If you’re dreaming of transforming your backyard into a welcoming oasis, an above ground pool deck is a total game-changer. Let me share some of my favorite ideas to help you create a space that’s both stunning and oh-so-relaxing.
1. Full-Surround Deck for a Resort Feel
Building a full-surround deck around your above ground pool makes the whole area feel like a private resort—I did this for a client and it instantly became the neighborhood hangout spot. The continuous decking hides the pool walls and gives you loads of space for loungers and poolside snacks.
You might give these a try:
- Outdoor Lounge Chairs: Relax in style with comfortable lounge chairs perfect for sunbathing by your poolside.
- Patio Umbrella: Stay cool with a colorful patio umbrella offering ample shade on sunny days.
- Outdoor Side Table: Keep snacks and drinks within reach with a stylish outdoor side table for your deck.
2. Modern Composite Decking for Low Maintenance
If you crave that sleek modern look without the fuss, go for composite decking—I’ve installed it and love how it handles splashes and sun with barely any upkeep. The earthy tones look gorgeous, and you don’t have to worry about splinters on bare summer feet.
A few suggestions:
- Composite Decking Boards: Upgrade your deck for that sleek modern look with durable, low-maintenance composite decking boards.
- Outdoor Deck Furniture Set: Enhance your poolside lounging experience with stylish, weather-resistant outdoor deck furniture sets.
- Deck Lighting Kit: Illuminate your deck with energy-efficient lighting for a beautiful ambiance in the evenings.
3. Side Decks for Cozy Corners
A side deck is a budget-friendly way to add lounging space without wrapping the whole pool—I did this in my own yard, and it’s the perfect nook for morning coffee or watching the kids swim. Plus, it’s an easy weekend project if you love a bit of DIY.
Products that could assist:
- Outdoor Adirondack Chairs: Add charm and comfort to your deck with these durable and stylish Adirondack chairs.
- Weatherproof Outdoor Side Table: Place your drinks and snacks within reach with a sturdy and chic outdoor side table.
- Patio Deck Lighting Kit: Illuminate your cozy corner with ambient lighting for magical evenings by the pool.
4. Mix Materials for Textural Interest
One of my favorite tricks is combining wood with stone or brick accents—it totally elevates the look and feels custom. I once wrapped a pool with both and the mix of textures made the whole area feel luxurious and unique.
Try these:
- Interlocking Deck Tiles: Enhance your pool area with easy-to-install interlocking deck tiles for a chic wooden finish.
- Stone Pavers: Add elegance with durable stone pavers, creating a stylish and slip-resistant poolside pathway.
- Brick Accent Pieces: Incorporate classic charm with brick accents, enhancing the texture and appeal of your pool deck.
5. Built-In Benches and Storage
Designing benches into your deck is a lifesaver for pool parties—I always add hidden storage underneath for towels and pool toys. It keeps everything tidy, and you’ll never scramble for a towel again!
A few relevant products:
- Outdoor Waterproof Storage Box: Keep your pool essentials dry and organized with this spacious and durable storage solution.
- Bench Cushion for Outdoor Seating: Add comfort and style to your poolside bench with weather-resistant outdoor cushions.
- Pool Towel Hooks: Ensure your towels are always within reach by installing these handy poolside hooks.
6. Pergola Paradise for Shade and Style
A pergola over part of your deck adds instant shade and a cozy feel—I built one last summer and it’s my favorite place for afternoon reading and iced tea. Twine up some string lights and you’ve got magical evening vibes, too.
You might like:
- Outdoor Pergola Curtains: Enhance your pergola’s elegance with outdoor curtains for privacy and sun protection. Transform your space.
- String Lights for Outdoor Use: Create a magical evening atmosphere with enchanting string lights. Brighten up your backyard nights.
- All-Weather Wicker Patio Set: Relax in style with a durable wicker patio set. Ideal for comfort and outdoor lounging.
7. Terraced Steps for Dramatic Entrances
Building wide, terraced steps up to the pool deck gives a grand entrance—and it doubles as overflow seating for parties. I love sitting on the steps with friends, feet dangling, while the kids splash away.
Some handy options:
- Outdoor Wooden Decking Tiles: Transform your poolside with easy-to-install wooden decking tiles for a natural look.
- Solar Pathway Lights: Brighten steps with eco-friendly solar lights, perfect for evening poolside gatherings.
- Weather-Resistant Outdoor Cushions: Add comfort to your pool steps with colorful, weather-resistant cushions for guests.
8. Wraparound Railings with Planters
Adding railings with built-in planters is both safe and beautiful—I often tuck trailing vines and herbs along the edges for a living border. It’s a small touch that makes the whole deck feel lush and personal.
A few choices to try:
- Wooden Rail Planter Boxes: Enhance your railings with these sturdy wooden planter boxes for a lush, natural touch.
- Hanging Herb Planters: Try these hanging herb planters for a convenient way to grow fresh herbs on your deck.
- Trailing Vine Seeds: Plant these trailing vine seeds to create a living border around your pool deck.
9. Glass Panel Railings for Unobstructed Views
If you have a killer view, swap wood for glass panel railings—I did this on a hillside project and the backyard looked twice as big. The pool feels like it’s floating, and you get all the safety without blocking those sunset scenes.
Check these products out:
- Glass Railing System: Enhance your view with sleek glass railings that offer safety without the obstruction.
- Outdoor Deck Furniture Set: Transform your deck with comfy furniture, perfect for enjoying sunset views from your poolside.
- Outdoor Deck Lighting: Illuminate your deck with elegant lighting, creating an inviting ambiance for evening relaxation.
10. Partial Platform Decks for Budget Bliss
A quarter or half-deck is a great way to get all the benefits of a pool deck without a big price tag—I built one for a friend and it still had room for chairs and a cute bistro set. Sometimes less really is more!
Give these a look:
- Outdoor Bistro Set: Enhance your deck with a stylish bistro set for cozy outdoor dining and relaxation.
- Folding Lounge Chairs: Add comfort and style to your poolside with foldable lounge chairs for easy seating.
- Outdoor Umbrella with Stand: Stay cool and shaded by adding a durable outdoor umbrella to your pool deck area.
11. Integrated Lighting for Nighttime Magic
Don’t forget deck lighting—recessed LED lights along the steps and rails make evening swims feel enchanting. I use solar-powered lights for a subtle glow and easy, wire-free setup.
May just do the trick:
- Recessed LED Deck Lights: Enhance your deck with recessed LED lights for a safe and enchanting evening swim experience.
- Solar-Powered Step Lights: Illuminate your steps with solar-powered lights for an eco-friendly and wire-free setup.
- Outdoor String Lights: Create a magical atmosphere with outdoor string lights, perfect for cozy evening gatherings.
12. Lush Landscaping for a Natural Retreat
Surrounding your pool deck with grasses, shrubs, and potted plants brings the whole space to life—I always suggest mixing heights and textures for that wild, secret-garden feel. Last season, I added ornamental grasses and the transformation was unbelievable.
A few things you might like:
- Ornamental Grass Seeds: Enhance your poolside with ornamental grasses, creating texture and movement in your garden oasis.
- Decorative Outdoor Planters: Add style to your pool deck with elegant planters for vibrant shrubs and potted plants.
- Assorted Low-Maintenance Shrubs: Simplify your gardening with low-maintenance shrubs, perfect for lush, vibrant backyard settings.
13. Stone or Paver Walkways for Easy Access
A stone or paver pathway leading to your pool deck adds a polished touch—I’ve used oversized pavers to make a whimsical garden path and it’s always a hit with guests. It keeps muddy feet away from your beautiful deck, too.
Possibly helpful picks:
- Outdoor Paving Stones: Create a sturdy, elegant path to your pool with easy-to-install outdoor paving stones.
- Garden Pathway Lighting: Illuminate your walkway for safety and beauty with energy-efficient garden pathway lighting.
- Weed Barrier Fabric: Keep your paver walkway clean by installing durable weed barrier fabric underneath.
