The 5 Best Massage Therapists Around Lake Tahoe Region

According to the American Massage Therapy Association, more than 20 percent of U.S. adults received a massage in the past year — a number that’s grown steadily as more people seek natural, effective ways to manage stress, pain and overall wellness. In South Lake Tahoe, the Best of Tahoe highlights therapists who have built a reputation for delivering not just relief, but a renewed sense of well-being.

Essential Remedy

Kelly Ortega, founder of Essential Remedy, blends clinical knowledge with a compassionate touch. With a background that bridges sports therapy and intuitive healing, Ortega offers massage therapy that goes beyond the surface. The studio’s name reflects its mission: to provide targeted, essential care that supports the body’s natural healing processes. Services are tailored to each client — from athletes looking to enhance performance and recovery to clients managing chronic pain. Ortega takes pride in educating her clients about posture, injury prevention and the importance of regular bodywork.

ZenAkari

At ZenAkari, Kerry Cashin has created a healing environment that fuses science with soul. A licensed massage therapist and energy worker, Cashin brings a wide range of modalities to her sessions — including deep tissue, lymphatic drainage, prenatal, craniosacral and cupping. But what really defines ZenAkari is its integrative approach. Cashin often incorporates Reiki and sound healing into her work, recognizing that tension is just as often held in the spirit as it is in the body. Clients here are encouraged to reconnect with themselves while releasing the stress that accumulates over time.

Elements Day Spa

Rachael Cabaong brings a grounded, intentional energy to her massage practice at Elements Day Spa. The spa itself offers a tranquil escape just steps from the lake, and Cabaong’s work reflects that same calming presence. Her massages are thorough and intuitive, shaped by an understanding that every body — and every story — is different. Whether the session calls for gentle Swedish flow or targeted trigger point therapy, she listens closely to her clients’ needs and adjusts her techniques accordingly.

Thanks, ChatGPT.