Outdoor Hot Tub Oasis: 13 Inspiring Ideas for Your Relaxing Retreat Outdoor Hot Tub Ideas
When the weather is chilly and the day has been long, nothing sounds better than sinking into a warm, relaxing hot tub.
A hot tub is the perfect place to let go of the day’s stresses and to enjoy calm, peaceful moments.
If you’re thinking about adding a hot tub to your backyard, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up 13 outdoor hot tub ideas to help you create the retreat of your dreams.
With the right inspiration, you’ll be on your way to a tranquil outdoor oasis in no time.
1. Add a privacy screen
If you’re going to be relaxing in your hot tub, you’ll want to make sure you have some privacy.
A privacy screen is a great way to add some seclusion to your hot tub area.
You could also use a pergola or gazebo to create a more private space.
Be sure to check your local building codes and get the proper permits if necessary.
enclosure or surround
A hot tub enclosure or surround can provide privacy, protect you from the elements, and give your outdoor hot tub a built-in look.
You can add a hot tub enclosure to an existing hot tub, or choose a hot tub that comes with a surround.
Hot tub enclosures are a great way to create a dedicated space for your hot tub.
You can build a deck around your hot tub, or use a pergola to create an open-air enclosure.
If you want a bit more privacy, consider adding a privacy screen or lattice wall to your hot tub enclosure.
Hot tub surrounds are a popular option for in-ground hot tubs. You can choose from a variety of materials, including concrete, stone, and tile.
Hot tub surrounds can be built to match your existing patio or pool deck, or you can create a custom look with a different material.
2. Integrate your hot tub with your pool
If you’re building a pool and a hot tub, you’ll want to think about how to connect them.
A popular option is to build an infinity-edge hot tub that flows into the pool.
If you want to keep the two separate, you can also build a hot tub that’s raised, like in this design.
This pool and hot tub design by California Pools & Landscape features a raised hot tub that spills over into the pool.
This is a great way to create a visual connection between the two, and it makes it easy to get from the hot tub to the pool.
3. Create a relaxing retreat with a fire feature
Create an outdoor oasis by adding a fire feature to your hot tub area.
Fire pits, fireplaces, and fire tables are all great options to add ambiance and warmth to your space.
This design by Alderwood Landscaping features a large stone fireplace that creates a focal point for the space.
The hot tub is nestled into the deck and surrounded by lush landscaping to create a private retreat.
4. Choose low-maintenance landscaping for your outdoor hot tub
One of the best parts about enjoying a hot tub is the view.
Make your view even better by adding landscaping around your hot tub that will create a natural privacy screen.
Choose low-maintenance plants and trees that will grow to your desired height.
Make sure they can handle the weather and temperatures in your area.
You can also add planters around your hot tub to create a lush, tropical paradise.
Fill them with bright, colorful flowers and greenery to add a pop of color to your hot tub area.
5. Add an outdoor kitchen or bar to your hot tub area
If you plan to use your outdoor hot tub area for entertaining, consider adding an outdoor kitchen or bar.
Not only will it make your space more functional, but it can also add value to your home.
An outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a grill and a small countertop, or it can be a full-blown kitchen with a sink, refrigerator, and even a pizza oven.
An outdoor bar is a great place to serve drinks and snacks to your guests, and it can be as simple or as elaborate as you like.
Just be sure to plan your space so that the hot tub is the focal point, with the kitchen and bar area located nearby.
6. Create a hot tub room or sunroom
If you want to use your hot tub all year long, you might want to consider building a hot tub room or sunroom.
This is an excellent way to create a private, comfortable space where you can relax in your hot tub, regardless of the weather.
Sunrooms are great for hot tubs because they allow you to enjoy the outdoor scenery while still being protected from the elements.
You can also open the windows and doors to let in a fresh breeze, or close them to block out rain, snow, or wind.
Hot tub rooms are similar to sunrooms, but they are designed specifically for hot tubs.
These rooms are often built as an extension of the house, and they typically have a roof, walls, and windows.
You can also add insulation, heating, and cooling to make your hot tub room more comfortable.
7. Add a pergola to your hot tub area
Add a pergola to your outdoor hot tub area to create a private, intimate space.
You can hang curtains from the top of the pergola to create a cozy, enclosed feel, or leave the top open to enjoy the stars.
Pergolas are great for adding privacy to your outdoor spaces without making them feel too enclosed.
You can also use a pergola to define the space and create a sense of separation from the rest of your yard.
8. Create a hot tub deck or patio
This hot tub deck is so much more than just a platform for the spa. It has built-in bench seating, a privacy wall, and even a bar.
The deck is the perfect place to sit and relax before or after a soak in the hot tub.
If you don’t have a deck, you can still create a similar look with a patio.
A hot tub patio can be built at ground level or on a raised platform, like this deck.
9. Add a water feature to your hot tub area
If you want to add a water feature to your backyard but don’t want a pool, consider a hot tub.
Not only does it provide a place to relax, but it can also be a beautiful focal point for your backyard.
In this design, the hot tub is flanked by a pool and a waterfall.
The waterfall not only adds beauty to the design but also provides a soothing sound that can help drown out noise from the neighborhood.
10. Add a sauna to your hot tub area
If you love the idea of a hot tub area but want a space that can be used year-round, consider adding a sauna or steam room.
The heat from the sauna can be a great way to warm up before jumping in the hot tub during the winter months.
Or, if you’re not a fan of the hot tub, you can simply use the sauna as a place to relax and unwind.
Combine the two to create a spa-like experience in your own backyard.
Conclusion
The hot tub and pool are separated by a glass wall. A large, open deck with ample seating and a large, covered gazebo with a stone fireplace provide plenty of space to relax, rain or shine. The dark, neutral materials used in the spa area help the space feel more intimate and romantic.
