Hello everyone! This is a friendly reminder that any of these fun places we may visit, we are a guest at. Please treat both businesses and trails with the utmost respect. We here at Hidden San Diego follow the 'Leave no Trace' mantra, meaning whatever you bring with you comes back with you. If you see trash on a trail, please do your part to help remove it. Remember, we are not picking up trash from another person but instead cleaning up for Mother Nature. Happy adventures!
I’m always on the lookout for unique businesses in San Diego, whether it be a restaurant, boutique, spa, you name it. I look for quality with the company but also attention to detail and a distinct aesthetic. When I saw photos of the Moroccan-inspired spa Bella Sareena in Solana Beach, I knew I absolutely had to check it out!
I don’t know about you, but I love being pampered! There’s something extra special about someone beautifying you vs. doing it yourself. You really get the opportunity to relax and be in the moment.
I know spas are considered a luxury, but I do feel it’s important to always make time for your health and well-being so you can properly give back to the world.
Bella Sareena is a multi-faceted spa offering hair, skincare, make-up, massage therapy and spray tan treatments. This is a great one-stop shop for weddings or other important events where you don’t want to drive all around town getting glammed up.
The owner, Orly Perez, started her dream salon 2011, although her love of skincare began as a child. Her Israeli and Moroccan roots play a large part in both the décor (which she decorated herself) but also her approach to holistic skincare.
Orly actually came out with her own skincare line recently! Very exciting for any company when they branch out like this! The main scent throughout the line is lemon verbena which smells soooooo good! She actually grows the herb outside her salon and gave me a sprig to make tea from. I am hooked and need to buy this plant now! It smells similar to lemon balm which I also love.
Orly also mentioned that a portion of the salon’s proceeds goes back to the Adopt a Family Foundation, who provides financial and emotional support to Israeli civilians who are victims of terror, as well as children, suffering from PTSD.
When I visited I got one of her customized facials which included microdermabrasion, masks, steams, scrubs and a hand & foot massage. The experience played on many senses: There were so many delicious smells and when you match that with her soothing touch in the candle-lit room, I quickly fell into a meditative trance. It was so tranquil!
Artwork by Tanya Abel
The beautiful owner, Orly. My jaw dropped when I found out her age. This woman knows skincare that’s for sure!
I love all the bright colors! Such a welcoming environment!
A shot of her skincare line:
Here is Orly and one of the other estheticians, Jennifer: