25 Above Ground Pool Landscaping Ideas
An above-ground pool is like the little black dress of backyard design—functional, fun, and full of potential. But just because it doesn’t sit flush with the earth doesn’t mean it can’t look like a high-end resort.
With the right landscaping, you can transform your pool area from a simple backyard feature into a stunning oasis. The best part? These ideas don’t require a professional landscaper or a million-dollar budget to execute.
Whether you’re looking to add privacy, greenery, or stylish seating, there’s a landscaping idea that will work for your space. Let’s dive in and explore 25 above ground pool landscaping ideas that’ll make your pool area the envy of the block.
1. Planting a Privacy Hedge
One of the most common issues with above-ground pools is their lack of privacy. Luckily, a thick privacy hedge is a natural and attractive solution. Evergreen shrubs or bamboo can provide year-round seclusion, blocking the view from neighbors or street traffic. I remember planting a row of boxwoods around my own pool, and it made the area feel like a secluded retreat. You can even mix in flowering plants for added color.
2. Incorporate Gravel or Pebble Walkways
Imagine walking from your patio to your pool with smooth, natural gravel crunching beneath your feet. A pebble walkway not only looks stunning but also helps with water drainage. You can outline the path with stone pavers for a more structured look or go for a completely organic flow with small pebbles. I used this design in my backyard, and it immediately upgraded the entire aesthetic.
3. Add a Wooden Deck Around Your Pool
Building a wooden deck around your pool creates a seamless transition between the water and the surrounding landscaping. The warmth of wood contrasts beautifully with the cool, blue tones of the pool. I went all out and installed a deck with built-in seating and planters—trust me, it was worth every nail.
4. Install Solar Lighting for Ambiance
To keep your pool area glowing long after sunset, solar-powered lights are a game-changer. They can line your walkway, highlight your plants, or even create a soft glow around your pool. I added string lights along the edge of my pool, and it turned my night swims into magical, glowing experiences.
5. Surround with Lush Plants
If you want your pool to feel like it’s tucked away in a tropical paradise, surround it with lush, tropical plants. Palms, ferns, and banana plants instantly add a sense of luxury and vacation vibes. Think of it as creating your own mini rainforest—without the humidity.
6. Use Decorative Stones to Add Texture
Decorative stones can be placed along the edges of your pool to add texture and interest. You can use smooth, round stones or jagged, rustic ones—depending on the vibe you’re going for. Adding stones creates contrast with the smooth, clean lines of the pool and enhances the overall design.
7. Create a Multi-Tiered Landscape
If you’ve got a bit of slope in your yard, a multi-tiered landscape can help you make the most of the elevation changes. Tiered gardens or stone terraces with your pool in the middle can add depth and dimension to your space. I’ve seen this setup in a few homes, and it always gives the feeling that you’re stepping into an entirely different world as you move between levels.
8. Build a Poolside Pergola
A pergola can act as both a statement piece and a source of shade. This outdoor structure creates a natural, defined area for seating or dining while offering respite from the sun. You can grow climbing plants like wisteria or honeysuckle on it to add color and fragrance. I personally added a pergola with a small seating area, and it’s the best spot for poolside relaxation.
9. Create a Zen Garden
If you’re after serenity, consider adding a zen garden near your pool. With smooth rocks, sand, and minimalist design, a zen garden brings tranquility to your space. A few well-placed bonsai trees or succulents can make this spot a calming retreat within your backyard.
10. Install an Outdoor Bar
If you enjoy entertaining, an outdoor bar near the pool area adds both functionality and style. You can go for a permanent structure with built-in stools or create a portable setup with a stylish bar cart. I’ve found that the perfect poolside bar can elevate a simple pool party into a sophisticated event.
11. Incorporate a Fire Pit
Nothing beats the chill of the night with a fire pit nearby. Not only does it create a cozy ambiance, but it also extends the amount of time you can spend enjoying your pool area. Surround the fire pit with comfortable seating and you’ve got a perfect gathering spot for friends and family.
12. Build a Stone Waterfall
Adding a stone waterfall or water feature next to your pool gives it that luxurious spa feel. The sound of water cascading over rocks adds a peaceful atmosphere while drawing the eye to the pool’s surroundings. It’s one of those upgrades that makes a noticeable difference in your backyard’s vibe.
13. Use Potted Plants for Flexibility
If you’re not ready to commit to permanent landscaping, potted plants are an excellent alternative. You can easily move them around to create new looks or to optimize space. From small citrus trees to large statement plants like tropical palms, the options are endless.
14. Add a Poolside Hammock
For ultimate relaxation, a hammock set up near the pool gives you a laid-back spot to soak up the sun. You can go for a freestanding hammock or hang one from nearby trees. Picture yourself gently swaying with a cool drink in hand, just a few steps from the water—sounds ideal, doesn’t it?
15. Create an Outdoor Shower
For practical and aesthetic reasons, an outdoor shower near your pool is a must-have. Rinsing off before and after a swim helps keep the pool clean and adds a touch of luxury to your pool area. Whether you opt for a simple wooden frame or a sleek, modern design, an outdoor shower elevates your backyard’s functionality and style.
16. Add a Raised Planter
For those who love gardening, raised planters are a great way to grow flowers, herbs, or vegetables near your pool. Raised beds not only look neat but also help you maintain better control over soil conditions and drainage. The bright colors of flowers will contrast beautifully against the pool’s blue water.
17. Design a Pool Deck With Tiled Flooring
If your pool is surrounded by a deck, consider using tiled flooring for a touch of elegance. You can choose from a range of styles, from mosaic tiles to classic, simple ceramic ones. Tiles create a chic and cohesive design and are easy to maintain, making them an excellent choice for poolside landscaping.
18. Add a Splash of Color With Flower Beds
Flower beds bursting with color add vibrancy to your pool area. Whether you go for bold reds and yellows or soft pinks and purples, flowers create an inviting atmosphere. You can plant them along the pool’s edges or in pots that can be moved around to change the look of your space.
19. Create a Gravel Border
A gravel border around your pool’s perimeter not only looks stylish but also helps with drainage. It’s a simple landscaping solution that adds texture without overcrowding the area. I’ve used pea gravel for a clean, smooth look that’s low maintenance but high impact.
20. Add a Tree for Shade
A shade tree near your pool provides relief from the sun on hot days. Consider planting a fast-growing tree like a maple or oak that will eventually create a canopy of shade, perfect for relaxing on a lounge chair or taking a break from swimming. Plus, the tree’s foliage adds a natural element to your landscaping design.
21. Use Water-Resistant Furniture
When designing the pool area, remember to choose water-resistant furniture. Durable pieces made from materials like teak, aluminum, or plastic are perfect for withstanding moisture and poolside splashes. Comfortable lounge chairs, outdoor sofas, and dining tables can be placed around your pool for practical and stylish use.
22. Create a Modern Minimalist Look
For those who prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic, a minimalist poolside is the way to go. Opt for clean lines, neutral colors, and a minimalist approach to landscaping. This could include simple stone pavers, sparse plants, and just a few key elements to highlight the pool as the focal point of the space.
23. Incorporate an Archway or Trellis
A charming archway or trellis with climbing plants can add a romantic touch to your poolside. You can train climbing roses, jasmine, or even grapevines to grow along the structure, adding both greenery and fragrance to your outdoor space. A trellis creates a soft, inviting entrance to your pool area.
24. Design an Elegant Poolside Fountain
Adding a small, elegant fountain to your pool area can create a serene atmosphere. The sound of flowing water is both relaxing and luxurious, enhancing the entire pool experience. Whether you choose a tiered fountain or a simple contemporary design, the water element adds another layer of beauty to your backyard.
25. Mix Hardscape and Softscape
The final key to an exceptional poolside landscaping design is mixing hardscape (like stone pathways, decks, or walls) with softscape (plants, flowers, and trees). This combination adds depth and visual interest, balancing the solid with the organic. I’ve found that this mix creates a harmonious backyard space that feels cohesive and lived-in.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect landscape around your above-ground pool is like dressing up a blank canvas—it’s all about experimenting with the elements that suit your style and needs. Whether you go for lush greenery, modern minimalism, or a tropical paradise, these 25 above ground pool landscaping ideas are sure to inspire you to transform your backyard into a serene oasis. So, grab your gardening gloves, choose your favorite ideas, and get ready to make a splash with your poolside landscaping. Your dream pool awaits!
