19 Stunning DIY Above Ground Pool Landscaping Ideas You Can Actually Do Yourself

Above ground pools offer affordable swimming options, but their exposed sides often create an unfinished look in your backyard.

With some creative landscaping, you can transform this utilitarian feature into a backyard centerpiece.

You don’t need professional landscaping skills to make your pool area beautiful.

Simple DIY projects can hide pool walls, create functional spaces, and enhance your outdoor living experience.

Ready to elevate your above ground pool from basic to breathtaking?

These 19 DIY landscaping ideas will help you create a poolside paradise without breaking the bank or requiring expert skills.

1: Wooden Deck Surround

Build a wooden deck that wraps partially or completely around your pool. This classic solution creates a finished look while providing space for lounging and entertaining.

Choose pressure-treated lumber or composite decking materials for water resistance.

Build the deck at a height that allows you to sit on the edge with feet dangling in the water.

This investment dramatically transforms your pool’s appearance while creating valuable entertainment space that integrates the pool into your overall landscape design.

2: Stone Pathway Installation

Create a stone pathway leading to your pool entrance using flat pavers or stepping stones.

This defines the approach to your pool while reducing mud and grass tracked into the water.

Choose materials that complement your home’s exterior for a cohesive look.

Lay stones in a curved pattern rather than straight lines for a more natural, flowing appearance.

This relatively simple weekend project immediately enhances your pool area’s functionality and appearance without requiring extensive landscaping skills.

3: Pallet Vertical Garden

Repurpose wooden pallets into vertical gardens positioned strategically around your pool.

Fill with colorful flowers, trailing vines, or herbs for a living privacy screen.

Secure the pallets firmly and line with landscape fabric before adding soil and plants. Choose varieties that tolerate occasional splashing and your specific sun conditions.

This budget-friendly solution adds vibrant color and texture while disguising unattractive pool walls with lush, living decoration.

4: Decorative Rock Border

Install a border of decorative rocks or river stones around your pool’s base.

This creates a finished transition between the pool and your lawn while providing splash protection.

Choose stones in varying sizes (2-6 inches) for natural appearance. Create a border at least 12 inches wide to prevent grass from growing too close to the pool.

This practical addition reduces lawn maintenance around the pool while creating a polished look that integrates the pool with your landscape design.

5: Potted Plant Groupings

Arrange container gardens in strategic groupings around your pool.

Use varying heights and textures to create visual interest while hiding pool equipment or unattractive areas.

Choose large, substantial pots that won’t tip over from splash or wind.

Select plants that thrive in your climate and can tolerate occasional chlorine or saltwater exposure.

This flexible solution allows you to change your poolside look seasonally without permanent installation, perfect for renters or those who like design variety.

6: Lattice Privacy Screen

Build simple lattice screens to conceal pool equipment or create privacy from neighbors.

The open pattern provides airflow while filtering views and creating a defined pool area.

Mount lattice panels to pressure-treated posts set in concrete for stability. Paint or stain the lattice to match your home or other pool features for a cohesive look.

This versatile screening solution can be customized to your exact height and width requirements while providing a support structure for optional climbing plants.

7: Mulched Garden Beds

Create curved garden beds surrounding parts of your pool with drought-tolerant perennials and shrubs.

The organic shapes soften the pool’s circular or rectangular form.

Use landscape fabric underneath several inches of mulch to prevent weeds.

Choose plants with minimal leaf drop to reduce pool maintenance and cleaning challenges.

This landscaping approach frames your pool with lush greenery while reducing the amount of lawn you need to maintain around the water feature.

8: String Light Installation

Hang string lights or solar lanterns around your pool area to create magical evening ambiance.

Secure them to posts, nearby trees, or purpose-built supports.

Choose waterproof, outdoor-rated fixtures designed for permanent installation.

Create a pattern that defines your pool space without cluttering the area with too many wires.

This relatively simple electrical project transforms your pool area into an enchanting nighttime retreat that extends your swimming and entertaining hours.

9: Natural Stone Retaining Wall

Build a low stone retaining wall partially surrounding your pool, especially effective on sloped yards.

This creates a finished edge while managing water runoff away from the pool.

Choose stacking stones designed for wall building—no mortar required. Create a wall height that offers casual seating around the pool perimeter for additional functionality.

This substantial project requires some heavy lifting but delivers dramatic results that blend natural materials with your backyard pool environment.

10: Portable Pool Bar

Construct a rolling bar cart or repurpose an outdoor potting bench into a poolside refreshment station.

This creates a practical entertainment zone while adding design character.

Include storage for towels, sunscreen, and pool toys in addition to drink supplies. Choose weather-resistant materials and add wheels for repositioning flexibility.

This multifunctional addition transforms your pool area into an entertainment destination rather than simply a swimming spot.

11: Bamboo Screen Installation

Create natural privacy screens using bamboo fencing attached to simple wooden frames.

The material’s tropical vibe instantly creates a resort-like atmosphere around your pool.

Secure the bamboo panels thoroughly to withstand wind and weather. Consider a clear water sealer to extend the material’s life and maintain its golden color.

This affordable screening solution delivers exotic ambiance while providing substantial privacy and wind protection for your swimming area.

12: Paver Surround Installation

Install concrete pavers around your pool to create a level, clean patio area. This defined edge keeps grass and dirt away from the pool while providing poolside walking space.

Choose textured pavers with non-slip surfaces for safety when wet. Create a border at least three feet wide to accommodate chairs and movement around the pool.

This practical surround solves multiple problems—mud, grass maintenance, and transition design—while creating an extended outdoor living space.

13: Driftwood Focal Points

Position weather-worn driftwood pieces as sculptural elements around your pool landscape.

These natural art pieces add organic interest and coastal character to your design.

Choose substantial pieces with interesting shapes and secure them firmly in the ground. Enhance with small spotlights for dramatic nighttime shadowing effects.

This decorative approach brings artistic elements to your pool design while maintaining a connection to natural materials and forms.

14: Rope Lighting Definition

Install rope lighting along the ground perimeter of your pool area or beneath deck railings.

This subtle illumination creates safety lighting and evening ambiance without harsh glare.

Choose waterproof LED options in warm white for the most natural appearance.

Secure the lights in protective channels to prevent tripping hazards and water damage.

This simple electrical upgrade dramatically transforms your nighttime pool experience while providing practical illumination for evening swims.

15: Gravel Border Installation

Create a clean, modern border around your pool using crushed gravel in white, tan, or gray tones.

This permeable surface allows for proper drainage while defining the pool zone.

Install landscape fabric underneath at least 2-3 inches of gravel to prevent weed growth. Edge the border with metal, stone, or plastic edging for a tidy, contained appearance.

This low-maintenance solution prevents mud splashes while creating a contemporary, resort-like appearance around your pool perimeter.

16: Outdoor Shower Addition

Install a simple outdoor shower near your pool entrance to rinse before and after swimming.

This practical feature adds resort-like luxury while helping maintain water cleanliness.

Choose a freestanding model with direct drainage into the ground or connect to your home’s plumbing system. Add weather-resistant privacy screens for comfort and style.

This functional addition elevates your poolside experience while preventing excess sunscreen and oils from affecting your pool’s water chemistry.

17: Flagstone Sitting Area

Create a small flagstone patio adjacent to your pool for a dedicated lounging space.

The natural stone creates an attractive transition from pool to landscape.

Choose stones with relatively flat surfaces for comfortable furniture placement. Fill joints with polymeric sand or ground cover plants for a finished appearance.

This defined sitting area establishes your pool as one element within a larger outdoor living zone rather than an isolated feature.

18: Tropical Container Garden

Transform your pool surroundings with large containers filled with tropical plants like cannas, elephant ears, and hibiscus. These dramatic plants instantly create a vacation vibe.

Choose substantial, weather-resistant planters that won’t blow over in wind.

Position plants to provide privacy or frame views without creating excessive debris near the pool.

This horticultural approach brings resort atmosphere to your backyard while allowing you to overwinter sensitive plants indoors in colder climates.

19: Pergola Shade Structure

Build a simple wooden pergola extending from one side of your pool to create a defined shade area.

This architectural element adds dimension and sophistication to your pool design.

Size the structure appropriately for your pool and yard scale. Add climbing vines, retractable fabric panels, or string lights for additional function and ambiance.

This more ambitious project creates an outdoor room feeling around your pool while providing welcome relief from direct sun during swimming sessions.

Conclusion

Transform your above ground pool from backyard necessity to landscape feature with these DIY ideas.

Start with one project that addresses your biggest pool concern, then gradually enhance the space as time and budget allow.