Which is better for a two-person soak?

The Malibu. It has two backrests, a center drain and a 22-inch depth, so two bathers can stretch out facing each other. The Mariposa has one hourglass backrest and an end drain.

Is the Mariposa worth the lower price?

Yes, if you want jets and heat. At $1,240.09 at Wayfair as of November 6, 2026 it undercuts the Malibu by about $356 and adds six jets, a built-in heater and a textured floor.

The Malibu, at 22 inches tall versus 20 inches for the Mariposa. The Malibu also lists 95 gallons to overflow; the Mariposa's capacity is not listed.

Do I need an electrician for either tub?

Only for the Mariposa. Its pump and built-in heater need a dedicated circuit. The Malibu is a plain soaking tub with no electrical components.

Which has a safer floor?

The Mariposa. Its bottom is textured and slip-resistant. The Malibu has a smooth acrylic floor, so add a mat if that matters to you.

Both are acrylic shells with similar expected life. The Mariposa has more parts that can fail, namely the pump and heater, while the Malibu has nothing mechanical to service.

Malibu Naples 72" Drop-In Bathtub vs Mariposa 72" Drop-in Bathtub

Buy the Mariposa if you want a heated, jetted tub for less money. It costs $1,240.09 at Wayfair as of November 6, 2026, versus $1,596.50 for the Malibu at Malibu Home. The Malibu is the plainer soaking tub: deeper at 22 inches, with two backrests and a center drain, but no heater, jets or textured floor.

Today the Mariposa 72" Drop-in Bathtub costs $356.41 less at its best price.

Ask our shopping agent

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.