Spa by JW, JW Marriott Gold Coast

I’m lucky enough to be staying at the JW Marriott tonight with the family as I’m here to attend the launch of Vanessa Megan’s new signature treatments in the spa. The hotel (see our review here) is a kids paradise with the iconic lagoon-like pool featuring caves, waterslides and a whole underwater world to explore with snorkels. I’ve spent the afternoon frantically working from a sunlounger while trying to keep an eye on two excited children, so as I step into the spa for the launch event, I breathe a sigh of relief. Even more so when I spot Vanessa Megan herself, who is welcoming guests.

Vanessa and I go way back, so it’s like seeing an old friend. She talks me through her latest product launches that are displayed beautifully at the spa reception and tells me all about her new treatments that are launching: the Fire and Frost Facial (like a hot and cold plunge pool for the face), the Time Capsule Treatment, and – the one I’m so excited to try – the Sculpt and Lift Facial, which features an intra-buccal massage technique that contours and firms the skin by working both inside and outside the mouth. As strange as it sounds having your therapist’s hands inside your mouth, I love these facials, they work so well to relieve all the stress I hold in the jaw.

This spring, Spa by JW has partnered with award-winning Australian brand Vanessa Megan Naturaceuticals, introducing a fresh suite of treatments grounded in organic, results-driven skincare. Known for their innovative approach, Vanessa Megan’s treatments fuse nature’s potent ingredients with cutting-edge techniques, creating an experience that rejuvenates both skin and spirit.

We’re given a spa tour where we check out the stunning couples room complete with sauna and “The Experience Shower” (a steam room and shower in one) and the elegantly designed relaxation room. A sweeped seating area all curves and swathes of linen sheers invite calm reflection – amplified with a view out to an ample plant-dotted courtyard. 

And then it’s tie for my treatment. My therapist Nooh is incredible. Originally from Thailand, she has soft, strong hands and the most beautiful energy and smile. She does a mean shoulder and facial massage – which is what you want with the Buccal facials – you want them to really get in there and knead out all your stress.

After a luxurious cleanse and tingly vitamin C peel, Nooh launches into an impressive finger dance across my face, that crescendos with some lovely deep jaw massage – from the inside out. I’m lulled by the rhythmic tap and stroke of her fingers and nearly drop off…

Nooh helps me sit up and offers me tea in the relaxation room. I stumble out into gentle afternoon light feeling renewed and soul soothed. I sip lemon grass and goji tea and attempt to gather myself enough to reunite with my noisy family. Why so much noise? Can’t I just stay here?

Beyond the treatments, the spa offers an opportunity to extend the experience with Vanessa Megan’s full product range, available to take home. From the Metamorphosis Re:Gen Cell Repair Oil with Bakuchiol to the soothing Collagen Boosting Gel, the products promise to continue the benefits of the spa’s treatments long after you’ve left. I take some products home and promptly fall in love with the N.E.O. Nature’s Elixir Oil – aka the 12 Hour Miracle Oil and use it for the rest of my trip whenever I’m feeling sapped of moisture.

Whether you’re looking to calm, indulge, invigorate, or renew, Spa by JW’s new offerings blend the luxury of a five-star experience with the transformative power of nature. It’s a thoughtful, restorative escape that speaks to the soul, and one that should be at the top of any wellness-seeker’s Gold Coast itinerary.

Words by Sigourney Cantelo.