individuals uncomfortable being touched, and think that I bring balanced critical judgment and a consumer sense of good value. I am certainly opinionated. But for needs like mine I recommend Mary Martin and Athena Spa without hesitation, intend to return periodically and over time expect to sample a range of spa services.

David Levin

We stumbled upon this spa in Mission Viejo and decided to give it a try for their couples massage experience. From the moment we walked in, we were impressed by how clean the clean facilities were and I enjoyed the faint smell of eucalyptus and lavender in the entry area. The massage itself was top notch and left me feeling like a wet noodle by the end. I recommend the CBD oil treatment add-on for some extra relaxation. The staff was great and very accommodating to our specific needs.

If you get a chance to experience the steam/shower after your massage I also highly recommend that experience as well. It will make you wish you had such a luxurious shower in your home!

I highly recommend giving this spa a try. You won't be disappointed.

Manny Ramirez

One of the best massage experiences I've ever had! Mary is warm and welcoming. She makes you feel at ease from the 1st interaction. My wife and I will definitely be back for another couples massage.

Brett Seekely

Had my first massage ever here. It was very very relaxing. The masseuse, Mary, was very attentive and responsive to feedback (increase\decrease pressure or towels too hot or cold). The atmosphere was very calm and serene. I got a 60 minute massage, but I felt like it lasted longer in the best way, even though it was truly an hour long. It's relaxing to the point that you lose track of time. I would definitely go again and would recommend it to all!

Anna Walton

Athena Spa is the place for true relaxation! From the moment the massage starts, inhaling lavender essential oil, stress melts away. Mary gives her full attention while stretching and kneading the muscles. Hot stones and towels help to soothe sore muscles. The atmosphere makes you feel special and you can take your time, unlike many spas that are crowded. I am feeling much better in my body and getting more restful sleep days after the massage. Highly recommend.

Lexi Katnic

I made an appointment here for a Sunday early afternoon and was able to get in with no issues. Everyone was welcoming and nice, and the environment was clean. My massage was a full 60 minutes - they didn't do the whole 10 minutes for changing before/after the treatment, which is unusual because most chain massage businesses do this, but this was noticed and appreciated. They incorporated aromatherapy throughout as well. Their prices are comparable to other spas in the area. I would go again and recommend their services!

*I was not staying at the hotel but live in the area so you don't have to be staying here to utilize the services.

Angela Elizabeth

So glad we found this incredible spa!!! It’s truly phenomenal—my husband and I went for anti aging facials and 90 minute massages and were so relaxed and refreshed after!!! It was so nice to unwind in such a clean and beautiful spa—I highly recommend this hidden gem! We cannot wait to book again—-I’ve been to many spas but this one is the best by far in service, quality, professionalism and above all relaxation!!!!!