Golden Nails - Castro Valley, California

Melissa M.

I’m very disappointed with my nails and pedicure, especially given the positive reviews. I do not recommend you try this place.

Note: I have a go-to tech at another salon but she is on maternity leave so I decided to try out this place.

**TL;DR:**
- I didn't get the technician I requested.
- My acrylic nails were the wrong shape and length, and already looked like they were a week old.
- The pedicure was terrible and required another technician to fix it.

**Details:**
For my **fingernails** (Acrylic/Cat Eye by Tommy), I asked for a medium-long almond/stiletto shape, but they turned out oval and too short. I had to ask twice for adjustments, but they still ended up shorter and not as I wanted. The cat eye design was disappointing as Tommy only knew one design. Additionally, I was cut during the process, and there’s already a noticeable gap at the base of my nails, which makes them look a week old (even my husband noticed). On the plus side, Tommy was friendly and kept a good attitude.
Side note: I only got acrylic for durability on vacation as per Tommy’s recommendation

As for my **pedicure** (deluxe with gel by Cathy), it was the WORST I’ve ever had. The The paint on the bottom part of the nail by the cuticles were so craggy and my toenail paint looked like they were already lifting. I could have done a better job myself. The massage was so light I barely felt it. I also asked for my toenails to be left longer, but Cathy cut them too short, leaving my big toes uneven and poorly shaped. A second lady had to step in and fix some of the issues, but my big toes were still not shaped properly.

I should have never tipped, I was being too nice. My sister, who has her cosmetology license, said the work was terrible.

I won’t be returning and you shouldn’t come here either unless you want to pay high prices for sub-par work.

Erin H.

I've gone to golden nails a few times. On Saturday mornings I came right at opening and got a walk in. They are very popular, making an appointment works super well and is easy and efficient. I have really liked getting my nails done here. I have worked with Tan, Helen, and Kimbly and they were all great! Really happy with my nails from here. Also I've shown Helen designs from Google and she worked off of that to make my nails even better than what I showed her.

Non N.

I wish I could give this salon more than 5 stars, Absolutely my new favorite Nail Salon, I went for my first visit today for my holiday retreat as a walk in & I LOVE IT. All the staffs were so nice & welcoming, I was seated right away & served by their free welcoming drinks. The shop is incredibly clean & spacious. They did the Christmas decorations which brought me a fabulous holiday vibe.
Amazing customer service, I experienced the new set of BUILDER GEL for my nails today which is HIGHLY RATED & RECOMMENDED to do for your natural & healthy nails and DELUXE PEDICURE which is very relaxing with massage, warm towels & hot stones.
This is The Nail Salon to go in Castro Valley & other closing-cities. Love it!

Aja J.

If I could give more than 5 stars, I would!
I came to this salon for the first time after my nail tech switched over from another location, and let me just say--I'm SO glad she did. This is hands down the most beautiful, cleanest nail salon I've ever stepped into. The atmosphere is welcoming and peaceful, and the aesthetic is absolutely stunning.

I was greeted with warm smiles and offered a complimentary beverage (a small touch that makes a big difference!). The entire staff is incredibly kind, friendly, and professional. It's clear that customer comfort and satisfaction are a top priority here.

One of the things I appreciated most? It's the only salon I've ever been to where I didn't walk out smelling like acrylic monomer and acetone. The space is fresh, clean, and well-ventilated.

There's also a TV playing Food Network which I loved--It's the perfect touch that adds to the relaxing vibe.

The owner is exceptionally attentive and helpful, making sure everyone feels taken care of. You can really tell they take pride in their business and the experience they offer.

This place is a gem and 100% worth the visit. I honestly can't recommend enough.

Nishanthini D.

Worst experience! If you’re looking for quality, avoid this place. The person who did my pedicure and nails was clearly in a rush and did a terrible job. She didn’t pay attention to the colors I showed her and used white for accents, which was not what I asked for. Then she painted over it, making it look even worse. The pedicure was equally bad—it seemed like she was rushing through it without paying any attention to detail. The whole experience was incredibly stressful and frustrating. Very disappointing!

Comparison of expectation vs reality

Jami M.

I have been to 100+ nail salons in my lifetime. I found this place by accident! From the first visit I was very pleased and impressed that the manager Vicki took time to talk to me, educated me about products and what would be best for my nails according to my job (working in dentistry). Nobody acted like they were in a rush or irritated at my questions! It didn’t feel like anyone was trying to up-sell me at any time or pressure me into spending more money. Sushy is an excellent, kind nail artist who cares about the work she does and never makes me feel rushed. Extremely detail oriented! Very friendly, clean, festive environment. I think I found my new go-to nail salon! And another perk- complimentary drinks from the drink menu! Thanks for the hospitality!

Connie E.

This time I had a really young girl. At least she looked young to me. She was really really good and I wished I'd asked her name. The bottom line is they do a great job, especially if you get the deluxe. The massage is awesome.

Elizabeth C.

Update: my absolute go to salon. Still. I love everything about it!

So happy we tried this new salon/spa! Everyone is welcoming and fun and kind. Stephanie welcomed my daughter and I warmly and our manicurists were wonderful! The salon is so beautifully decorated! We will be back!