Wave Spas Atlantic Review: Is This the Best Entry-Level Hot Tub ?

The Rise of the Home Spa Culture

Over the last few years, the way we view our backyards has fundamentally shifted. No longer just a patch of grass for the occasional BBQ, the modern garden is an extension of the living room—a sanctuary for mental and physical wellness. This shift has been propelled by the accessibility of inflatable hot tubs. If you’ve ever wondered how does an inflatable hot tub work, the mechanics are surprisingly simple yet effective, utilizing integrated heater-pump units to transform a durable PVC liner into a therapeutic oasis.

The Wave Spas Atlantic is designed for those who want to dip their toes into this lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for the best 4-person inflatable hot tub for family nights or a cozy retreat for a couple, the Atlantic aims to hit that sweet spot of durability, aesthetics, and price. In this deep-dive review, we’ll explore every corner of the Wave Atlantic—from its Triple-Layer PVC construction to its 105-jet massage system—to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your patio.

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Product Overview: Technical Specifications

Before we get into the subjective “feel” of the spa, let’s look at the cold, hard numbers. The Atlantic comes in two primary sizes: the 2-4 person (smaller footprint) and the 4-6 person (family size). For this review, we focused on the 4-person model, as it is the most popular choice for urban gardens.

While these specs are impressive, it’s the Aero-Wall technology that sets Wave apart. Unlike the bulky, balloon-like walls of older inflatables, the Atlantic utilizes a high-pressure construction that allows the walls to be slightly thinner yet incredibly rigid. This maximizes internal soaking space without increasing the overall footprint of the tub—a vital feature for those with limited outdoor space.

Deep Dive: Design and Aesthetics

The Atlantic is available in several finishes, including a sophisticated slate grey and a natural-looking wood print. When compared to the Lay-Z-Spa Helsinki review, the Atlantic holds its own in the looks department. While it doesn’t use true drop-stitch material like the Helsinki, its laminated PVC finish looks remarkably upscale and doesn’t scream “temporary pool” like some cheaper alternatives.

The white internal liner provides a clean, clinical look that highlights the clarity of your water. However, keeping that liner white requires some effort. If you don’t maintain your chemicals, you’ll quickly find yourself asking why does hot tub water get cloudy. The Atlantic’s aesthetic is at its best when the water is crystal clear and the bubbles are active.

Performance Evaluation: The Soak Test

Heating Efficiency

The Atlantic features a 2040W heater. In our testing, the spa heated at a rate of approximately 1.5°C to 2°C per hour. This is standard for 110V-240V portable units. If you are setting up the spa for a weekend party, you’ll want to start the heating process at least 24 hours in advance. For those concerned about energy bills, it’s worth asking do inflatable hot tubs use a lot of electricity? The Wave Atlantic is relatively efficient for its class, but like all inflatables, it works hardest when the ambient temperature is low.

The 105 Air Jet System

Wave Spas uses an integrated air-jet system located around the base of the liner. When activated, the 105 jets create a vigorous “boiling” effect that is incredibly relaxing. While these are air jets (not directed water hydro-jets), they provide a consistent massage that is excellent for general relaxation. If you have specific medical needs, such as investigating if hot tubs are good for arthritis, the buoyancy and heat provided by the Atlantic are top-tier, even if the jet pressure isn’t “medical grade.”

Noise Levels

One common complaint with budget spas is pump noise. The Atlantic’s pump is pleasantly quiet during the heating and filtration cycles. However, once the air jets are turned on, the noise level increases significantly. It’s comparable to a loud vacuum cleaner. This is standard across the industry, but something to keep in mind if you have neighbors close by.

Setup and Installation: Can You Do It Alone?

One of the biggest selling points of the Wave Atlantic is the “tool-free” setup. According to our inflatable hot tub setup guide, the Atlantic ranks among the easiest to install. The pump is integrated into the wall of the spa (in most newer versions), which means there is no external “egg” pump to connect. This saves space and reduces the number of potential leak points.

1. Site Prep: Ensure the ground is level. We highly recommend using the best hot tub pads to protect the base from sharp stones and provide extra insulation.
2. Inflation: Connect the inflation hose to the pump and the liner. The Atlantic inflates in less than 5 minutes.
3. Filling: Fill with a standard garden hose. This is the longest part of the process, taking roughly 1-2 hours.
4. Chemical Start-up: Once full, you must balance the water. Use a hot tub water tester immediately to check your baseline levels.

Maintenance: Keeping the Dream Alive

If you ignore inflatable hot tub maintenance, your Atlantic will quickly become a swamp. Wave Spas makes this easier with their dual-filter system, but the owner still has responsibilities. You need to know how often should you shock a hot tub—typically once a week or after heavy use—to prevent the buildup of biofilm in hot tubs.

Filters are the lifeblood of the Atlantic. Wave filters are proprietary, though universal versions often fit. You must understand how often to replace hot tub filters to ensure the pump doesn’t burn out. We recommend rinsing the filter every 2 days and replacing it every 2 weeks during peak summer usage.

Water Care Essentials

• Testing: Use best digital hot tub water testers for the most accurate pH and Chlorine readings.
• Cleaning: Use the best hot tub vacuums to remove grit and sand from the floor without draining the tub.
• Scum Management: Toss in some best hot tub scum absorbers to soak up body oils and sunblock.

Pros and Cons: The Wave Atlantic at a Glance

Comparative Analysis: Wave Atlantic vs. The World

How does the Wave Atlantic stack up against its biggest rivals? Let’s look at the data.

Wave Atlantic vs. Intex Greywood Deluxe

In our Intex Greywood Deluxe vs Simple Spa comparison, the Greywood is noted for its wireless control panel and built-in hard water system. The Wave Atlantic is more affordable and has a smaller footprint due to the integrated pump, whereas Intex uses an external “egg” pump. If space is your priority, go Wave. If tech is your priority, go Intex.

Wave Atlantic vs. Coleman SaluSpa

The Coleman SaluSpa review highlights its legendary durability. The Wave Atlantic offers a more modern, sleek aesthetic compared to the classic green Coleman. In terms of massage, the Atlantic’s 105 jets are comparable to the SaluSpa’s AirJet system, though the Wave’s heater often feels a bit more robust.

Wave Atlantic vs. Bestway SaluSpa Miami

The Bestway SaluSpa Miami review shows a very similar entry-level tub. The Miami is often the cheapest on the market, but the Wave Atlantic’s Aero-Wall construction makes the walls feel more substantial and less like a “pool.”

Winter Usage: Can You Use It in the Cold?

The short answer is yes, but with caveats. If you want the best inflatable hot tub for winter, you usually look for models with “Freeze Shield” technology. The Wave Atlantic does not have a dedicated anti-freeze circuit in older models. If you plan on using it in December, you must keep the heater running 24/7 to prevent the water in the pump from freezing. Check out can you use an inflatable hot tub in the winter for our top survival tips for cold-weather soaking.

Health and Safety Considerations

Before you dive in, safety must be a priority. Are inflatable hot tubs safe? Generally, yes, provided you follow the electrical and chemical guidelines. However, there are specific groups that should take extra care:

• Pregnancy: Consult our guide on can pregnant women use hot tubs. Usually, keeping the temperature below 38°C (100°F) is advised.
• Workout Recovery: Using the hot tub after a workout is fantastic for lactic acid removal, but stay hydrated!
• Duration: How often should you use a hot tub? Daily use is fine, but limit sessions to 20-30 minutes to avoid the negative effects of hot tubs like dehydration or dizziness.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Wave Spas Atlantic?

After weeks of testing, chemical balancing, and long evening soaks, our conclusion is clear: the Wave Spas Atlantic is a stellar entry-level hot tub that punches way above its weight class. It’s perfect for the “weekend warrior” who wants a spa for the summer months, or the budget-conscious homeowner looking for a stylish way to relax after work.

While it lacks some of the high-end bells and whistles found in the best inflatable hot tub of 2025 rankings (like Wi-Fi control or hydro-jets), it masters the basics. The integrated pump is a genius space-saver, and the Aero-Wall technology makes it feel far more permanent than its price suggests. If you’ve been asking are inflatable hot tubs worth it, the Wave Atlantic provides a very convincing “yes.”