13 Hot Tub Deck Ideas For Inspiration

Not sure where to install a hot tub? When deciding on the perfect place for your luxury hot tub, there are a few key factors to consider. Let’s review some important questions to sort out before installing a hot tub. And keep scrolling to see some of our favorite hot tub deck ideas that will help you create your backyard oasis.

How to Decide on Hot Tub Placement

The internet is full of great hot tub deck ideas! But the decision process may start to feel overwhelming at times. In order to make a choice that you'll be happy with for years to come, you need to consider a few factors.

These questions will help you sift through the endless hot tub deck ideas and ways to renovate your space by adding a hot tub:

• What type of hot tub do you want?
• Do you want a 5-person hot tub, a mid-sized 6-person hot tub, or a larger 7-person hot tub?
• Where can you place your new hot tub?
• Will the foundation support the weight of your hot tub?
• Does the area provide enough comfortable clearance for use?
• How do you want your spa area to feel?
• How will your hot tub look in that space?
• What can you do with your property to help you achieve the ultimate resort-style spa experience?

Answering these questions will provide a realistic alignment of what you want to do with your space versus what you're able to do with it. Regardless of hot tub size and placement, there are stunning ways to enhance your home with a hot tub.

13 Hot Tub Deck Ideas

After reading through this article, browse Instagram, Pinterest, and home improvement websites to find more hot tub deck ideas for inspiration. It's also possible that you will come up with a completely new concept, but it does help to gather hot tub deck ideas and check out how others have transformed their property. Our hot tub experts can also fill you in on their favorite hot tub deck ideas, so it's worth asking for help before you choose.

1. Elevated Deck

A raised deck for your hot tub provides a beautiful view and a sense of privacy. This is one of the best hot tub deck ideas if your property has a scenic view - or if you have nosy neighbors.

If you don't already have an elevated deck or second-story balcony, you'll need to consult a contractor before building the deck. Building the deck will take more time, energy, and money, but the end result will definitely be beautiful!

If you already have a large enough balcony to fit a hot tub, still check with a contractor or inspector to see if it will support the weight of your hot tub.

2. Multi-Level Deck

A multi-level deck has various tiers, allowing you to have separate areas for the hot tub, lounging, or dining. This is one of our favorite hot tub deck ideas if you want to create a modern space for entertaining and hosting. While it takes up the same amount of area as a standard deck, it feels more luxurious and elevated - no pun intended.

3. Integrated Spa

An integrated hot tub or swim spa provides an elegant and permanent feel. Your deck will literally be integrated into your hot tub as part of the deck design so that it is flush with the deck surface and appears as though it's one solid unit. It's a modern approach and looks more polished than a hot tub that sits atop a deck.

4. Privacy Screen

Need some hot tub deck ideas that also offer privacy? You can complete your personal hot tub deck with a privacy screen, which not only provides shade but also hides it from prying eyes. Install privacy screens or walls around your hot tub deck to create a secluded and intimate atmosphere.

5. Water Feature

This design can be a bit more complicated than other hot tub deck ideas, but it's sure to give your spa area that resort-style feel. Incorporate a water feature, like a small waterfall or fountain, into your hot tub deck design to enhance relaxation and create a soothing ambiance.

One of the most luxurious outdoor water features is a waterfall wall. A waterfall wall, also called a wall water fountain, provides a steady stream of water that cascades from the top of the fixture down into a reservoir. The result is a glass-like wall of water that not only looks amazing but provides soothing ambient sound. You can frame your hot tub in front of the waterfall wall which will draw attention and delight the viewer.

This is one of our favorite hot tub deck ideas for those wanting to create a resort-style space.

6. Lighting Design

Use lighting techniques, such as LED strips or recessed lights, to highlight your hot tub and deck area, making it more inviting during evening and nighttime use. But fair warning, if you do this, you'll likely be hosting endless parties at your place! When choosing outdoor lighting to surround your spa, be mindful of placement.

Popular outdoor deck lighting options include motion-sensor lights for your hot tub steps and amber uplights that frame plants or pergolas. This is one of our favorite hot tub deck ideas for those wanting to enhance the ambiance of their outdoor entertainment space.

7. Sunken Hot Tub

A sunken deck is positioned slightly below the hot tub rim. When considering this deck design, it's especially important to set the hot tub on a solid foundation. If you set your hot tub on soft grass or soil, over time, the hot tub could shift or sink and ruin the seamless look of your partially inground hot tub. This is one of our favorite hot tub deck ideas for those seeking a unique design.

8. Outdoor Canopy

Install a retractable canopy or pergola above your hot tub deck to provide shade and protection from the elements. When selecting your canopy or pergola, think about how your hot tub will fit into and coordinate with the structure. This will help you decide on hot tub placement, the design of the structure, and lighting fixtures. This is one of our favorite hot tub deck ideas for those seeking a secluded escape.

9. Deck with Built-In Seating

Don't want clunky, faded outdoor furniture ruining the look of your outdoor retreat? A deck with built-in seating is the perfect, "two birds, one stone" setup. This type of deck allows guests to sit comfortably whether they're in the jacuzzi or lounging on the deck seating.

This is one of our favorite hot tub deck ideas for those that enjoy minimalist design.

10. Natural Surroundings

Design your hot tub deck to blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Use materials like wood, stone, or composite decking - or a combination of different materials. You can build an entire oasis by designing a hot tub deck to complement the surrounding area. Choose natural materials that fit well with the environment and relax every day on your own wellness island!

Including pristine landscaping or the natural surroundings is one of our favorite hot tub deck ideas for those seeking the beauty of nature.

11. Minimalist Deck

A minimalist deck can be stunning when framing your spa area. A minimalist design leverages clean lines, simple shapes, and a neutral color palette, that provides a sleek and contemporary look. Pairing these patterns and tones with greenery will create an area that is both beautiful and relaxing.

12. Tropical Oasis

Do you love vacationing in the tropics? Want that island feel to be a part of your daily life? Create a tropical-themed outdoor area by adding lush plants, palm trees, colorful flowers, and bamboo accents. Before purchasing plants to surround your deck, research the types of plants that will thrive around your hot tub - and in your region. If your hot tub is positioned under a canopy or in an area with a lot of shade, you'll need to choose different plants than if it was in full sun.

13. Total Wellness Retreat

This involves combining some or all of the hot tub deck ideas listed above. It will require more money and enough space to accommodate the various features, but if you can swing it, you'll have your very own island-like spa retreat. Design your hot tub deck to resemble a spa retreat by incorporating elements like outdoor showers, greenery, water features, a sauna, or a meditation area.

What to Consider Before Installing Your Hot Tub Deck

Building a deck is no small job - and if done improperly, can cause financial strife or serious injury. We recommend hiring a contractor to help in the decision and construction process. However, even without the aid of an expert, you do still need to plan for your hot tub.

Now that you have some of the best hot tub deck ideas in mind, it's time to consider the practical, less glamorous side of your backyard transformation. There are a number of things to consider that may allow you to, or prohibit you from, building your dream spa deck. Before you start building one of the above hot tub deck ideas, consider the following:

1. Hot Tub & Deck Placement

Figure out where you want your hot tub and how you'd like to position the deck. Choose a suitable spot in your outdoor area for the hot tub deck - a good starting point is simply staying within your property line. Consider factors such as accessibility, privacy, and views.

The placement of the hot tub itself also requires planning. If possible, place it exactly in the middle of the deck, because if one of the sides receives a greater load, the structure can collapse. Carefully position the hot tub on the deck, ensuring it is level and secure. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for installation and any necessary electrical or plumbing requirements. Be sure to ask for professional help for this step.

You'll also need to get approval from various local offices in order to get started, so finding the best deck placement that falls within local guidelines is the first step in this process.

2. HOA Restrictions

If you live in a neighborhood, you'll need to contact the homeowner's association (HOA) before you build your deck. HOAs have guidelines and restrictions that you've inherently agreed to upon purchasing or renting your home. This often includes the type of fence you can install, the types of plants or yard decorations you can have, or whether or not you can install a hot tub deck.

3. Local Building Codes

States and municipalities regulate how and where you can build a new structure - even on your own property. You’ll need to work with your local building inspector or hire a contractor to help you navigate your local building codes. It’s not guaranteed that you can erect a wall, hot tub deck, or building like a pergola or canopy.

Research local building codes and regulations to ensure compliance. Obtain any necessary permits or approvals before starting the construction of your new deck.

4. Neighbor's Permission 

In a good, neighborly fashion, you should speak with your neighbors before you build anything or make any modifications to your home. If your plans conflict with their plans or lifestyle, you may need to find another solution or a compromise. You should do this even if you don't think it will affect their view or area in any way. The renovation also involves noise, so let them know this well in advance.

5. Budget 

Of course, constructing an elevated deck with lighting and water features will cost much more than installing a simple platform or minimalist hot tub deck. Think about your budget and how much money you can spend on your backyard transformation. This will also help you (or force you) to decide on which type of hot tub deck is right for you. 

6. Climate & Weather 

If you want to plant gorgeous bamboo shoots or evergreen hedges to surround your hot tub, make sure your desired plant can thrive through season and soil. What works for a hot tub owner in Florida may not work for a hot tub owner in Vermont. 

Additionally, if you live in an area that snows or storms a considerable amount, you may want to build a structure to protect your hot tub from inclement weather.

7. DIY vs. Hiring a Contractor

It’s recommended that you hire a contractor to build your deck if you're not experienced in construction. A hot tub installation professional will ensure the hot tub deck is built safely and meets local building codes. Safety should always be a priority when constructing a hot tub deck.

If you’ve applied for and received all necessary permits, and are experienced in construction, then you may be able to take on the construction process yourself. However, again, we do not recommend this for most people as there are many safety risks involved - not just in the hot tub installation process, but in the longevity of the deck.

The easiest way to make your vision come to life is to hire a local contractor experienced in building decks capable of supporting a hot tub. The weight of a hot tub and the accessibility required for maintenance or repairs means you’ll need a high-quality contractor who can build a deck that can withstand the weight of a filled hot tub plus any guests and furnishings.

Contact Us for More Hot Tub Deck Ideas

With these hot tub deck ideas, you can create the perfect everyday retreat and “staycation” at home. Choose your favorite ideas or combine several to assemble a secluded spa experience.

Need help deciding which hot tub is right for you? Speak with one of our friendly customer service representatives by calling  844-4-WELLIS or contacting us online. Our hot tub specialists will be able to help you find the luxury hot tub of your dreams!