For anyone who has a hot tub at the top of their backyard ideas list, here’s a trend you definitely want to check out: outdoor tubs. It’s exactly what it sounds like—a bathtub in your backyard. Used at spas and luxury hotels around the world, you can create this relaxing outdoor soak in the comfort of your own backyard. Some use the same idea as a stock tank pool—just on a smaller scale. Others are outfitted with hot and cold water, so you can enjoy the tub almost year-round! We’ve rounded up some of our favorites, including rustic tubs placed in the backyard of a cabin, as well as tubs with romantic views, overlooking the desert. From woodsy retreats to wine country getaways, we’re confident that any occasion can be improved with a relaxing soak in nature.
Once you take a look at these dreamy tubs, you’ll think twice about ways to update your porch and patio. The thought of unwinding on a cool summer night with an outdoor soak is enough to send you on a hunt for a claw-foot tub ASAP. In the meantime, you can live vicariously through these images of gorgeous outdoor tubs.
Outdoor Tub on a Deck
Hilary Bell of @thenewsmallhouse went for a run and found this clawfoot tub on the side of the road. She refurbished it, painted it with Valspar Anti-Rust Armor, and installed it on her Nags Head, North Carolina, deck.
Outdoor Tub and Shower
This Australian family of three thought of everything when adding an outdoor tub to their tiny house. The inclusion of a copper shower makes the bathtub even more practical. There’s even a shelf for toiletries! For more, check them out at @mar_y_sol_living
Outdoor Tub for the Fish
Instagrammer @mrswebbsweehouse refurbished this cast-iron tub and filled it with water plants, fish, and a fountain. It’s now the showpiece of her gorgeous Cambridgeshire garden.
Outdoor Tub Surrounded by Ferns
This outdoor hideaway is surrounded by lush ferns, making it the perfect spot for a quiet soak.
Sunken Outdoor Tub
A New Zealand family of three living in a tiny house made the most of their limited space by installing an outdoor bathtub. It doubles as a cooler for drinks when they host parties! Follow their adventures at @tinyhousefamilynz.
Tub in the Forest
Ravenwoods Farm is a picturesque venue in Ravensdale, Washington, ideal for weddings, photo shoots, and farm field trips. Tucked away in the forest, you’ll find this serene spot.
The owners offer this pro tip on Instagram: “If you’re building a home, it’s only a few bucks more to add an outdoor hot water faucet that comes in super handy for filling kiddie pools, washing the dog, taking milk baths in the forest…”
Orange Outdoor Tub
This cabin, just five minutes from Joshua Tree National Park, is available as an Airbnb rental. The patio features an outdoor clawfoot tub with hot and cold water, along with a hammock, making it the perfect spot for relaxing. For more details, visit We Are in Our Element.
Blooming Bathtub
Alexandra Martin of @barefootandbreathing offers spa experiences, including outdoor baths, at her rustic country spa in the Catskills.
Hill Country Tub
At this Texas Hill Country retreat, a six-foot soaking tub is nestled in a private spot among the trees. Known as the Hill Country Hammock House, you can book it for yourself on Airbnb. Find more breathtaking photos at @hillcountryhammockhouse.
Hot Springs Tub
Castle Hot Springs offers an inclusive getaway in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona. The Sky View Cabins feature private outdoor tubs for a truly serene experience.
Outdoor Tub with a View
Sacred Sands offers 72-inch soaking tubs with serious views of the Mojave Desert. It doesn’t get any better than a sunset soak in this oasis.