The 6 Best Outdoor Saunas for Getting Your Sweat On
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There are a lot of bogus wellness trends these days, but sauna bathing is an age-old Nordic tradition that’s seeing a big rise in popularity. In fact, if you’re reading this, odds are you’re interested in adding an outdoor sauna to your backyard. The best outdoor saunas not only provide a respite from the world, but consistent use might just level up your personal health. The benefits of sauna use include helping to reduce inflammation and lessen the risk of cardiovascular issues, according to a review published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings.
Regular sauna bathing (two to three times per week) can be helpful for heart disease, neurological diseases and arthritis-type conditions, according to Saloni Sharma, MD, medical director at Rothman Orthopaedics' Orthopedic Integrative Health Center and author of The Pain Solution: 5 Steps to Relieve and Prevent Back Pain, Muscle Pain, and Joint Pain without Medication. "It can improve blood flow to painful areas, and can help reduce stiffness.”
There are a handful of different types of saunas, from the traditional barrel-style to more modern cube designs. They’re heated with electric heaters, infrared heaters or wood-burning stoves (if you want to really feel like you’re off the grid). For the typical person, this doesn’t matter too much and is more up to your preferences and budget. Some newer models (like Sun Home’s outdoor infrared model—our top overall pick) have high-tech features like surround-sound speakers, added LED light therapy and charging docks for your electronics. All you really need to reap the benefits of your sauna experience, though, is a high-quality product that you’ll actually use.
Ahead, using guidance from our experts, research and reviews, we found six of the best outdoor saunas that have the chops. We’ve included a comprehensive guide for picking the right sauna for you, and have broken down the key features like heat source, capacity and price.
We also tapped Sharma, Medhat Mikhael, MD, pain management specialist and medical director of the non-operative program at the Spine Health Center at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center and Earric Lee, a postdoctoral researcher studying exercise science and Sport and Health Sciences faculty at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland, to help us break down how sauna use can benefit athletes during training.
Get ready to get sweaty.
Our Picks for the Best Outdoor Sauna in 2024:
- Best Overall Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna
- Best Outdoor Sauna Kit: SweatTent Outdoor Sauna
- Best Two-Person Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna
- Best Outdoor Cedar Sauna: Redwood Outdoors Cedar Barrel Sauna
- Best Budget Outdoor Sauna: SweatTent Outdoor Sauna
- Best Outdoor Sauna for Cold Climates: Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Cabin Sauna
Best Overall Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna
SI Showcase + Sun Home
Key features:
- Type: Infrared sauna
- Number of people: 5
- Material: Japanese carbonized wood
- Dimensions: 77 inches L X 45 inches W X 72 inches H
- Heat source: Far and full spectrum infrared heaters
- Temperature range: 95–167 degrees Fahrenheit
- Financing available: Yes, via Affirm (0–15% APR)
- Warranty: 6-year limited warranty on carbon heaters; 1 year for all other components
- Shipping: Free shipping
- Extra features: Built-in chromotherapy, panoramic glass exterior, mobile app remote control, Bluetooth-enabled surround sound speakers
- Cost: $9,699
If you’re seeking a more technology-forward sauna experience, Sun Home’s Luminar outdoor infrared sauna is an excellent model to invest in. Like the Equinox two-person sauna, this 5-person model uses an infrared heating system, which you can control through your phone via mobile app. Infrared heat is typically reserved for indoor saunas, but Sun Home claims that its Luminar model is more than 12.5 times more powerful—at 500 watts—than competitors. What’s more, this sauna includes Bluetooth speakers and soothing LED chromotherapy, which can make sitting in a hot room more enticing to beginner bathers. Yes, it’s a pricey model, but it comes with ample features and floor-to-ceiling windows that give you a panoramic view of the outdoors.
Lindsey Scheele, a fitness enthusiast and certified personal trainer who has tested over 15 sauna models, used this sauna, saying she “loved the features like the lighting and Bluetooth capabilities,” and how quickly it heated up. She did note that “the benches got a little uncomfortable after about 20 minutes. It is a curved bench and hard to lay flat on after a while.”
Regarding delivery, Scheele noted, “The delivery and set up of the sauna is cumbersome,” due to the large size of the crate and the fact that assembly requires multiple people. If you order this sauna, be prepared with a few friends to help unload and put together the sauna; they’ll be able to relax afterward in the heat.
Related Post: Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro Review
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Pros:
- Large windows offer lots of natural light
- High-tech features like speakers and mobile app control
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- High price tag
- Not a traditional sauna experience
Best Outdoor Sauna Kit: SweatTent Outdoor Sauna
SI Showcase + SweatTent
Key features:
- Type: Tent sauna
- Number of people: 1–3
- Material: Insulated, weather-proof Oxford 210D fabric
- Dimensions: 72 inches L x 72 inches W x 84 inches H
- Heat source: Wood fire stove
- Temperature range: Up to 180–200 degrees Fahrenheit
- Financing options: Yes, via Shop Pay
- Warranty: 1-year limited lifetime warranty for tent and stove
- Shipping: Free shipping inside the contiguous U.S.
- Extra features: Waterproof cover, ergonomic fire poker, heat resistant gloves, 20 pounds of sauna rocks with basket
- Cost: $1,599
SweatTent Outdoor Sauna is a tent sauna that you can set up in about three minutes, according to SweatTent. It is somewhat portable because it is simple to put up and take down. The material is a durable, insulated and weather-proof fabric that SweatTent says allows you to leave the sauna up outdoors indefinitely.
SweatTent is heated by a wood fire stove that comes equipped with 20 pounds of sauna rocks, a fire poker and heat-resistant gloves that let you feed the fire safely. Scheele confirmed what SweatTent advertised on the website: You can get this sauna heated up within 30 minutes. “It was really easy to get the fire going. The stove didn’t feel hot to the touch and the sauna rocks heated up in about 30 minutes. We were able to create a lot of humidity by pouring water onto the rocks.”
Scheele added, “For a portable sauna this seems pretty sturdy. I think you could keep it set up outside for long stretches of time.” She set up the SweatTent outside for several weeks and said there were no issues, saying, “The fiberglass roof cover protects your tent from outside elements.” Scheele also mentioned that set-up was very easy, and moving the tent around was a breeze, thanks to its 30-pound weight. As far as a complete sauna kit goes, this is our favorite option out there. It’s easy to set up, comparatively inexpensive, portable and works well.
Pros:
- 3-minute setup
- You can leave the tent set up indefinitely unless there is extreme weather
- More affordable than permanent outdoor saunas
Cons:
- You have to weigh down the tent skirt with weight or rocks so it does not blow over in windy conditions
Use code "SPORTSILLUSTRATED” to get 10% off your order.
Best Two-Person Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar 2-Person Infrared Sauna
SI Showcase + Sun Home
Key features:
- Type: Cube sauna
- Number of people: 2
- Material: Grade-A carbonized wood exterior, cedar wood interior
- Dimensions: 51.5 inches L x 57 inches W x 82.7 inches H
- Heat source: Three far infrared and six full spectrum heaters
- Temperature range: 95–167 degrees Fahrenheit
- Financing options: Yes, via Affirm
- Warranty: 6-year limited warranty for sauna and carbon heaters, 1 year on all other components
- Shipping: Free shipping included. Shipped on a pallet
- Extra features: Low EMF/ELF shielding, app-enabled control system, Bluetooth surround sound speakers
- Cost: $8,599
The Sun Home Luminar Sauna is a cube sauna with a carbonized wood exterior and dura-glass windows built to withstand any climate conditions. Luminar has a compact footprint compared to other two-person cube saunas. It uses a combination of infrared and full-spectrum heaters positioned to maintain optimum heat regardless of exterior conditions. This sauna is engineered to excel in outdoor settings, making it a top choice for those seeking an intimate sauna experience.
The choice of grade-A carbonized red cedar wood and thick double-pane glass throughout the sauna ensures both durability and insulation. With a total of nine heaters, including three far-infrared heaters under the bench and six full-spectrum heaters surrounding the cabin, the Luminar Outdoor Sauna guarantees an efficient and effective sauna session. These heaters are strategically positioned to envelop the users in 3D healing wavelengths from all angles.
Related Post: Is the Sun Home Saunas Equinox Two-Person Sauna Right for You?
You can control the Luminar temperature from an app, which means you can start heating your sauna on your way home from work, while you’re doing chores or while you’re laying in bed. The Luminar also has Bluetooth surround-sound speakers and a panoramic view through the dura-glass windows. If you’re looking for a top-notch two-person sauna that checks every box, this is it.
Pros:
- Built with durable external materials that can withstand the elements
- Setup is relatively simple
- Includes an EMF/ELF shielding
Cons:
- Premium pricing
Best Outdoor Cedar Sauna: Redwood Outdoors Cedar Barrel Sauna
SI Showcase + Redwood Outdoors
Key features:
- Type: Barrel sauna
- Number of people: 4–6
- Material: Cedar
- Dimensions: 71 inches L x 72.75 inches W x 76.5 H
- Heat source: Electric heater or wood-burning stove
- Temperature range: Up to 195 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on heater
- Financing available: Yes, via Affirm (0–15% APR)
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty on sauna, Harvia electric heaters and Harvia stoves
- Shipping: Cost depends primarily on your location. Saunas shipped in wooden crates, heaters and accessories shipped in cardboard or wooden crates
- Extra features: Bucket and ladle, back rest, sauna rocks, light fixture
- Cost: $6,399
Here’s a traditional barrel sauna made with red cedar that has all of the features you need and nothing extra. We appreciate that you can customize several parts of this dry sauna, from the heating mechanism (you can go the Finnish sauna route with a Harvia electric heater, or a wood-burning stove) to add-ons like a weather-resistant shingled roof and even a cold plunge tub. Since it’s made out of 100 percent Canadian red cedar, it will give you that spa-like sauna scent and dry heat, and it comfortably fits between four and six people.
One benefit of a cedar sauna is its durability and resistance to the elements; when taken care of properly, this sauna should have an outdoor lifespan of 20 years, according to Redwood Outdoors. Reviewers on the website report their saunas looking good as new after a few years of exposure to the elements.
Related Post: Redwood Outdoors Pacific Cold Plunge Kit Review
Pros:
- Reviewers report customer service is very reliable
- Easy assembly
- Lots of add-on upgrades available
Cons:
- Very basic option with no frills
Best Budget Outdoor Sauna: SweatTent Outdoor Sauna
SI Showcase + SweatTent
Key features:
- Type: Tent sauna
- Number of people: 1–3
- Material: Insulated, weather-proof Oxford 210D fabric
- Dimensions: 72 inches L x 72 inches W x 84 inches H
- Heat source: Wood fire stove
- Temperature range: Up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit
- Financing options: Yes, via Shop Pay
- Warranty: 1-year limited lifetime warranty for tent and stove
- Shipping: Free shipping inside the contiguous U.S.
- Extra features: Waterproof cover, ergonomic fire poker, heat resistant gloves, 20 pounds of sauna rocks with basket
- Cost: $1,599
If you’re not sure how much you’ll end up using an outdoor sauna, it’s not a bad idea to start with a more affordable one and replace it years down the line with one that’s more permanent. The SweatTent Outdoor Sauna can fit up to three people. It comes with a sauna stove that works to heat the SweatTent to 200 degrees Fahrenheit in 30 minutes. While this sauna is designed exclusively for outdoor use, it has a waterproof roof cover and is a great portable option.
At only $1,600, this sauna is a far cry cheaper than some of its competitors; if you want to get a sauna but aren’t prepared to invest a ton of money, the SweatTent Outdoor Sauna is a great starting point. Despite its lower price point, it doesn’t look or feel cheap. Scheele reported, “I love the overall aesthetic of the SweatTent, it worked well and got really hot in the tent.” She used the SweatTent three or more times a week for several weeks, bringing it up to 190-200 degrees Fahrenheit at each use, and had nothing but glowing reviews to give.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to move around
- Fire poker and gloves are included
- Stainless steel stove is rust-resistant
Cons:
- Cannot be used indoors
- Temperature cannot be controlled from inside the tent
Use code "SPORTSILLUSTRATED” to get 10% off your order.
Best Outdoor Sauna for Cold Climates: Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Cabin
SI Showcase + Redwood Outdoors
Key features:
- Type: Electric sauna
- Number of people: 4
- Material:
- Dimensions: 85.5 inches D by 88.5 inches W by 92.25 inches H
- Heat source: Electric heater
- Temperature range: Up to 190 degrees Fahrenheit
- Financing available: Yes, via Affirm (0–15% APR)
- Warranty: 1 year
- Shipping: Not included, about $600
- Extra Features: Scandinavian design, Harvia electric heater, sauna rocks
- Cost: $5,999
The Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Cabin Sauna is our choice for the best outdoor sauna for cold climates because of its robust, weather-resistant construction. This sauna is crafted in a traditional Scandinavian design with Scandinavian softwood treated with intense heat that provides exceptional insulation. This design not only enhances its longevity, but also contributes to its energy efficiency, ensuring even heat distribution throughout the interior.
The Thermowood Cabin Sauna package includes a Harvia electric heater, wooden heater guard, water bucket and ladle, sauna rocks and interior seating benches, providing all the necessary components for an authentic sauna experience.
Scheele reported some difficulties setting up this sauna, mainly dealing with the included screws. “We ended up going to the local hardware store to buy better screws,” she said, “The included screws would break apart when they met with any resistance.” The other issue was getting the right amp set up; Scheele needed to bring in an electrician to install a 220 amp system for the unit to run on.
Once set up, Scheele said they “were able to get it from 0 degrees up to 190 degrees in a matter of 35 minutes,” and was “really impressed with how quickly it got hot in there.” She also noted that it worked incredibly well, and maintained the set temperature and humidity perfectly.
Related Post: Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Garden Sauna Review
SI Showcase
Pros:
- Efficient 2-level seating allows users to easily cycle between high and low heat
- Resistant to rot and fungi
- Complete sauna package
Cons:
- DIY assembly may be challenging
Why Buy an Outdoor Sauna?
If you’ve spent large amounts of your gym time in the locker room sauna, you’re committed to the wellness practice and you live somewhere with outdoor space, a sauna might be a great investment for your health. “Researchers have found a number of possible health benefits from sauna use, most importantly that they have shown to help cardiovascular diseases—particularly high blood pressure and heart diseases—as well as acute and chronic pain and neurological diseases,” says Mikhael.
Putting a sauna inside can create some logistical challenges, though, from installation to insulation and more. An outdoor sauna, on the other hand, might be easier to install, and it gets you a little closer to nature, as many of them have spacious windows. “One big bonus of outdoor saunas specifically is that they exist outdoors,” Sharma says. “There is a problem in our society labeled Nature Deficit Disorder, which essentially means we aren’t spending enough time outside. There are a whole host of proven benefits of being outdoors, and these saunas allow you to combine them with the potential benefits of heat therapy.”
How to Use an Outdoor Sauna
Once your outdoor sauna is installed and ready to go, depending on the model you use, you can set the temperature via a manual dial, Bluetooth-enabled app, or touchscreen. The heat comes from sauna heaters or wood-burning stoves. Some outdoor saunas allow you to set the timer up to 36 hours in advance. From there, all you need to do is open the door, climb in and relax.
As for timing, “two to three 15- to 25-minute sessions per week are ideal,” says Mikhael. “After 15 to 25 minutes, people can benefit the most without feeling like they’re getting dehydrated or dizzy.”
Bring a book, crank up your music or bring a friend in to sweat it out with you—and don’t forget to stay hydrated.
“You really want to make sure you're hydrated before and after,” says Sharma. “Obviously, a sauna induces a lot of sweating, so you can get dehydrated very easily.”
The Benefits of an Outdoor Sauna
Ideally, you should be heading to your sauna soon as part of your post-workout routine, Lee says. “We found that not only is a combination of exercise and sauna bathing stronger in its effects, but then many of the cardiovascular benefits, like lower blood pressure, were sustained for a longer period of time afterward.”
What to Look for in an Outdoor Sauna
Power
Most saunas use electricity to run the lights and heaters. Low-tech wood stove-heated saunas might not need any power if there are no lights. There are some solar-powered saunas, too, if you want less strain on the environment (and your electric bill). You’ll just need to make sure you have a battery as a back-up.
Portability
Given their size and weight, saunas are not the most easily portable sauna products out there. So we’d recommend buying an outdoor sauna once you’re residing in a more permanent residence. But even then, life happens and sometimes you need to move. A constructed outdoor sauna can be transported, but likely would need professional equipment to hoist it into a truck bed. There are, however, tent saunas that are very portable—and much more affordable than the outdoor saunas listed above.
Cost
The outdoor saunas we recommend are priced between $5,000 and $15,000. Based on our research, on the lower end of the spectrum, you’ll still get plenty of heat but fewer bells and whistles. The more pricey saunas can typically seat more people, they have more temperature adjustments, more comfortable accommodations and are made with higher-quality materials.
Outdoor Sauna Accessories
Many of the outdoor saunas on this list offer additional accessories a la carte. While these aren’t integral to your new sauna routine, they might make it more fun, luxe, and/or comfortable. Some of the common accessories we noticed are outdoor showers, cold plunge tubs and wooden recliners. Nothing’s stopping you from DIY-ing those accessories, though.
How We Tested
Our testing team tried multiple different saunas in order to create the list of the best outdoor saunas. From delivery and set-up to use and durability, they used the saunas for several weeks and recorded their notes and thoughts to help readers make an informed decision regarding which outdoor sauna is best for them. Our testers are fitness enthusiasts who regularly work out and have experience testing and analyzing products to help create comprehensive reviews.
Best Outdoor Sauna FAQs
How much does an outdoor sauna cost?
The cost of an outdoor sauna comes down to a handful of factors: The capacity, heat source, extra features, integrated technology, and materials, just to name a few. We found saunas that run around $5,000 and others that cost up to $15,000, so it all depends on what your budget is and what features you’re looking for.
Can you use an outdoor sauna in the winter?
You sure can! Go ahead, pretend you’re in Iceland or Finland and have a nice sweat when the temps are sub-zero. Outdoor saunas typically come with features and accessories that help weather-proof them (like shingles) and keep them dry and ventilated during winter months.
Are outdoor saunas expensive to run?
When you invest in an outdoor sauna, you have to consider the costs that come with it, including the electricity they use via electric heaters, lighting, and more. When purchasing an outdoor sauna, look to see the wattage and amount of electricity they need to run; it doesn’t hurt to crunch the numbers for an estimation of what your electric bill could look like with a sauna in the mix.
Final Thoughts
Many wellness fads are just that: trends that are short-lived (and even potentially harmful). But saunas have been staples in Scandinavian life for centuries, and they show major promise in improving your well-being. Our experts note that regular sauna use can improve muscle soreness and even chronic pain, and because heat opens up the blood vessels, it might help with some cardiovascular and neurological conditions.
If you’ve dabbled in heat therapy in the past and want to make it more of a long-term lifestyle (and you have the budget to match), an outdoor sauna can be a useful and beneficial tool. But, like any big investment in your health, our experts noted that you should always consult your doctor before purchasing an outdoor sauna or starting a sauna routine—especially if you have severe cardiovascular or lung issues.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
