You know, your backyard pool could be so much more than just a rectangle of water you ignore until July. Seriously, you can make it a spot you actually want to hang out in.
Here are 24 fun and easy ideas to help you add plants, lights, seating, and little extras—without emptying your wallet.
You’ll find options that make your pool area feel like a mini resort, save water, amp up privacy, or set the mood for pool parties. No designer needed, I promise.
Flip through and grab what fits your style—maybe you want a tropical getaway, or maybe you just want something low-key and easy to keep alive. There’s something for everyone.
Here’s a fun tidbit: even a small clump of tropical plants can make your pool feel like you’re on vacation.
1. Tropical plant clusters for a mini jungle vibe
Try grouping palms, bird-of-paradise, and ferns right by the pool. You’ll get instant height and a cool, textured look.
Mix tall, medium, and short plants for that layered, wild effect. Odd numbers—like three or five—always look more natural, trust me.
If you want to change things up, go for pots. You can move them around when the seasons change or when you’re feeling restless.
Stick some broad-leafed plants near your chairs to soften those sharp pool edges and get a bit of shade. Just make sure walkways stay clear and pick plants that don’t drop a ton of leaves, unless you love sweeping.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Start with tall, medium, and low plants for instant depth. Move your pots around until the view feels just right.”
2. Native drought-tolerant plants to save water and your sanity
Let’s be real: watering every day is a drag, and your pool shouldn’t come with a side of chores.
Native, drought-tolerant plants basically take care of themselves. They love your weather, need less water, and bring in birds and pollinators—so you get a lively yard without the work.
Mix up some grasses, shrubs, and flowers for texture and color. Group them by sun and soil needs so you don’t waste water.
Throw down some mulch and set up drip irrigation. Your plants stay happy, and you can spend more time floating instead of dragging hoses.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Plant the same kind of plant in little groups so they’re all on the same watering schedule. Swap in a couple of seasonal flowers for color without extra effort.
3. Floating pool planters for a splash of green that swims
Here’s something cool: you can float a mini garden right on your pool, and it won’t tip over or sink.
Floating planters bring in color and life, but don’t hog your deck space. You can still stretch out on your chair and enjoy the view.
Grab lightweight, waterproof planters or put regular pots on a floating base. Go for water-loving plants or tough grasses that can handle a splash or two.
Float a few small planters together for a natural look. Or, try one big one as a centerpiece. Switch up the plants with the seasons, and keep an eye out for algae so things stay clean.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Try a couple small floats first to see what you like. Change plants every season so it never gets boring.
4. Multi-level rock gardens around the pool for that ‘I hired landscapers’ look
Guess what? You don’t need a giant budget to make your backyard look pro.
Stack some rocks into terraces and suddenly your pool looks like it belongs in a fancy magazine. Use flat stones and some big boulders to build ledges and little pockets for plants.
Tuck in low-maintenance grasses and succulents. You get all the texture, none of the fuss.
Change up rock sizes and heights to hide that ugly pool pump or build in some privacy. No need for a big wall.
Lay your paths with a compacted base so nobody slips. Add a few soft LED lights on the steps—now it works at night, too.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Start with one terrace and add more later. It’s way easier to adjust than tearing out a whole hillside.“
5. Solar-powered path lights to guide your midnight cannonballs
People think solar lights die after one splash, but the good ones glow all night.
Line your pool edge and steps with solar path lights. They soak up sun all day and come on by themselves at dusk—no wires, no hassle.
Look for lights with strong batteries and bright bulbs. Get ones that can handle water and the occasional soccer ball.
Mix some soft, warm lights with a few brighter ones at corners. You’ll see where you’re going and still keep the vibe chill.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Point the lights at the ground, not your eyes, so you don’t blind yourself. Pick ones with replaceable batteries so they last more than one summer.“
6. Privacy hedges like bamboo or tall grasses to keep nosy neighbors guessing
Nobody wants to feel like the neighbors are watching their every cannonball. Plant a row of clumping bamboo or tall grasses and you’ll get instant privacy and a little peace.
Bamboo shoots up fast and thick, so you don’t wait years for coverage. Go for clumping types—they won’t take over the whole block.
Try pampas, fountain, or feather grass for a softer, breezy wall. Mix up the heights and shapes to hide the ugly stuff and keep things interesting.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Plant in groups for quick results, and give them lots of water at first. Use root barriers with bamboo to keep it on your side of the fence.
Myth-Busting Statement: Wooden loungers aren’t just for cabins. They can bring a cozy, homey feel to any backyard pool.
7. Rustic wooden deck loungers with colorful cushions for ultimate chill mode
You want a spot to kick back that looks good and feels comfy. Rustic wooden loungers totally deliver.
Throw on some bright cushions and the whole area wakes up. Plus, you can switch out colors whenever you get bored.
Set up two loungers with a little table in between—perfect for snacks, drinks, or just chatting.
Make sure your cushions are weatherproof, and seal the wood so you’re not sanding splinters every year.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Pick cushions with covers you can toss in the wash. Move your loungers around every so often so the sun doesn’t fade just one side.”
8. Smooth pebbles lining the pool edge instead of boring concrete
Who says concrete is the only safe choice? Smooth pebbles look warm and natural, and they drain water like a champ.
They feel great under bare feet and come in all sorts of colors. Plus, they hide dirt and stains way better than plain old concrete.
To install, just lay a solid base, add edging to keep them in place, and seal if you want them really locked in. Toss in some succulents or little grasses along the edge for a cozy finish.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Go for pebbles that are smooth and all about the same size—your feet will thank you. A light seal keeps them clean without losing the natural vibe.
9. Hanging lanterns above for mood lighting that says ‘date night ready’
Here’s a secret: soft overhead lights make everything feel more magical and relaxed.
Hang a few lanterns above your pool chairs or dining spot. Suddenly, it’s not just a backyard—it’s an evening retreat.
Use warm bulbs and hang them at different heights. It keeps things interesting and not too “matchy.”
Solar lanterns are easy, but you can also use low-voltage wired ones. String them from trees, pergolas, or tall poles—just keep the light off the water if you want a subtle look.
Paper lanterns bring a playful feel, while metal or glass ones look more classic. Pop in candles or LED flicker bulbs for a gentle glow.
Think about weatherproofing, and go for warm white so everyone looks good in the light.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Stand where you’ll sit and adjust lantern heights until the light feels cozy. Dimmable bulbs or timers are a lifesaver for setting the perfect mood.”
10. Water features like a waterfall or fountain for instant spa status
Even a tiny trickle of water can chill out your whole backyard. Add a waterfall or fountain and suddenly your pool sounds like a fancy spa.
Go for a rock waterfall if you want rustic, or a shiny steel spout for a modern look. Tuck in some plants and lights to make it feel like it’s always been there.
Fountains don’t take much space but add movement and sparkle. Waterfalls blend right into your landscaping and give you that immersive sound.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Match your pump to your pool size—too small and it’s a sad dribble, too big and you’ll get splashed. Go for a steady, gentle flow and add some LEDs for night swimming.”
11. Succulent gardens in decorative pots—plants that say ‘I’m easy, like me’
Succulents are the ultimate low-maintenance poolside buddy. You can toss a few in cute pots and get a stylish look without babysitting them.
Use pots with drainage and fill them with gritty soil—no soggy roots here! Mix up rosettes, trailing sedums, and spiky aloe for a fun combo.
Line them up on steps, beside your chairs, or even on a side table. They’re easy to shuffle around for sun or shade.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Spin your pots around every so often so they don’t get sunburned on one side. Water deeply but let the soil dry out between drinks—easy does it!
12. Pergolas draped with fairy lights for those Instagram-worthy evenings
Let’s clear something up: you don’t need a Hollywood budget to make your poolside evenings look magical.
When you drape string lights over a pergola, you turn an ordinary spot into a cozy hangout. The lights soften harsh glare from the water and give your photos that warm, inviting glow.
Try hanging lights along the rafters and weaving a few through climbing plants for a bit of depth. Hanging plants or lanterns add more layers and keep things looking relaxed.
Keep your light spacing even and go with warm white bulbs—they’re way more flattering in photos. Low-voltage LED strings use less power and handle poolside moisture like champs.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Test your lights at dusk before the big night. Use a plug timer so the glow pops on by itself, and you don’t have to remember a thing.”
13. Modern geometric stepping stones to keep your toes cool and clean
Let’s bust another myth: stepping stones don’t have to be chunky or scorch your feet. You can pick slim, geometric shapes that float just above turf or gravel, keeping toes cool and dry on the way from pool to patio.
They draw a crisp path that looks clean and modern, but not stuffy. Try squares, hexagons, or skinny rectangles in repeating lines that echo your pool’s outline.
Fill the gaps with grass, pebbles, or some drainage sand so water drains quick and you never step in mud. Go for light colors and a bit of texture to keep things cool and less slippery on hot days.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Test a sample stone in the sun—see if it stays cool. Set them on a firm base so nobody wobbles or trips.”
14. Climbing vines on a trellis for that secret garden feel
Here’s a fun one: a plain wall with a trellis can turn into your own private green hideout almost overnight.
You can plant jasmine, clematis, or climbing roses to bring scent and color right up to the pool. These vines grow fast and soften up sharp corners, so the space feels inviting and a little tucked away.
Set your trellis where you want shade or privacy, and grab a vine that matches your sun and soil. Tie the stems gently at the start—your vines will fill in much neater.
Pick materials like cedar or powder-coated metal that won’t mind the poolside splashes. If you mix in some evergreens with your flowering vines, you’ll have something nice to look at all year.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Start with sturdy posts set deep and toss a little mulch around the base. Tie new growth loosely so you guide the vines instead of strangling them.
Surprising Fact: A fire pit can stretch your pool nights well into cool evenings, so you get more time outside without freezing.
15. Poolside fire pit surrounded by comfy chairs for marshmallow sessions
You can turn a plain pool edge into a favorite hangout just by adding a low fire pit and some soft chairs. It’s the perfect spot for friends and family to gather, chat, and roast marshmallows.
Arrange chairs in a semi-circle so everyone faces the fire and still gets a view of the pool. Mix in Adirondacks, cushioned loungers, or woven chairs for a laid-back, comfy vibe.
Keep your fire pit a safe distance from water and plants, and use flame-safe cushions. Add some string lights and a little side table for snacks and skewers.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Go for a gas or contained wood pit for safer, cleaner flames. Keep a metal bucket and water nearby just in case.”
16. Brightly colored beach umbrellas to beat the sun and look fabulous
Here’s a little secret: a bright umbrella can totally lift the backyard mood and cut down the sun’s glare. You get instant shade and a splash of color—no heavy lifting required.
Choose umbrellas with UPF-rated fabric to protect your skin, and pick sturdy poles with vents so they won’t flip in the wind. Mix up sizes and patterns for a playful, beachy feel right at home.
Set umbrellas near seating, lounge chairs, or a poolside table to make little cozy spots. Use weighted bases or sand anchors so they don’t go flying, and tilt them to chase the sun.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Buy a UV-rated umbrella and a heavy base so it stays put. Bright colors last longer if you rinse off salty water after a swim.”
17. Edible herbs planted near the pool for minty mojitos on tap
Here’s something I learned the fun way: fresh mint straight from the garden makes a mojito taste a hundred times better than any store-bought sprig. You can tuck mint, basil, and lemon verbena in pots right by the pool and snip what you need, no shoes required.
Plant mint in containers so it doesn’t take over your whole garden. Basil loves the warmth and gives you that fresh, zippy flavor. Lemon balm and rosemary add a hint of citrus and pine—perfect for drinks, with or without the booze.
Set your pots on a ledge or near your favorite chair so you can reach them while you relax. Pick the leaves in the morning for the best scent and taste.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Plant mint in a deep pot with good drainage so it doesn’t get soggy. Trim often for bushier plants and more leaves for your drinks.“
18. Mirrored sculptures reflecting the sun’s glow for artsy sophistication
Here’s a neat trick: just one mirrored sculpture can make your pool area look twice as big and way more interesting.
Polished surfaces catch the sunrise and sunset, tossing soft glints of light over the water and patio. They act like living art, always shifting with the breeze and clouds.
Put your sculpture near the pool’s edge or up on a plinth so the reflections meet the water. Mix curved shapes for a softer look, or go for angles if you like things a bit edgier.
Pick weatherproof stuff like stainless steel or tempered glass. Keep them clean and make sure they’re secure so nobody gets a surprise glare or a wobbly statue.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Find a sculpture that really speaks to you, then set it where the light and water meet. Clean it gently and check the mounts every season.
19. Natural stone retaining walls to blend pool and backyard seamlessly
Let’s set the record straight: a wall doesn’t have to feel like a fence—it can blend right into your garden.
Use natural stone walls to hide slopes, stop erosion, and make your pool feel nestled into the yard. Stones bring color and texture that tie in with your planting beds and patios, so the pool feels like it belongs.
Low, stacked stone makes handy seats or steps. Taller, mortared walls hold back soil and give you a tidy edge for planting pockets.
Mix in native plants between stones to soften the lines and invite birds. Keep drainage guides in place so water doesn’t build up behind the wall.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Pick stones that match your house and keep the pattern simple for a chill vibe. Pop a few low plants in the cracks to soften the wall and cut down on chores.
20. Floating LED orbs in the water for parties that turn into light shows
You know what’s wild? A couple of floating orbs can totally change your pool’s mood in minutes. They drift on the water, glowing in all sorts of colors, and make quiet nights feel magical or parties way more fun.
You can pick orbs that run on solar, batteries, or are rechargeable, and some even come with remotes for easy color changes. Mix steady colors with slow fades or quick flashes to match your playlist or dinner vibe.
Scatter different sizes for more interest, or group them for a bright focal point. Hang a few near the pool’s edge to echo the colors and tie the space together.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: “Start with three orbs to play with placement and effects before you buy a bunch. Charge them all the way and keep a spare battery handy so the party lights last all night.”
21. Gravel pathways that crunch underfoot, because satisfying sounds matter
Here’s something oddly satisfying: the crunch of gravel under your feet can make your yard feel cozier and more alive. Walking from pool to patio, that soft crunch says you’re stepping into a chill zone.
Go with pea gravel for a gentle crunch, or pick crushed stone if you want a louder, sharper sound. Both drain well, so mud never follows you to the pool.
Line the path with wood, brick, or metal edging to keep things tidy. Plant low greenery or pop in some solar lights along the sides to guide your steps and add a little charm.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Pick a gravel size that matches your favorite sound and pack a solid base for steady footing. Top up the gravel once or twice a year to keep the crunch going strong.
22. Outdoor shower surrounded by lush greenery for instant resort feels
Here’s a treat: a quick rinse outdoors can feel like a mini vacation. Step out of the pool and into a shower wrapped in green, and your backyard suddenly feels like a fancy resort.
Plant hardy stuff like ferns, bamboo, or palms to make a private, leafy screen. Mix tall leaves, soft ferns, and some smooth stones for depth and to hide any pipes.
Pick a rainfall shower head or a simple wall-mounted one for a soothing sound. Add a wooden deck or pebble floor so you don’t drag mud back inside.
Go for low-maintenance, salt-tolerant plants if you use chlorine. Think about drainage and add a towel hook nearby to keep life easy.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Plant in layers for privacy and good looks. Use native, easy-care plants so your shower stays lush with almost no effort.
23. Raised planter beds with citrus trees to smell like a vacation
Here’s a fun fact: a couple of citrus trees make your backyard smell like a beachside café. Warm breezes carry that fresh scent right over the pool.
Raised planter beds help roots stay healthy and make watering easier. They also lift trees so the blooms and fruit are right at eye level—how neat is that?
Pick dwarf citrus types for small beds so they don’t crowd out your deck. Add good drainage, mulch, and a slow-release fertilizer to keep them happy even with pool splashes.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Put planters where you’ll catch the scent most—like by your favorite chair or the pool edge. Prune lightly every year to keep trees small and full of flowers.
24. Invisible mesh fences for safety without killing the vibe
Let’s clear something up: invisible fences don’t have to be those clunky metal bars that ruin your backyard view.
You can pick up a clear, low-key mesh fence that lets your garden and pool actually look good. The mesh is tough but see-through, so it just kind of melts into your plants, deck, or whatever else you’ve got going on.
Most of these fences pop in and out pretty easily. You put them up when kids or pets are running around, then stash them away if you’re throwing a party or just want a wide open space.
They usually come in black or see-through mesh, and the posts are skinny enough that you barely notice them.
Expert Tip From MrPlanter: Go for a mesh fence with UV-proof fabric and latches you can open in a hurry. That way, it stays safe and holds up for years. Oh, and don’t eyeball the shape of your pool—actually measure it so the fence fits tight and looks sharp.
