Outdoor Saunas

Outdoor saunas are built to withstand weather exposure and deliver a nature-connected wellness experience. Unlike indoor saunas, which are often limited by walls and plumbing, outdoor models allow for more creative freedom in size, layout, and positioning. They’re ideal for patios, pool decks, gardens, and even rooftop terraces.

Our outdoor saunas are constructed with moisture- and heat-resistant materials like thermowood, Western Red Cedar, and treated hemlock. We also reinforce them with weatherproof insulation, proper roof venting, and UV-safe finishes. With Orange County’s mild winters and coastal conditions, outdoor saunas can be enjoyed comfortably all year long—no snowproofing needed.

We install outdoor saunas in a variety of locations across residential and commercial properties in Orange County. Popular setups include:

Beside pools in Irvine, Laguna Niguel, and Huntington Beach

Garden corners or patios in Mission Viejo, San Clemente, and Costa Mesa

Rooftop decks in Newport Beach or custom ADU conversions

Courtyard installs for spas, gyms, or wellness studios

We evaluate your property during the consultation to determine the best location, factoring in privacy, sun exposure, wind protection, foundation, and power access.

Yes, outdoor saunas require a flat, stable base to perform correctly and safely. We typically recommend:

* Concrete pads for long-term durability

* Gravel beds with compacted sub-base for drainage

* Deck platforms (for elevated installations or wood finishes)

Our team will assess your existing surfaces or advise on simple preparation steps before installation. If your property needs adjustments, we’ll coordinate or recommend a local partner to handle foundation work ahead of time.

Outdoor saunas work well with all major heat systems, depending on your preferences and access to utilities:

* Electric sauna heaters offer reliable, efficient heat and easy control for urban properties or close-to-home installs.

* Wood-burning stoves are ideal for a more rustic or off-grid experience—often chosen for rural homes or when natural ambiance is desired.

* Hybrid systems combine infrared and traditional heat for flexible use.

* Steam generators can also be added for spa-style moisture and soothing heat.

We'll help you decide what heater fits your routine, space, and wellness goals. Every unit is installed with safety-tested wiring, proper clearances, and venting systems.

Barrel saunas have grown in popularity due to their stylish shape, fast heat-up times, and affordability. Their rounded structure promotes efficient air circulation, which helps them heat quickly with less energy—making them attractive to first-time buyers or those seeking a minimalist outdoor setup.

However, there are a few important factors to consider before choosing a barrel sauna for your Orange County property:

Longevity: Because of their exposed staves and curved design, barrel saunas typically have a shorter lifespan than fully enclosed, framed structures—especially in coastal or humid environments like Laguna Beach or San Clemente.

Weather Resistance: Barrel saunas don’t always offer the same level of insulation, protection from heavy rain, or long-term structural integrity compared to custom-built, roofed enclosures. Wind, salt air, and moisture can wear down seals faster if the sauna is not routinely maintained.

Foundation & Placement: These saunas must sit on a perfectly level, well-drained foundation to prevent warping or structural shifting over time.

At Orange County Custom Saunas, we can still install and fine-tune a barrel sauna for your space if that’s your preference—but we often recommend more durable, custom-framed outdoor builds for clients seeking longevity, better insulation, and easier integration with other outdoor features like plunge pools, patios, or shade structures.

Not sure what’s best for your space? We’ll walk you through all your options during your consultation and help you make an informed decision based on your goals, budget, and property conditions.