20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (2024)

Pool landscaping ideas don’t have to be expensive or difficult. A low-maintenance flower bed, a DIY accent wall, or some budget-friendly planters can transform a blah space into an inviting oasis. Dive in to see refreshing ideas for privacy, use of color, and creating intimate spaces.

01of 20

Overflowing Poolside Planters

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (1)

A well-designed planter with cascading foliage and flowers is a simple and budget-friendly way to add a touch of flare. Follow the professional design advice of using a thriller, a filler, and a spiller. For a polished look, choose a container material that compliments your pool deck. Consider sunny or shady locations and match plant needs accordingly to help them flourish.

02of 20

Tropical Poolscaping

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (2)

One of the easiest tropical pool landscaping ideas is to use a few palms, bird-of-paradise, caladiums, and other large-leaf plants in containers around your space. It’s a great way for people in more northern climates–where those plants can’t survive the winter–to get that island look around the pool. Remember to bring them in before the autumn frosts arrive.

03of 20

Splashes of Color

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (3)

A bit of color breaks up boring straight lines and brightens up your outdoor space. For example, the purple salvia and orange dahlias shown here make a dynamic pair with their season-long blooms. Have fun playing with the color palette. Choose a theme or contrast two colors for a bold statement.

24 Perennial Planting Combinations That Look Stunning Together

04of 20

Planting for Privacy

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (4)

If you're looking for pool landscaping ideas for privacy, a strategically placed hedge could be the answer. Broadleaf evergreens like boxwood are a traditional choice for creating a dense wall of greenery around an area. But lilacs, azaleas, rhododendrons, and holly make great privacy hedges as well. Start with the area you’d most like to screen or block from view, like the street or a neighboring house. If your pool season is year-round, be sure to choose hedge plants that are evergreen in your climate.

05of 20

Show Off the View

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (5)

If you're lucky enough to have a view from your pool, maximize it. Use landscaping like hedges, fencing, and trees to frame the view so it commands attention. Adjust shorter and taller plantings to draw the eye. Choose low maintenance plants and let the view do all the work, while you enjoy a relaxing swim.

06of 20

Rock Out

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (6)

Pool landscaping ideas with rocks can create a more natural feel around the water. For example, adding large rocks and boulders to a poolside garden bed brings the feel of the surrounding mountains into this backyard. Match the size of rocks to the scale of the beds and other landscaping; small rocks in a large bed with tall plants will get lost.

07of 20

Embrace Curves

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (7)

Break up a formal look by using natural edge pavers like the ones bordering this backyard pool. The curving lines and random shapes soften the hard edges of the pool, and blend well with the less regimented gardens to either side. Choose light colors to avoid hot stones under bare feet.

In-Ground and Above-Ground Pool Deck Ideas on a Budget

08of 20

Make a Focal Point

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (8)

Large planters can become a simple focal point near pool entrances or seating areas. Fill tall containers with lush plantings near seating to create inviting spaces like this patio set, which would feel much more exposed without the planter. Adding shade from an umbrella over the chairs reinforces the message to sit and relax by the pool.

09of 20

Easy Breezy Grasses

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (9)

Free-flowing ornamental grasses are an excellent choice for lush yet low-maintenance pool landscaping. Here, they blend with an irregular pool edge to create a natural look. Plant them at the edge and allow them to arch over the water to enhance the effect. For more impact, choose taller grasses that will arch and sway gently with a breeze.

10of 20

Take Cover

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (10)

An arbor or pergola can create a shady spot for seating, allowing adults to relax while being close to the pool to keep an eye on play. Locate it near enough to the water that guests in the seating area are still able to interact with those taking a cooling dip in the pool.

17 Pool Party Ideas that Will Make a Big Splash This Summer

11of 20

Beautifully Relaxed Approach

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (11)

Freeform pool shapes are perfect for accenting informal plantings. To keep the look low-key, place plants in patches or scatter them randomly–avoid rows. Vary the height and choose varieties that flower at different times of the season, providing continuous color and interest.

12of 20

Match Color Palettes

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (12)

Match the color palette of your pool with your landscaping for a cohesive look. Annuals are available in almost any color and are a great way to bring the hues of your patio, furniture, and pool out into the surroundings. Set up an irrigation system with a drip line to keep them watered, saving time and hassle. They’ll look great all summer and you can spend more time relaxing.

This Best-Selling Watering Timer Will Save You Time and Money This Summer

13of 20

Go with the Flow

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (13)

A simple pool landscaping idea is to include plants with cascading stems to evoke the look of waterfalls. For example, the flowing foliage of sweet potato vines in this container soften the hard lines of the pool's shape while adding vibrant lime-green color to the space. The upright canna with it resembles a fountain, and its darker leaves make a pleasing contrast with the vine.

14of 20

Strength in Numbers

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (14)

When considering pool landscaping ideas, keep in mind that items grouped together draw more attention than they would when spread out. Chairs placed in proximity create a place to gather for conversation. Planters in clusters provide as much welcoming lushness as a garden bed. Both elements are more impactful placed closely than they would scattered across the entire pool deck.

15of 20

Tuck in Trees

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (15)

Trees are an integral part of the landscape, but near a pool they can be a problem. Locate them far enough away that any leaves, cones, fruit, or seeds land safely out of the pool. Surrounding the trees with a natural mulched bed will keep the look clean and avoid constant sweeping or stains on the concrete.

The 6 Best Pool Test Kits of 2024 for Safe Swimming

16of 20

A Living Fence

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (16)

When you need pool landscaping ideas for privacy, it's hard to beat a tall fence. But a fence can look drab and uninviting. Plant tall evergreen trees in front of the privacy fence for a more natural, welcoming look. And a closely spaced evergreen hedge can be an excellent option if your local ordinances won’t allow a fence or wall.

17of 20

DIY Accent Wall

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (17)

Adding a wood accent wall is a DIY pool landscaping idea that completely changes the look of this concrete block retaining wall. The warm tones blend with the foliage to create a more natural and relaxing atmosphere. Remember to choose a finish that is rated for outdoor use. These horizontal boards flow with the long axis of the pool to create symmetry.

18of 20

Intentional Reflection

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (18)

Consider different times of day, as well as multiple uses for your pool landscaping. This private nook with a seat is the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful outdoor breakfast. The colorful garden border is reflected on the surface when the pool is calm early in the day, enhancing the effect of being surrounded by flowers and greenery.

19of 20

Strategic Seating

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (19)

In a big backyard, minimal landscaping and ample seating areas are a low-maintenance way to fill the space around your pool. Arrange seating on opposite sides of the pool to take advantage of the sun (or shade) as the day progresses. Locate seating according to its most likely use–tables near the grill and loungers in the sun.

The 7 Best Patio Furniture Pieces of 2024 to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space This Summer, Tested by Us

20of 20

No-Mow Solution

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (20)

Landscaping gravel is an excellent option to keep the pool area clean, and grass clippings out of the pool. Opt for pebbles over crushed rock, and choose a light, neutral color that hides messy materials like grass clippings and small sticks better. A light color is cooler on bare feet as well.

20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (2024)

FAQs

How do I beautify my pool area? ›

Here are some of the options:
  1. Pool deck upgrade. A dull area around the pool can make it look ordinary. ...
  2. Dress up your pool fence. A pool fence is a great way to make your swimming pool pet-proof. ...
  3. Redecorate the patio. ...
  4. Improve poolside lighting. ...
  5. Install attractive water features.

How do I get an expensive look around my pool? ›

Colors make swimming pools look more natural, inviting, and often times create that 'Caribbean' feel so many are looking for.
  1. Separate Coping Color. ...
  2. Decorative Patio. ...
  3. Gravel Between Pool and Fence. ...
  4. Dress Up the Fence. ...
  5. Arched Gate. ...
  6. Flowers/Greenery/Shrubs/Etc. ...
  7. Water Features. ...
  8. Multiple Seating Elevations.

How can I make my pool look expensive? ›

How to Make Your Pool Look Luxurious on a Budget
  1. Up Your Pool Maintenance Routine. Nothing ruins the aesthetic of a pool more than dirt, leaves, floaties, and grime. ...
  2. Add Gorgeous Plants. ...
  3. Invest in Some Luxurious Accessories.
Sep 30, 2021

What is the best landscaping to put around an above-ground pool? ›

Plant palm trees and other greenery

By planting some taller trees and other shorter greenery around your pool area, you can help with this. As the plants grow and mature, they'll reach the top of the pool, help it blend into the landscape and provide a little more shade.

What do you put around the edge of a pool? ›

Pool coping is the material used to cover a pool's edge and has both practical and cosmetic benefits.

How can I make my pool look modern? ›

Five ways to upgrade your dated swimming pool are:
  1. Update Pool Fencing. One aspect of your swimming area that can make your pool look dated is the fencing. ...
  2. Install New Tile. Tile is another component of your pool that can cause it to look outdated. ...
  3. Improve the Area Surrounding Your Pool. ...
  4. Resurface the Pool Deck.

How do I look good in a pool picture? ›

How to pose in pools: 15+ ideas for your next photo!
  1. # 1 - Keep your legs crossed and "adjust" your sunglasses.
  2. # 2 - Shoot a photo as you climb the pool stairs. ...
  3. # 3 - Trim your hair a bit.
  4. # 4 - Lean your head against the pool and stare at the camera.
  5. # 5 - A simple cross-legged pose.

What is the cheapest thing to put around a pool? ›

Common Materials Used as Inexpensive Pool Deck
  • Poured Concrete. Poured concrete is the surface of choice for most people with pool decks. ...
  • Pre-Cast Cement Pavers. Pre-cast cement pavers are a welcome alternative if you're not interested in poured concrete. ...
  • Brick. ...
  • Wood. ...
  • Natural Stones.

What color makes pool look bigger? ›

Lighter colours are also great if the pool is in the shade, if you want to make the space look bigger, and if you want your swimming pool to stand out among your landscaping. On the downside, you can tell with a simple glance if there's dirt or grime.

What is the cheapest pool surround? ›

Poured concrete can be a more affordable option for pool surrounds, in comparison to other options like pavers which can cost more due to the labor involved in placing the tiles.

What is the most expensive part of a pool? ›

The most expensive part of installing a pool is typically the construction phase, which includes excavation, framing, and the installation of the pool shell. The construction phase encompasses a range of costs, from labor to materials. It's this stage where the bulk of your budget will be allocated.

How do I add color to my pool area? ›

You can also add colorful pillows, cushions, and throws for a more artistic look. Pots often come in terracotta or other brown shade. Painting them will make them more interesting, especially if you have green, non-flowering plants. Just make sure that you don't get paint on the plants.

How much money does a pool add to home value? ›

Real estate experts estimate that an average 14x28-foot inground concrete pool potentially adds 5 to 8 percent to the real estate value of your home. If your property is worth $400,000, you'll realize a boost to the value of your property of about $20,000 to $32,000.

What is the safest surface around a pool? ›

Here are the most important features to consider for your swimming pool deck: Slip-Resistance: Surfaces should be smooth to the touch, but provide enough grip for wet feet. Synthetic materials like concrete pavers and composite deck boards are engineered with texture for a safe poolside surface.

Should I mulch or rock around my above-ground pool? ›

Use rock rather than mulch in planting beds.

If possible, refrain from using mulch in planting beds in close proximity to the pool. Mulch can be displaced rather easily and, if used near the pool, will inevitably end up in the water. Save yourself the hassle by using decorative rock or gravel in its place.

What is the best rock to use around a pool? ›

If the pool will be located in a freeze-thaw weather zone, be sure to pick a stone with lower water absorption for the pool deck. Granites, basalts, and porphyry top the charts in this category and will hold up to all weather conditions.

Should you put rocks around your pool? ›

Mulch or Stone

Decorative stone is the ideal material to surround your above-ground pool. Wind is unlikely to blow around the landscaping rocks. A walkway will also be needed in this application, but you will not have to worry about the decorative rocks being tracked into the pool if you use the larger variety.

References

Top Articles
Cream Cheese Banana Bread ~ Simple Sweet Recipes
Recipes | Instant Oats Idly Satay
Nerdwallet Chase
Musas Tijuana
Msbs Bowling
Emma Louise (TikTok Star) Biography | Wiki | Age | Net Worth | Career & Latest Info - The Daily Biography
Uconn Health Outlook
Ff14 Kobold Pitman
Salon Armandeus Nona Park
D Drive Not Showing Up—10 Ways To Fix It
Financial Literacy for Students | EVERFI
888-490-1703
Best Conjuration Spell In Skyrim
Hamboards Net Worth 2022
1 Bedroom Apartment For Rent Private Landlord
Shooters Lube Discount Code
Fisher-Cheney Funeral Home Obituaries
9:00 A.m. Cdt
Dimbleby Funeral Home
Devon Lannigan Obituary
co*cker Spaniel For Sale Craigslist
Kira Kener 2022
Fungal Symbiote Terraria
Diablo 3 Legendary Reforge
Wdl Nursing Abbreviation
Fedex Express Ship Center
Ufc 281 Tapology
R Mariokarttour
Don Wallence Auto Sales Reviews
Banette Gen 3 Learnset
Movies123 Avatar 2
Gmc For Sale Craigslist
Top Compact Cars for 2025: Consumer Reports, Safety, and Overall Value Ratings
It Might Get Smoked Nyt
Rachel Pizzolato Age, Height, Wiki, Net Worth, Measurement
80 For Brady Showtimes Near Brenden Theatres Kingman 4
99 Cents Food Handler
5417873087
Craigslist Creative Gigs
Faze Teeqo Wiki
Oge Number
Molly Leach from Molly’s Artistry Demonstrates Amazing Rings in Acryli
Pokimane Boob Flash
Top 10 websites to play unblocked games
How Much Does Costco Gas Cost Today? Snapshot of Prices Across the U.S. | CostContessa
Grizzly Expiration Date 2023
Toldeo Craigslist
Dl 9672
Craigslist Cars By Owner
Halloween 1978 Showtimes Near Movie Tavern Little Rock
Physician Dressed As A Sorceress Crossword Clue
Signature Learn 365 | airSlate SignNow
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Dr. Pierre Goyette

Last Updated:

Views: 5913

Rating: 5 / 5 (50 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Dr. Pierre Goyette

Birthday: 1998-01-29

Address: Apt. 611 3357 Yong Plain, West Audra, IL 70053

Phone: +5819954278378

Job: Construction Director

Hobby: Embroidery, Creative writing, Shopping, Driving, Stand-up comedy, Coffee roasting, Scrapbooking

Introduction: My name is Dr. Pierre Goyette, I am a enchanting, powerful, jolly, rich, graceful, colorful, zany person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.