The Spa Experience
Set within 22 forested acres overlooking the Salish Sea, Grotto Spa offers one of Vancouver Island’s most distinctive wellness experiences. The spa combines warm mineral water, cedar saunas, outdoor relaxation spaces, restorative treatments and an exclusive robe-and-sandal dining experience. Guests can enjoy The Grotto as a complete two-hour experience or personalize their visit with massage, skin care, body treatments, nail care, salon services and dining at Treetop Tapas & Grill.
You Deserve
The Signature Grotto Experience is a two-hour, self-guided wellness journey designed to be enjoyed at your own pace. Move freely between soothing indoor and outdoor spaces, taking time to unwind in the warm Mineral Pool, spacious Whirlpool or beneath the refreshing Cool Splash Waterfall. Outdoors, the Heated Stone Patio invites moments of relaxation with four cedar barrel saunas, outdoor showers, stone fire tables and comfortable lounge seating, all set in the fresh coastal air.
Extending the experience, the Garden Oasis offers two additional cedar barrel saunas, two Coastal Cold Rinse stations, heated louvered shelters and inviting seating gathered around stone fire tables. Partially covered for year-round comfort, these thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces create a natural connection to the surrounding forest.
Throughout your visit, enjoy naturally flavoured still and sparkling water, light refreshments and a refined grazing menu available for purchase, with food and beverage service offered both indoors and outdoors.
Treat Yourself
For those wishing to extend their visit, a full menu of spa treatments is available, including relaxation and therapeutic massage, couples treatments, facials, body therapies, manicures, pedicures and salon services. Each treatment is thoughtfully personalized by experienced spa professionals to help you relax, restore and make the most of your time at Grotto Spa.
Guests seeking Registered Massage Therapy should request a BC Registered Massage Therapist when booking, as availability is limited. Couples may also reserve a private suite for side-by-side massage and enhance their experience with select soaking or hydrotherapy options.
Stay & Play
Complete the spa day at Treetop Tapas & Grill, an exclusive dining experience reserved for Grotto Spa guests. Dine comfortably in your robe and sandals while overlooking the forest and enjoying a curated Chef’s Tasting Menu inspired by the flavours and ingredients of the Pacific Northwest. The experience is designed as a relaxed culinary journey, allowing spa guests to remain immersed in the day’s unhurried rhythm.
For an overnight escape, Tigh-Na-Mara offers rustic cottages, spa bungalows, studios and ocean-view rooms. Resort amenities include Cedars Restaurant & Lounge, an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, fitness centre, seasonal recreation and flexible meeting spaces. Direct access to three kilometres of sandy beach makes it easy to add beachcombing, ocean views and quiet time in nature to the stay.
You Are Here
Grotto Spa is located at Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort in Parksville, on the east coast of Vancouver Island. The resort is approximately 30 minutes north of Nanaimo and about two hours north of Victoria, with access through Vancouver Island’s ferry terminals and regional airports.
For more information, call 1.250.248.1838, email relax@grottospa.com or visit grottospa.com.
Kudos
Spas of America Top 100 Spas of 2025
Spas of America Top 10 Best Beach Spas of 2025
Featured In
2026 Canada Spa Guide – Spas of America
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the Signature Grotto Experience?
The two-hour experience includes access to the Mineral Pool, Whirlpool, Cool Splash Waterfall, six cedar barrel saunas, outdoor showers, Coastal Cold Rinse stations, heated patio areas, fire-table seating, relaxation spaces and locker-room amenities.
Do I need to stay at Tigh-Na-Mara to visit Grotto Spa?
No. An overnight stay at the resort is not required to reserve a Grotto Spa experience. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekends and popular travel periods.
Are spa treatments included with The Grotto?
Treatments are booked separately and can be added to the two-hour Signature Grotto Experience. Options include massage, skin care, body care, nail services and salon treatments.
What should I bring?
Swimwear is required. A locker, robe, sandals and towels are provided, along with shower and grooming amenities. To preserve the spa’s peaceful environment and guest privacy, cell phones and cameras are not permitted within the spa.
Can I dine at Treetop Tapas & Grill without visiting the spa?
No. Treetop Tapas & Grill is reserved exclusively for Grotto Spa guests. Dining should be booked in advance as part of the spa experience.
