14 Beautiful Above Ground Pool Ideas with Decking & Landscaping Touches

Ready to Upgrade Your Above Ground Pool?

Above ground pools often get a bad rap—but with a little creativity and thoughtful planning, they can become the highlight of your backyard. In this post, you’ll explore 14 beautiful above ground pool ideas, from dreamy decks to lush landscaping that turns your pool area into a total vibe. Whether you’re going for resort-chic, rustic retreat, or something simple and serene, there’s an idea here for every budget and style.

1. Wraparound Wood Deck

A warm and welcoming backyard feature.

Surrounding your above ground pool with a full or partial wood deck adds visual polish and better functionality. Use pressure-treated lumber or composite decking for durability. Leave space for lounge chairs or built-in benches.

Actionable Tips:

• Stain or paint the deck to match your house.

• Include wide stairs for safer and more elegant access.

Picture this:
A sunlit wooden deck wrapping around a sparkling pool, with striped loungers and potted palms lining the edge.

2. Tropical Landscaping Vibes

Bring the resort feel home.

Tuck tall grasses, banana trees, and hibiscus around your pool’s base. Use mulch or river rock to tidy up the edges and reduce weeds. Add tiki torches or string lights for sunset swims.

Actionable Tips:

• Choose low-maintenance tropical plants suited to your climate.

• Install solar lights for nighttime ambience.

Picture this:
Lush green plants swaying in the breeze around a pool, while golden light glows from tiki torches at dusk.

3. Modern Gravel Border

Clean, minimal, and low-maintenance.

Instead of building up, dig a shallow trench around your pool and fill it with decorative gravel. This neat edge adds visual contrast and helps with drainage.

Actionable Tips:

• Use gray or white gravel for a modern look.

• Mix in solar path lights or large stones for extra texture.

Picture this:
A round pool with sleek white gravel circling the base, flanked by contemporary black loungers.

4. Sunken Pool Illusion

Let it blend into your yard.

Build a raised deck at the height of your pool, so it feels like an in-ground installation. Add steps or a patio path leading up for a seamless look.

Actionable Tips:

• Match decking to your home exterior for cohesion.

• Use railings or planters to finish the edges safely.

Picture this:
A pool perfectly flush with a modern deck, giving the illusion it was built into the yard, surrounded by leafy trees and garden beds.

5. Container Garden Surround

Colorful and flexible décor.

Not into planting in the ground? Arrange potted flowers, herbs, or even tall bamboo around your pool. Switch them up with the seasons for a fresh look year-round.

Actionable Tips:

• Use large matching planters for a cohesive look.

• Choose fragrant plants like lavender or mint for a sensory boost.

Picture this:
Tall clay pots filled with blooms circling a pool, with butterflies and bees buzzing about on a sunny afternoon.

6. Pergola Paradise

Shade, style, and structure.

Install a pergola beside or over part of your pool deck to define the space and provide shade. Drape it with climbing plants or sheer curtains for a dreamy escape.

Actionable Tips:

• Hang outdoor string lights or lanterns from the beams.

• Add a small bistro set or outdoor daybed underneath.

Picture this:
A wood pergola casting striped shadows over a poolside couch, with grapevines climbing up the beams.

7. Natural Rock Edge

Blending structure with nature.

Create a faux rock wall or border around your pool using landscaping stones or rock veneer. This gives your setup a natural, organic look while hiding the pool’s exterior wall.

Actionable Tips:

• Use flat stones to build a seating ledge.

• Mix plantings like ferns and moss between gaps.

Picture this:
A serene rock-framed pool surrounded by low greenery, echoing a mountain spring oasis.

8. Privacy Screen Sanctuary

Keep things chill and secluded.

Wooden lattice panels, bamboo fencing, or tall hedges can create privacy around your pool without feeling closed off.

Actionable Tips:

• Paint lattice white or black for a modern touch.

• Grow climbing plants like jasmine or clematis to soften the look.

Picture this:
A quiet pool corner with a privacy screen covered in flowering vines, tucked away from the world.

9. Floating Deck Platforms

Budget-friendly and flexible.

Build a small platform or floating deck next to your pool instead of wrapping the whole thing. It gives you a lounging space without the cost of a full deck.

Actionable Tips:

• Use non-slip paint or outdoor mats for safety.

• Add a simple ladder or stairs for easy access to the pool.

Picture this:
A cozy platform beside the pool with throw pillows and a tray of lemonade waiting.

10. Zen Gravel & Bamboo Garden

Simple, serene, and spa-like.

Surround your pool with raked gravel, bamboo poles, and a few stone sculptures for a peaceful Japanese-inspired vibe.

Actionable Tips:

• Add a small water fountain or wind chimes.

• Use stepping stones to lead to and from the pool.

Picture this:
A minimalist space with gravel lines, smooth stones, and tall bamboo rustling in the wind.

11. Ladder Upgrade

Practical, but prettier.

Ditch the standard metal ladder and install wide steps or a built-in wooden staircase that matches your deck.

Actionable Tips:

• Add grip tape or rubber strips for safety.

• Decorate handrails with solar lights or flower garlands.

Picture this:
Wide wooden stairs with subtle lighting, leading you straight into refreshing blue water.

12. Sunken Fire Pit Hangout

Perfect for evening swims.

Create a lounge area just a few steps from the pool with a sunken fire pit. Use gravel, retaining walls, or brick pavers to define the space.

Actionable Tips:

• Add comfy Adirondack chairs or outdoor poufs.

• Keep s’mores supplies close by!

Picture this:
A glowing fire pit surrounded by friends, with the pool just steps away reflecting the flames.

13. Artificial Turf Magic

Green without the upkeep.

Surround your pool with realistic artificial grass for a lush, soft, and always-tidy look. It’s easy on bare feet and doesn’t get muddy.

Actionable Tips:

• Use infill for better drainage and texture.

• Pair with gravel paths or stepping stones.

Picture this:
A bright green turf lawn around a crisp blue pool, with kids playing barefoot and water glistening in the sun.

14. Cabana Lounge Corner

Your own backyard resort.

Set up a cabana, umbrella, or tented lounge with soft cushions and flowing curtains. It’s a luxurious spot to read, nap, or sip a cold drink.

Actionable Tips:

• Add waterproof storage for towels and floaties.

• Choose bold prints or nautical stripes for a fun summer vibe.

Picture this:
A breezy white cabana with navy cushions and a basket of rolled-up towels, right next to the water’s edge.

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your Above Ground Pool

With a few thoughtful touches, your above ground pool can be just as beautiful and functional as an in-ground one. Whether you're going for modern minimalism or lush tropical vibes, there's a style here that suits your backyard dreams.