Outdoor Saunas

Last reviewed: 5 November 2026 by Christoffer Arfert, Owner, Select Saunas. Prices are our list prices on the review date and change with manufacturer pricing; lead times are what we are currently quoting and are confirmed on the product page at checkout.

Which outdoor sauna should you buy?

Short answer: for two to four people on a normal budget, an Almost Heaven barrel with the standard 6 kW Harvia heater (made in West Virginia, ships in 3 to 4 weeks, heater and stones included, from $4,176). If you need it this month, a SaunaLife ERGO barrel ships from US stock in 4 to 7 days (heater chosen separately). If you want a cabin you can stand up straight in, with a change room, choose Dundalk LeisureCraft (Canadian cedar, 6 to 12 weeks, heater separate) or an Almost Heaven cabin. Every model here needs a dedicated 240V circuit; none runs on a standard outlet. Use the table, then the exclusions below it.

Model	Nominal / comfortable capacity	Interior	Heater	Electrical	Lead time	Price
Almost Heaven Salem 2-person barrel (6x4 ft)	2 nominal / 2 seated, 1 reclining	71" dia x 39" long; 39" benches	Harvia KIP60 6 kW included, stones included	240V, 30 A + 120V lights	3 to 4 weeks	$4,176
Almost Heaven Watoga 4-person barrel (6x5 ft)	4 nominal / 2 to 3 comfortable	71" dia x 51" long; 51" benches	Harvia KIP60 6 kW included	240V, 30 A	3 to 4 weeks	$4,922
Almost Heaven Pinnacle 4-person barrel (6x6 ft)	4 nominal / 4 seated, 2 reclining	71" dia x 64" long; 64" benches	Harvia KIP60 6 kW included	240V, 30 A	3 to 4 weeks	$5,303
Almost Heaven Huntington 4-6 person canopy barrel (6x7 ft + porch)	4 to 6 nominal / 4 comfortable, 2 reclining	71" dia x 75" long; 75" benches	Harvia KIP80 8 kW included	240V, 40 A	4 to 6 weeks	$6,252
SaunaLife E7 4-person ERGO barrel (71" x 81")	4 nominal / 3 to 4 comfortable	77" dia x 63" long; 6 ft 5 in headroom	Chosen at checkout (Harvia or HUUM, 6 to 8 kW)	240V, 30 to 40 A	4 to 7 days	$5,190 + heater
SaunaLife CL5G 4-person cube cabin, glass front	4 nominal / 3 to 4 comfortable	77" x 73" floor, 6 ft 2 in headroom	Chosen at checkout	240V	4 to 7 days	$5,990 + heater
Dundalk LeisureCraft Luna 2-4 person cube cabin	2 to 4	Cube cabin, two-tier benches, EPDM roof	Chosen at checkout (6 kW recommended, or wood)	240V or none (wood)	6 to 8 weeks	$7,392 + heater
Dundalk LeisureCraft Georgian cabin	2 to 6	Cabin with optional change room	Chosen at checkout (8 kW recommended, or wood)	240V or none (wood)	8 to 12 weeks	$7,647 + heater

Capacity reality check: manufacturers count seated adults shoulder to shoulder. For lying down, you need bench length of at least 72 inches (Pinnacle, Huntington, E7 and larger); a 2-person barrel has 39-inch benches and nobody reclines. If two of you are over 6 ft, skip anything with "2-person" in the name.

Who should not buy from this page

• No 240V circuit and no electrician budget: see 120V plug-in saunas (indoor infrared only).
• Winters below 0°F and you want a barrel: order one heater size up (KIP80 or DROP 7.5 on a 6x6 barrel) and the roof shingle kit; otherwise expect hour-long warm-ups. Our heater size calculator has a cold-climate setting.
• No way to move a 700 to 1,500 lb pallet from the curb: every outdoor sauna is delivered curbside by lift-gate truck. Plan a tractor, dolly or a local mover.
• Need it in under two weeks: only SaunaLife (4 to 7 days) and in-stock Golden Designs and Harvia Lava cabins qualify; Almost Heaven and Dundalk are made to order.

Site, electrical and delivery in one paragraph

A level gravel pad or pavers is enough for a barrel; cabins want a slab or piers. Run a dedicated 240V circuit (30 A for 6 kW, 40 A for 8 kW) plus a 120V circuit for lighting, with a weatherproof disconnect at the sauna; budget $800 to $2,500 depending on distance. Shipping is free to the continental US; the crates arrive on a pallet at the curb. Two people assemble a barrel in a day with a cordless drill; cabins take one to three days. Full line-item budgets are in our total sauna cost guide and the wiring details in sauna electrical requirements.

Narrow it down

By shape: barrel saunas or cabin saunas. By size: 2-person outdoor, 4-person outdoor, 6-person outdoor. By heat: wood-burning stoves for any Dundalk or SaunaLife model. Still deciding between brands? Call (866) 698-6690 (Mon to Fri 9 to 5 Eastern) or email sales@selectsaunas.com with your yard photo and panel location.

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Choosing your Outdoor Sauna

An outdoor sauna is a true investment in your health and well-being. But with so many types, layouts, and heating options out there, it’s important to understand what sets each one apart. 

This guide walks you through the key categories to consider when choosing the right sauna for your space, lifestyle, and climate.

 

Sauna Types

 

Different sauna structures offer different benefits, not just in aesthetics but also in heat distribution, available space, and installation flexibility.

 

Outdoor Barrel Saunas

Barrel saunas are one of the most popular styles, known for their unique cylindrical design. The curved walls help improve heat circulation by minimizing dead air pockets and allow for faster heat-up times. This makes them highly efficient, even in colder climates.

For instance, the SaunaLife E7 4-Person Barrel Sauna is built with Thermospruce, which means the wood is specially treated using high-temperature steam. This enhances the wood’s durability, stability, and resistance to decay, making it ideal for outdoor use.

Thermospruce also has a lower moisture content, which helps prevent warping and ensures the structure holds up over time with minimal maintenance. This sauna can last up to 2x longer than a cedar sauna without the thermal treatment.

 

Cabin Saunas

Cabin-style saunas resemble small sheds or cottages, offering a classic look with vertical walls and more usable interior space.

 

Key features:

 

• Size range: Available from 4x6 ft up to 8x10 ft or more; ideal for larger groups or multi-use layouts.

• Design flexibility: Easier to customize with windows, porches, or changing rooms.

• Better layout control: Vertical walls make it easier to install benches at different heights for varied heat intensity.

Cabin saunas are best for homeowners looking for a more traditional building structure with greater long-term flexibility. The Dundalk Leisurecraft Georgian is one of our top cabin saunas, with its spacious design, two-tiered benchs, and integrated changing room.

 

Cube & Pod Saunas

 

Cube and pod saunas offer a modern aesthetic and often come with larger windows, minimalistic shapes, and energy-efficient designs.

 

Key features:

 

• Design: Geometric or rounded pod shapes with high-end finishes, often geared toward luxury buyers.

• Insulation: These are often engineered with thicker walls and multi-layer insulation for energy efficiency.

• Privacy with scenic views: Many models feature panoramic windows or skylights—great for scenic locations, but consider privacy placement.

These are ideal for users prioritizing modern design and high-end features in their sauna experience. 

 

One of our most popular options in this category is the Dundalk Leisurecraft Luna, which offers a spacious two-tiered bench design and compatibility with both electric and wood-burning heaters.

 

Outdoor Sauna Brands

 

Select Saunas works with leading sauna manufacturers in the US, Canada, and Europe to bring you the most durable and luxurious outdoor saunas. Thanks to our close relationship with sauna manufacturers, we offer you a rich variety of outdoor saunas with all the customization options you need to build the perfect sauna for your needs. 

 

Almost Heaven

 

Since the company’s founding in 1977, Almost Heaven has become one of the top sauna manufacturers in the US. These heavenly saunas are designed and crafted from the company’s headquarters in the Greenbrier Valley of West Virginia. 

 

Almost Heaven is currently one of our best-selling brands, thanks to its excellent craftsmanship and durability. Our customers love the wide range of options available, from affordable barrel saunas and high-end cabin saunas to the extravagant Almost Heaven Phoenix 6-Person Luxury Barrel Sauna. 

 

Almost Heaven also has some of the best customer service since the company is wholly based in the US.

 

Dundalk Leisurecraft

 

Leisurecraft is a family-owned company from Dundalk in Ontario, Canada that makes some of the most gorgeous luxury saunas we have to offer. The popular Dundalk Leisurecraft Luna is one of the most popular models from the company, thanks to its high-end craftsmanship and elegance.

 

Dundalk Leisurecraft has a reputation for flawless workmanship across its entire range of outdoor saunas. Their saunas are made from sustainable Eastern White Cedar which ages beautifully and and is perfectly suited to withstand harsh climates.

 

SaunaLife

 

SaunaLife is a premium brand of indoor and outdoor saunas. Based in Illinois, SaunaLifd sources saunas from Estonia and Finland to bring them to discerning customers here in the US and Canada.

 

SaunaLife outdoor saunas are some of our most popular models in the low to middle budget range, particularly the SaunaLife E6 3-Person Barrel Sauna. However, the brand also offers some of our most luxurious, top-shelf outdoor saunas, including this SaunaLife G6 5-Person Outdoor Cabin Sauna that comes fully assembled.

 

Unlike most other saunas that come as kits for home assembly, this option offers unparalleled convenience and luxury, with smooth alder interiors and a full-wall, double-glazed, insulated picture window on the front wall.

 

Heater Options

 

The heater is the heart of any sauna experience. Choosing the right one depends on your heat preferences, local building codes, and whether you want a traditional or modern feel

 

 

Electric Sauna Heater

Electric sauna heaters are low-maintenance, easy to install, and offer precise temperature control with digital or manual thermostats.

 

 

Specs to know:

 

• Wattage: Typically ranges from 4.5 kW (for 4'x4' saunas) up to 9 kW or more (for saunas 6'x8' or larger).

• Voltage: Most require a 240V dedicated circuit, installed by a licensed electrician.

• Heat-up time: 20–45 minutes on average, depending on sauna size and insulation.

• Popular brands: Harvia, Saunum, HUUM.

 

Best for users who want reliable performance and quick, easy operation.

 

Wood Burning

Wood-burning heaters offer a more traditional, off-grid sauna experience. They require a chimney and some fire-building skills, but many swear by the authentic feel and higher heat.

 

Key considerations:

• Chimney venting: Must comply with local codes—often 6–8 ft clearance above the roofline.

• Burning time: Usually requires 30–60 minutes to heat up depending on outdoor temperature and wood quality.

• Fuel source: Use only dry, untreated hardwood for cleanest burn.

• Popular brands: Harvia, HUUM.

 

Ideal for rural properties, cabins, or those wanting a more rustic, hands-on sauna ritual.

 

Infrared or Hybrid

 

Infrared panels heat your body directly without warming the surrounding air as much. Hybrid models combine both infrared and traditional elements. Benefits of these include:

• Lower temperature range (typically 120–150°F) is more accessible for beginners.

• Energy-efficient - uses less power over time.

• Faster warm-up than traditional heaters, often ready in 10–15 minutes.

• Installation: Typically plug-and-play or 120V systems, though larger infrareds or hybrid saunas may need 240V.

Best for those with joint sensitivity, or who prefer a gentler, longer-lasting heat session.

 

Our Best Sellers

 

Why Buy from Select Saunas?

 

At Select Saunas, we are passionate about bringing the authentic Nordic sauna experience to your home. Founded in 2022 with roots in Sweden, our mission is to share the health benefits and joy of traditional saunas across North America. 

 

• Expertly Curated Selection: We hand-pick top-tier sauna brands like Almost Heaven, Golden Designs, and Finnmark Designs, ensuring you receive products known for quality and longevity. 

• Exceptional Customer Service: Our dedicated team offers personalized support before, during, and after your purchase. Customers praise our responsiveness and commitment to satisfaction.

• Fast Shipping: Most orders are delivered within 5–10 days at no extra cost, so you can start enjoying your sauna promptly. Free shipping in lower 48 states in the USA.

• Peace of Mind: All products come with the full manufacturer's warranty, ensuring your investment is protected. 

• Trusted by Customers: With a 4.4-star rating on Trustpilot, our commitment to quality and service is recognized by our customers. 

 

Buy your sauna here at Select Saunas for a seamless, reliable, and enjoyable sauna shopping experience.

 

Finance Options

 

At Select Saunas, we offer convenient financing through Bread Pay™, allowing you to enjoy your sauna now and pay over time. With clear, transparent terms, competitive interest rates, and no prepayment penalties, you can choose a payment plan that fits your budget.

 

Financing is subject to credit approval, and loans are issued by Comenity Capital Bank, a Bread Financial™ company.

 

Alternatively, invest in your health by using your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to purchase a sauna. Through our partnership with TrueMed, you can apply your HSA/FSA funds toward eligible sauna purchases, making it easier to prioritize your wellness.