How to Create a Relaxing Pool Lounge Area

Summertime is just around the corner! We’re all looking forward to hot sunny days swimming in the pool with friends and family. It's the perfect way to spend the summer. Just imagine lounging by the pool while catching some sunshine or sipping a cold drink.

This summer you want to be certain that you have the perfect lounge area around your pool to complete the whole experience. With a few items and some creativity, you can create the perfect relaxing pool lounge area to enjoy all summer long. We’ve put together a few tips for you that won't take too much extra work.

Seating is just one of those things a good pool area can’t be without. If you’re lucky enough to have in-pool seating that’s fabulous, but you will also want something waiting for you when you get out. Even if you have an above-ground pool, pools work like watering holes that people enjoy hanging out around. Be sure that you have some good seating options for post-swim hangouts but also just a nice relaxing place to sit by the water and enjoy. Surround your pool area with some comfortable chairs for sitting, and even a table for enjoying snacks around the pool. Choose something stylish that matches your overall decor and aesthetic. Perhaps add some weatherproof cushions to make the area comfier and inviting. Loungers are another great addition to the pool area. Perfect for lying in the sun, relaxing with a book, or hanging out with friends and family, having a few lounge chairs are going to take the relax factor to the next level.

Many in-ground pools already have lighting inside. But, why not make the area even more ambient and add some lighting features to the area to relax and enjoy through sunset and into the night. Make your pool relaxing an around-the-clock affair with some perfect mood lighting. Enjoy outdoor parties, BBQs, and cocktails by the pool by stringing some lights, installing some ground lighting, or even lighting up tiki torches. Again, think about the personal aesthetic of your pool area, and be sure to select the appropriate light feature that matches your aesthetic.

On those super hot summer days with blazing sunshine, you’re going to appreciate a little shade. Make relaxing by the pool comfortable on hot days with an umbrella or two to keep your lounging area shady and cool. Umbrellas are also the best way to protect you and your loved ones from long exposure to harmful UV rays. You can choose from a wide variety of umbrellas to suit your needs, taste, and convenience.

Make your pool lounging area more natural by adding plants to the surrounding area. This can either be in the form of potted plants or in-ground garden beds. Again, you want to think about what is best for your pool lounge area based on both practicality and the existing aesthetic. If you have a concrete pool with a geometric feel, then down-to-earth terra cotta pots may feel out of sorts where classical or minimalist pots may fit better. Similarly, your choice of plants should reflect the overall feel. Creeping ivy plants may not be the best fit for a sunbathed pool deck. Instead, opt for sun-loving plants that match the aesthetic of your pool lounge area. When considering plants, also be sure that they are lower maintenance and are placed somewhere where they won’t be shedding too much into your swimming pool. Adding plants to a pool lounge area will create that natural atmosphere that will leave you feeling relaxed and grounded by the pool.

Feel free to get a little more creative with your pool lounge area to create the perfect areas for relaxing and having fun. While we’ve already mentioned umbrellas as a perfect and convenient source of shade from the blazing hot sun, other structural elements can be put in place that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

Pergolas are one of our favorite choices for providing shade to a pool lounge area. They are easy to source and easy to assemble. They are also classic, minimalist, and incredibly versatile. No matter where you put them they always look great. Pergolas are also useful sun shaders because you can choose a style of pergola where the sunshade canvas is removable or expandable to provide even more sunshine or shade.

An awning is another great option for providing shade to a pool area. They come in so many different styles, functions, and applications that you are certain to find something that works for your space. The great thing about awnings is that you can choose when to extend them and when to reel them back in so you control exactly how much sun you want. Having proper space for shade is going to make your pool lounge area all the more enjoyable and relaxing. While getting a suntan is nice, it’s also nice to know you can lounge by the pool without baking.

As you’re getting ready for pool season also get inspired for ways that you can upgrade your pool lounge area to make it enjoyable and relaxing all summer long.