The 5 best saunas in Canberra for relaxation and recovery
When life gets too hectic, I often find myself looking for ways to unwind without hopping on a plane or booking a week-long retreat. That’s where saunas come in.
Saunas are not just about sweating it out—they’ve long been associated with relaxation, detoxification, and even improved circulation.
There are several wellness hubs and recovery centres in the city, offering modern experiences, from sleek infrared cabins to traditional spa-style setups. After doing some research and checking them out, I’ve rounded up the best sauna spots in Canberra.
How much do saunas cost in Canberra?
Sauna sessions typically cost between $35 and $60 per session, depending on duration, amenities, and package deals.
Many providers also offer memberships or bundled passes for frequent visitors to help bring down costs.
1. Sauna Float ACT
Address: 9/114 Emu Bank, Belconnen
Phone: (02) 6230 2387
Business hours:
- Monday to Tuesday, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday to Friday, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sauna Float ACT combines infrared sauna therapy with floatation services, offering a well-rounded approach to relaxation and detox. The saunas are designed for comfort and privacy, with clients often praising the calming atmosphere and spotless facilities.
Many reviews highlight the staff as professional and welcoming, which adds to the overall experience. The Belconnen location is convenient for northside residents, and flexible hours make it easy to squeeze in a session after work.
On the downside, sessions can book out quickly, especially on weekends, so planning ahead is necessary. Pricing is mid-range compared to similar venues, but package deals provide good value for frequent users.
Overall, this is a reliable go-to for stress relief and recovery in a central location.
A great and relaxing experience
“My partner and I have been coming to Float Sauna Belconnen for three years for infrared sauna and it’s always a great and relaxing experience. The space is calming, with low lighting and the waiting area where you can drink tea or water before or after your sauna looking out over the lake is so nice. We will see you again soon!”
– Renee Jaeger, Google Review
Clean, private, good service
“Clean, private, good service. I always come away after an infrared sauna session feeling relaxed and revitalised. I use sauna 3, which includes red light in addition to infrared also has Bluetooth so you can play music through the sauna system.”
– John Grant, Google Review
2. City Cave Canberra City
Address: 11 Moore Street
Phone: 0493 594 242
Business hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
City Cave brings a modern wellness vibe with its infrared saunas, float therapy, and massage options all under one roof. Located conveniently in the city centre, it appeals to professionals and students looking for a quick reset.
Reviews often highlight the relaxing environment and friendly staff who guide clients through their first sessions. The saunas themselves are private, with options for individual or dual use, which is perfect if you want to go with a friend.
Operating seven days a week until late makes it one of the most accessible options in Canberra. The main drawback is that some customers find pricing on the higher side, especially for one-off visits, though memberships significantly reduce the cost.
Heaven
“The nicest City Cave I’ve been to. Sauna + cold shower + float = heaven. Staff are super friendly, in particular AJ, who was amazingly helpful and polite. Very impressed all-round”
– Damien Hawes, Google Review
Definitely have me hooked
“Exactly what my sister and I needed after a long week. Staff were friendly and the rooms were outstanding! Such a relaxing vibe from the moment you step through the doors. Highly recommend!! Definitely one of the better floats and saunas in Canberra, clean and comfortable, and they are not stingy with the towels and water, definitely worth the money paid, I will definitely be returning, they definitely have me hooked.”
– Remi Ona, Google Review
3. Hale Gym & Day Spa
Address: 10–14 Macquarie Street, Barton
Phone: 02 6188 3299
Business hours:
- Monday to Thursday, 7:15 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday, 7:15 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday, 7:15 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday, 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Hale Gym & Day Spa offers more of a luxury experience, combining a modern fitness centre with a premium day spa. Their sauna facilities are part of a larger suite of wellness amenities, including hydrotherapy pools, massage, and beauty treatments.
The spa’s interior design has a sophisticated edge, which appeals to those wanting a more indulgent visit. Reviews consistently mention the professional staff and serene atmosphere.
On the other hand, because Hale is positioned as a high-end spa, prices are steeper than other sauna-only venues.
Some guests also note that the gym side can get busy, which slightly reduces the sense of exclusivity, especially during after-work hours or on weekday mornings.
Still, if you’re looking for a top-tier spa day that includes sauna use, Hale is a standout choice.
Clean and very luxurious
“Had a lovely time. All the amenities are clean and very luxurious. The sauna is beautifully built and was a particular highlight. Charis was my therapist and did an incredible job.”
– Genevieve K-S, Google Review
An amazing experience
“From the moment I arrived, it was special. The luxurious surrounds, the plunge pool, the sauna/steam room, the lounge – all topped off with 2 hours with Joslyn. Joslyn was friendly, welcoming, informative about the treatment and sooooo good at her job. What an amazing experience – I know what I’m asking for every birthday from now on.”
– Kim Tito, Google Review
4. Recovery Lab Braddon
Address: 24 Mort Street, Braddon
Phone: 0447 698 715
Business hours:
- Monday, 6:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Tuesday to Friday, 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Recovery Lab Braddon caters heavily to athletes and fitness enthusiasts, with a focus on sports recovery. Their infrared saunas are paired with compression therapy, ice baths, and other recovery modalities, making it ideal for those training regularly.
Clients often note that the sessions help reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery times. The modern, minimalist space has an athletic edge rather than a spa-like feel, which may not suit everyone seeking pure relaxation.
While prices are competitive, weekday morning access is limited since saunas open only in the afternoon. However, the extended Monday hours make up for it. This venue is perfect if you want your sauna session integrated into a broader recovery plan.
A great experience
“Had a great experience over a period of two weeks when I recently visited Canberra for work. The studio was very neat and tidy every time I visited, and I was always greeted warmly. Em was a fantastic host who was all over the offerings provided.”
– Matthew Scott, Google Review
Good value and highly recommended
“Compression boots and sauna sessions are a great way to recover when running regularly. Staff are always welcoming and helpful. Good value and highly recommended.”
– George MM, Google Review
5. RESET Strength & Sports Recovery
Address: 17-19 Wollongong Street, Fyshwick
Phone: (02) 6280 8564
Business hours:
- Monday to Tuesday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
RESET Strength & Sports Recovery offers sauna sessions as part of a broader recovery and strength-conditioning service. With two locations in Canberra (Belconnen and Fyshwick), it’s accessible for both northside and southside residents.
Their saunas are often paired with cryotherapy and compression treatments, and the business has built a reputation among athletes for performance recovery. Reviews describe the facilities as clean and staff as very knowledgeable.
The main advantage is the dual locations and extended weekend hours. On the flip side, some visitors note that the focus on sports recovery may feel less appealing if you’re after a purely spa-like environment.
Prices are reasonable, and package deals are available for frequent clients.
Well priced
“Just as important training, is your recovery. This centre has almost everything you need. I used the compression therapy, sauna, and ice bath and felt all the better for it. An easy process and well priced, with memberships available for regular visitors.”
– Ben Hinton, Google Review
AMAZING!
“AMAZING! Each time I come into RESET it’s a positive experience. The staff are always caring, happy and I’m always looked after so well. Special shoutout to the wonderful Sheridan, who always makes coming in such a positive and supportive experience. The facilities at both Fyshwick and Belconnen are excellent and I always feel refreshed, relaxed and like a better version of myself after my sessions.
Thanks to all the staff, you guys rock!”
– Malinda Cole, Google Review