22 Above Ground Pool Ideas
So, you’ve been daydreaming about splashing around in your own pool but the whole digging-a-giant-hole-in-your-yard thing feels like too much? Same here.
They’re budget-friendly, way less hassle than in-ground ones, and honestly—they can look amazing if you set them up right.
Let’s dive (pun 100% intended) into 22 above ground pool ideas that will make your backyard feel like a personal resort.
1. Wrap It in a Wooden Deck
Want your above ground pool to feel like a luxurious spa? Build a deck around it. The deck hides the pool walls, gives you lounging space, and makes getting in and out way easier.
Ever notice how drinks taste 10x better when you’re sitting on a deck with your feet in the water?
2. Go Rustic With Stone Surrounds
If you’re into that cozy, rustic vibe, use stacked stone or faux stone panels around the outside of your pool. It instantly upgrades the look and makes your pool blend seamlessly into a garden or natural landscape.
3. Add an Elevated Walkway
Think of it like your pool’s red carpet entrance. A raised walkway or bridge leading to your pool adds drama and functionality. Plus, it saves your feet from hot grass or muddy patches.
4. Tropical Paradise With Palms
Throw in a couple of potted palms, string lights, and bamboo fencing around your pool. Suddenly, you’re not in your backyard—you’re in Maui (minus the plane ticket). A couple of tiki torches never hurt either.
5. Above Ground Infinity Edge
Yep, you read that right. You can actually create an infinity-style edge with an above ground pool if you integrate it into a sloped deck. It’s like the fancy hotel version… without the fancy hotel price tag.
6. Privacy Screen Magic
Let’s be real—you don’t always want the neighbors watching your cannonball attempts. Install a privacy fence or lattice wall around your pool. Add climbing vines for a softer look. Voilà—privacy and style.
7. Container Garden Poolside
Surround your pool with large planters of flowers, shrubs, or herbs. It’s budget-friendly, adds color, and smells amazing. Trust me, a whiff of lavender while floating around feels oddly luxurious.
8. Sunken Above Ground Pool
Instead of going fully in-ground, partially sink your above ground pool. It blends better with your yard and gives you a natural step-up look. This is one of my personal favorites because it feels like the best of both worlds.
9. Add a Pergola for Shade
Who wants to roast like a marshmallow in the midday sun? Add a pergola or shade sail next to your pool for instant style and sun protection. Bonus points if you hang string lights for nighttime swims.
10. Modern Minimalist Vibes
Love clean lines and neutral tones? Surround your pool with composite decking in grays or blacks, minimal furniture, and sleek railings. This gives your backyard a chic, modern look that screams sophistication.
11. Pool With Built-in Bar
Imagine this: you’re floating around and your friend hands you a cold drink—without leaving the water. A built-in bar next to your above ground pool makes your yard the go-to hangout spot.
12. Fire Pit and Pool Combo
Set up a fire pit near your pool for those cooler nights. Swim, dry off, then sit fireside with s’mores. Best. Summer. Ever.
13. Family-Friendly Fun Zone
If kids are part of the picture, think slides, splash pads, and colorful pool floats. It doesn’t need to be Pinterest-perfect—just fun. Pro tip: invest in a good storage bin for toys, or your yard will look like a float graveyard.
14. Wraparound Seating
Build bench-style seating into your pool deck. It’s perfect for parties when everyone wants to sit, dangle their feet, and chat. Trust me, it becomes the social hub.
15. Backyard Theater by the Pool
Ever watched a movie while floating on a raft? It’s next-level. Set up a projector screen near your pool and boom—instant outdoor cinema. (FYI, Jaws might not be the best first pick .)
16. Add LED Pool Lights
Night swims hit different when your pool glows in neon blues, purples, or greens. LED pool lights are cheap, easy to install, and make your backyard look like a resort.
17. Cozy Cabin Pool Look
Surround your pool with rustic wood paneling and Adirondack chairs. Add a firewood stack nearby and it’ll feel like your own lake cabin—even if you’re smack in the suburbs.
18. Pool + Hot Tub Combo
Why stop at just a pool? Add a portable hot tub next to your above ground pool. Swim to cool down, soak to warm up. Basically, backyard royalty status unlocked.
19. DIY Pallet Decking
On a budget? No problem. Use wood pallets to create a platform or mini-deck around your pool. It’s rustic, resourceful, and surprisingly stylish if you stain them.
20. Farmhouse Chic Pool
Pair your above ground pool with white fencing, galvanized tubs for plants, and rustic lanterns. It’s farmhouse-meets-swim-club, and honestly, it works.
21. Natural Landscaping
Blend your pool into the scenery with grasses, rocks, and native plants. The idea is to make the pool look like it belongs there, instead of sticking out like, well… a giant blue bowl.
22. The Ultimate Lounge Setup
Don’t underestimate the power of good furniture. Add loungers, umbrellas, side tables, and maybe even an outdoor couch. Because what’s the point of having a pool if you don’t have a comfy spot to nap after swimming?
Tips for Choosing Your Above Ground Pool Setup
Not sure which idea works best for you? Here are a few quick pointers:
- Budget check: Decks and landscaping can cost as much as the pool itself. Plan wisely.
- Maintenance matters: Fancier setups often need more upkeep.
- Space test: Always measure your yard before committing. No one wants a pool that looks like it swallowed their lawn whole.
- Personal vibe: Go for the design that makes you happy, not just Instagram.
Final Thoughts
Above ground pools don’t have to be the “cheap alternative” to in-ground ones. With the right setup, they can be the star of your backyard. Whether you want rustic, modern, tropical, or straight-up party central, there’s an idea here that’ll fit your style.
And hey—life’s too short to not have a poolside margarita once in a while. So which of these above ground pool ideas are you stealing for your backyard makeover?
