9 Best Above Ground Pool Ideas for Your Backyard

The summer heat doesn’t discriminate. But not everyone can excavate their backyard to make way for an inground swimming pool.

Above-ground pools get a bad rap for no reason. All it takes is a stylish patio or strategically placed pool deck to make these swimming holes look as good as their inground counterparts. In fact, if you ask us, some setups look even better!

Keep reading for our favorite above-ground pool ideas that prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to cool off this summer! You’ll also find some great above-ground pool deck ideas to go along with your new backyard oasis.

1. Design Your Dream Pool Deck

Pool decking can serve several purposes. It offers a designated area to arrange your favorite patio furniture. It prevents grass clippings and dirt from being tracked into your pool water. And it can hide the less attractive parts of an above-ground pool setup.

A wooden deck surrounds a swimming pool, with closed umbrellas and lush green trees in the background, and a cloudy sky above — Source: @houseswithog via Instagram

Modern above-ground pool with sleek wood decking and built-in seating, creating a stylish and functional outdoor retreat

Elevated wooden deck with an oval swimming pool, surrounded by a forest of tall evergreen trees on a sunny day — Source: @lumberjackshomeimprovements via Instagram

Above-ground pool with multi-layered wooden decking in a backyard next to a white house with a patio — Source: @rsj_woodworks via Instagram

Elevated wooden deck with pool, three blue chairs, a small table, hanging lights, and plants in the background — Source: @thompsondesigns_1974 via Instagram

Wooden hot tub and pool with steps on a stone patio, surrounded by greenery and buildings in the background — Source: @urbanblackbird via Instagram

A backyard with a round above-ground pool on a wooden deck, surrounded by trees and a green lawn with a pathway and seating area — Source: @vaughnhillhome via Instagram

Many homeowners opt to build a raised deck around their above-ground pool — the pool exterior sits underneath. Others encase the entire pool in decking for a cleaner appearance.

Most pool deck ideas rely on wood planking. You can choose from a wide range of patterns and stain colors to suit your outdoor decor style. Be sure to invest in a high-quality sealant to protect against rain and pool water!

2. Budget-Friendly Pool Solutions

There’s no question: Above-ground pools are almost always more affordable than in-ground models. But that doesn’t mean decorating the space around your pool can’t cost a pretty penny.

Wooden pool deck with white railings and steps beside an above-ground pool, surrounded by a grassy yard and trees — Source: @apdesigntrim via Instagram

Above-ground pool with a straw fence, sunflowers, and sign saying "Please Don't Feed the Mermaids" with trees in the background — Source: @just_micaela_around via Instagram

Above-ground pool with ladder, surrounded by lush green trees and grass under a clear blue sky — Source: @romipool133 via Instagram

Above-ground pool with a rainbow float surrounded by lush greenery and flowers under a clear blue sky — Source: @themariamethod via Instagram

Round above-ground pool with bamboo fencing, surrounded by vibrant flowers and tropical plants, a "California" sign adds a playful touch — Source: @tikitachin via Instagram

Covering up your pool’s original siding can make a huge difference in your backyard’s appearance. Wood posts or bamboo can be applied to the pool’s exterior to cover up the plastic or vinyl underneath. Use recycled wood to save even more money!

Place large stones around your above-ground pool to make it look like a natural part of the landscape. Inground or potted plants can also help your swimming pool blend into the backyard around it.

3. Elevate with Luxury Pool Styles

We tend to assume that every homeowner would opt for an inground pool if they had the budget. Yet there are countless above-ground pool ideas out there absolutely dripping in luxury.

Luxurious outdoor space with a modern illuminated pool, whirlpool section, and elegant seating area surrounded by greenery — Source: @foxterradesign via Instagram

Aerial view of a modern house with a pool, spacious patio, landscaping, and a stone and wood facade — Source: @gibsoncontracting via Instagram

Modern house with an infinity pool surrounded by lush greenery and trees, the patio area has seating and large glass doors — Source: @michaelnantz via Instagram

Not all above-ground pools are made of plastic or vinyl. Just take a look at the infinity-edge trend — it would be impossible to create this illusion with an inground pool. Luxury pool designs can be made from glass, metal, stone, and a wide range of other materials.

Above-ground pools have tons of benefits besides cost. Nothing beats a raised pool when it comes to safety. An above-ground pool is also an excellent option if you live in an area where excavation isn’t possible.

4. Contemporary Pool Designs for Modern Homes

Are you hesitant to install an above-ground pool because you don’t know if it will fit into your modern landscape? A few small details are all you need for a modernized backyard oasis.

A rectangular above-ground pool with a deck and seating, surrounded by trees and grass, it reflects the blue sky above — Source: @contain_u via Instagram

Stylish above-ground pool with wood decking, illuminated steps, and a glass panel for a modern and inviting backyard oasis — Source: @trekpools via Instagram

Elegant above-ground pool with glass panel walls, sleek tiling, and a cozy hanging chair for a luxurious outdoor retreat — Source: @tilingpools via Instagram

Modern above-ground pool with a sleek stone border, warm wood paneling, and a cozy lounge area for a stylish indoor-outdoor retreat — Source: @dmaxphotography via Instagram

The secret to modern design is using clean lines and geometric shapes. Try to get your hands on a square, rectangular, or round pool for the most aesthetically pleasing shape.

Many modern swimming pools are built into an existing structure, like a concrete patio or wooden deck. If you’re unable to find any pool deck ideas that fit your space, you can always let your above-ground pool design shine on its own.

5. Explore Semi-Inground Pool Options

Many homeowners think that swimming pools come in just two types — above-ground or inground. But another has emerged in recent years.

Semi-in-ground pool with elegant stone edging, a paved patio, and cozy seating, creating a stylish and inviting backyard retreat — Source: @aquaredi_pools via Instagram

Backyard with kidney-shaped pool, stone surrounding, green lawn, and trees; houses and bushes visible in the background — Source: @brothersthreepools via Instagram

A semi-inground pool is a hybrid option sharing characteristics with both traditional styles of pool. These pools simultaneously reach several feet above and below the ground’s surface. The upper walls can be made of cement, plastic, metal, or even clear glass.

Semi-inground pools don’t just combine the appearances of above and inground pools. Typically, a semi-inground pool is a more affordable alternative to a true inground pool. Yet this style of pool tends to have a lifespan and maintenance requirements more similar to an above-ground model.

6. Maximize Space with Compact Pool Choices

Despite what we might dream of in our spare time, most backyards aren’t suited to a full-size lap pool. That doesn’t mean a small swimming pool can’t be a godsend on hot summer days.

Above-ground pool with blue water, a unicorn float, and wooden deck, surrounded by lush green grass and trees — Source: @agelmici via Instagram

Cozy above-ground pool with a black wooden frame, soft seating, and string lights, creating a stylish and intimate backyard retreat — Source: @the_head_to_heart_house via Instagram

Small pools are excellent for children, water-loving dogs, and adults in need of relaxation. Many can even be set up to double as hot tubs when the temperatures drop!

Because space inside is obviously limited, it’s a good idea to include a comfortable lounge area around your small swimming pool. This will allow you and others to hang out and destress without overcrowding the water.

7. Get Creative with Stock Tank Pools

Stock tanks are traditionally used to hold feed or water for livestock. But many ingenious homeowners have adapted these metal basins into DIY swimming pools (and even hot tubs).

Charming stock tank pool with a wooden deck, cozy seating, and string lights, creating a rustic and inviting backyard retreat — Source: @carly_priestley via Instagram

Stock tank pool with a wooden deck, vibrant Adirondack chairs, and lush greenery, creating a cozy and stylish backyard escape — Source: @discoveringgtx

A stock tank pool with wooden steps, two cushioned seats, a red umbrella, and potted flowers on a grassy area with a fence backdrop — Source: @fitforasuitcase via Instagram

Stylish stock tank pool with a black metal finish, wooden steps, and a cozy lounge area, creating a chic and modern backyard retreat — Source: @houseofbutterfield via Instagram

Rustic stock tank pool with a wooden deck, colorful seating, and chic black umbrellas, creating a cozy and stylish outdoor retreat — Source: @ifmytankcouldtalk via Instagram

Boho-inspired stock tank pool with a black finish, stylish decor, and a fringed umbrella, creating a serene and chic backyard retreat — Source: @stayathomewithchelsea via Instagram

Vibrant pink stock tank pool under a wooden pergola with boho hanging chairs, lush greenery, and string lights for a fun backyard oasis — Source: @werethejoneses via Instagram

Stock tank pools are one of the cheapest styles of above-ground pools available. They’re also much more attractive than a plastic or inflatable pool!

While stock tank pools are a great way to beat the summer heat in a pinch, they’re not perfect. This style of pool is ideal for quickly cooling off — stock tanks are excellent for children and pets. But if you want something you can actually swim in, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

8. Enhance Your Pool with Elegant Stonework

Some people just can’t get over the seamless appearance of an inground pool. Believe it or not, there are ways to build your swimming pool deck that mimic this aesthetic without any excavation.

Above-ground pool with a stylish stone patio, built-in steps, and outdoor dining, creating a perfect backyard retreat for relaxation — Source: @aquaredi via Instagram

Above-ground pool with stone exterior on a paved patio, surrounded by chairs and houses under a clear sky — Source: @lizziekaybean via Instagram

Elevated backyard pool with stone steps and patio, surrounded by a white fence and trees, with chaise lounges nearby — Source: @stonecreationsoflongisland via Instagram

Laying stone blocks around your above-ground pool serves much the same purpose as a wooden deck. You can stack stones around the perimeter or create a raised pool deck for an experience that is — essentially — the same as an inground pool deck.

There is no one style of paver that fits all projects. Experiment with different stone types, colors, finishes, and shapes to create an above-ground pool deck that suits your personal taste.

9. Transform Your Pool with Stylish Woodwork

If we haven’t already made it abundantly clear: Wood is by far the best way to cover an above-ground pool and make it look like a permanent fixture in your backyard.

Octagonal above-ground pool with wooden panels, ladder, and metal handrails in a garden setting — Source: @bemypool via Instagram

A small above-ground pool with wooden siding and steps, surrounded by plants and gravel — Source: @diy.journeys via Instagram

Above-ground pool in a lush garden setting with palm trees, flowers, and wooden steps leading to the water — Source: @lisakabbate via Instagram

You can easily cover your above-ground pool’s exterior using wood planks, shingles, or even old pallets. Be sure to coordinate the wood’s finish with the rest of your backyard or patio design. You can even attach a ladder right to the wood structure!

Of course, aesthetics shouldn’t be your only concern. High-quality pool decking will still allow easy access to pumps, filters, and other essential equipment. Removable panels can be used to cover up these elements between routine maintenance.

Are above-ground pools trashy?

An above-ground swimming pool can be just as classy as an inground one, especially if you finish everything off with a nice deck.

Don’t let other pool owners discourage you from investing in a pool that meets your needs. The stereotype of above-ground pools looking cheap or trashy needs to go!

Are above-ground pools permanent?

It depends. Most above-ground pools are considered temporary structures.

While these pools can last for 10 years or more, they don’t actually change the surrounding property. This is in contrast to inground pools, which require excavation and other major changes to the land.

Semi-inground pools and above-ground pools built into a foundation are typically considered permanent structures.