If you want to relax in the hot tub by yourself, with a loved one, a friend, or your family, small hot tubs are the best choice for you.
The reason many people adore small spas is that they don’t take up much space, cost too much, or cause difficulty in maintenance. They improve your health and make your backyard look astonishing.
To help you make the best decision possible, we have reviewed 20+ hot tub brands and covered the most important questions:
- What are the distinguishing characteristics of a small hot tub?
- How to choose the right small hot tub?
- What are the 3 best small hot tubs?
- How to Enhance Your Backyard/Patio with a Small Spa?
Let’s get started!
3 Best Small Hot Tubs Comparison Table
 Aquarest Spas 2-PersonWinner in the category The best choice for 2 people Characteristics Number of jets: 20 hydro jets Temperature: up to 104°F Water capacity: 160 gallons Capacity: 2 people Dimensions: 5'8'' L x 6'8'' W x 2'7'' H | The best for 2 people – two built-in seats allow you to take any comfortable position and enjoy the massage provided by the 10 built-in hydro jets in each seat; The best filtration – this outdoor hot tub has a built-in Kleen Filtration System that filters 100% of the water; The best back massage – 20 hydro jets built right into the back of the seat provide an intense point deep pressure massage of the back, unlike bubble ones that massage a larger surface area but with less effectiveness; Less chemicals in the water – Ozone Purification System destroys dirt and bacteria and reduces your need to use chemicals by 75%; Temperature control – with jets on, the hot tub retains 98% of the heat in 30 minutes, while others can retain only 89% Easy-to-Use – this hot tub is plug-and-play, so the installation takes just a bit of time. |
 SaluSpa St.Lucia AirJetWinner in the category The fastest heating Characteristics Number of jets: 110 bubble jets Temperature: up to 104°F Water capacity: 160 gallons Capacity: 2-3 people Dimensions: 6'6.93'' L x 6'6.93'' W x 2'5.98'' H | The best heating – with outdoor temperatures close to 32°F this efficient hot tub heats water to 104°F in 24 hours, with 74°F to 104°F in 12 hours while other hot tubs heat up 1.5-2 times slower; The best protection against low temperatures – when the temperature drops to about 32 Fahrenheit, the FreezeShield system begins to automatically heat internal components to avoid freezing and failure; The best cover – it's made of materials that allow the water temperature to be maintained when the hot tub is covered and not in use; The most effective chlorine level control due to the unique ChemConnect system that disperses excess chlorine in the water; Ease of use – a control panel allows you to adjust the temperature, bubbles, and control the temperature for up to 40 days. |
 SereneLife Outdoor Portable Hot TubWinner in the category The best for relaxation Characteristics Number of jets: 100 bubble jets Temperature: up to 107.6°F Water capacity: 158 gallons Capacity: 4 people Dimensions: 5'7'' L x 5'7'' W x 2'5'' H | The best relaxation – 100 bubble jets provide the best and unique effect of massage because the bubbles do not just go from the bottom up, as with other models, but also rotate due to the flow of water created by jets and literally envelop your body; The highest heating temperature – the double tube 1200w heater allows you to reach a water temperature of 107.6°F, which is 5% higher than other models; The most extensive kit – this compact hot tub comes with a cover, filter, inflatable hose, ground pad, repair kit, remote control, and led light so you don’t need to buy additional accessories because everything you need is included; Great for a party – hot tub can comfortably accommodate 4 people and has LED lighting in 7 different colors; Easy to control – digital panel and remote controller allows you to adjust the temperature, bubble modes, and backlight color |
Main Features of Small Hot Tubs
Small hot tub dimensions differ from medium and large. They are universal for all shapes – round, triangular, square, and irregularly shaped. Below we give you the standard dimensions of hot tubs:
- Small: 5’4″-7″ (Length), 5’4″-6’8″ (Width), 29″-35″ (Height);
- Medium: 6’6″-7’9″ (Length), 6’4″-7’9″ (Width), 33″-38.5″ (Height);
- Large: 7′-9″ (Length), 7′-9’2″ (Width), 36″-38″ (Height).
You can also determine hot tub size by capacity, and most of the hot tub brands mention this size scale:
- Small: 2-4 people;
- Medium: 5-6 people;
- Large: 7+ people.
How Did We Pick The Best Models? Our Expert Methodology
To give constructive advice on choosing the best small hot tubs, we:
★ Familiarized ourselves with the most popular models of small hot tubs;
★ Identified 8 models that have a 4.0+ star rating and 100+ comments;
★ Ranked 26 quality criteria based on 500+ comments;
★ Ranked each product on a 100-point scale relative to mentioning negative and positive quality criteria in comments;
★ Highlighted the top 3 small hot tubs.
Based on QC, we can advise you to use 5 criteria to choose the best small hot tub.
- Easy to assemble. The best small hot tub should be “Plug and play“. To install it, you will need to plug it in, fill it with water, and that’s it! Also, this factor includes the completeness of the package. The best small hot tub should come with a cover, replacement filters, an inflatable hose, a ground pad, and a repair kit.
- Heating temperature. The best small spa should have a flexible heat setting (41-107.6°F). It is also important that the hot tub be able to maintain the temperature you have selected for at least 30 minutes of use.
- The number of seats. The description of each small hot tub specifies the number of people that can be seated. If you want to vacation for two, you can choose a two-seater hard shell small hot tub. Also, if you want to vacation with larger groups, you can consider an inflatable spa with 4 seats.
- Durability. Small hard shell hot tubs should be made of impact- and freeze-resistant material. As for the inflatable ones, they should be made of puncture-resistant material, which maintains its shape no matter how many times you inflate/deflate the hot tub. If the spa has metal jets, they should be made of stainless steel.
- Heating rate. The best small hot tubs should heat water for no more than 12 hours at 70-74°F and in temperatures near 32°F up to 24 hours.
3 Best Small Hot Tubs Detailed Review
Aquarest Spas 2-Person – the best choice for 2 people
The best choice for 2 people
| Characteristics | Number of jets: 20 hydro jets Temperature: up to 104°F Water capacity: 160 gallons Capacity: 2 people Dimensions: 5’8” L x 6’8” W x 2’7” H |
| What makes it the best | The best back massage – 20 hydro jets built right into the back of the seat provide an intense point deep pressure massage of the back, unlike bubble ones that massage a larger surface area but with less effectiveness; Temperature control – with jets on, the hot tub retains 98% of the heat in 30 minutes, while others can retain only 89%; Everything you need is included in the equipment – the kit comes with a cover and additional filters; Less chemicals in the water – Ozone Purification System destroys dirt and bacteria and reduces your need to use chemicals by 75% Rugged construction and reliable materials – impact- and freeze resistant plastic shell and stainless steel jets will provide many years of use; One of the best hot tubs for enhancing your backyard. Plug and Play – to start using the hot tub, all you have to do is plug it in with a 15′ cord into a standard 120V/15A outlet, which every home has, and draw water with 2 built-in pumps |
The Aquarest Spas 2-Person hard shell hot tub is the best choice for 2 people. There are 2 seats with 10 stainless steel hydro jets built into each. Built-in seats allow you to take any comfortable position and enjoy a massage, unlike benches in inflatable hot tubs, on which it is only possible to sit at right angles. 2 people sit almost parallel to each other and can stretch their legs out and avoid awkward touching. Also, there are 2 cup holders between the users.
The Plug and Play principle allows you to use a hot tub just after the installment! You just plug it in, fill it with water, and voila, it’s done! Fast filling of the water will provide 2 HPR 2-speed pumps, whose modes you can switch on the built-in LED control panel.
Unlike the SaluSpa St.Lucia AirJet with 110 bubble jets, the Aquarest Spas 2-Person hot tub has 20 hydro jets. But at the same time, they provide a deep acupressure back massage that will allow you to get rid of back pain, muscle fatigue and keep your skin toned while bubble jets are less effective in massaging. A nice bonus is a fountain with LED lighting and 9 modes, that will perfectly complement the atmosphere of relaxation from the massage.
A distinctive feature of this model is the presence of an Ozonator. It destroys dirt and bacteria and reduces your need to use chemicals by 75%. The Easy Klean filtration system also provides 100% water filtration, keeping the water clear and clean, and allows you to easily replace the filter when necessary.
Pros
- The best for 2 people – two integrated seats with 10 hydro jets each allow you to assume a comfortable semi-recumbent position and enjoy the massage.
- The best filtration – the water in the hot tub will always be crystal clear because of the built-in Kleen filtration system that filters 100% of the water.
- A variety of built-in accessories – enjoy the built-in LED backlight waterfall with 9 different illumination colors.
Cons
- Small buttons on the control panel so sometimes you may press the wrong one.
SaluSpa St.Lucia AirJet – the fastest heating
The fastest heating
| Characteristics | Number of jets: 110 bubble jets Temperature: up to 104°F Water capacity: 160 gallons Capacity: 2-3 people Dimensions: 6’6.93” L x 6’6.93” W x 2’5.98” H |
| What makes it the best | The best cover – it’s made of materials that allow the water temperature to be maintained when the hot tub is covered and not in use; Ease of use – a control panel allows you to adjust the temperature, bubbles, and control the temperature for up to 40 days; Relaxation – the hot tub ranks second in the number of jets (110 – 2nd and 140 – 1st), the bubbles from which completely envelop your body and provide a message to all parts of the body; The most effective chlorine level control due to the unique ChemConnect system that disperses excess chlorine in the water |
The SaluSpa St.Lucia AirJet hot tub has the highest heating rate. At air temperatures close to 32°F, it heats 160 gallons of water to 104°F in 24 hours. At an air temperature of 74°F, the process takes only 12 hours. It is 1.5-2 times faster than other models. What is more, the hot tub comes with a cover that effectively keeps the water temperature when you are not using the spa.
The SaluSpa St.Lucia AirJet hot tub has an effective FreezeShield system like the SaluSpa Vancouver AirJet Plus. It provides automatic heating of the filter and liner when the air temperature reaches 32°F. It means that you can enjoy a massage in your hot tub, even in freezing winter temperatures! Also, the ChemConnect system also disperses excess chlorine in the water, so you don’t have to worry about the water condition in the hot tub.
The advanced Air Jet system and 110 jets deliver warm, bubbling water for maximum relaxation. You can easily control them, change the heating temperature, and set the timer from the convenient control panel. What is more, you can change the angle of the panel so that you can easily reach it and make the necessary settings in a couple of clicks.
Also, you shouldn’t worry about the durability of your hot tub because the exterior of this model is made of 3 layers of puncture-resistant material. That means it won’t get ruined by repeatedly deflating and inflating the hot tub.
Pros
- The best heating – requires 1.5-2 times less time to heat water to a maximum of 104°F than other hot tubs.
- The best protection against low temperatures – the FreezeShield system heats internal components to avoid freezing and breakage when the temperature drops to 32°F.
- High level of durability – the puncture-resistant DuraPlus material retains its shape and protects against leaks even when deflating/inflating repeatedly.
Cons
- The control panel is outside the hot tub so you have to sit near the heater, which may make noises during operation, or get up to set the desired settings.
SereneLife Outdoor Portable Hot Tub – the best for relaxation
The best for relaxation
| Characteristics | Number of jets: 100 bubble jets Temperature: up to 107.6°F Water capacity: 158 gallons Capacity: 4 people Dimensions: 5’7” L x 5’7” W x 2’5” H |
| What makes it the best | The most extensive kit – the hot tub comes with a cover, filter, inflatable hose, ground pad, repair kit, remote control, and led light so you don’t need to buy additional accessories because everything you need is included; Great for a party – hot tub can comfortably accommodate 4 people and has LED lighting in 7 different colors; A wide range of heating temperatures – you can keep the water temperature in the hot tub from 41 to 107.6°F; Durable and malleable – laminated PVC does not deteriorate in the bends, so you do not have to worry about the appearance of punctures |
Experience the best relaxation with the SereneLife Outdoor Portable Hot Tub. It has 100 bubble jets that provide the best and unique effect of massage because the bubbles do not just go from the bottom up, as with other models, but also rotate due to the flow of water created by jets and literally envelop your body and help in the prevention of joint/muscular pain, improves sleep, and stress/anxiety relief.
The hot tub also has a handy temperature controller, which allows you to choose any comfortable temperature from a range of 41 to 107.6°F. The highest heating temperature is 5% higher than other models!
In addition to the control panel, the SereneLife Outdoor Portable Hot Tub has a remote control, which will make your hot tub experience even better. You can use it from afar or without getting up from the warm water to turn the bubbles on/off, change the temperature, or set one of the 7 colors of LED lighting.
Despite its compact size, this hot tub holds up to 4 adults. You can easily use it for parties, and the lighting will only enhance the party feeling. Also, you do not need to fear that holes will appear on the hot tub surface. It is made of laminated PVC which does not deteriorate in the bends.
This hot tub comes with the richest kit available. It comes with a pump, a cover, a filter, an inflatable hose, a ground pad, and a repair kit. So in the case of breakage or the need to disassemble and reassemble the hot tub, you will have everything you need at your fingertips.
Pros
- The best relaxation – the water flow rotates the bubbles, which are created by 100 bubble jets, and they envelop your body, creating a unique and best full-body massage effect.
- The highest heating temperature – the maximum water temperature is 5% higher than other models at 107.6°F.
- Easy to control – you can change the temperature, bubble modes, and backlight settings as you like because of the built-in digital panel and remote control.
Cons
- The cover top isn’t designed to drain water. When it rains, the rainwater collects in the middle and weighs down on the cover top, so you need to buy another one.
Landscaping Ideas to Fit Your Small Spa in The Backyard
Building a landscape around a hot tub in a small space creates a cozy atmosphere conducive to relaxation and improves your spa’s functionality. A well-designed landscape adds an aesthetic look that will help you feel like you are in a luxury countryside complex without leaving your home. You can create relaxation areas, exotic gardens, sunbathing or barbecue areas, and enjoy the space around the hot tub in a small backyard.
Nowadays, more and more spa owners with limited space are looking for unique and interesting hot tub ideas for small areas that will add beauty, functionality, and a special charm to their small backyard spa. We will look at 3 unusual hot tub landscaping ideas for small backyards on a budget that will fit perfectly into any exterior.
The Compact Vertical Garden
Limited space is one of the main challenges for small hot tub owners looking to add freshness and green accents to their backyard. A vertical garden is a solution to place plants on special modular structures that can be shelves or attached to walls, and poles. This approach will allow you to saturate your small hot tub patio with a green background without wasting space.
Instead of buying ready-made racks and shelves for your plants and flowerpots, you can make them yourself using additional materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. This will allow you to personalize your vertical hot tub garden and save money that can be used for plants and other decorative elements.
One of the biggest advantages of a vertical garden among all the hot tub ideas for small spaces is the possibility of endlessly rearranging the pots of flowers and plants. A conventional garden in the ground limits you to a static arrangement of plants, but with a vertical garden, you have the opportunity to experiment with the location and number of greens every day and create special atmospheres for every celebration in your spa area.
Aquatic Garden With DIY Waterfall
It’s no secret that the constant circulation of water creates a pleasant, relaxing sound. The idea of creating your waterfall and small water garden will allow you to get the most out of your backyard spa experience. To create a waterfall yourself, you can use stones, blocks, or even decorative sculptures. You need to build a system that will ensure water flow from top to bottom. Do not forget about the plant component to decorate it with beautiful plants. You can use water lilies, yellow irises, and water hyacinths.
Choose a space for an aquatic garden and waterfall next to the hot tub, where these elements are visible and accessible for enjoyment. Arrange water plants at different levels of your waterfall, creating a difference in plant height.
Miniature Zen Garden for Meditation Lovers
Do you like spiritual practices and relaxing music while taking a hot bath? Complement your spa experience with a Zen garden that allows you to dive into the depths of meditation and self-discovery.
Hot tub ideas for small spaces such as creating a relaxing garden are easy and low-budget to create yourself, without a significant investment of time. You can use sand, small stones, and succulents for your Zen garden. Spread the sand or gravel evenly over the soil and add plants to create miniature garden elements. The following elements of Japanese culture will help you add atmosphere:
⛩️ Wooden figurines or miniature pagodas
⛩️ Fountains and streams with koi fish
⛩️ Incense and flashlights
⛩️ Stone paths
The miniature Zen garden near the hot tub allows you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere for meditation and restore your inner balance and equilibrium.
Choosing the right landscape ideas for placing your hot tub in the backyard can turn it into your personalized oasis of tranquility and comfort. Try to balance aesthetics, functionality and the size of your space to create a harmonious environment for your spa. So let your hot tub patio become a place where you can enjoy beauty and restoration with green landscape ideas.
Summary
Small hot tubs are great for relaxing alone or in small groups. Because of their compact size, you can easily place the spa in the house, on the balcony, or the lawn. They also use less electricity because the heater does not have to maintain the temperature of too much water.
The main and most difficult question regarding small hot tubs is choosing the best spa. So we searched for the best models and reputable hot tub brands, applied a selection methodology to them, which is based on quality criteria and user reviews, and made a list of the top 3 small hot tubs.
The further choice is up to you!
FAQ
🏆 What are the best small hot tubs?
– Aquarest Spas 2-Person – the best choice for 2 people;
– SaluSpa St.Lucia AirJet – the fastest heating;
– SereneLife Outdoor Portable Hot Tub – the best for relaxation;
You can learn more about them in our article.
✔️ What is the best small hot tub?
All of the hot tubs mentioned above are great for different reasons, however, Aquarest Spas 2-Person is the best choice in terms of features.
⏱ How long does it take to heat water in small hot tubs?
At outdoor temperatures close to 32 °F(0 °C) it takes 24 hours to heat water to 104 °F (40 °C), at 74 °F (23.33 °C) it takes 12 hours.
💸 How much does a small hot tub cost?
The price range depends on the type of hot tub you’re choosing. If you stick with an inflatable hot tub, it’s around 400-800$ (the cheapest price for a small hot tub), and if you stick with a hard shell one, it’s about 3K$.
🤔 Is it cheaper to run a smaller hot tub?
It’s slightly cheaper because small hot tubs hold less water than large ones. However, if you use your hot tub efficiently, both large and small spas’ maintenance will not break the bank.
🏠 Can you put a small hot tub indoors?
You can; however, it requires more planning because if you don’t prepare a good base for your hot tub, take care of the drainage, and so on, it can lead to hazards. In addition, if you rent your house, you’ll need permission from the landlord to put the hot tub indoors.
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