Best Outdoor Saunas

Each model has been evaluated with specific user needs in mind, ensuring that whether a customer is looking for a small, affordable option or a luxurious communal experience, Shym Saunas has a competitive product to offer.

Hot and cold wellness therapies can help improve your overall health. These outdoor saunas help you get the benefits without ever leaving home.

If you want your own outdoor sauna for your backyard, you can choose to build one yourself or buy a prefabricated sauna kit that you can assemble yourself.

As a passionate sauna enthusiast, we’ve spent countless hours experiencing different outdoor saunas firsthand. So, in this comprehensive review, we’ll share our expert insights and personal experiences to help you navigate the world of outdoor saunas and discover the ultimate relaxation haven for your backyard.

Our Top Picks for the Best Outdoor Saunas

Choose what appeals best to your needs and budget.

• Best Large: Shym Saunas Cube Sauna
• Best Splurge: Shym Saunas Thermo Treated Spruce PATIO S
• Best Budget: Shym Saunas Outdoor/Indoor White Spruce Barrel Sauna
• Best Barrel Sauna in Australia: Shym Saunas Western Red Cedar Barrel Sauna
• Best Design: Shym Saunas Serenity Round Cube Sauna
• Best Value: Shym Saunas Western Red Cedar Square Barrel Sauna
• Best Panoramic Barrel Sauna: Shym Saunas Panoramic Glass Western Red Cedar Barrel Sauna
• Best Feature-Rich Infrared: Kanlanth Canadian Hemlock Infrared Sauna
• Best Outdoor Infrared Sauna: Sun Ray Saunas Cayenne
• Best Portable, Camping Sauna: SweatTent’s Sauna

How We Rated the Best Outdoor Saunas

This review takes a holistic approach, considering various factors to give you a well-rounded perspective:

• Pros and Cons: We weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each sauna to help you assess their suitability.
• Construction Quality: We evaluate the types of wood used (cedar, hemlock, etc.) and the overall craftsmanship to determine durability and longevity.
• Performance: We assess heating time, temperature stability, and overall functionality.
• Features: We examine additional features like adjustable thermostats, Bluetooth speakers, mobile app controls, and more.
• Ease of Delivery and Setup: We consider whether saunas are delivered flat-packed, the clarity of assembly instructions, and the overall ease of setup.
• User Experiences: We incorporate quotes and experiences from real users to provide authentic feedback on product satisfaction and reliability.

Best Top-Rated Outdoor Saunas

Best Large: Shym Saunas Cube Log Sauna (4-10 Person)

Shym Saunas’ Traditional Cube Sauna is a retreat that promises more than warmth; it invites you to a communal experience right in your backyard. Designed with the same care and precision that Shym Saunas is known for, this model stands out for its spacious interior and the quality of its sustainably harvested Nordic Spruce. 

What sets it apart is its blend of tradition with modern design, allowing for quick assembly thanks to its preassembled components.

The sauna can heat efficiently due to its thick log boards, ensuring that once it’s warmed up, it stays that way, enveloping you and your guests in consistent, soothing heat. While it requires a sizable investment and a significant space in your yard, the payoff is a luxurious extension of your home where you can relax and rejuvenate.

Pros:

• Spacious Interior: Ample space to accommodate 4-10 people comfortably.
• High-Quality Materials: Crafted from sustainably harvested Nordic Spruce.
• Efficient Heating: Thick log boards ensure consistent warmth and insulation.

Cons:

• Large Footprint: Requires significant space in your yard.

User Feedback:

“This sauna is amazing! It’s like having a mini cabin in our backyard. It heats up quickly and stays warm for hours. We love having friends over for sauna parties.” – Mark R.

“We were impressed with the quality of the wood and how easy it was to assemble. The sauna looks beautiful and feels like a true escape.” – Sarah M.

Best Splurge: Shym Saunas Thermo Treated Spruce PATIO S (4 – 8 Person)

When it comes to splurging on a sauna, Shym Saunas’ Patio Series S is a testament to luxury and style. Meticulously crafted from thermotreated Nordic Spruce, this model not only withstands the elements but does so with elegance. 

People have praised the Patio Series S for its elegant design and robust construction. The quality of materials and the ease of assembly are its key highlights. The spacious interior is a hit among users, accommodating 4-8 people comfortably, making it ideal for gatherings or family use.

The Patio Series S is designed for ease of assembly, featuring a log cabin structure that can be quickly put together, allowing you to move from installation to relaxation without hassle. It’s an eco-friendly choice too, made from wood treated through a sustainable process that enhances its durability and thermal properties. 

This sauna is also equipped with 8 mm tempered double-glazed windows and doors, increasing the inflow of natural light and preserving heat.

Pros:

• Elegant Design: Modern, square shape that enhances any outdoor setting.
• Thermotreated Wood: Increased durability and resistance to the elements.
• Eco-Friendly: Made from sustainably harvested materials.

Cons:

• Premium Price: Reflects its luxurious status.
• Size Requirements: Still requires a considerable amount of space.

Best Budget: Shym Saunas White Spruce Barrel Sauna (2 – 4 Person)

The White Spruce Barrel Sauna strikes a balance between affordability and quality, making it an excellent option for those new to saunas or with smaller budgets. Its compact size and efficient design make it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, providing flexibility for homeowners.

While it lacks some of the luxury features found in higher-end models, it doesn’t skimp on the essentials. It includes a glass door to enhance the light and view for an authentic sauna experience and is made from durable high-grade spruce. 

The assembly is straightforward, with most components pre-assembled and clear instructions for the rest. The only real con is its smaller size, but for many, this will be a perfect fit.

Pros:

• Affordable: Great entry-level price for those new to saunas.
• Compact Size: Ideal for smaller spaces or fewer users.
• Easy Assembly: Comes partially pre-assembled for quick setup.

Cons:

• Basic Features: Lacks some of the luxuries of higher-end models.
• Smaller Capacity: Best suited for couples or small groups.

User Feedback

“Our Sauna is amazing. It was a seamless process buying it from Art at Shym Saunas, he answered all of my pestering questions, and was very knowledgeable. We live remote and needed to build it ourselves and Art answered my call for help many times during the process. Couldn’t be happier and I highly recommend them.” – Luke R.

Best Barrel Sauna in Australia: Shym Saunas Western Red Cedar Barrel Sauna (2 – 4 Person)

For those seeking the quintessential sauna experience down under, Shym Saunas’ Western Red Cedar Barrel Sauna is a prime choice. Crafted from high-quality cedar, this sauna combines optimal thermal properties with a distinctive aromatic presence, enhancing your relaxation and detoxification sessions. 

Its barrel shape maximizes usable space and efficiency, ensuring quick heating and minimal energy usage, perfect for the Australian climate.

Product Highlights

• Scandinavian-Inspired Design: Sleek and modern with a rustic touch, fits beautifully in both indoor and outdoor settings.
• High-Quality Western Red Cedar: Known for its durability, resistance to decay, and pleasing aroma.
• Energy Efficient: Optimized volume distribution for quick heating and reduced energy consumption.

Pros

• Pros: Quick assembly, great for small spaces, beautiful cedar construction that offers natural resistance to moisture and insects.

User Feedback

“We purchased the 1.8m barrel sauna from Shym Saunas and are very happy with it, and using it regularly. The sauna was quickly shipped to Sydney without any problems and assembly instructions (and videos) made putting it together straightforward, even for a DIY novice like myself. I would certainly recommend Shym Saunas to anyone thinking of purchasing one, Artem was very helpful through the whole process.” – Matt G.

Best Design: Thermo Treated Spruce SERENITY ROUND CUBE (3 – 5 Person)

Shym Saunas’ Serenity Round Cube is a work of art, offering a unique rounded square design that blends seamlessly into any upscale garden or poolside setting. Crafted from sustainably harvested thermo treated Nordic Spruce, this sauna is as robust as it is visually striking, providing a tranquil oasis for relaxation.

Product Highlights

• Innovative Rounded Square Design: Combines the spaciousness of a traditional sauna with the aesthetic appeal of modern architecture.
• Thermotreated Nordic Spruce: Enhances durability and resistance to the elements while maintaining a luxurious look.
• Eco-friendly Construction: Made from wood sourced from sustainable forests, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Stunning design, sustainable materials, easy to assemble with preassembled components.
• Cons: Premium pricing, requires a significant space for installation.

Best Value: Shym Saunas Western Red Cedar Square Barrel Sauna (4-10 Person)

For those looking for the best bang for their buck, Shym Saunas offers the Western Red Cedar Square Barrel Sauna. This model combines the simplicity of barrel sauna assembly with the spaciousness of a square design, accommodating up to ten people and making it ideal for larger families or social gatherings.

Product Highlights

• Versatile Square Barrel Design: Offers the ease of a barrel sauna with the roominess of a square structure.
• Robust Red Cedar Construction: Provides longevity, excellent insulation, and a pleasant scent.
• Two-Level Benches: Maximizes space and comfort, enhancing the sauna experience. (This sauna model offers 2 choices of seating configuration:  Split-Level Seats at the Back OR Seats on the Sides)

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Excellent value for the size, easy to assemble, and durable materials.
• Cons: Larger footprint might not be suitable for smaller outdoor areas.

User Feedback

“We chose a Sauna from SHYM Saunas and Spas, and are very happy with our choice. We picked the square model, for its looks as much as practicality (two-tiered seating, plenty of head height). The quality is outstanding, and we had very good support from Art, who helped with advice during the construction. With a bit of family support, we succeeded in assembling the sauna without any major problems. Pretty much on a daily basis, we now enjoy a sauna session. We are more than happy with the end result!” – Lutz H.

Best Panoramic Barrel Sauna: Shym Saunas Panoramic Barrel Sauna

Shym Saunas’ Western Red Cedar Barrel Sauna with Panoramic Glass takes the sauna experience to a whole new level. The panoramic acrylic glass offers expansive views, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings while basking in the warmth of the sauna. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a visual connection to the environment during their relaxation time.

Product Highlights

• Panoramic Acrylic Glass: Provides stunning views and adds a sense of space within the sauna.
• High-Grade Western Red Cedar: Offers natural antimicrobial properties and resistance to the elements.
• Efficient Heating: The barrel design ensures quick heating and excellent heat retention.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Unique panoramic view, quick and even heating, adds a luxurious touch to any space.
• Cons: Requires maintenance to keep the acrylic glass clean and clear

Best Feature-Rich Infrared: Kanlanth Canadian Hemlock Infrared Sauna

Kanlanth’s 4-Person Canadian Hemlock Infrared Sauna elevates the sauna experience with modern technology and natural wood aesthetics. The hemlock wood, known for its durability and pleasant aroma, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The carbon crystal infrared heaters deliver gentle, soothing warmth directly to your body, promoting relaxation and detoxification.

Product Highlights:

• Canadian Hemlock Wood: Offers a beautiful aesthetic and natural resistance to decay.
• Carbon Crystal Infrared Heaters: Provide efficient, targeted heat for deep relaxation and detoxification.
• Bluetooth Speakers: Enjoy your favorite music while unwinding in the sauna.
• LED Reading Lights: Create a calming ambiance and allow for reading or meditation during your sauna session.
• Touch Control Panel: Easily adjust temperature and time settings for a personalized experience.

Pros & Cons:

• Pros: Affordable, spacious for up to four people, easy to assemble, modern features enhance the sauna experience.
• Cons: Infrared heat may not reach the high temperatures of traditional saunas, some users report uneven heat distribution.

User Feedback:

“This sauna is a fantastic value for the price! It heats up quickly, was easy to assemble, and the Bluetooth speakers make it even more relaxing.” – Sarah K.

“We love our Kanlanth sauna. It’s perfect for unwinding after a long day, and the infrared heat is so gentle and soothing.” – David L.

Best Outdoor Infrared Sauna: Sun Ray Saunas Cayenne

Sun Ray Saunas’ Cayenne Outdoor Infrared Sauna offers a modern, high-tech sauna experience with its sleek design and innovative features. Constructed from solid Canadian hemlock wood, this sauna is built to withstand the elements while providing a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Product Highlights:

• Canadian Hemlock Wood: Offers natural durability and resistance to warping, ensuring longevity in outdoor conditions.
• Halogen Infrared Heaters: Eight halogen heaters deliver gentle, radiant warmth directly to your body for a comfortable and therapeutic experience.
• Ozone Sterilization System: Keeps the sauna air clean and fresh by eliminating bacteria and odors.
• Bluetooth Speakers: Connect your device and enjoy your favorite music or podcasts while relaxing in the sauna.
• Recessed Interior Lighting: This creates a soothing ambiance for ultimate relaxation.

Pros & Cons:

• Pros: Spacious for up to four people, modern aesthetic, ozone sterilization system, built-in Bluetooth speakers, energy-efficient.
• Cons: No Wi-Fi control option, requires assembly, some users report uneven heat distribution from halogen heaters.

User Feedback:

“This sauna is perfect for our family. It’s spacious, and comfortable, and the ozone sterilization is a nice touch. The halogen heaters warm up quickly and evenly.” – Jessica L.

“We love our Sun Ray Cayenne sauna. It’s a beautiful addition to our backyard, and the infrared heat is so relaxing. It’s perfect for unwinding after a long day.” – Michael P.

User Rating: 4.3/5 stars

Best Portable, Camping Sauna: SweatTent’s Sauna

Photo Credit: Design Boom

SweatTent’s Outdoor Sauna is a game-changer for those seeking an affordable and portable sauna solution. While it may not offer the same luxurious feel as a traditional wooden sauna, its unique design and functionality make it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and budget-conscious buyers.

Product Highlights:

• Portable Design: Lightweight and easy to set up, making it perfect for camping trips, backyard use, or any outdoor adventure.
• Wood-Burning Stove: Provides an authentic sauna experience with the crackling sound of burning wood and the ability to control the temperature by adding more wood or adjusting the air vents.
• Quick Heating: Reaches full temperature in just 30 minutes, allowing for spontaneous sauna sessions.
• Included Accessories: Comes with a thermometer, poker, gloves, and carrying bag for added convenience.

Pros & Cons:

• Pros: Affordable, portable, quick heating time, authentic wood-burning experience, can be used as a dry or wet sauna (by adding water to the rocks).
• Cons: Stove is heavy, requires more maintenance than electric models, less durable than wood saunas.

User Feedback:

“This sauna is amazing, especially for the price. I love the wood-fired stove, especially at night. It takes up minimal space and is super portable.” – Reddit User

“I was skeptical at first, but the SweatTent sauna really surprised me. It gets hot quickly and creates a relaxing atmosphere. It’s perfect for my backyard.” – Amazon Reviewer

User Rating: 4.0/5 stars (average based on various platforms)

How Do Outdoor Saunas Work?

There are two main types of outdoor saunas, each with a unique heating mechanism:

Traditional Saunas (Dry and Wet)

Traditional saunas use either electric heaters or wood-burning stoves to heat the air, creating a dry heat environment. You can pour water over heated rocks to generate steam, transforming the sauna into a wet sauna. The high temperatures and humidity promote sweating, which helps your body release toxins and impurities.

Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas, on the other hand, utilize infrared heaters to emit radiant heat that directly warms your body rather than the air. This results in a gentler, more comfortable heat that’s often preferred by those who find traditional saunas too intense.

Choosing the Best Outdoor Sauna for You

Ready to find the perfect outdoor sauna for your backyard? Here are some essential factors to consider:

Types of Outdoor Saunas

Outdoor saunas come in various shapes and sizes, including:

• Barrel saunas: These cylindrical saunas are known for their efficient heat distribution and charming aesthetic.
• Cabin saunas: Resembling small cabins, these saunas offer ample space and often come with additional features like porches or changing rooms.
• Pod saunas: With their unique teardrop shape, pod saunas provide a cozy and intimate sauna experience.

Other Key Considerations When Choosing an Outdoor Sauna

Now that you understand the fundamental differences, let’s explore the essential factors to consider when choosing the best outdoor sauna for your needs:

• Size and Capacity: How many people will be using the sauna regularly?
• Heating Source: Electric, wood-burning, or gas? Each option has its own advantages and drawbacks.
• Material: Cedar, hemlock, or other wood types? Consider durability, aesthetics, and your budget.
• Additional Features: Do you want amenities like chromotherapy lights, Bluetooth speakers, or a porch?
• Budget: Outdoor saunas come in various price ranges, so set a realistic budget before you start shopping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the benefits of owning an outdoor sauna?

Outdoor saunas provide a retreat for relaxation and stress relief, enhance cardiovascular health, improve circulation, aid in muscle recovery, and offer a private spa experience in the comfort of your own home.

2. How do I choose the right size sauna?

Consider the number of users who will frequently use the sauna. A smaller 2-4 person sauna is sufficient for most families, but if you entertain guests often or have a larger family, a 4-10 person sauna might be more appropriate.

3. What maintenance is required for an outdoor sauna?

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the interior, ensuring proper ventilation to prevent mold and mildew, checking and cleaning heaters or stoves as needed, and treating wood surfaces with appropriate preservatives to protect against weather and decay.

4. Can I install an outdoor sauna by myself?

Many outdoor saunas come in preassembled kits that are designed for DIY installation. However, electrical and steam saunas may require professional installation, especially when connecting to electrical and water lines.

5. Are there any legal considerations to keep in mind when installing an outdoor sauna?

Check local building codes and regulations regarding sauna installation. Some regions may require permits, especially for structures that involve significant alterations to electrical or plumbing systems.

6. How do I ensure my outdoor sauna is energy efficient?

Choose a sauna with good insulation, consider using a sauna with a timer to manage heating efficiently, and select energy-efficient heaters. Additionally, positioning your sauna in a location protected from excessive wind can help maintain heat more effectively.