Having a backyard pool can be a dream come true for many homeowners.
It provides a private oasis right at home for relaxation, entertainment and recreation.
The remaining areas around the pool need to be thoughtfully landscaped to maximize enjoyment and functionality.
With some creativity and careful planning, the backyard landscaping around a pool can become an extension of the pool experience.
The right plantings, hardscaping and amenities surrounding the pool can make the backyard an idyllic setting:
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Tropical Poolside Paradise
Evoking a tropical getaway is one of the most popular themes for backyard pool landscaping.
Lush greenery, colorful flowers and natural materials all work together to transport you to an exotic paradise.
Palm trees are a quintessential tropical plant that immediately establishes the theme.
Some great palm varieties for poolside planting include pygmy date palm, Mexican fan palm and bamboo palm.
Arrange groupings of palms in poolside beds or standalone specimen plantings.
Also incorporate tropical flowering plants like hibiscus, bougainvillea, plumeria and bird of paradise around the pool area.
Their brightly colored blooms and large, showy flowers will flourish in the warmth of the pool microclimate.
For quick tropical appeal, hang colorful flowering baskets along the pool fence or from trees.
Thatched umbrellas, rattan pool furniture and decorative tiles lend a further polynesian feel.
Bamboo, thatch and wood can also be used forprivacy fencing, pergolas, trellises and other structures surrounding the pool.
The sound of moving water enhances the tropical atmosphere.
Consider adding a poolside waterfall or fountain feature.
Mediterranean Retreat
Inspired by villas overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this style of landscaping uses architectural and natural elements common in Italy, Greece and other coastal regions.
Terracotta tiles and stucco surfaces immediately evoke Mediterranean ambiance.
Tile the pool coping and line the beds surrounding the pool area with hand-laid tiles or stone.
The pool itself can even be tiled in a mosaic Mediterranean pattern.
Add pergolas covered with vines like grapes or bougainvillea around pool seating areas.
Olive, cypress and urn-shaped plants like boxwood work well around Mediterranean style pools.
Plant them in neat rows or geometric patterns for formal parterre garden beds.
Herbs and vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, rosemary and oregano can be planted in well-ordered raised planter beds.
Wrought iron or wood accent fences along with statuary, tile-topped tables and pottery complete the Mediterranean look.
Consider a water fountain, pizza oven or firepit for additional detail.
With its elegant formal flair, Mediterranean landscaping adds old world charm to backyards with pools.
Poolside Fire and Water Features
The interplay of fire and water is an intriguing design concept for poolside landscaping.
During the evening, a cascading waterfall or stone fountain along the pool’s edge provides soothing ambiance.
Multiple water features around the pool create an even more dramatic effect.
For fire features, outdoor fireplaces, firepits and tiki torches reflect flickering flames across the water’s surface after dark.
Position water features on elevated ground higher than the pool to create the effect of water spilling down into the pool.
Use local rock or stones and incorporate rounded river rocks, pebbles or cobbles to line water features.
For fire features, choose natural stone and masonry materials that complement the poolscape.
Creative seating areas around integrated fire and water features make the most of this unique concept.
Imagine relaxing by the pool in the evening near a stone fireplace or pit while taking in the sight and sound of cascading water.
The fire and water elements combine to create a serene yet visually interesting poolside oasis.
Grotto-Style Pool
Channel a grotto vibe in your pool landscaping with caves, rock formations, plants and indirect lighting.
Start by using large boulders and stones to create a rocky framework around the pool.
Stack and arrange rocks to form cave-like tunnels, overhangs and alcoves along the pool’s edge.
Plant shade-loving, trailing plants like ivy, ferns and mosses along the boulders to soften the rock structures.
You can also incorporate gentle water features like mini-waterfalls that stream over the rocks into the pool.
The rocky overhangs around the pool edge are perfect for tucking in shaded relaxation spaces with tables, chairs and loungers.
Set the scene after dark with lighting that casts a blue glow throughout the “grotto” and illuminates the pool from within the rock structures.
The result is a lush pool area with a grotto vibe.
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Zen Garden Retreat
Capture a sense of tranquility and harmony in your poolside landscaping with elements influenced by traditional Zen gardens.
Arrange rocks, gravel and stones around the pool area in purposeful, simplistic patterns.
Plant bamboo, grasses, ferns and leafy green bushes for a peaceful natural feel.
Create secluded spaces for quiet contemplation and reflection using screens, benches and stone pathways.
Add features like stone lanterns, pagodas, peaceful water fountains and statuary that encourage meditation.
You can also rake patterns into the gravel surrounding seating spaces or garden beds using a minimalist design.
Nighttime lighting should be soft and indirect.
A Zen garden retreat focuses on simplicity, tranquility and natural beauty in the poolside environment.
Backyard Oasis
An backyard pool oasis offers the ultimate escape right at home.
Start by framing the pool with lush beds of flowering shrubs, palms and ornamental grasses.
Plant tall, swaying plants at varying heights for layered interest.
Incorporate paths and archways constructed from natural stones that guide you through garden rooms surrounding the pool.
Special garden lighting transforms the plantings into a twinkling nighttime wonderland.
Oversized patio umbrellas, cozy lounges and hammocks tucked under trees create an inviting space to relax poolside.
The sound of running water from nearby garden fountains or water features adds to the relaxing ambiance.
For the finishing touch, hang strands of light across the pool for a magical effect after dark.
With plenty of ways to relax amidst the lush surroundings, this backyard pool oasis offers a secluded getaway feet from your home.
Tropical Jungle Pool
Go wild with tropical plants to create a lush jungle setting around your pool.
Use large leafed tropical varieties like elephant ears, banana trees, philodendron and monsteracombined with sweet honeysuckle vines climbing up arbors.
The bold foliage provides dappled shade and a sense of privacy around the pool by screening the perimeter.
Add surprise features like a cave, waterfall or hidden hot tub nestled into the dense greenery.
Mimic natural jungle ruins with faux stone structures and weathered statuary.
Wood decking and natural stone pathways reinforce the tropical theme.
Night lighting can include Tiki torches and paper lanterns illuminating the plantings.
With its dense plantings and natural structures, this jungle-themed poolscape transports you to an exotic locale full of discovery and adventure.
It’s a vacation at home.
English Garden Pool
An English garden design sports tidy planted beds, graceful arbors and classic charm.
Neat boxwood hedges make a trim border for flower beds that encircle the pool.
Plant varieties include English roses, foxglove, hollyhocks and delphiniums in pastel hues.
Add a cutting garden for homegrown annuals and bulbs to cut and display poolside.
An iron, picket or lattice fence secures the backyard while adding character.
Arbors covered in climbing roses or ivy make shady relaxation spots for seating areas.
Other English garden elements include stone fountains, urn planters, benches and trellised walls overhung with vines.
Nighttime ambiance comes from old-fashioned gas lamps and lanterns.
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Tropical Woodlands
Combining tropical plant varieties with a lush woodland motif results in a unique backyard pool environment.
Scatter palms like bamboo and reed for a woodsy vibe along with flowering heliconia and ginger.
Use ferns and oversized leafed philodendrons to create depth and texture.
Natural vine-covered pergolas, gazebos and trellises enhance the woodland theme while providing poolside shade.
For nighttime drama, hang lanterns and candles from tree branches.
Add wood pathway remnants alongside the designed wood deck pool surround for contrast.
Accent with faux bois, referring to sculpted concrete designed to look like naturally weathered wood.
Poolside Cabana
Transform pool downtime into retreat time in a cozy poolside cabana.
Use bamboo, natural wood and thatch roofing to construct a cabana for shade and seclusion.
Outfit the interior with comfy seating, tables, storage and even mini kitchen or bar amenities.
Surround the poolside cabana with lush tropical plantings to enhance the island vibe.
For a more polished look, build the poolside cabana from classic materials like stone, brick and wood beams with a tiled roof.
Accent with ceiling fans, drapes, furnishings and lighting fixtures.
An outdoor rug and throw pillows add warmth and texture.
Depending on size, the poolside cabana can house chaise lounges, dining tables, hammocks or conversation areas.
Customize to suit your entertaining needs and poolside lifestyle.
It provides an oasis of shade perfect for relaxing, dining and entertaining alongside the pool.
Courtyard Pool
Frame the pool with foliage and structures to create an intimate courtyard setting for soaking up the sun.
Use trees, tall shrubs and vines along the rear and side perimeters to seclude the pool in its own private garden room.
In the open areas surrounding the pool, define secondary spaces like lounges, dining zones and firepits using screening panels, pergolas and fences.
Ground the layout with geometric stone or tile pathways surrounding block style planting beds.
Add containers overflowing with foliage and bright blooms.
Accent lighting transforms the pool courtyard into a magical evening escape.
During the day, the enclosed space provides sun-drenched lounging and poolside leisure in a sheltered setting.
The courtyard pool layout makes the most of limited space while offering seclusion.
Backyard Staycation
Make every dip in the pool feel like a vacation by creating a destination backdrop.
Use fencing, latticework or privacy screens to hide unwanted views and establish a secluded resort feel.
Surround the pool with sandy beach areas, lounge chairs and sun shelters.
Tropical casitas or pool houses add accommodations for daytime sipping, dining and lounging poolside.
Hanging beds, hammocks and swings increase the sense of leisure and relaxation.
Add fun touches like pool noodles, rafts and beach balls to lighten the mood.
When not swimming, pass time with games like cornhole, basketball hoops or table tennis situated nearby.
With plenty of amenities, activities and escapist scenery, the backyard pool morphs into a staycation destination.
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Poolside Entertaining
Some homeowners install backyard pools mainly for entertainment purposes.
Maximize your pool’s party potential by providing space to mingle, dine, play games and more.
Create a generous poolside patio space and include multiple conversation areas with all-weather seating.
Build in amenities like an outdoor kitchen, bar and buffet for self-serve dining.
Pool essentials likeTables with umbrellas provide shade for al fresco dining and playing games like cards, dominoes or board games poolside.
Outdoor sofas and chairs placed around a fire table encourage guests to linger.
For night swims, hang strings of lights and torches to illuminate the party.
With plenty of features that bring people together, your landscape design can enhance backyard pool parties and social gatherings.
The area surrounding a backyard pool offers exciting possibilities for creative landscaping.
