This is a 30" x 60" whirlpool that won't be used for more than about an hour at a time. Is it necessary or worth it to spend the extra $400 for the heater added to the pump?
You need to review the wording of the applicable code. The codes I'm familiar with allow the spacing to turn corners. (Walls aren't defined as corner to corner, but rather by interruptions such as doorways, fireplaces, etc.)