Outdoor hot tubs: Best models and design ideas

An outdoor hot tub is a wonderful way to enhance your backyard space and bring an added element of wellness to your everyday life. If you are curious about outdoor hot tubs and are wondering what the best models are, this article will explore those very topics.

As you read, you will learn about what to look for in the best outdoor hot tubs, and discover examples of some of the best outdoor spas from reputable brands like Sundance® Spas, Jacuzzi® hot tubs, and others. This article will also offer inspiration to help you design your backyard oasis around your new outdoor hot tub.

What to look for in an outdoor hot tub

When searching for the best backyard hot tubs, you can never go wrong by choosing a model from a long-time, credible, and respected brand such as Sundance® Spas, Jacuzzi® hot tubs, and Hydropool®.

If you plan to place your hot tub outdoor, as many people do, you want to ensure you choose a hot tub that is made for the elements. Many reputable hot tub brands build their models with the assumption that they will be placed outside. This typically means they are made with strong, durable, and long-lasting materials that can weather the storm, so to speak. Some materials are designed to resist fading from the sun, for example, while others are there to serve as protection from moisture and the elements.

A strong, high-grade spa cover is an essential part of an outdoor hot tub, and its importance should not be underestimated. A well-made, tight-fitting cover can not only help retain your spa water’s heat during any season, but it can also protect your spa from debris.

Energy efficiency is key when it comes to the best outdoor hot tub models. Look for brands and models that have excellent insulation and that can offer an added layer of insulation. This is especially vital if you live in a cold climate.

Smart technology is another crucial factor in protecting your outdoor hot tub from the elements. Some smart technology, such as the SmartTub® system, which is offered on select Sundance® Spas and Jacuzzi® hot tub models, can even notify you and your spa dealer if your hot tub’s sensitive equipment is exposed to water, for example. This type of peace of mind when it comes to an outdoor small is immeasurable.

Excellent water treatment and filtration systems are also essential for outdoor hot tubs. Be sure to select a model that is equipped with high-performing, nearly hassle-free water care. This can also give you peace of mind that your hot tub water is fresh and clear, even if it has been exposed to the elements prior to your soak. Every Sundance® Spas model, for example, comes with the brand’s exclusive dual-stage MicroClean® filtration system that works to ensure the water is always ready when you are. Additionally, the ClearRay® system unlocks powerful active oxygen molecules for a hands-free approach to water care.

If you’re looking for some examples of high-quality outdoor spas, here are just a few:

Sundance® Spas offers a wide array of quality spas that are perfect for backyards and other outdoor spaces. For example, the Sundance® Claremont® spa, which is part of the brand’s exclusive 980™ series, begins with incredible craftsmanship like a robust synthetic base, 3-layer RigidBond® shell, SunStrong® extreme cover, durable geometric exterior cabinetry, and optional EcoWrap® insulation. Aside from durability, you can expect high-level hydrotherapy thanks to 59 total jets and air injector jets, patented Fluidix® jets, and 10 massage varieties. With seating for 6 with a lounge, this outdoor spa is great for families and those who love to entertain.

Outdoor Jacuzzi® hot tub options abound. A stunning and unique patio option is the J404L™ hot tub, part of the Jacuzzi® J4™ collection. This model features seating for 3 to 4 bathers and two lounges, one of which is the brand’s incredible Infrared + Red light therapy lounge. With 32 jets (including specialty Jacuzzi® PowerPro® jets), the Jacuzzi® True Water® system and 5-stage filtration, SmartSeal™ energy-efficient insulation, floating ProPolymer™ foundation, and ProLast™ cover, this heat-pump-ready outdoor model is equipped in many ways.

Hydropool® offers an array of outdoor hot tub options, as well. One example is the brand’s Signature Self-Cleaning 655 Gold Series, which has seating for 5 to 6 in an open-seating style with a lounge, 40 jets, standard Pure Water system, HydroClean® circulation pump, and optional Ez-Pure Ozone for a comfortable and easy-to-maintain outdoor hot tub model.

Design ideas for outdoor spa havens  

Having an outdoor hot tub or spa placed in your backyard is a wonderful way to bring wellness, entertainment, and soothing relaxation into your own space. There are many ways to customize an area of your yard or other outdoor space that makes your spa the central focus, while also maintaining privacy and a sense of tranquility. Here is some inspiration for outdoor spa designs:

Spa with a view—For those with a backyard that overlooks a stunning view, such as a beach, lakefront, cityscape, forest, and wide-open desert land, the placement of the spa to take advantage of enjoying those sought-after views during a soak can add to the blissfulness of your hydrotherapy experience.

Natural skylight—Imagine watching the sun rise from the comfort of your hot tub or counting the stars as you enjoy a soothing pre-bedtime soak. For those who love to look to the skies for soothing relaxation, an unobstructed view is important.

Privacy, please—Meanwhile, your spa is the perfect place to enjoy solitude or special connect time with a significant other. In this case, enveloping your spa sanctuary within a gazebo, pergola, or other partially open-air structure that is shrouded in beautiful sheer curtains, drapery, or hanging plants and vines can add to the exclusivity, seclusion, and beauty of the experience. Opt for curtains that can be drawn away  or a motorized louvered roof that can be retracted to allow for more openness into the backyard.

Fun for the whole gang—Whether you have a big family or love to invite friends and loved ones over for social soaking, your hot tub can be a central part of an outdoor entertainment zone. For example, around your hot tub area, you can include lush seating, a nearby firepit, a dining area complete with a barbecue and outdoor kitchen, and layered lighting that ensures safety, while also setting a gentle yet vibrant tone for the space.

Choose your tone—Your outdoor oasis can be elevated with the help of landscaping, lighting, and a soothing color hue. For a desert backyard, choose natural beiges, browns, creams, golds, yellows, and muted greens. A waterfront sanctuary can incorporate tones of blue, along with some pops of red for fun, while a forest retreat would be complemented by various deep green, brown and even orange tones. When shopping for your outdoor hot tub, select cabinet, shell, and acrylic colors that will blend naturally with the outdoor environment in which it will be placed. You can extend this color theme with pavers and other elegant enhancements.

How you design your hot tub area is almost as important as your outdoor hot tub selection itself. When the two are combined, you can enjoy incredible hydrotherapy in a soothing, stunning environment that brings you peace and tranquility for years to come. Your backyard can become a wellness haven that encourages you to unwind, relax, decompress, and connect with loved ones. Now that’s a great investment.

As your journey to purchasing a hot tub proceeds, be sure to make visiting your trusted Sundance® Spas dealer a priority. This is a valuable part of the process where you can see various models in person, ask questions and get informative answers about which outdoor hot tub might be best for your needs and perform a wet test. This process allows you to get into the spa you like while filled and operating, giving you a complete perspective on how it feels to you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Outdoor hot tubs: Best models and design ideas

Q: What is an outdoor hot tub?

A: This term refers to a hot tub or spa that was built to be placed and installed outdoors. This means it should be built with durable, rugged, and long-lasting materials that can not only withstand the elements and harsh climates but also endure the outdoors for years to come.

Q: What are the best outdoor spa models?

A: Your outdoor spa should come from a credible brand that has a reputation for quality, long-lasting products. You want to look for models made with durable materials, and perhaps ask about additional insulation options, particularly if you live in a cold climate. Another key to a great outdoor spa is energy efficiency, and a top-notch spa cover that will retain your water’s heat and also protect your spa from debris.

Q: Why does design matter when it comes to outdoor hot tubs?

A: Your surroundings can help elevate your spa experience. Creating a wellness sanctuary that is centered around your hot tub can provide you with a place of reprieve for years to come.

Disclaimer: Sundance® Spas is a registered trademark of its respective owner. Jacuzzi® is a registered trademark of Jacuzzi Group. All rights reserved.

ProPolymer™, HydroPool®, additional brands and companies, and all trademarks listed are registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Medical Disclaimer: We are not medical professionals. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with questions regarding any medical condition.

‍