17 Best Above Ground Pool Ideas
The best above ground pool ideas help to incorporate the pool into your landscape and create an attractive, relaxing area to unwind.
1. Create a pool and deck layout
If you’re planning on adding a deck to your above ground pool, consider a layout that includes different levels.
This type of layout will make your pool feel more like an in-ground pool and can accommodate a variety of seating areas.
You can add a dining area, a lounge area, and a poolside bar to your deck layout, so you have plenty of options for poolside entertaining.
2. Add a bridge
If you have the space and budget, consider adding a bridge to your above ground pool.
Not only does it create a grand entrance to the pool deck, but it also helps to define the space and add a touch of elegance.
This pool deck is built from durable, low-maintenance composite decking and features a custom railing system.
The bridge is adorned with string lights, and the steps are lined with planters, bringing a touch of landscaping to the pool area.
3. Use a pool to accent your outdoor space
If you have an outdoor space you love, consider adding a pool to the mix.
This pool is the perfect addition to this outdoor oasis, which includes a pergola, outdoor dining area, and fire pit.
The pool is surrounded by a wood deck and is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day.
We love how the pool is accented with tropical plants and a few outdoor lounge chairs.
This pool is the perfect addition to this outdoor space and is sure to be the focal point of the yard.
4. Create a zen pool retreat
If you have the space, consider creating a relaxing pool retreat.
This above ground pool is surrounded by a wood deck and privacy fence, and features a built-in hot tub, fire pit, and seating area.
The pool is also flanked by a pergola and a pool house, which is perfect for storing pool supplies, towels, and more.
The pool is also surrounded by lush landscaping, which helps to create a private retreat.
5. Add a hammock
Who doesn’t love a good hammock? Whether you have a built-in pool deck or not, you can easily incorporate a hammock into your pool area.
If you have a deck, you can hang your hammock from one of the support beams. If you don’t have a deck, you can use a stand to hang your hammock.
No matter how you hang your hammock, make sure it’s close enough to the pool that you can swing your legs in and cool off on a hot day.
6. Build a deck around your pool
If you’re thinking about adding a deck to your above ground pool, you have a lot of options. You can build a partial deck, a full deck, or even a multi-level deck.
A deck can add a lot of style and function to your above ground pool. It can also help to hide the pool walls, so your pool looks more like an in-ground pool.
And, of course, a deck gives you a great space to hang out and relax by the pool.
You can even add a poolside bar or outdoor kitchen to take your deck to the next level.
7. Add a hot tub
Who says you can’t have it all? This multi-level deck has a hot tub, fire pit, and pool to create the ultimate outdoor oasis.
The pool is surrounded by a sleek glass fence, making it a safe and stylish addition to the deck.
The deck also features a built-in bench to create more seating and a pergola to provide shade.
8. Use colorful tiles to create a border for your pool
If you’d like to make your above ground pool feel a little more like an in-ground pool, consider adding a tile border around the edge of the pool.
You can use any color tiles you like, but we’re especially loving this blue and white design.
This pool is also surrounded by a wood deck, and the tile border helps to define the pool area so that the deck doesn’t feel too busy.
9. Use a pool to create a water feature
While an above ground pool may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a water feature,
you can easily use one to create a beautiful focal point in your backyard.
This simple pool is surrounded by a wooden deck and a gravel area, which is perfect for adding landscaping.
Even without a lot of plants, the simple addition of a few large rocks and a small tree make this pool feel like a natural part of the landscape.
10. Add a slide
The only thing better than an above-ground pool is an above-ground pool with a slide!
This pool comes with a built-in slide, but you can easily add one to your existing pool.
Just make sure the ladder is not in the way of the slide, and that the slide is anchored securely to the ground.
11. Add a pool to your small yard
If you have a small backyard, you can still add a pool. This round pool is perfect for the space, and the deck around it adds a little extra room to sit and relax.
A small pool is also a great way to add a water feature to your backyard without taking up too much space or breaking the bank.
12. Create a pool and patio layout
When it comes to above ground pools, the pool itself doesn’t have to be the main focus. In this backyard, the pool is just one small part of the overall layout.
The pool is surrounded by a wood deck and a small stone patio. The deck and patio are the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun.
There are also a few lounge chairs and a small table with an umbrella.
13. Add a water fountain
If you’re looking to add a little something extra to your backyard pool, consider a water fountain.
This will not only add a fun element to your pool but also create a soothing sound as the water falls into the pool.
You can install a water fountain on the deck or even on the pool wall.
There are a variety of designs and sizes to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your pool.
14. Create a pool and lounge area
If you have the space for it, consider creating a pool and lounge area.
This backyard features an above ground pool with a deck, as well as a separate lounge area with a fire pit, outdoor kitchen, and dining area.
The pool is surrounded by a fence for privacy and safety, and the deck is large enough to add lounge chairs or even a sectional.
15. Add a garden
You can create a beautiful garden around your above ground pool to make it feel like a natural part of your yard. A garden can also provide privacy and shade.
You can use planters or hanging baskets if you want to keep the garden contained.
Planters and hanging baskets can also be moved to different areas of the yard if you want to change things up.
16. Create a pool and dining area
This stunning backyard design by H2Oasis Pools features an above ground pool surrounded by a deck and a dining area.
The deck is built at a 90-degree angle to the pool, allowing for easy access to the pool and plenty of space for lounging.
The deck also features a built-in bench that wraps around the perimeter of the pool, providing additional seating.
The dining area is located just a few steps away from the pool, making it easy to go from swimming to eating.
The outdoor kitchen features a grill, sink, and countertop space, while the dining table is shaded by a pergola.
17. Create a pool and outdoor kitchen
If you’re going to go through the trouble of building a deck around your above ground pool, you might as well add a full outdoor kitchen and dining area as well.
This will create a backyard oasis that you’ll never want to leave.
You can add a poolside bar, a grill, a pizza oven, or whatever your heart desires. You can even add a pergola to create a covered dining area.
Conclusion
Above ground pools are a great option for anyone looking for a way to get all the benefits of a swimming pool without the huge costs of an in-ground pool. There are plenty of fantastic above ground pool ideas to help you make a choice that works with your home, yard, and family.
