Flourish Magazine

W inter is a time for cocooning. It's a season crets, Frogs is the place to go if you want to shed your worries marked by shorter days, cold weather, and di- (or clothes if you like), and step into a swirling pool of hot water minished sunlight that naturally invites us to that will ease your cares and muscle tension away. curl up and turn inward. In the aftermath of This long-time local favorite has a "funky, rustic, laid-back holiday festivities and New Year's revelry, there's no better way vibe" that offers patrons the choice of soaking in an open-air to regroup and rejuvenate than with a warm, restorative soak. communal hot tub, or reserving one of their two private outdoor This simple act can be a transcendent experience that soothes Jacuzzi tubs where you can steep in seclusion. The staff is hospi- frayed nerves and sore muscles as it restores the mind-body con- table, the facilities are clean and well-kept, and you can combine nection. your soak with a co-ed hot sauna, cold plunge, or single/couples The therapeutic benefits of soaking have long been documented throughout history. Ancient Romans built lavish public baths called thermae on natural hot springs where society conducted business while languishing in water. Egypt's legendary beauty, Cleopatra, was known to immerse herself regularly in milk and honey, while the Japanese believed soaking in Sake would banish evil spirits and promote good fortune in the New Year. Today, North Bay spas are reinventing this ancient art of relaxation by combining tradition with modern luxury. Whether you're looking to escape for the weekend, or for the day, there's therapeutic massage services for an extra fee. The shared public spa facilities are a budget friendly $20.00 for a maximum three hour soak. Private tubs run $20.00 for one person or bring a friend(s) for an additional $10.00 each (four person maximum). Patrons should know Frogs only accepts cash or checks, so be sure to hit the ATM before you go. Walkins are welcome (clothing is optional and guests must be 18 and older), and facilities are open 365 days a year from 11:00 a.m. to midnight. Bonus feature: the extended hours of operation mean you can soak while star gazing! a soak to suit your lifestyle and budget. Here's some of the best we discovered. *Note: prices are per person unless otherwise noted and do not include gratuities or resort fees. The outdoor pool at Cavallo Point Spa is set to 100 degrees year round and open to all spa goers. Photo by Michal Venera. The Premium Soak at Cavallo Point If you're looking for all the bells and whistles, consider Marin's Frogs outdoor private Jacuzzi in Fairfax. Photo by Brian Byrnes. newest spa jewel at Cavallo Point Lodge (cavallopoint.com). Nestled in a secluded basin at historic Fort Baker near Sausalito, this Best Bargain Soak at Frogs facility offers a natural setting with breathtaking bay views of San For an unpretentious experience that won't break your bank Francisco and the nearby Golden Gate Bridge. Patrons who escape account, head out to Fairfax for a soak at Frogs Hot Tubs (frog- to this five-star eco-resort pay a premium to do so, but no one's shottubs.com). Touted as one of Marin County's best kept se- complaining. WINTER 2013 • FLOURISH 47

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