10 Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Hot Tub

Hot tubs are pretty magical. They’re not just a great way to relax after a long day—they can become the centerpiece of so many fun and creative activities. A friend of mine once joked that her hot tub was “her second living room,” and honestly, I kind of get it now. Whether you’re soaking solo or inviting friends over, there are plenty of ways to make your hot tub the star of the show. Here are 10 ideas to help you get even more out of yours.

1. Movie Night Soak

There’s something incredibly cozy about watching a movie while soaking in warm water. A friend and I set up a projector one night and streamed an old classic on the side of the house. We balanced snacks on a floating tray (it worked better than I thought) and stayed out until the credits rolled. Pro tip: Keep a towel nearby so your hands aren’t wet when you want to grab the remote.

2. Hot Tub Yoga

I know it sounds unusual, but hear me out. Doing some gentle stretches in the water feels amazing. The buoyancy makes everything easier on your joints, and you’ll be surprised how much tension it releases. A coworker mentioned this to me last year, and I was skeptical at first, but now I do it at least once a month. It’s oddly addictive.

3. Star Gazing Spot

One of my favorite things about having a hot tub is how peaceful it feels at night. Turn off all the lights, lean back, and just stare at the sky. My husband and I love doing this after the kids are asleep—it’s like a mini escape without leaving home. Download a stargazing app if you’re curious about what constellations you’re looking at, but honestly, you don’t need anything fancy to enjoy the view.

4. Spa-Themed Party

Invite a couple of friends over and turn your hot tub into a full-blown spa night. Think face masks, chilled cucumber water, and maybe even some music. My sister loves doing this, and she swears it’s the best way to unwind. One time, she even brought a little bowl of lavender salts to sprinkle in the water. It felt ridiculously luxurious.

5. Morning Coffee Session

Starting your day in the hot tub with a cup of coffee is an underrated experience. I tried it once on a whim, and now it’s my go-to on weekends. There’s something about the mix of crisp morning air and warm water that just clears your head. Trust me, it’s the kind of slow morning that makes everything feel right.

6. Winter Chill Escape

If you’ve never used your hot tub in the winter, you’re missing out. There’s something magical about being surrounded by cold air while soaking in warm water. Last December, I sat in the tub while it was snowing lightly, and it felt like something out of a movie. Just make sure to wear a hat—your head gets cold fast!

7. Romantic Date Night

You don’t have to go out to have a great date night. Set up some candles or fairy lights around the tub, grab a bottle of wine, and just relax together. My friend told me she and her partner do this for anniversaries when they don’t feel like going out. It’s intimate, easy, and way cheaper than a fancy dinner.

8. Family Splash Time

Hot tubs can be surprisingly fun for kids, as long as you keep the water temperature safe for them. My kids love playing little games in ours, like floating duck races. I didn’t expect it to become a family favorite, but now it’s a regular thing, especially on summer evenings.

9. Meditation Haven

If you’re into mindfulness or meditation, try doing it in your hot tub. The warm water helps you relax and makes it easier to focus. A neighbor of mine told me she puts on nature sounds or calming music while soaking and calls it her “zen time.” I gave it a shot and couldn’t believe how much better it made me feel after a long week.

10. Holiday Hangout

Decorate your hot tub for the holidays to make it a little more festive. We strung some lights around ours last Christmas and added a little wreath nearby. My brother-in-law thought it was cheesy, but even he admitted it made everything feel cozy and fun.

There you have it—ten ways to make your hot tub even more enjoyable. Whether you’re using it as a personal retreat or a place to create memories with friends and family, there’s no shortage of creative ways to soak up the experience. Give a few of these a try, and you might just find a new favorite way to enjoy your tub.