Beer Spa Etiquette for First-Timers: The 9 Things Guests Ask Us

Visiting Oakwell is a unique experience unlike any other. That’s part of the thrill, but we know that visiting a beer spa for the first time can be a little confusing. 

What should you bring? Is there some unspoken spa etiquette that everyone seems to know? And do you have to drink beer? 

Oakwell is designed to be a zero-pressure, relaxing environment, even if you aren’t a “spa person.” At Oakwell, you'll have a Beer Therapist to walk you through everything, but a little preparation helps, too. Here’s what to know before a beer spa, including what to wear and photo policies. 

1. Is There a Right Way to Do a Beer Spa? 

Not at all. A beer spa isn't a crowded public bath, and a beer bath isn't a hot tub filled with beer. At Oakwell, you'll enjoy a warm herbal soak infused with hops, barley, and botanicals, along with an infrared sauna, rain shower, and plenty of time to unwind in your own private space.

The Oakwell experience is designed to help you slow down, disconnect from your to-do list, and relax in whatever way feels best, so there’s no “right” way to enjoy your visit. Some guests spend more time soaking, while others alternate between the sauna and bath. Some sip a local craft beer, while others choose a non-alcoholic beverage from the taproom. 

2. How Early Should I Arrive? 

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment. It might sound early, but those extra minutes are part of the experience, not just time spent waiting in the lobby. 

When you arrive, you'll fill out a quick intake form and speak with your Beer Therapist to learn about bath infusions. We offer several options, so you’re free to smell each infusion and select your favorite for the bath. Next, we’ll get you acquainted with the self-pour beer wall (if you're 21+), where you can pour your first drink and relax before heading to your private suite. 

3. What Should I Wear to a Beer Spa? 

Just wear your normal street clothes when entering the building. This is a casual, laid-back place, so there’s no dress code. We just ask that you’re appropriately covered in public areas.

Once you're checked in, we'll provide everything else you need during your soak, including a plush robe, slippers, towels, and a custom insulated tumbler for your beverage. 

Your Beer Therapist will take you to your private spa suite, where you’re free to change into either a bathing suit or your birthday suit. We recommend going au naturel so your skin gets maximum contact with the beer bath, but swimsuits are fine, too. 

The herbal beer-infused bath will start to drain 70 minutes into your 90-minute session, giving you 20 minutes to shower, dry off, and change back into your street clothes. 

4. Is the Experience Private? 

Your spa suite is a completely private experience just for the people in your party. You won't be sharing your herbal beer-infused bath, sauna, or shower with strangers. The only shared areas are spaces like the taproom and Relaxation Lounge, which you can visit before or after your spa session. 

5. Do I Have to Drink Beer? 

Not at all. Despite the name, drinking beer is completely optional.

A beer spa isn’t just for beer lovers. Plenty of guests visit Oakwell because they're curious about the experience, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a unique way to unwind—and many choose not to drink alcohol at all. 

The beer bath itself doesn't contain fermented beer. Instead, you'll soak in a warm herbal bath infused with beer-inspired ingredients like hops, barley, and botanicals. 

When it comes to beverages, the choice is entirely yours. If you're 21 or older, you can enjoy a craft beer from the self-pour beer wall. Oakwell also offers a variety of non-alcoholic drinks on our rotating menu, including kombucha, sparkling water, CBD seltzers, and juice. 

6. Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks? 

Sorry, no. Due to local health regulations, Oakwell doesn’t allow outside food or beverages. Instead, you can choose from the curated selection of craft beverages and non-alcoholic drinks available in the taproom. We'll provide a custom insulated tumbler to keep your drink ice-cold, whether you’re in your private spa suite or in the taproom.

One thing to keep in mind: drinks stay in your spa suite and the taproom. Beverages aren't permitted in the Relaxation Lounge, which allows us to keep our zero-gravity massage experience hygienic for all guests.

7. What’s Provided and What Should I Bring?

If you’re looking for first-time beer spa tips, you don’t need to pack much. When you arrive, we'll have the essentials waiting for you, including:

• A plush robe
• Slippers
• Fresh towels
• Beer-infused body wash, shampoo, and conditioner from Oakwell Cosmetics 

If you're planning to wear a swimsuit in your private suite, don't forget to toss it in your bag. You may also want to bring a hair tie if you have long hair, as well as any personal toiletries you'd like to use after your shower.

8. Can I Take Photos? 

Absolutely. In fact, plenty of guests like to snap a few photos to remember the experience or share their visit with friends. 

Since your spa suite is completely private, you're welcome to take photos and videos inside your own space. Whether it's a picture of your herbal beer bath, a cozy robe selfie, or a toast with your favorite drink, you won't have to worry about strangers wandering into the background.

Before or after your spa session, don't forget to stop by Oakwell's social media wall for a fun photo. Share your favorite shot on social media, and you could be entered into Oakwell's monthly contest for a chance to win a $199 gift card.

The only thing we ask is that you be mindful in shared spaces like the taproom and Relaxation Lounge. If other guests are nearby, avoid photographing or filming them without their permission so everyone can enjoy a relaxing experience.

9. What Happens if I’m Late or Need to Cancel? 

If you arrive late, your spa session will still end at its scheduled time so the next guests can enjoy their reservation as planned. That means you'll have less time in your private suite, and the full appointment fee will still apply. If you don't show up for your reservation, you'll be charged the full cost of the appointment plus a 20% service fee. 

Need to cancel instead? We ask for at least 24 hours' notice for most reservations. If you've booked a Garage Party, you'll need to cancel 48 hours in advance. Giving plenty of notice helps make your reservation available for someone else who's looking forward to a relaxing visit.

You're Ready for the Oakwell Beer Spa Experience

Trying a new experience always comes with a few questions. In most cases, simple etiquette is all you need: show up a little early, come with an open mind, and allow yourself to slow down. Your Beer Therapist will handle the details, so all you have to do is settle into your private suite and enjoy.

You could look up more about the Oakwell Beer Spa experience online, but nothing beats the real thing. See what all the hype is about: Explore Oakwell’s spa packages to find the experience that’s right for you.