Ready to get more use out of your backyard this summer? An above ground pool is one of the fastest ways to do it. These twenty ideas below give you a starting point for a weekend project that pays off all season.
1. Wooden Deck for a Cozy Retreat
A wooden deck around your above ground pool gives you a flat surface to lounge on and a safer way to step in and out of the water. Cedar and pressure-treated pine are both common choices because they hold up well outdoors. The deck also hides the pool’s metal frame, so the whole setup looks more finished.
This deck kit is available on Amazon right now. Click through to check sizing and pricing before you buy.
2. Landscaping Around Your Pool
Ring your above ground pool with shrubs, ornamental grasses, and potted flowers to soften the hard edges of the frame. Layer taller plants in the back and shorter ones up front so you keep a clear sightline to the water. Choose drought-tolerant species if you live somewhere with hot, dry summers, since they need less upkeep near a chlorinated pool.
Find the planters and edging pictured here on Amazon and add them to your cart with one click.
3. Lighting for Nighttime Swims
Underwater LED lights and perimeter lighting turn an ordinary above ground pool into a nighttime feature. Solar-powered fixtures are an easy option since they need no wiring and charge during the day. Pair a few color-changing lights with the pool’s ladder or deck area for extra safety after dark.
Take a look at this lighting set on Amazon. It’s a popular pick and easy to order online.
4. A Comfortable Spot to Unwind Poolside
Set up a lounge area near your pool with weather-resistant chairs, a small side table, and an umbrella or shade sail overhead. Keep the seating close enough to the water that you can hop in and out without a long walk across hot pavement. Cushions with quick-dry foam work well since they won’t stay soggy after splashes.
You’ll find this outdoor furniture set on Amazon. Follow the link to purchase.
5. A Fence to Protect Family and Friends
A pool fence does double duty: it blocks curious pets and young kids from wandering in unsupervised, and it adds a defined border to your backyard layout. Mesh, aluminum, and wood are the three most common materials, each with a different look and price point. Many local codes require a fence of a certain height around any residential pool, so check your area’s rules before installing one.
This fencing option is listed on Amazon with buyer reviews and installation notes worth reading first.
6. Fountains and Waterfalls for a Resort Feel
A small fountain or cascading waterfall attachment gives an above ground pool the sound and motion of a backyard resort. Solar and pump-powered models both exist, so you can pick based on how much noise or flow you want. The moving water also helps circulate the surface, which can cut down on debris buildup.
This water feature is sold on Amazon, and the listing includes setup details.
7. Covering the Pool for Protection
A solid pool cover keeps leaves, bugs, and debris out of the water between swims, which cuts down on cleaning time. It also slows evaporation, so you refill less often, and it helps trap heat on cooler nights. Covers typically come in solar and standard vinyl versions, each suited to a different climate.
This cover is currently listed on Amazon with size options for different pool shapes.
8. Heating the Pool for Longer Swim Seasons
A pool heater lets you swim through spring and fall instead of just the peak summer weeks. Gas heaters warm water fast, while solar and heat pump models cost less to run over time. Either option stretches your swim season well beyond the hottest months.
This heater is available on Amazon, and the product page lists compatible pool sizes.
9. Steps for Easier Pool Entry
Sturdy steps replace the wobbly ladder that comes standard with most above ground pools. Look for a set with a wide, non-slip tread and secure handrails, since wet feet on metal rungs can be dangerous. Many step models fold or detach for easy winter storage too.
These pool steps are up on Amazon now, with buyer photos showing real setups.
10. Setting Up a Poolside Bar
A small bar cart or built-in counter near your pool gives friends a spot to grab drinks without tracking water through the house. Stock it with a cooler, plastic cups, and a few basic mixers for easy summer gatherings. A shaded roof over the bar keeps ice and drinks from melting too fast in direct sun.
This bar cart is sold on Amazon and ships with assembly instructions.
11. A Gazebo for Poolside Shade
A gazebo or pergola next to your pool creates a shaded spot to escape direct sun during peak afternoon hours. Add climbing vines or outdoor curtains to the structure for extra privacy and a softer look. Wood and metal-frame versions are both common, with metal typically needing less maintenance over the years.
This gazebo kit is listed on Amazon with delivery and assembly details included.
12. A Slide for Extra Pool Fun
A pool slide turns a standard swim into an actual event, and both kids and adults tend to line up for a turn. Look for a model rated for your pool’s water depth, since slides need enough clearance underneath to be safe. Anchoring the base securely is key, especially if the slide sees heavy use during pool parties.
This slide is available on Amazon now, with weight and height limits listed in the description.
13. A Fire Pit for Cool-Evening Comfort
Set a fire pit a safe distance from your pool deck to give swimmers somewhere warm to dry off once the sun goes down. Propane models light instantly and produce no smoke, while wood-burning pits give off a classic campfire smell. Keep the pit on a non-flammable surface like gravel or pavers, away from pool chemicals and equipment.
This fire pit is listed on Amazon, and the Buy Now button takes you straight to checkout.
14. Potted Plants for a Lively Pool Area
Group a few potted plants and flowering annuals along your pool’s edge to break up bare concrete or gravel. Rotate in seasonal blooms so the area looks different through spring, summer, and fall. Terra cotta and resin pots both hold up fine outdoors, though resin won’t crack in freezing winter temperatures.
These planters are available on Amazon, with several color options shown in the listing.
15. Decorative Tiles for a Stylish Pool Edge
Decorative tiles along the waterline give an above ground pool a finished, custom look without a full renovation. Mosaic patterns in blue, green, or white are common choices because they mimic the look of an in-ground pool. Ceramic and glass tiles both resist fading, though glass tends to hold its shine longer under constant sun and chlorine exposure.
Hey there! You can purchase this item on Amazon. Just click the “BUY NOW” button. Happy shopping!
16. Umbrellas for Shade by the Pool
Why not add some large umbrellas around your pool? They’ll not only provide extra shade but also give your backyard a tropical vibe.
Hey there! If you’re interested, you can find it on Amazon. Just click the “BUY NOW” button to purchase.
17. Poolside Dining and Casual Meals
How about setting up a nice outdoor dining spot by the pool? It’s perfect for enjoying meals outside and hosting fun poolside gatherings!
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18. Pool Steps Framed with Planters
Add some planters to your pool steps for a cool and stylish touch!
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19. A Hammock for Poolside Lounging
Why not set up a hammock by your pool for the perfect chill-out spot?
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20. A Station for Pool Maintenance Supplies
Make sure you have a spot just for all your pool stuff so your backyard stays neat and your pool stays nice and clean!
Hey there! If you’re interested in purchasing the product, you can find it on Amazon. Just click the “BUY NOW” button to make your purchase.
Looking for some awesome above ground pool ideas to jazz up your backyard? Well, look no further! Whether you’re into the natural vibes of landscaping or the sleekness of modern lighting and water features, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to take your outdoor space to the next level with these 20 inspiring ideas!
