10 Best Salt Water Spa Systems 2025 in the United States

The INTEX 28427EH PureSpa Bubble Massage is an inflatable hot tub designed for up to 6 people, making it a great option for families or small groups looking for a portable and relaxing spa experience. It holds about 210 gallons of water and measures 85 inches in diameter, offering ample space without being too bulky. One of its strong points is the Fiber-Tech construction, which provides sturdy support while keeping the surface comfortable to sit on. The included hard water treatment system helps make the water gentler on your skin, which is a nice touch for comfort and spa maintenance.

Though it’s saltwater system ready, the spa doesn’t come with the salt cell itself, so you’d need to add that separately if you want a saltwater setup. It has 140 air jets that create a soothing bubble massage rather than powerful water jets, so if you’re looking for intense hydrotherapy, this might feel a bit mild. The spa also features an energy-efficient heater and a high-density insulated cover that can reduce heat loss by up to 50%, helping keep running costs down.

Assembly is required but straightforward, and the materials used, mainly durable PVC, are suitable for outdoor use though they won’t match the longevity or feel of more expensive, hard-shell hot tubs. The control system is user-friendly, focusing on simple temperature and bubble controls. Filtration is standard, helping keep water clean but may require regular upkeep to maintain optimal performance. This inflatable spa is well suited for casual users wanting an easy-to-set-up, budget-friendly spa with bubble jets and the option to add saltwater features. It ranks highly for comfort, energy efficiency, and portability but is less ideal if you desire strong massage jets or a fully integrated saltwater system out of the box.

The Intex PureSpa Bubble Massage is a solid choice for a portable salt-water spa system, especially if you want something easy to set up and suitable for small groups. It comfortably fits up to 4 people with a water capacity of 210 gallons, which is decent for gatherings or relaxing with family. The spa is ready for saltwater use, though it doesn’t include a salt cell itself, so you’d need to add that separately for saltwater sanitation. Its Fiber-Tech construction provides good durability while keeping the spa comfortable to sit in, and the hard water treatment system helps protect your skin and the spa materials by softening the water.

With 120 jets, it offers a relaxing bubble massage experience, even if it doesn’t have powerful water jets typical of more advanced models. The PTC heater ensures water gets warm safely and efficiently, and the insulated spa cover is a nice touch that can save on energy costs by reducing heat loss by up to 50%. However, as an inflatable spa made from PVC, it won’t match the sturdiness or longevity of a hard-shell spa, and assembly is required. The control system is user-friendly but basic, with fewer customization options compared to higher-end models.

If you’re looking for an affordable, portable spa with saltwater compatibility and good energy efficiency for casual use, this model fits well. For those wanting a heavy-duty, long-lasting saltwater spa with advanced controls and filtration, other options may be more suitable.

The Hayward W3AQR3 AquaRite Salt Chlorination System is designed for in-ground pools up to 15,000 gallons. One of its standout features is the capacity to handle this volume, making it suitable for medium-sized pools. The system is well-regarded with a 4.3-star rating from nearly 900 reviews, indicating general customer satisfaction.

The salt cell life is part of the AquaRite family known for its durability, potentially extending the time between replacements. The control system simplifies pool maintenance by eliminating the need to handle harsh chemicals, which can be a significant advantage for users seeking a hassle-free experience. Additionally, the product promises softer water and reduced chlorine costs by up to 50%, suggesting excellent energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness over time.

The build quality seems solid as it comes from a reputable brand, Hayward, known for durability and reliability. The system's size and weight (18.3 x 14.1 x 8.4 inches and 23.2 pounds) are manageable, but potential buyers should ensure they have suitable space for installation.