The Knotstop Review

Friends, if you're looking at these reviews.... Just go! I couldn't ask for a better experience. Tonight I had a 90 minute relaxation massage with Ian, and it was honestly the best massage I've had in SD. I don't like Asain style massages and I don't enjoy having elbows jabbed into my back with unbearable pressure. I communicated that before we began and I was in bliss the entire time. The amenities and spaces were very clean, well lit and the front desk staff were so kind and.... Well, welcoming. Hopefully this gem sticks around!

Love every massage I've gotten here. Excellent staff. Facials are pretty great too

Went during my vacation. I'm from NJ. I'm a licensed massage therapist at home. I paid for a deep tissue to focus on my wrists and back if possible. She gave me a full body light Swedish massage. I asked for deeper pressure and she didn't do anything. She even said "feel all the tension in your wrist?" Obviously. That's why I asked for a deep tissue. The woman at the desk was the worst. After I told her my complaint she said "I'll make a note for next time." I LIVE IN NJ! Thanks for a crappy massage. And I'm a jerk because I left her $10 (rather than my usual $20-30) and paid for a deep. Tissue. I think her name was Mogli or something similar. 10/10 never going back. Thanks for a crappy massage my wrist felt WORSE after.

I came in for a stretching appointment with really tight muscles in my upper legs after a hard workout a couple of days earlier. Alicia who took care of me was really great , ask me all the right questions to understand which areas need stretching the most , but most important is how to do the stretching. Alicia was able to listen to my body and adjust the stretch to make it most effective. After the session I felt so much better , my lower back felt loose and I was able to walk freely again without the feeling of tight and sore muscles. I am really happy I came here and recommend this place to everyone who is considering and not sure. Just GO. You owe it to your self!!!

This place is awesome. The staff have a very inviting and warm presence and it's always peaceful experience despite being in the heart of busy Hillcrest. You will leave feeling refreshed!

I really love this place!!! The ambiance is amazing and I love the variety of massage styles. Also the facials are amazing

Super clean and efficient without feeling sterile or rushed. The masseuses are all well trained in their specialities, they almost always have an available appointment, and the variety of services is great.

My husband and I get massages here as often as we can. Each massage therapist we've had is GREAT!!!! We feel comfortable, relaxed, and revitalized after our massages. I recommend this place to everyone!

Got a great massage here, relaxing environment and loved the cucumber water. They run some great specials too.

Awesome massage every time I go there. Everyone is so polite and professional. Gary is one of the best therapists I've every had. I highly recommend the KnotStop.

I was super hopefully going into my 90 minutes muscle relief massage. I m a nurse so I frequently get massages to try to work out the problems areas in my back. My massage was underwhelming, with only one type of long extremely slow stroke (like being foam rolled but by a human). I didn t feel like the therapist focused on my problem areas that I clearly pointed out. Overall I spent over 100$, didn t feel relaxed, and it didn t help my back.

We are long term members of the Knotstop. The provide great value for those who appreciate regular massages. We recently had a Stretchstop session with Candi. She was amazing and we plan to add stretching to our membership

Need to stand at the head of the table and work down the spine not up. Back work was awful. Also do not touch the client with your body. Neck and legs were done well. Not sure if therapist is avoiding this basic stance due to covid. I left a decent tip but would not ask for this therapist again. I am a CMT.

I have been going to the Knot Stop regularly for nearly two decades. I am discriminating about the service I receive, and the staff does not disappoint. I indulge in bi-monthly massages, and they attract outstanding talent. My current therapist is Sergey, who provides consistent massages and is attentive to his client s needs. With the COVID-19 pandemic, they have been offering constant communication and adapting to meet customer needs. Their efforts in keeping us safe and informed are appreciated.

I don't know if I have EVER had a BETTER massage than the one I just received from Serge at the Knotstop. He is amazing and I felt so very relaxed and floated out of there on cloud nine! I will be going to him every month!! :)

For years, I was one of those people who got a massage maybe once a year. And every time I did, I would think "I should really do this more often." So when I was in The Knot Stop one of those times after a blissful massage, I signed up for the monthly massage package on a whim. I am so glad I did!

Great massage with Jose and stretching with Sparks. Careful with COVID precautions and friendly people.

Great ambient environment and amazing massage therapists as well as aestheticians. The KnotStop is THE best place to get a massage in San Diego without a doubt!

While Im sure everyone at Knotstop is fabulous and very good at their craft, "Liz" is my new favorite healing massage therapist. I've seen her 3 times so far and I feel very lucky to have found her. She's done wonders for my back. I suffered a very bad low back/spine injury a few years ago and while physical therapy helped tremendously, nothing has helped quite like Liz's magical healing hands! I'm serious! I'm always weary at first on new tables but the INSTANT she put her hands on my back I felt calm, warm, relaxed, and I knew I was in good hands. She took deep excruciating pain away that I had for years. She's very focused and doesn't chit-chat unless you want to. She has natural peaceful healing energy and I literally glow after because I'm so happy to feel so good! I have a membership at Knotstop so I get a discounted price, therefore able to go more often. Thank you Liz for your healing magic! The front desk staff is also very friendly & professional.

Therapists are good but get a business card from them because this place takes all the massage therapists money!! I'd rather go see the therapist independently since they only get about 22$ a massage plus tip. The knot stop charges 79+ for a massage and takes all of it from the massage therapist and gives them 22$. It's a total joke. Plus, the therapists are NOT employees of the knot stop so they have zero protections and the owner fires them all the time when he doesn't like something. STAY AWAY!!

The Knotstop is back!

As a long time customer of The Knotstop I was worried about their ability to survive during current events. Their ingenuity rose to the occasion with a new outdoor space for services- and their care shined through with new safety measures that put my mind at ease.

I came in for a stretch and massage service and left feeling so much better. It had been months since my last massage, WFH for the last 6 months had taken it's tolls.

I commend TKS for taking time to problem solve to reopen safely and would recommend them to anyone local or visiting!

Came here for Valentines day and had the most glorious massage! I actually booked another before leaving!! :-)

One of the best massages I've had in a while. Highly recommend this place. Karen was excellent!

My daughter treated me deep tissue massage for mother's day present.
I had Veronica for deep tissue massage. She is excellent.
I appreciated her not doing small talks.
She was in the zone right away.
From start to finish, the flow of her strokes was very smooth.
9 years experience and good technique really shows.
I would recommend her to anyone who wants to try deep tissue massage.

I have been a member for over ten years and the quality of therapists and customer service has deteriorated for me. I drive from La Jolla and in prior years, it was a great place. When you finally get a good therapist they seem to leave . I planned a birthday massage for my friend and I and an hour before our massage, I received a call that one of the therapist called in sick.
I would have expected they could get another therapist and if not, a courtesy massage at a later date. I believe a client must cancel within eight hours or we are charged. This fiasco not only ruined a birthday celebration but reinforced that I will be finding another studio.

I have only had one massage here... and it was wonderful. My wife is a member and goes once a month, and she loves it. The staff is friendly. The atmosphere is very relaxing. Definitely recommend this place.

The masseur was very skillled. He was very strong and used good pressure and worked areas evenly. The 3 stars is not for his skills, he was very good.
The lounge of the place was very promising, a good mixture of west elm and burning man. When guided to the massage room though it was very underwhelming. No fun scents, not much decor, a bit cramped even. Under the sheets was fine but the room was a tad cold.
When the massage started i couldn't help but giggle, I'm sure I was his first client of the day, and perhaps he didn't have a hearty breakfast, but for the first 20 min his stomach sang me the song of its people as he got started. When that quieted I started to take notice of the music. Every song alternated between either instruments from around the world; romantic sounds of the pan flute and didgeridoo, or the soundtracks of 80s Lifetime movies. If I wasn't serenaded by indiginous throat singing I was suddenly inspired to overcome my battle with cancer, find my lost daughter and leave my cheating husband, none of which I actually have. Suddenly the music stopped and the soothing sounds of Starbucks took over. From the lull of the coffee grinder, to someone dumping out water and cleaning something, and then the fun conversations of several patrons sharing our wall.

If you are like me and appreciate atmosphere as part of your massage experience, perhaps a less busy location. Or at least not the room at the end that perhaps used to be a closet with interesting music.

I go here regularly. Their packages are great and it's always very very easy to get an appointment. I've had one bad massage once but never saw the guy again so I dint think he even works there anymore. I would definitely recommend this place as a regular massage spot.

My 90 min Weekend Warrior/Sports massage was disappointing. The masseuse had a very light touch and didn't address the issues and/or areas I relayed. I gave up after the third hint/request. It was more like a basic rub down than an actual sports massage. A real let down. I usually do the 60 min so figured upgrading to the 90 min would just be more relaxing and effective. Not so. I was stressed and frustrated during and when I left. On the plus side, the new location is more conveneint for me and was very nice inside. Staff was also very nice, as usual. Bummer since I will likely be cancelling my membership after this experience.

What can I say about this great spa. I booked a my husband a massage to help his back and not only did he have a great deep tissue massage with KW they offered to try an assisted stretch. He got a person named Sparks that got his back to have little to know pain by the time he left and now is a member for both. TRY THIS PLACE you will love it as much as we do.

Massages are great but the owner rips off the workers. Couldn't believe they only get 21-22$ per massage but have to pay taxes on the entire price you paid the front desk. It's really sad.

I LOVE this place. Been getting monthly massages for years, and the place is run great. I'm a member of the monthly club where they bill my card automatically, and I get one massage a month. If you're into deep tissue, ask for Crossly. He's got the strongest massage hands that I have ever felt.

In February I cancelled my monthly membership. Got charged again in August. Had I not been checking my statements, they would have totally ripped me off. Even though I hadn't been charged in months, I was told I would need to submit in writing that I want to cancel. This was not told to me in February. This place is definitely feeling the squeeze from Coronavirus to be charging people blindly

I like that I can call and get a massage that same day. My work schedule makes it difficult for me to plan appointments ahead of time. I've used the knot stop for past 2 years and enjoyed every time I go. If I happen to get someone that not 100% amazing which is rare I just ask to not be assigned that person next time. But again every massage has been worth my money every time! Pro horse trainer with a lot of riding injuries. Deep tissue massages make it possible for me to continue my job! Thx to the staff at the knot stop

My experience at the Knotstop was UNBELIEVABLE! Great service, amazing therapists, and comforting environment and energy! Hands down THE best massages I have ever received, not to mention their exquisite boutique and jewelry variety! They carry the best candles in town! Cant wait to come back :)

I've been coming infrequently to the Knotstop for their one hour relaxation massage for several years, and most times I leave more relaxed and happier. On my most recent visit (3/26/19) I decided to try a newer masseuse named Orlenthia. In retrospect, it was my own fault for not being more assertive with the fact that I wanted a very simple and slow massage. It's an ongoing problem that I have; not being able to stand up for what I paid for. Anyway, she was very professional and upfront with her eclectic technique. Combining various western and Chinese therapy moves. What I didn't know was that since she wanted to use so many massage styles, she would go through her routine very quickly and forcefully so as to fit inside the allotted one hour. It was the kind of massage that wouldn't be much improved by simply asking for less pressure. I left feeling both energized/better for it, and more or less "therapeutically beat up". She was forcing relaxation and healing in such a way that it simultaneously removed old aches and added new ones. I came home and felt the need to take an after care warm bath to ease the ache from something that's supposed to be healing. To be fair, she was very professionally open to requests for different massage techniques, and gave me every opportunity to ask for her to just give me something slow and simple. Which would be best for me since my body doesn't need that much convincing to relax, especially under the right gentle touch.

If you're looking for someone who's very fast and rigorous, Orlenthia is just the masseuse for you. She is dedicated to her practice, and open to learning new styles of massage. She's very knowledgeable in her prowess, and if you want anything other than having the bad vibes forced out of your body, please make sure to speak up.

This place is absolutely amazing! I've been going here for years! I have a terrible back condition and Henry is AMAZING working with injuries. The decor is quite relaxing and don't even get me started on the tea in the waiting room. The coconut in particular is strangely incredible and to die for.

I've tried other places that are closer to me, but it's just not worth it. I love you Knotstop.

One stop shop Knot Stop is my favorite go-to place for gifts whether it's a present from their shop or a massage/facial! They have membership perks if you join. I also love their organic facial brand (Eminence) and their facialists are all great.

Wonderful spa experience. Such a beautiful and relaxing space. Massage and facial special for new customers is beyond worth it! Will be back there. They offer a club pricing plan too.

Good to great massages. They are expensive but usually the job done, as far as getting knots out. The reason they are getting 4 is their staff. The fifth star I m taking out because of their BS membership plan! Sounds like a great plan, sign up and get discounts and notifications for upcoming appointments. They don t ever notify you, as they promise, and gladly take a no show fine $35 if you forgot about an appointment. They also require a 24hr cancellation, so if life happens (as we all life happens) you are SOL and have to pay a $35 cancellation or show up. Therefore, They have lost a membership for the price of $35 and the additional $$$ which would ve been spent. This is a ridiculous policy and broken system. As I said, the professionals are good but not enough to deal with a broken system and ridiculous policy.

Had a sports therapy session. Thank you God, i needed that. I am from out of town (Texas) and I will be getting regular sessions from now on. A+

Overall had a good experience. Customer service was great and the message was pretty good. I still prefer a different style of deep tissue message.

Great ambience, relaxing, wonderful massages, professional therapists,

Great place, very friendly and helpful. ask for Shelly, best deep tissue massage in San Diego, maybe the best anywhere. She is mentally in tune with your body & mind, and strong enough to really give the muscles a real workout. I feel so good after her massage, I don't want to leave. She is magnificent.

This is the best place to get a great massage. The staff & massage therapists are the best!

Just a wonderful experience. The staff has always been courteous and I've always been seen promptly and on time. I can't say enough about Todd S. He's very intuitive, knowledgeable, and just... amazing. I go as often as I can, thankfully they're pricing is very reasonable.

My new happy place. Great massage by Kyle. Will definitely be returning.

I have been going here for many years. I am very satisfied with booking, the front desk staff, the cleanliness and the anteroom with relaxing music and seating. Sergey has been my therapist for the past year or so and he is fantastic. I think he is the best I've found. Good pressure and overall feel very relaxed after the session. The only downside of my massage is when it ends and I have to wait for my next session!