22 Pool Deck Decorating Ideas
So, you’ve got a pool deck and you want to make it the spot for summer hangouts? Good news—you don’t need to drop a fortune to make it look amazing.
The trick is finding the right mix of comfort, style, and “wow factor.”
I’ve spent more summers than I can count experimenting with different pool deck setups, and trust me—sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest splash.
Ready to turn your pool deck into the kind of space people don’t want to leave? Let’s dive right in. (Okay, I promise that’s the only water pun… maybe.)
1. Cozy Lounge Chairs Everywhere
If you don’t have lounge chairs on your pool deck, are you even doing summer right? Lounge chairs instantly say “relaxation zone.” Toss in a few with adjustable backs so you can go from sunbathing to napping in seconds.
Pro tip: Mix and match colors for a laid-back vibe. All-white might look chic, but it also screams “don’t spill that lemonade.”
2. Add Pops of Color with Outdoor Rugs
An outdoor rug on your pool deck works like magic—it ties everything together. Go bold with tropical patterns or stick with classic stripes if you want that resort feel.
And don’t worry about water. These rugs are made to survive splashes, so no one’s going to freak out if a cannonball sends waves flying.
3. Umbrellas = Instant Shade
You don’t need a pergola (though we’ll get to that). A few tilting umbrellas around your pool deck give you shade when you need it, and they’re moveable.
Ever notice how much cooler the drinks taste when you’re sitting under an umbrella with a breeze? Exactly.
4. String Lights for Night Swims
Here’s where things get magical. String lights create a soft, golden glow that turns your pool deck into a fairytale.
Pro tip: Run them along the railing, pergola, or even in the nearby trees. Ever had a late-night swim with fairy lights twinkling overhead? Pure bliss.
5. Outdoor Bar Cart
Let’s be real—a bar cart by the pool makes you look like the ultimate host. Stock it with sodas, fresh fruit, and yes, a cocktail shaker. 🙂
Why run inside for drinks every five minutes when you can roll the party right next to the pool?
6. Add a Pergola for Structure
If you’ve got the space and budget, a pergola over part of your deck is a total game-changer. It gives shade, structure, and a place to hang plants or lights.
And honestly, it makes your deck look like something straight out of a Pinterest board.
7. Poolside Fire Pit
Hear me out: a fire pit near the pool deck. Daytime, it’s a pretty centerpiece. Nighttime, it’s where everyone gathers after a swim.
Plus, s’mores by the pool? Don’t act like that doesn’t sound amazing.
8. Go Green with Planters
Nothing softens the concrete deck look like lush planters. Think tropical palms, ferns, or even citrus trees if your climate allows.
You know that feeling when you walk into a resort and everything’s leafy and vibrant? That’s what you’re going for here.
9. Built-In Benches
If you’re handy (or know someone who is), built-in benches along the pool deck edges add both seating and style.
Throw in some weather-resistant cushions, and boom—you’ve got extra seating that looks intentional, not like an afterthought.
10. Bold Accent Pillows
Honestly, pillows are the easiest upgrade. Bright outdoor pillows scream summer and instantly upgrade even the plainest deck furniture.
Pro tip: Go with covers you can zip off and wash. Chlorine and fabric aren’t exactly best friends.
11. Outdoor Dining Area
If you’ve got space, add a dining table on the pool deck. It’s perfect for BBQ nights or casual lunches without dripping water all over the inside floors.
Just make sure the chairs are comfy—you’ll be surprised how often you’ll end up eating outside once you set it up.
12. Water Features
Okay, your pool already has water, but why stop there? Mini fountains, waterfalls, or bubblers add that spa-like sound of flowing water.
And FYI: flowing water also drowns out neighborhood noise. So, bonus points.
13. Add Outdoor Storage
No one likes pool noodles, towels, and floaties lying everywhere. Add a stylish storage box or bench to your deck.
Trust me, future you will thank present you when the deck doesn’t look like a toy store exploded.
14. Deck Lighting for Safety
Yeah, yeah, this one sounds boring. But hear me out—built-in deck lighting not only looks amazing but also keeps everyone safe.
I once stubbed my toe so hard on a late-night swim run that I swore off unlit pool decks forever. Lesson learned.
15. Hanging Chairs or Hammocks
Want a guaranteed Instagram moment? Add a hanging chair or hammock to your pool deck.
They scream “vacation mode,” and honestly, they’re ridiculously comfortable. Just don’t fight over who gets the hammock.
16. Go Nautical with Decor
Blue and white stripes, anchor motifs, rope accents—a nautical theme is timeless for pool decks.
Just don’t overdo it. You’re going for “beachy chic,” not “I live inside a lighthouse.”
17. Outdoor Kitchen Setup
If you’re serious about hosting, an outdoor kitchen on the deck makes entertaining effortless. Grill, prep space, mini-fridge—it’s all right there.
Yeah, it’s an investment. But IMO, it pays off every time you don’t have to sprint back inside mid-burger flip.
18. Creative Privacy Screens
Got neighbors with eagle eyes? Add decorative privacy screens, trellises, or bamboo fencing.
Bonus: you can train climbing plants like jasmine or ivy on them. Instant wall of greenery.
19. Poolside Cabana Vibes
Ever wanted your own resort cabana? Create the vibe with sheer outdoor curtains hung from a pergola or frame.
Trust me, there’s nothing more relaxing than lounging in the shade while curtains sway in the breeze.
20. Statement Art or Sculptures
Why should your pool deck only be practical? Add outdoor-safe art or sculptures for that gallery feel.
FYI: Metal or stone pieces hold up best. Nobody wants to replace a canvas that got wrecked by rain.
21. Keep It Cool with Misters
If you live somewhere blazing hot, you need this. Misting systems can lower temps by up to 20 degrees.
No more frying like bacon while you’re trying to relax on the deck. Enough said.
22. Personal Touches That Scream “You”
At the end of the day, the best decks are personal. Add your favorite colors, quirky décor, or DIY touches that make it yours.
One summer, I painted old terracotta pots neon pink and teal just for fun. Guess what? Everyone complimented them more than the fancy store-bought stuff. Go figure.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it—22 pool deck decorating ideas to transform your outdoor space into a legit summer paradise. Whether you go big with an outdoor kitchen or small with a few bold pillows, every change adds up.
Remember: your pool deck doesn’t need to look like a five-star resort. It just needs to feel like your happy place. And honestly, if your friends won’t leave after a pool party, you’ll know you nailed it.
