For summer of 2024, my college bestie and I decided to drive cross country from San Diego to Anna Maria Island.
As soon as we shared our road trip plans with friends, one name kept coming up—Ten Thousand Waves. “If you’re passing through Santa Fe, you have to treat yourself there,” they insisted. So, as we began charting our winding route, we made sure to carve out time for a couple of restful, rejuvenating nights at this highly recommended spot.
Ten Thousand Waves, a 20-acre spa-centric boutique resort, is nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, about four miles outside of Santa Fe. This sanctuary of spa, lodging, and food might seem like a hidden gem but it has been legendary since 1981.
Modeled after Japan’s hot springs (onsen), Ten Thousand Waves transports you directly to the land of The Rising Sun. Onsens, public or private hot springs, have been a rich part of Japanese culture for centuries. Many people use onsens to relax, reduce stress, cleanse, and relieve pain.
The property grounds practically duplicate the Hokkaido mountains, with piñon trees, juniper bushes, and clean Japanese design. The Houses of the Moon, the 16 hillside cottages, are scattered below the spa. The restaurant, Izanami, serves izakaya fare–small plates served in a casual atmosphere.
Upon arrival I immediately felt the stillness. The stress of driving on the interstate dissipated. I could feel my head begin to clear.
Inside the front entrance is a spectacular staircase which leads to the front desk and gift shop area.
Contents
Lodging
“Izzy, welcome to the Houses of the Moon at Ten Thousand Waves!” Check-in was seamless and room keys were secured promptly.
Ten Thousand Waves offers four categories of lodging as follows:
- Zen Rooms · basic and beautiful
- Townsman Rooms · elegant and roomy
- Samurai Rooms · a higher level of finish and amenities
- Emperor’s Rooms · most elegant accommodations
Click here to view photos and read a description of each of their rooms. There is a 2-night minimum stay. Check-in is at 4 PM and check-out is at 12 PM.
All room categories offer the following:
- Buddha-shaped chocolate on pillows
- Personal kimonos in the closet
- Portable lanterns to light your way on the property
- Yuzu scented shampoo, conditioner, and lotion in the bathroom
- Breakfast is available
- Complimentary WiFi, local, and long-distance calling
- Bottle of wine, sake, or a charcuterie plate may be added to reservation
- Access to the Grand Bath, foot soak, sauna, cold plunge, and locker rooms
- Early access to the spa facilities
Within each category are uniques room choices. We selected the Chogetsu within the Samurai rooms.
Chogetsu means clear moon. This room was sleek and uncluttered. It offered two queen-size beds by Sachi Organics, dog-proof courtyard and outside seating area, breakfast nook with sink, microwave, fridge, smart TV, and glass front wood burning stove.
After reaching our room, I began to feel the second wave of calm wash over me.
Spa
The next day was completely and utterly devoted to me!
There are many stairs around the property and it can get tiresome getting from place to place, so a free shuttle service is offered to all guests. I phoned the front desk for transportation to the spa and within minutes they were at my doorstep.
I began my day by visiting the Relaxation Room. Here I put on a pair of noise cancelling headphones and listened to the sound of falling rain and babbling brooks. My mind continued to clear.
After my solo time, I sipped on a cup of tea and enjoyed the foot bath overlooking the zen koi pond. Watching the koi glide in slow, graceful circles felt quietly healing — the gentle ripples across the pond like nature’s own soothing therapy.
Before I knew it, my masseuse appeared to escort me to my massage.
For my first treatment, I choose the 80 minute Body and Sole massage. This treatment combines a concentrated foot massage with flowing therapeutic massage on the rest of your body. My treatment began with 55 minutes of therapeutic bodywork, easing tension and grounding me in the present moment. From there, it transitioned into an Ashi Anma foot treatment—a unique blend of Japanese shiatsu-style finger pressure and the soothing, fluid strokes of Swedish massage. The combination struck a perfect balance between deep release and gentle relaxation.
I was escorted to my second treatment, the 50 minute Japanese Organic Massage Facial. During this treatment, my skin was gently lifted and circulation was enhanced through a combination of light, swift strokes, kneading, and percussive techniques.
It was time to visit the Grand Bath, the largest bathing experience on the property. Designed for relaxation and renewal it can accommodate up to 18 guests. It features a soothing waterfall, which I stood beneath. I skipped the cold plunge pool, kept at a brisk 55°F. The atmosphere was peaceful, with guests remaining quiet and respectful throughout.
Zen settled in—quiet, effortless, complete.
The hot tubs are the main event at the spa. Remember, the resort was inspired and modeled after Japanese onsens. Each tub is beautiful and provides a sense of serenity.
Besides the Grand Bath, there are eight additional hot tub areas. Use of the tubs is free with lodging or with the purchase of a spa treatment.
Food
Izanami is the perfect place to treat your tastebuds post-pampering. Dining at Izanami is an upscale izakaya experience. They serve small plates of sustainably raised wagyu beef, pork, and chicken, and organic produce. Alongside its dishes they offer an extensive selection of premium Japanese whiskey and artisanal microbrew sake.
They offer seating options as follows: booths, tables, sake/cocktail bar, tatami floor, and an outdoor pavilion open year-round.
Naturally, we began our experience with a 2 ounce glass of Japanese whiskey poured over Kuramoto Ice. Our server assisted in our selections and were absolutely not disappointed.
The menu choices change with the season and availability. All of our choices were impeccably fresh and wonderfully presented.
Dinner was appealing, delicious, and memorable.
At Izanami, the kitchen staff enthusiastically shouts “Arigato” whenever a guest buys them a six-pack. “Arigato” is the Japanese equivalent of “thank you”. This lively gesture is a fun nod to Japanese drinking culture and adds a personal, celebratory touch to the dining experience.
Make your reservations in advance on OpenTable. Click here to view all of their menus.
Final Thoughts
Staying at Ten Thousand Waves is more than a getaway—it’s a journey into tranquility, inspired by the spirit of Japanese healing and the natural beauty of the New Mexico mountains. From serene spa treatments to thoughtfully designed lodging and delicious nourishment, every moment invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with yourself. Whether you come for renewal, rest, or quiet reflection, you’ll leave feeling restored in both body and spirit.
Until next time…
· izzy
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