A Review of King Spa: The Ultimate DC Korean Spa Experience
Updated: Apr 7
One thing about my clients: they LOVE a luxurious spa trip, and there's no better place to do it than King Spa in Chantilly, VA. This behemoth of a Virginia spa is complete with indoor and outdoor (and rooftop!) pools, nude bade pools, saunas with all kinds of minerals, and delicious Korean and Japanese food. And it's all very affordable! The next time you need a day off, go here! And let my review of King Spa be your guide to enjoying this urban oasis.
Things That Made King Spa One of My Favorite Luxury Spa Locations in Virginia
When you arrive to King Spa in Virginia:
Parking can be packed, but it's not difficult to find a spot.
Checking in is simple and convenient. All you need is a photo ID and payment. If you purchased a groupon for the spa, try to have it ready before you get the counter for convenience. Once you check in and make your payment, you'll be directed to the dressing area to get ready.
The locker rooms are open and judgement-free. When you get to the locker area, you'll see everyone in various stages of dress. Relax, no one is looking at you lol. Everyone is there to have a good time, and every person has a uniquely beautiful body. King Spa does have a required uniform for the non-pool areas, so make sure to grab one (no one will let you forget). Sizes go up to 4x, which in my opinion fit like a women's size 2-24. There are no shoes allowed anywhere in the spa.
Customer service was helpful without being intrusive. You know how you go to a store and it seems like the customer service folks are down your throat trying to make sure you have a good time? King Spa is NOT that. The staff is friendly and informative without making you feel suffocated.
A Truly Luxury Spa in Virginia: What Stands Out
The pools, THE POOLS! I mostly go to spas like this just to soak all day, and King Spa has beautiful pools to do just that. They have outdoor pools on the rooftop that have very tropical beach party vibes. The indoor pools are very nice as well. And they're large enough that they don't feel crowded, even when it's busy. The towels are very tiny though, so take multiple with you.
The saunas are plentiful and pleasant. They have several different sauna-type rooms - the gold room, charcoal, and a bunch more that I can immediately recall the names of. The variety makes it easy to find a quiet, somewhat empty space to relax.
The nude bade pools are a highlight of the spa. And before you ask, they ARE separated by gender. I would say the bade pools were my favorite because of the freedom to be completely nude and how amazing the hot tub jets felt. There's also a steam room in the area that will leave you feeling like a brand new person.
The cafe is surprisingly delicious. I always go in with low expectations for the food so that I can leave pleasantly surprised. This time, my method worked. The food was actually SO good. I highly recommend the shrimp tempura and the ramen. Also, grab one of the jelly packs. The texture is weird, but wildly delicious.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Spa Trip
Get a robe! It's only a few dollars extra, but it really ads to the luxe feel of your experience.
Remember to hydrate! There a couple of water stations in the spa, but take a water bottle with you because you'll lose a ton of hydration in the various saunas.
Be prepared to spend at least $100 for entry and food. You can spend less of course, but why not indulge? Additional spa treatments such as massages and korean body scrubs are extra as well.
This is a great trip to take with friends! There are opportunities to be social and have quiet alone time so you can find a nice balance for yourself.
The room with the little wooden blocks on the floor seems like a cool idea, but don't do it. That room sucks, it is AWFUL. It feels like walking on every lego left on every floor by ever toddler in the known universe, past and present.
Frequently Asked Questions About King Spa
Is it mandatory to be fully naked at King Spa?
Not at all! There is a nude pool, but you can bypass that if you like. You do have to be nude for the korean body scrub. If it's any reassurance though, nobody is looking at you judgingly, and the nude pools are separated by gender. I personally felt very safe and comfortable.
What other services are available at the spa?
King Spa offers massages, facials, body scrubs, and vaginal steams. You can book your session at the spa in the locker rooms, but they're prices are listed online so you won't be shocked upon arrival.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to King Spa?
No, you may not bring food and drinks to the spa, silly goose. They have a restaurant on site with delicious food, so you don't have to worry about getting hungry.
What is the dress code?
The spa requires bathing suits in all the pools except for the nude bade pools. For the rest of the spa, there is a uniform provided to you. There is also a no-shoes policy, so you'll be barefoot for teh entire time.
Is King Spa better than Balian Springs?
I'm glad you asked! I actually wrote an in-depth review of Balian Springs so you can determine that for yourself!
What are the best times to visit?
Definitely go on a weekday morning if you can. That's when the spa is the calmest and you'll beat the crowds. The nice thing is that the spa is so massive that it really never feels super crowded anyway.
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