37 Stylish Poolside Designs That Make Everyday Feel Like Vacation
Looking to transform your backyard pool into a slice of paradise? A well-designed poolside can turn an ordinary swim into a luxurious getaway experience.
From cozy cabanas to spectacular lighting schemes, the right elements can create that vacation vibe without ever leaving home. And yes, you can still pretend you’re on a tropical island while wearing your usual mismatched flip-flops.
Now, if you’re itching to upgrade your splash zone, buckle up. We’re diving into some incredible poolside designs that’ll make every day feel like a permanent vacation!
1. Floating Loungers With Cup Holders
Nothing says ‘I’m on vacation’ like drifting aimlessly on a plush floating lounger with your favorite beverage within arm’s reach. Modern pool floats now come with ergonomic headrests, built-in cup holders, and even book props.
The mesh bottoms keep you cool while partially submerged, creating that perfect balance between sun and water. My clients always laugh when I tell them this is my non-negotiable poolside accessory.
For ultimate luxury, choose waterproof fabrics in bright colors that resist fading from chlorine and sunshine.
2. Swim-Up Bar With Submerged Seating
Who needs to leave the water for a refill? Swim-up bars bring resort luxury right to your backyard with in-pool seating that keeps you partially submerged while you socialize.
The countertops typically feature weather-resistant materials like granite or concrete, paired with waterproof bar stools secured to the pool floor. My favorite designs incorporate thatched roofs for shade and hanging plants for that tropical feel.
Smart homeowners install mini-fridges and ice makers nearby to minimize trips back to the house.
3. Cascading Water Feature Wall
Water walls create an acoustic backdrop that masks neighborhood noise while delivering visual drama. The gentle sound of flowing water instantly transports you to a mountain retreat or luxury spa.
Materials range from natural stone to sleek glass panels, with water sheeting down in various patterns. LED lighting behind the water creates magical evening effects that transform your pool area after sunset.
Many people incorporate their family name or a meaningful symbol into the design for a personalized touch.
4. Sunken Conversation Pit With Fire Feature
Conversation pits bring people together in a way traditional patio furniture simply can’t match. Lowering the seating area creates an intimate atmosphere where friends naturally gather to chat.
The central fire feature provides warmth for evening swims and creates a mesmerizing focal point. I recommend weather-resistant cushions in deep blues and teals to complement the water.
The magic happens when you position this area where swimmers can easily transition between water and fireside relaxation without feeling excluded from either experience.
5. Poolside Pergola With Billowing Curtains
Pergolas define outdoor spaces while providing adjustable shade throughout the day. When draped with flowing white curtains, they create an ethereal atmosphere that feels straight out of a Mediterranean resort.
The vertical structure offers support for climbing plants like jasmine or bougainvillea, adding fragrance and color to your poolside retreat. During evening gatherings, string lights woven through the beams cast a magical glow over the water. A small tip, choose curtain fabrics specifically designed for outdoor use that resist mildew and fading.
6. Tiled Mosaic Pool Floor
Forget basic blue! Mosaic tiles transform your pool floor into an artistic masterpiece that shimmers and shifts with the water’s movement. Geometric patterns create visual interest while nautical motifs establish a thematic connection to water.
Glass tiles reflect light in ways that ceramic cannot, creating a luminous quality that makes the water appear to glow from within. My clients are always amazed at how different their pool looks when sunlight hits these reflective surfaces. Consider gradients that transition from light to dark blue to create the illusion of greater depth.
7. Poolside Outdoor Kitchen Station
Hungry swimmers hate trudging into the house with wet feet. An outdoor kitchen solves this problem while creating a social hub where the chef remains part of the poolside action.
Weather-resistant cabinetry, stone countertops, and stainless-steel appliances withstand the elements while providing all the functionality of an indoor kitchen. Strategic placement matters, close enough for convenience but far enough to prevent splashing on food prep areas.
Include a mini-fridge stocked with cold drinks and a warming drawer for towels to earn best-host status.
8. Floating LED Pool Lights
Transform evening swims into magical experiences with floating LED lights that drift across the water’s surface. These waterproof orbs change colors at the touch of a button, creating different moods for different occasions.
Unlike permanent lighting, these portable options can be arranged in patterns or scattered randomly for varied effects. My favorite party trick is synchronizing them to music for impromptu light shows that leave guests speechless.
Solar-powered versions eliminate the need for batteries while environmentally conscious homeowners appreciate their energy efficiency.
9. Zero-Edge Infinity Pool Design
Zero-edge pools create visual drama by appearing to merge with the horizon or surrounding landscape. Water flows over one or more edges into a catch basin below, creating the illusion of boundlessness that feels utterly luxurious.
The sound of cascading water adds a meditative quality while the reflective surface doubles the beauty of sky and surroundings. Homeowners with views benefit most from this design, but even urban yards can create stunning effects by incorporating vertical gardens beyond the edge.
Maintenance requires precise water levels, but the visual impact justifies the extra attention.
10. Tropical Cabana With Thatched Roof
Cabanas offer privacy, shade, and a touch of exotic resort style that instantly elevates your pool area. The thatched roof provides natural insulation while creating that coveted vacation aesthetic that transports you mentally to distant shores.
Inside, weather-resistant daybeds with plush cushions invite afternoon naps while ceiling fans keep air circulating on hot days. Strategic placement at the pool’s end creates a visual anchor point that draws the eye across the water.
For authentic tropical vibes, incorporate bamboo accents and potted palms around the structure.
11. Underwater LED Lighting System
Strategic underwater lighting transforms your pool from daytime recreation spot to nighttime showstopper. Color-changing LEDs allow you to set different moods, blue for tranquil evenings, red for energetic parties, green for holiday themes.
Modern systems offer programmable patterns that ripple, fade, or pulse in sequence. My clients love how these lights make even simple pools look high-end after sunset.
Unlike older halogen options, LED systems use minimal electricity while providing years of maintenance-free illumination that makes evening swims both practical and magical.
12. Poolside Living Wall Of Plants
Vertical gardens bring lush greenery to poolsides without sacrificing precious deck space. These living walls create privacy while purifying the air and softening the hard surfaces typically found around pools.
Irrigation systems hidden within the structure keep plants hydrated while drainage channels prevent overflow onto the deck. Choose salt-tolerant species if you have a saltwater pool, as splashing can affect nearby plants.
Ferns, succulents, and flowering vines create textural interest while contributing to that coveted oasis feeling that makes every day feel like vacation.
13. Floating Breakfast Tray Service
Breakfast in bed? That’s yesterday’s luxury. Breakfast in the pool represents peak vacation vibes with specially designed floating trays that hold your morning meal securely above water.
These trays feature stabilizing designs that prevent tipping while accommodating everything from coffee cups to full place settings. Homeowners with pool houses often create dedicated prep stations nearby for easy service.
Weekend brunches become Instagram-worthy events when served on flower-adorned floating platters that bring resort-style indulgence to everyday life.
14. Hammock Suspended Over Water
Hammocks create instant vacation vibes, but positioning one directly over the water’s edge takes relaxation to another level. The gentle rocking motion combined with the pool’s reflections creates a multi-sensory experience that melts stress away.
Weather-resistant materials like Sunbrella fabrics withstand moisture while maintaining comfort. Safety comes first, secure anchoring points must support full weight plus movement.
My favorite installations include quick-release mechanisms that allow the hammock to be removed when children are swimming unsupervised.
15. Swim-Through Grottos With Hidden Seating
Channel your inner child with secret cave-like structures that create mystery and playfulness. These grottos feature underwater entrances that lead to hidden seating areas, complete with air pockets and ambient lighting.
Natural stone construction blends with the landscape while providing texture that’s both visually interesting and physically engaging. Waterproof LED strips highlight the rock formations after dark, creating dramatic shadows.
Adults appreciate these spaces as quiet retreats while children invent endless adventures around these magical features that transform ordinary swimming into exploration.
16. Poolside Outdoor Shower Station
Outdoor showers serve practical purposes while adding resort-style luxury to your pool area. Rinsing before and after swimming keeps your pool cleaner while removing chlorine from skin, prevents irritation.
Modern designs feature rainfall showerheads, thermostatic valves, and even steam options for year-round enjoyment. Natural materials like teak and stone weather beautifully while blending with landscape elements.
Privacy screens created from bamboo or custom latticework provide modesty while allowing airflow and maintaining that essential outdoor connection.
17. Submerged Pool Lounge Chairs
In-water seating creates that perfect balance between cooling off and soaking up sunshine. These partially submerged loungers sit in shallow areas where water covers just your legs and feet while your upper body remains dry.
Materials must withstand constant water exposure, so look for marine-grade polymers with UV protection. The best designs feature adjustable positions and built-in side tables for drinks and reading materials. Placing these chairs facing the main view creates a front-row experience for enjoying sunsets or watching children play in deeper water.
18. Poolside Meditation Platform
Water naturally induces calm, making poolsides perfect for meditation spaces. Dedicated platforms slightly elevated above the pool deck create visual separation that signals a transition to mindfulness.
Smooth decking materials feel pleasant underfoot during yoga or tai chi practice. Overhead shade structures protect practitioners during morning sessions while allowing glimpses of sky for cloud-gazing.
Sound elements like small fountains or wind chimes enhance the meditative atmosphere. While also masking neighborhood noise that might otherwise disrupt your zen moments.
19. Smart Poolside Audio System
Music transforms ordinary swims into immersive experiences, but ordinary speakers can’t handle poolside conditions. Weather-resistant audio systems with strategically placed speakers ensure even sound distribution without hotspots.
Underground wiring prevents tripping hazards while maintaining clean aesthetics. The best systems include waterproof remotes or smartphone controls that allow swimmers to adjust volume without leaving the water. For truly sophisticated setups, consider underwater speakers that transmit sound waves directly through the water for a surround-sound swimming experience.
20. Oversized Daybeds With Retractable Canopies
Daybeds blur the line between indoor comfort and outdoor living with plush mattresses and abundant pillows that invite afternoon naps. Retractable canopies provide on-demand shade when the sun intensifies or privacy when desired.
The substantial size accommodates multiple people, making these pieces natural gathering spots for conversation. Quick-dry foam with marine-grade fabrics ensures water resistance while maintaining comfort. Position these statement pieces where they catch gentle breezes while offering views of both the pool and surrounding landscape.
21. Underwater Bench Seating
Built-in underwater benches create social spaces where swimmers can rest without leaving the pool. These submerged seating areas often follow the pool’s contours, creating conversation nooks where people naturally gather.
Textured finishes prevent slipping while providing comfortable support for extended periods. Strategic placement in areas that receive partial shade prevents overheating during peak sun hours.
The most innovative designs incorporate massage jets that transform simple seating into hydrotherapy stations for post-swim muscle recovery.
22. Floating Movie Screen Setup
Transform evening swims into cinematic experiences with inflatable screens that set up quickly at the pool’s edge. Waterproof projectors designed for outdoor use cast crisp images even in ambient light.
Floating viewers on pool rafts experience movies from a unique perspective while staying cool on hot summer nights. Wireless speakers positioned around the pool’s perimeter create surround sound without endangering electronics.
The best setups include dedicated storage solutions that protect equipment between uses while allowing quick assembly for spontaneous movie nights.
23. Poolside Potted Citrus Trees
Want to zest up your poolside vibe with a splash of Mediterranean charm? Citrus trees in decorative containers are the perfect peel for adding fresh fruit and radiant color to your outdoor space.
Their glossy leaves and bright fruits really juice up the visual interest all year round. With large containers featuring drainage reservoirs, you won’t have to worry about any sour stains on your decking.
Choose dwarf varieties like Meyer lemon and Calamondin orange, they’re a-peeling because they stay manageable in size but still produce a fruitful bounty. Just make sure to place them where afternoon shade keeps them cool and the morning sun gives them the right squeeze for flowering and fruiting!
24. Glass-Walled Pool With Underwater Viewing
Transparent pool walls transform swimming from activity to art form by allowing underwater viewing from adjacent spaces. These architectural showstoppers create visual connections between water and living areas.
Engineering considerations include specialized glass thickness and supporting structures that handle water pressure while maintaining crystal clarity. Lighting systems highlight swimmers’ movements, turning ordinary play into underwater ballet.
Privacy considerations become important with transparent walls, so thoughtful placement relative to neighboring properties prevents unwanted exposure.
25. Poolside Cocktail Garden
Dedicated growing spaces for cocktail ingredients elevate your poolside refreshment game beyond the ordinary. Mint for mojitos, cucumber vines for gin and tonics, and strawberries for daiquiris create a functional garden that doubles as visual interest.
Vertical growing systems maximize production while minimizing footprint in limited poolside spaces. Interpretive signage adds educational value while helping guests identify ingredients for self-service drink stations. Drip irrigation systems ensure consistent moisture without increasing humidity around the pool.
26. Integrated Hot Tub With Spillover Feature
Hot tubs that flow into main pools create visual continuity while offering temperature options for different preferences. The spillover feature creates gentle water music while helping circulate pool water naturally.
Elevated positioning creates sight lines across the water while making the hot tub a focal point in the overall design. Controls accessible from both inside and outside the water allow temperature adjustments without interrupting relaxation.
Energy-efficient covers that retract automatically preserve heat when not in use while maintaining the seamless aesthetic.
27. Fire Pit Surrounded By Water Features
The contrast between fire and water creates primal fascination that draws people together naturally. Circular fire features surrounded by water channels or positioned on islands within the pool create dramatic focal points.
Gas-powered systems offer instant ambiance without the smoke and sparks that could damage pool surfaces. Remote controls allow adjustment of flame height to match the mood and temperature needs.
Seating positioned to capture both fire warmth and water views maximizes the sensory experience while encouraging lingering conversations.
28. Poolside Outdoor Bed Swing
Suspended bed swings combine the gentle motion of hammocks with the substantial comfort of daybeds. The rhythmic swaying mimics the water’s movement, creating a harmonious sensory experience.
Weather-resistant mattresses with quick-dry properties recover quickly from unexpected rain showers. Chains or ropes enclosed in protective sleeves prevent pinched fingers while maintaining the floating aesthetic.
Position these statement pieces where they catch natural breezes while offering views of both the pool and surrounding landscape features.
29. Swim-Up Chess Or Checkers Table
Looking to make a splash with your poolside fun and games? Game tables built right into your pool edges add a whole new level of brainy buoyancy to swim sessions.
These permanent fixtures come with waterproof playing surfaces featuring built-in chess or checkers boards. And underwater seating on both sides so you can dive deep into strategy without leaving the water.
Floating game pieces with weighted bottoms keep your moves from drifting away mid-think. Crafted from marine-grade materials, these tables resist chlorine damage and stay sharp season after season.
30. Salt-And-Pepper Poolside Flooring
Specialized concrete aggregates create non-slip surfaces that remain cool underfoot even in blazing sun. The salt-and-pepper aesthetic offers timeless appeal while hiding water spots that would be visible on solid-colored surfaces.
The textured finish provides crucial traction when wet while remaining comfortable for barefoot walking. Embedded materials reflect light rather than absorbing it, preventing the scorching effect common with darker surfaces.
This practical flooring option pairs beautifully with almost any design style from Mediterranean to ultra-modern.
31. Poolside Phone Charging Stations
Weather-resistant charging docks keep devices powered while protecting them from water damage. These thoughtful additions prevent the dreaded dead battery when you’re trying to capture perfect poolside memories.
Look for models with protective covers that shield connection points from moisture and solar panels that provide green energy even in remote pool areas. The best designs include UV-resistant materials that prevent cracking and fading in constant sun exposure.
Strategic placement near lounging areas but away from splash zones maximizes convenience while minimizing risk.
32. Portable Misting System
Misting stations create cooling microclimates that extend comfortable outdoor time during hot weather. Fine water droplets evaporate before reaching the ground, lowering ambient temperature without creating puddles.
Modern systems feature adjustable nozzles that control coverage area and droplet size for customized comfort. Timer functions automate operation during peak heat while conserving water during cooler periods. Position these systems to complement prevailing breezes, which carry the cooling mist across lounging areas without overwhelming swimmers.
33. Underwater Exercise Equipment
Water-based fitness equipment transforms recreational pools into therapeutic workout spaces. Stationary bikes, treadmills, and resistance training stations designed specifically for underwater use provide low-impact exercise options.
The water’s natural resistance multiplies workout effectiveness while its buoyancy protects joints from stress. Adjustable components accommodate users of different heights and fitness levels.
Removable designs allow equipment to be stored when not in use, maintaining the pool’s aesthetic appeal during social gatherings.
34. Poolside Outdoor Art Installation
Weather-resistant sculptures and art pieces create visual focal points while expressing personal style. Materials like marine-grade stainless steel, sealed concrete, and specialized ceramics withstand pool chemicals and changing weather.
Kinetic sculptures that move with the breeze create dynamic interest that complements the water’s natural movement. Thoughtful lighting transforms these pieces after dark, creating dramatic shadows that extend their visual impact. Position art where it can be appreciated from both in-water and dry-land vantage points.
35. Transparent Pool Cover
Want to keep your pool crystal clear and cozy without lifting a finger? Clear automatic covers are the clear winner for maintaining water temperature while keeping pesky debris out.
Unlike those boring opaque covers, these see-through wonders let sunlight shine bright and keep your water warm. Even when the pool’s taking a nap.
They help keep curious kids and pets from accidental dips while cutting down evaporation and chemical loss. The smartest systems disappear into hidden housings, keeping your pool’s style on point when open. Just be sure to pick materials with UV inhibitors so your cover won’t yellow like an old pair of swim trunks over time!
36. Luxurious Outdoor Shower Tower
Elevated shower experiences go beyond basic rinse stations with multi-function systems that rival indoor spa facilities. Body jets, rainfall showerheads, and handheld sprayers create customized bathing experiences in the open air.
Natural stone or teak surrounds add tactile luxury while providing privacy without complete enclosure. Thermostatic valves maintain consistent water temperature regardless of pressure fluctuations. Thoughtful drainage systems prevent pooling while directing used water away from high-traffic areas.
37. Poolside Refreshment Refrigerator
Outdoor-rated refrigeration units eliminate trips to the kitchen for cold beverages and snacks. Modern designs feature specialized insulation and components that function efficiently even in extreme outdoor temperatures.
Look for models with lock features that prevent unauthorized access to adult beverages when children are present. Energy-efficient designs with solar options reduce operating costs while supporting environmental consciousness.
Positioning these units in shaded areas extends their operational life while reducing energy consumption.
