Refresh Your Yard with These Above Ground Pool Decor Ideas

Having an above ground pool can provide a fun backyard oasis during warm weather. However, above ground pools can sometimes lack visual appeal due to their shape and placement. With some creative decorating ideas, you can transform a plain pool into a gorgeous retreat.

From lighting to landscaping, there are many ways to enhance the style and functionality of your above ground pool area. Read on for tips and inspiration to refresh your yard with pool decor that reflects your personal taste.

Add Floating Plants for Natural Beauty

One easy way to make your above ground pool look more natural is to add floating plants. Options like water lilies, lotus flowers, and small bamboo rafts with succulents can add a vibrant pop of color and texture to the water's surface.

Floating candles are another option for creating a serene ambiance after dark. Battery-operated LED floating flowers are a low maintenance alternative to real blooms.

Floating plants help lend a natural look while also absorbing excess nutrients in the water to prevent algae growth. They provide shade and interest, transforming a basic pool into a backyard oasis. Be sure to research plant types that are non-invasive and suitable for your specific climate.

Top Floating Plant Picks

• Water Lilies - Fragrant blooms, come in variety of colors
• Lotus - Exotic looking with circular leaves and ornate flowers
• Bamboo Rafts with Succulents - Mini self-contained planters
• Frogbit - Small green lily pad style leaves

Incorporate Outdoor Lighting for Ambiance

Outdoor lighting can completely transform how your above ground pool looks after dusk. Creative lighting creates a magical, resort-like setting for evening swims and entertaining.

String lights are a popular option for illuminating the space. Weave them through trees, shrubs, or install hooks around the pool's top edge to hang them. Use solar stakes or lanterns to illuminate pathways and accent dark corners.

For added drama, install floodlights in surrounding trees or structures and aim them towards architectural elements, focal points, or the pool itself. Outdoor lighting allows you to enjoy the pool long after the sun goes down.

Lighting Tips

• Use LED bulbs for brightness and efficiency
• Line steps and walkways to prevent trips or falls
• Look for waterproof and weather-resistant fixtures
• Timer or dimmer switch allows control over ambiance

Build a Poolside Kitchen for Entertaining

Imagine being able to cook, dine, and entertain right alongside the pool without having to go back and forth to the main kitchen. Building a poolside kitchen or outdoor bar makes your pool the ultimate staycation destination.

Start small with a barbecue grill, mini fridge, and a prep table. For a kitchen that has it all, consider adding features like:

• Sink with running water for washing up
• Counter space for food prep and serving
• Bar area with overhang or shelving for drinks
• Cabinets and storage for supplies and accessories
• Pizza oven, smoker, or other specialized appliances

Whether kept simple or loaded with features, an outdoor kitchen instantly elevates an above ground pool and provides convenience for entertaining.

Include Seating Areas for Lounging

One of the best ways to enhance the look and enjoyment of your above ground pool is to incorporate a variety of seating areas. This allows you to get the most use out of the space for sunbathing, dining, conversation, and relaxation.

For starters, consider adding a bench that runs along the inner perimeter of the pool wall. This built-in seating is convenient for older family members who want easy access in and out of the pool. For additional seating possibilities:

• Arrange weather-resistant patio chairs or chaise lounges around the pool
• Add a conversation set with chairs and a table for dining al fresco
• Include hammocks or swinging benches for sunny relaxation
• Build a paver patio with pergola and seating around a fire pit

Seating Tips

• Use portable, movable furniture for flexibility
• Select fade-resistant cushions and pillows
• Allow ample walkways between configurations
• Provide shade options with umbrellas or shade sails

Add Stylish Pool Furniture for Function

• Weather-resistant materials like aluminum, teak, or synthetic wicker
• Thick, comfortable cushions with drainable covers
• Tables and chairs that can be easily rearranged or folded away
• Sturdy but portable chaise lounges
• Fun patterns and colors for sprinkling personality
• Storage bins, towel racks, and built-in ice buckets

Be sure to bring any cushions or pillows inside when not in use. Keeping furniture clean and covered will help extend its life.

Build a Poolside Pergola for Shade

Installing a pergola near your above ground pool provides a shady spot to get relief from the hot sun. It also creates an inviting area for dining or lounging. For added ambiance:

• Drape vines or flowering plants over the pergola beams and lattice
• Hang string lights or lanterns from the pergola roof for magical effects after dark
• Install ceiling fans if covered in the pergola design

Pergolas are designed to provide light overhead shelter while still allowing air circulation. The shade and style they add make a picturesque complement to any poolscape.

Pergola Tips

• Cedar and Redwood have natural weather resistance
• Paint or stain your pergola to match surroundings
• Add clear acrylic panels for rainy weather protection
• Match the size to your available space

Use Planters and Greenery for Fresh Look

No poolscape is complete without the addition of lush greenery and vibrant blooms. Use pots, planters, and elevated garden beds filled with colorful plantings to give your pool area a tropical feel.

Go for plants that are low maintenance and suitable for poolside planting, like:

• Succulents
• Ornamental grasses
• Palms
• Flowering shrubs like hibiscus or bougainvillea

Avoid planting trees with heavy litter near the pool. Citronella, eucalyptus, and rosemary are great herb choices as they help naturally repel insects.

Add Patio Pavers or Deck for Walkway

An even pathway around your above ground pool allows you to easily access the water without tracking dirt or mess onto the decking. Concrete pavers, brick, gravel, tile and stone make attractive and functional poolside walkway materials.

For the smoothest walking surface, choose concrete pavers or tile set over a gravel base, using a polymeric sand in the joints. This creates a slip-resistant and debris-free zone for bare pool feet.

Wood or composite decking also works well and can extend your living space outward from the pool area. Be sure to allow at least a 3-foot clearance on each side for safety and maintenance needs.

Walkway Tips

• Select pavers with traction grip surfaces
• Use fast-draining materials like crushed gravel or pea stone
• Slope walkways slightly to prevent standing water
• Leave space between deck boards for water drainage

Incorporate Sculptural Elements for Interest

Personalize your poolside decor with fun accents that show off your sense of style. Statues, sculptures, mosaic tiles, mirrors and wall decor all make great additions.

Look for pieces that complement your theme, whether it's traditional, tropical, modern, rustic or eclectic. A few ideas:

• Animal sculptures or topiaries
• Weatherproof wall art and mirrors
• Mosaic tiles for pool steps or benches
• Textured urns, jars, and pottery for plants
• Lighted fountains or water features

The goal is to create little vignettes that catch the eye, spark joy, and express your unique personality.

Consider a Pool House for Functionality

A pool house provides the ultimate convenience for entertaining, storage, and changing. This additional structure alongside your above ground pool lets you:

• Store pool chemicals, tools, and cleaning supplies out of sight
• House pool toys, floats, and accessories when not in use
• Have a changing room and bathroom readily accessible
• Add a shower or small kitchenette
• Create an entertaining area out of the sun and rain

Design your pool house to match the style of your home for a cohesive look. An attractive pool house ups the aesthetic appeal while also adding precious functional space.

With a little creativity and these decorating tips, your plain above ground pool can be transformed into a tropical oasis. From lush plants to chic furnishings, the possibilities are endless.

Mark off your own wish list for enhancing your pool. Focus first on safety upgrades like fencing. Then have fun adding accents and amenities to create your dream retreat. The right combinations will have your poolscape looking and functioning better than ever.