Jul. 8, 2009--A spa where people can get everything from a manicure to a "Fresh Harvest Wrap" with a mask of artichoke, tomato and rice protein has opened at the Hyatt Regency Monterey.

The $6.5 million Accista Spa is part of a $60 million renovation at the 550-room hotel on Old Golf Course Road that's been going on for three years.

The spa, which replaced a building with 20 guest rooms, is one of 74 Hyatt Pure spas.

Before the spa opened in May, a masseuse would have to come to the hotel if somebody wanted a massage.

The spa is part of the idea that a "guest can come and enjoy the property itself without having to leave," said Joe Herman, the spa's director.

Herman, who was director of the spa at a hotel near Albuquerque, N.M., came to Monterey eight months before Accista opened to help set it up. The Hyatt's spa has six or seven major competitors on the Peninsula.

Even with the recession, Herman believes people will treat themselves to a spa treatment. He expects some of the spa's customers will be coming from the Bay Area for a night or two.

The spa has a theme of "harvest, rest, renewal, abundance," to draw on Monterey County's history. Some local products are used in the therapies.

One of the ideas of the spa, Herman said, "is to bring the outdoors in."

The spa, designed by Indidesign of Santa Monica, uses soft, earthen colors, with soft background music.

There are 10 treatment rooms, four of them for couples. Guests who get a massage can get

other services, such as a pedicure or manicure, without leaving the room.

A guest can spend $80 for a 30-minute facial to $495 for a five-hour "Harvest Autumn Cleanse Cycle," which includes a seasonal scrub, purifying wrap, 60-minute facial, manicure and pedicure.

Herman's experience is there's a five-to-one ratio of women to men in spas. Because there are so many men coming to Monterey to play golf, he expects a slightly higher percentage of male customers than in other places.

For the golfer, the Accista is offering "The Full Del Monte, A Golfer's Retreat," a 60-minute facial and a 60-minute massage.

Herman expects most of those using the spa will be Hyatt guests, but it is open to nonguests.

The Accista Spa is at 1 Old Golf Course Road. For information, call 657-6734. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily.

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