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About Massage Therapy Center
Massage Therapy Center has offered massage and bodywork on California Avenue since 1981. Its address is 368 South California Avenue, in the middle of the California Avenue district. The center describes itself as one of the largest and oldest massage bodywork facilities in California. It has nine private treatment rooms, plus a sauna and a shower for clients.
The team is made up of massage therapists who are each licensed by the State of California. The website counts more than 15 on staff. A therapists page introduces the team. The center also lists Best Massage recognition from Palo Alto Weekly readers in most years since 2011. It names itself a sponsor of the Gunn Titans. Its wellness blog had a new post as recently as late October 2026.
Massage styles and other services
The center calls its services modalities. The list below uses its own names. Ask which therapists offer the style you want when you book.
- Core massage. Swedish massage, clinical deep tissue massage and a deep work massage.
- Sports and recovery. Sports massage, stretch therapy, neuromuscular release, myofascial release and trigger point release.
- Eastern and energy work. Thai massage, shiatsu, acupressure, reflexology and Reiki.
- Specialty massage. Lymphatic drainage massage and pregnancy massage.
- Other services. Acupuncture and a facial treatment.
- Add-ons. Fascial stretching therapy and a scalp, jawline and face massage, each in 15 or 30 minute lengths.
This listing describes services only. It is not medical advice. If you have an injury, are pregnant or have a health condition, check with your doctor and tell your therapist before the session.
Booking, packages and payment
You can book online through the center's website or call 650-328-9400. The site also has a schedule page that shows when each therapist works, which helps if you want to see the same person each time. Gift certificates are sold on the site. Massage packages are sold through an online catalog on the WellnessLiving platform. The center also runs an online store for a few products it sells.
The center does not bill insurance directly. It can give you a superbill to submit to your insurer yourself for possible out-of-network reimbursement, which depends on your plan. HSA and FSA cards are accepted for massage payments. Tipping is optional. Envelopes are at the front desk. Cancellation rules are on a separate policies page, so read it before you book.
What to expect
Arrive about 10 minutes early to fill out a short intake form. For most styles you undress partly or fully and stay draped throughout the session. Acupressure is the exception, since it does not require undressing. Therapists can work on clients under 18 with parental consent, which means a signed form before the first visit. Children and pets generally cannot come along with an adult client. Service dogs are allowed.
The long hours are a big practical plus. The center opens at 9:30 a.m. every day and stays open until 9 p.m. from Tuesday to Sunday. On Monday it closes at 7 p.m. An evening massage after work or after a day of sightseeing is easy to arrange.
Who it suits
The size of the team is the main draw. With many therapists and a wide list of styles, the center can match someone who wants a gentle Swedish massage as well as a runner who wants sports work or stretch therapy. Expectant parents can book pregnancy massage. People who prefer Eastern styles can choose Thai massage, shiatsu or acupressure. The late closing time suits commuters and visitors who spend the day at Stanford or in meetings. Readers looking for a full day spa with facials and nails can find other options in our business directory.
Tips for visiting
- Book ahead if you want an evening or weekend slot.
- Check the therapist schedule page if you want to book the same person again.
- The California Avenue Caltrain station is at the end of the street, so you can come by train from elsewhere on the Peninsula.
- Make an afternoon of it. Our coffee guide covers cafes on and near California Avenue. The Sunday farmers market runs on the same street year-round.
Location and getting there
Massage Therapy Center is at 368 South California Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94306, in the California Avenue area of Palo Alto. Our California Avenue guide covers what else is around.
The California Avenue Caltrain station is less than a quarter mile away, a walk of a few minutes.
Parking: street spaces and city garages with posted limits (see parking in Palo Alto).
Hours
| Monday | 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
|---|---|
| Tuesday to Sunday | 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
Hours from the business's own website, checked October 29, 2026.
What is nearby
- Victoria Ballet, studio or gym, under 0.1 mi
- California Paint Company, store, under 0.1 mi
- Summit Bicycles, studio or gym, under 0.1 mi
- Sun of Wolf, restaurant, under 0.1 mi
- ZombieRunner Coffee, cafe, under 0.1 mi
- Bowden Park, 0.3 mi
- College Terrace Library, 0.3 mi
- Peers Park, 0.3 mi
Other beauty, hair and wellness nearby: Spoke & Weal (under 0.1 mi); Julian Chase Salon (under 0.1 mi); Social Salon (under 0.1 mi); From Europe With Love (0.1 mi). Browse the full beauty, hair and wellness list.
Before you go
- Most salons and spas work by appointment. Book ahead, especially before holidays and on weekends.
- Ask about the cancellation policy when you book, since many businesses charge for late cancellations.
- If you have allergies or sensitive skin, mention it when you book so the provider can plan.
About this listing
Checked October 29, 2026 against Massage Therapy Center official website; About page; FAQ page. How our listings work. Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Massage Therapy Center in Palo Alto?
Massage Therapy Center is at 368 South California Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94306, in the California Avenue area. The nearest Caltrain stop is the California Avenue Caltrain station, about 0.2 miles away.
Does Massage Therapy Center take insurance?
The center does not bill insurance directly. It can provide a superbill that you submit to your plan yourself for possible out-of-network reimbursement, which is not guaranteed. It accepts HSA and FSA cards for massage.
Can minors get a massage at Massage Therapy Center?
Yes, with parental consent. A parent or guardian signs a consent form before the first session. Children and pets generally cannot come along with adult clients, though service dogs are welcome.
How early should I arrive for a massage?
The center asks clients to arrive about 10 minutes early to fill out a short intake form before the session starts.
What are Massage Therapy Center's hours?
Monday: 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m..