Sauna
The 7 Best Outdoor Saunas of 2024
Aug
Read our comprehensive list of the 7 best outdoor saunas in order to decide which one is best for your needs including the best overall, budget friendly and more.
Read our comprehensive list of the 7 best outdoor saunas in order to decide which one is best for your needs including the best overall, budget friendly and more.
Ever dream of having your own personal spa in your backyard? A sauna might be the perfect way to turn that dream into reality! This guide will break down everything you need to know about choosing an outdoor sauna. We’ll cover what to think about before you buy, like how many people you want to fit and how much you’re willing to spend. We’ll also explain the difference between traditional and infrared saunas, and what kind of wood might be best for your climate. On top of that, we’ll show you eight awesome outdoor saunas, each with its own special feature. So whether you’re looking for a giant party sauna or a cozy spot for two, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to relax, sweat out the stress, and enjoy the great outdoors in a whole new way!
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Sauna for You?
Before you dive into backyard bliss, consider these key factors to find the perfect outdoor sauna to suit your needs and create a personalized sanctuary.
- Size: Accommodate yourself comfortably! Outdoor saunas come in a variety of sizes, ranging from cozy two-person cabins to spacious eight-person enclosures. Consider how many people you plan to use the sauna with regularly. If you envision hosting gatherings, opt for a larger size. Remember to factor in additional space for benches and maneuvering within the sauna.
- Budget: Outdoor saunas are an investment in your well-being, and prices can vary depending on size, features, and materials. Determine your budget upfront and research different options that fit your range. Be sure to consider the cost of assembly, electrical work (if needed), and ongoing maintenance when making your final decision.
- Traditional vs Infrared: Both traditional saunas and infrared saunas offer unique benefits. Traditional saunas use a sauna heater to warm the air, creating a dry heat experience. Infrared saunas utilize infrared heaters that directly warm your body, providing a more radiant and penetrating heat. Traditional saunas offer a communal social experience, while infrared saunas may be better suited for those seeking a more therapeutic heat. If you’re interested read more about our comparison between infrared and traditional saunas
- Type of Wood: The type of wood used in your outdoor sauna plays a crucial role in durability, aesthetics, and even heat retention. Popular choices include cedar, hemlock, and spruce. Cedar offers a beautiful reddish hue, natural weather resistance, and a pleasant aroma. Hemlock is known for its light color, stability, and affordability. Spruce is a cost-effective option with good insulating properties. Consider your budget, desired aesthetics, and climate when selecting the wood type for your outdoor sauna.
Pros & Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Seats up to 8 people comfortably |
Requires more space than some saunas |
|
Includes a convenient changing room |
May have a longer heating time due to larger size |
|
Beautiful and unique barrel design |
Barrel shape may not suit all aesthetic preferences |
|
Durable Thermo-Spruce exterior |
Specifications
|
Feature |
Detail |
|
Type of Heat |
Traditional electric heater |
|
Measurements |
(Length) 13 ft. 1 in. x (Width) 6 ft. 7 in. x (Height) 6 ft. 7 in. |
|
Weight |
Approximately 2,200 lbs |
|
Electrical Requirement |
240-volt, 50/60 Hz |
Why We Recommend It:
The SaunaLife 8 Person Outdoor Barrel Sauna with Changing Room (Model G11) is a luxurious and versatile option for those seeking a spacious and feature-rich outdoor sauna experience. This model boasts enough space to comfortably seat up to 8 people, making it ideal for entertaining friends and family. The integrated changing room adds a layer of convenience, eliminating the need to brave the elements between dips in the sauna. The beautiful barrel design adds a touch of rustic charm to any backyard, and the durable Thermo-Spruce exterior ensures long-lasting enjoyment. While it may require a larger space and have a slightly longer heating time due to its size, the overall benefits of this sauna make it a top contender for those seeking a premium outdoor sauna experience.
Pros & Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Compact size – ideal for smaller backyards or limited space |
Limited capacity – seats 2-4 people comfortably |
|
Easy to assemble |
May require additional ventilation depending on climate |
|
Eastern White Cedar construction for durability and natural aroma |
Less headroom compared to some larger saunas |
Specifications
|
Feature |
Detail |
|
Type of Heat |
Traditional or electric heater (depending on chosen option) |
|
Measurements |
7 ft. x 7 ft. (interior) |
|
Weight |
Approximately 1400 lbs |
|
Electrical Requirement |
Varies depending on heater selection (check heater specifications) |
Why We Recommend It:
The Dundalk Leisurecraft Canadian Timber MiniPOD (CTC77MW) is a great choice for those seeking a compact and luxurious sauna experience. This unique pod design offers a beautiful aesthetic and fits well in smaller backyards or patios. The Eastern White Cedar construction provides natural weather resistance, durability, and a pleasant aroma. The easy assembly process allows you to start enjoying your sauna sooner. While the capacity is limited to 2-4 people comfortably and there may be less headroom than some larger saunas, the MiniPOD excels for its space-saving design, ease of use, and natural appeal. Consider your ventilation needs based on your climate, as this may be a factor for this more compact sauna.
Pros & Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Seats 4-8 people comfortably |
May require more space in your backyard due to its size |
|
Offers flexibility with traditional or electric heater options |
|
|
Likely spacious interior for a comfortable sauna experience |
Specifications
|
Feature |
Detail |
|
Type of Heat |
Traditional or electric heater (depending on chosen option) |
|
Measurements |
8 ft., 9 ft., or 10 ft. length options; width 84.5″ max, 80.25″ at base (specifics depend on length chosen) |
|
Electrical Requirement |
Varies depending on heater selection (check heater specifications) |
Why We Recommend It:
The True North Large Pod 4-8 Person Outdoor Sauna is a versatile option for those seeking a spacious outdoor sauna experience that can accommodate larger groups. It offers the flexibility of choosing between a traditional or electric heater to suit your preferences. While specific measurements and weight are not available, the large capacity suggests a generous interior for comfortable sauna sessions. However, keep in mind that this sauna may require more space in your backyard. If you have the space and are looking for a sauna to seat a larger group, the True North Large Pod is a strong contender.
Pros & Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Beautiful and unique barrel design |
May require more space than some traditional cabin saunas |
|
Efficient heating due to rounded shape |
Potentially less headroom compared to some cabin saunas |
|
Available in various wood options (pine, cedar, etc.) for customization |
May require longer assembly time compared to pre-assembled models |
Specifications
|
Feature |
Detail |
|
Type of Heat |
Traditional or electric heater (depending on chosen option) |
|
Electrical Requirement |
Varies depending on heater selection (check heater specifications) |
Why We Recommend It:
The True North Long Barrel Sauna offers a unique and aesthetically pleasing take on the traditional outdoor sauna experience. The barrel design promotes efficient heating and adds a touch of rustic charm to any backyard. The option to choose from different wood types allows for customization to match your preferences. However, compared to cabin saunas, it may require more space due to its rounded shape and potentially have less headroom. Additionally, assembly time may be longer than pre-assembled models. Overall, the True North Long Barrel Sauna is a great choice for those seeking a beautiful and efficient sauna experience who don’t mind the potential drawbacks of a barrel design.
Pros & Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Seats up to 5 people comfortably, with room for 2 reclining |
May not be suitable for large groups |
|
Spacious compared to some barrel saunas, offering more headroom |
Potentially longer heating time due to larger interior volume |
|
Available in various wood options (pine, cedar, etc.) for customization |
May require assembly |
Specifications
|
Feature |
Detail |
|
Type of Heat |
Traditional or electric heater (depending on chosen option) |
|
Measurements |
6 ft. (width) x 7 ft. (depth) x 7 ft. (height) |
|
Electrical Requirement |
Varies depending on heater selection (check heater specifications) |
Why We Recommend It:
The True North 5 Person Outdoor Cabin Sauna provides a comfortable and spacious outdoor sauna experience. This cabin design offers more headroom than some barrel saunas and can seat up to 5 people comfortably, with room for 2 people to recline. The option to choose from different wood types like pine, cedar, and potentially others allows for customization based on your aesthetic preferences and budget. However, this sauna may not be ideal for very large groups. Additionally, depending on the chosen heater, there could be a longer heating time due to the larger interior space. Assembly may also be required. Overall, the True North 5 Person Outdoor Cabin Sauna is a well-suited option for those seeking a comfortable and customizable cabin-style sauna experience for a small to medium group.
Pros & Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Beautiful and unique barrel design with a modern twist |
May require more space than some traditional saunas |
|
Large glass front for natural light and a connection with the outdoors |
Potentially longer assembly time compared to pre-assembled models |
|
Thermo-Spruce exterior for durability and weather resistance |
Specifications
|
Feature |
Detail |
|
Type of Heat |
Traditional electric heater |
|
Measurements |
7 ft. long |
|
Electrical Requirement |
240-volt, 50/60 Hz |
Why We Recommend It:
The SaunaLife 6 Person 7′ Long Barrel Sauna Glass Front (Ergo Model E8G) takes the classic barrel sauna and adds a modern touch with a stunning glass front. This unique design feature allows natural light to fill the interior, creating a more spacious feel and a connection with your outdoor surroundings. The efficient barrel design promotes even heating, and the Thermo-Spruce exterior ensures durability and weather resistance. While it may require more space and potentially assembly, the SaunaLife E8G is a great choice for those seeking a beautiful and unique barrel sauna experience that allows you to connect with nature while enjoying your sauna session.
Pros & Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Ideal for 2-3 people – perfect for couples or small families |
Limited capacity – not suitable for large groups |
|
Compact size – ideal for smaller backyards or patios |
May require assembly |
|
Eastern White Cedar construction for durability and natural aroma |
Potentially less headroom compared to some larger saunas |
|
Likely easy to assemble |
Specifications
|
Feature |
Detail |
|
Type of Heat |
Traditional or electric heater (depending on chosen option) |
|
Electrical Requirement |
Varies depending on heater selection (check heater specifications) |
Why We Recommend It:
The Dundalk Leisurecr Iaft Canadian Timber 2-3 Person Granby Cabin Sauna (CTC66W) is the perfect solution for those seeking a cozy and traditional outdoor sauna experience in a limited space. This compact sauna is ideal for couples or small families and fits well in smaller backyards or patios. The Eastern White Cedar construction offers natural weather resistance, durability, and a pleasant aroma. The easy assembly process (depending on confirmation) allows you to start enjoying your sauna sooner. While the capacity is limited and there may be less headroom, the Granby Cabin Sauna excels for its space-saving design, ease of use, and natural appeal.
