SALT CAVE

Himalayan Salt Cave Therapy

Step into a peaceful salt sanctuary inspired by the therapeutic model of the world-renowned subterranean medical hospital in Wieliczka, Poland. Our Salt Cave is designed around the unique microclimate found in the Wieliczka salt mine, creating an immersive environment where salt, air, light, and sound come together for a deeply relaxing experience.

The cave contains 25,000 pounds of pink Himalayan salt. The walls are constructed from beautiful pink Himalayan salt bricks, while the floor features a natural gravel-like texture made entirely of salt. Over time, the physical presence of the salt can also be seen in delicate formations resembling miniature stalactites and stalagmites, created through a process known as secondary sedimentation.

The cave is maintained at a comfortable 69°F with approximately 60% humidity, creating the specific microclimate essential to our salt environment. Two brine graduation towers help maintain this humidity level and contribute to the carefully balanced atmosphere within the cave.

During each session, guests settle into comfortable anti-gravity chairs, dressed in their regular comfortable clothing and wrapped in a cozy blanket provided by the spa. The lights are dimmed, peaceful music fills the space, and gentle chromotherapy is provided through the lighting in the ceiling. Together, these elements create a quiet setting for relaxation, stillness, and mindful breathing.

Our Salt Cave also maintains a high level of microbial cleanliness. The natural properties of salt inhibit the development of fungi, pollen, dust mites, and bacteria, contributing to the distinctive environment of the cave.

Rooted in the rich salt traditions of Poland and modeled after the unique environment of Wieliczka, the Salt Cave offers an experience that is both beautiful and intentional—a place to slow down, breathe, and relax.

*Robes are included in specific packages only. They may be available upon request for an added fee.

Rock salt naturally contains a variety of minerals, including sodium, potassium, calcium, iron, and iodine. In a salt-rich environment, fine salt particles and naturally occurring negative ions contribute to the distinctive quality of the air, creating an atmosphere that many people find fresh, calming, and restorative.

Breathing in a salt-rich environment may be particularly appealing for those experiencing seasonal congestion, nasal and sinus discomfort, or sensitivity to airborne irritants such as pollen and other allergens. Salt also has naturally occurring antimicrobial properties. Its ability to inhibit the growth of certain microorganisms contributes to the clean, distinctive environment of a salt cave.

The abundance of negative ions adds another dimension to the experience. Negative ions have been studied for their potential influence on mood and mental well-being, with some research suggesting an association between higher levels of negative-ion exposure and improved mood or depressive symptoms. Many people describe the experience of ion-rich environments as refreshing and uplifting.

Combined with the quiet surroundings, calming music, soft chromotherapy, and opportunity to breathe deeply, our Salt Cave provides a peaceful escape from everyday stimulation. It is a space to slow down, clear the mind, and enjoy the restorative qualities of salt-rich air.

On the other hand increased concentration of positive ions can cause headaches, lethargy, dizziness, nausea, depression, indigestion and irritability. It is extremely important to add negative ions into the air for optimal health, and our salt cave is the perfect space to do it. Research has proven the therapeutic values of salt caves in the treatment of various health conditions, especially respiratory disorders, allergies, cystic fibrosis, heart and cardiovascular disease, boost of immune system, increased concentration, relaxation and feeling refreshed. 

All you have to do is sit back, relax and breathe in our zero gravity chairs for your 45 minute therapeutic session.

FIRST MEDICAL RESEARCH IN FIELD OF HALOTHERAPY

Perhaps you haven’t heard of salt therapy, but inhaling salt goes back to ancient times. It was first noted that salt miners did not succumb to the deadly bubonic plaque which killed 50 million people (60 percent of the European population) in just 7 years. In fact, the benefits of salt therapy were first noted in a book published in 1843 by Dr. Felix Boczkowski. Dr. Boczkowski, a physician at the Wieliczka salt mine in Poland,(referred to as the father of Halotherapy) observed a curiously low incidence of respiratory conditions in salt miners. He established the first respiratory hospital inside Wieliczka Salt Mine.

How does salt help the respiratory track?

The salt cave micro-climate influences our body’s cellular osmolarity in the nasal passageways. When salt particles are inhaled, they land on the airway linings and draw water inside, thinning mucus and activating self-cleaning. Breathing becomes much easier, and people feel better almost immediately. Simultaneously, the salt crystals are absorbed into the layers of the skin and bind moisture there. The presence of sodium ions is essential for muscle contractions, including those of the most important muscle, the heart. Salt is also important for removing the acidity from brain cells, thus improving brain function.

How is a therapeutic microclimate created in our Cave?

The unique climate of our salt cave is attributed to multiple factors. The air composition contains salt aerosol and 84 ionized micro elements. Salt brine water towers disperse an aerosol containing rare, naturally-iodized salt from a mine in Bochnia, Poland isolated from the outside atmosphere. Due to a unique negative ion-rich environment in the cave, electromagnetic radiation is reduced. It is maintained in a stable climate condition, with a low air temperature of 69˚ Fahrenheit and 60% humidity.

All Salt Cave Sessions are 45 minutes

• Robes are not included in salt cave sessions.

Please be aware that a 20% service gratuity will be automatically added to all spa services.

Please note that appointment times may need to be modified to better fit the schedule. The spa will communicate prior to any adjustments being made.

Single Service Pricing

Single Public Salt Cave Session – $38

Group/Private Salt Cave Session (up to 7 guests)-$160

• Additional guests in private session - $25 each

Students with valid ID and Guests over 65- $29

Children (ages 3-12)-$25

Children under 3-Free

Groups with children under 13 years old must schedule ahead of time. Must schedule ahead outside of public session times.

Package Pricing 

Three Salt Cave Sessions – $90

Five Salt Cave Sessions- $145

Ten Salt Cave Sessions – $280

A 20% service gratuity will be automatically added to all spa services.

Package pricing is for purchased guests only and cannot be split or shared. Package prepaids cannot be altered to other services after purchase.

The salt cave is fully ADA accessible! Guests with special needs and children under 13 years old need to inform our staff when booking so we can make special arrangements without a delay in providing the service.

Salt Spa of Saint Augustine provides the natural healing elements of salt cave therapy used by health professionals worldwide.

Research has proven the therapeutic values of salt caves and their positive influence in the treatment of such ailments and diseases such as: 

Respiratory Health

• Asthma and bronchial tube inflammation

• Allergies

• Ear, nose, and throat, esophagus, and sinus conditions

• Bronchiectasis

• Chronic inflammation of the lungs

• Chronic inflammation of the sinuses

• Dust Disease

• Emphysema

• Deepens and slows breathing

Cardiovascular Health

• Post-heart attack conditions

• Insufficient circulation of blood

• Cardiovascular diseases

• Inadequate blood pressure

• Produces red blood cells

Stress reduction

• Underactive thyroid gland

• Improves ability to concentrate and relax

• Brings a feeling of freshness and satisfaction

  Salt Spa St. Augustine has a 2-business-day cancellation policy for all appointments and a full week for holiday appointments. In the event we do not receive notice for appointment adjustments, cancellations, or no-shows, your appointment is subject to the full charge of missed service.