Are you looking to transform your yard into a serene paradise? A small pond with a waterfall could be the perfect addition to bring a sense of tranquility and beauty to your outdoor space. Ponds with waterfalls not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your landscape but also provide a multi-sensory experience with the calming sound of running water, the movement of fish, and the reflections of surrounding plants and structures.

If you have a smaller property or limited space, a pond with a waterfall can still become the focal point of your yard or outdoor room. Whether you’re a seasoned pond enthusiast or a newbie looking to dive into the world of water features, here are 25 stunning designs to inspire you:

1. Woodland Oasis

Experience the beauty of nature with a custom-designed waterfall pond that blends seamlessly into a bucolic woodland setting. Natural-looking plantings enhance the organic quality of this serene oasis.

2. Simple Build, Natural Look

Create a small pond and waterfall feature using pavers, natural stone, and pond liner for a rustic, natural appearance. Mix in perennial ground cover and specimen plants to give the impression of a well-established water feature.

3. Lush Koi Pond

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of a Japanese ornamental garden with a small curving bridge, statuary, and a subtle waterfall cascading into a custom koi pond surrounded by lush greenery.

4. Pondless Waterfall

Opt for a pondless waterfall feature that requires less maintenance and avoids algae growth. Recirculating water with a pump keeps the waterfall flowing without the need for a traditional pond structure.

5. Reflecting Seasonal Color

Enhance the visual appeal of your pond with a grey stone edge and small waterfall surrounded by Japanese maple trees that reflect the changing colors of the seasons, creating a dynamic landscape.

6. Sculptural Setting

Incorporate stone walls, stairs, statuary, and colorful plantings into your pond design to create a visually compelling and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space.

7. Brimming with Pond-Friendly Plants

Fill your pond with aquatic plants like water lilies, water lettuces, and water mint to maintain a healthy ecosystem and prevent algae growth.

8. Waterfall by Night

Enhance the ambiance of your yard with nighttime lighting that illuminates your waterfall feature, creating a soothing and enchanting atmosphere after dark.

9. Rehabbing a Concrete Pond

Revitalize an old concrete pond by transforming it into a charming koi pond with a new waterfall feature and natural boulder accents.

10. Mossy Rock Waterfall

Create a rustic and charming landscape feature with a moss-covered rock waterfall that gently trickles water over lush green growth.

11. Koi Pond Vista

Design a ground-level koi pond with a small waterfall that maximizes visibility of your yard, while incorporating colorful plantings for a dramatic focal point.

12. Japanese Style

Embrace the simplicity and elegance of a Japanese-inspired koi pond with moss-covered rocks, stone statuary, and native plantings that complement the natural surroundings.

13. Working with the Landscape

Integrate large boulders and native plantings into your waterfall feature to enhance the beauty of your existing landscape and create a harmonious outdoor environment.

14. Evergreens for Structure

Frame your pond and waterfall with lush evergreens, natural stones, and unique statuary to add structure and longevity to your design.

15. Shady Seating Area

Transform a shady corner of your yard with a waterfall feature that provides a cool and relaxing focal point, surrounded by tropical plants and open patio space for outdoor enjoyment.

16. Simple Design Elements

Create a classic and beautiful pond and waterfall design with minimal ornamentation, using tropical plantings and a wraparound pathway to enhance the overall aesthetic.

17. Tiered Basins

Maximize the impact of a small space with tiered basins and succulent plantings that create the illusion of a larger waterfall feature in a sunny spot.

18. Tropical Color and Texture

Infuse your koi pond with vibrant tropical plantings to create a colorful border and a hidden oasis look, while promoting the health of the plants in a high humidity environment.

19. Defining a Large Space

Make a statement in a large backyard with a gazebo, sprawling water feature, and beautiful plantings that serve as a stunning centerpiece for your outdoor space.

20. Annuals for Color and Flexibility

Add seasonal variety to your waterfall feature by planting long-blooming annuals that provide a pop of color and can be easily changed out each season to suit your garden aesthetic.

21. Golden Light

Opt for a natural-looking golden light to illuminate your pondless waterfall feature, creating a warm and inviting ambiance that is particularly enchanting at dusk.

22. Dramatic Drop

Make a bold statement with a small waterfall that features a cascading fall of water at least six feet high, bordered by natural rocks and woodland plantings for a captivating design.

23. Multiple Waterfalls

Create a dynamic water feature by incorporating more than thirty feet of small pondless waterfalls across a large area, all feeding into the same body of water for a visually striking effect.

24. Shady Pond

Design a dramatic and lush pond with a waterfall surrounded by ferns and water plants, evoking a sense of tranquility and privacy in a shaded woodland setting.

25. Mix of Shapes and Textures

Play with different shapes and textures to create an intriguing waterfall feature, balancing flat and round rocks with a variety of plantings for a visually appealing landscape design.

Backyard Pond and Waterfall Considerations:

• Location: Choose a spot that receives adequate sunlight and complements the overall aesthetic of your yard.
• Materials: Select high-quality materials like natural stone, pond liner, and edging to ensure durability and longevity.
• Size: Consider the dimensions of your space and the scale of your waterfall feature to create a harmonious landscape.
• Style: Define the style of your pond and waterfall, whether formal, naturalistic, or Japanese-inspired, to reflect your personal taste.
• Pump system: Invest in a reliable pump system to keep the water circulating and maintain a healthy pond ecosystem.
• Landscaping: Enhance your waterfall feature with lush plantings, statuary, and hardscape elements that complement the overall design.
• Hardscape and ornaments: Incorporate rocks, boulders, and decorative elements to add visual interest and texture to your pond and waterfall.
• Lighting: Install lighting to highlight your water feature at night and create a magical ambiance in your outdoor space.
• Safety: Ensure that your pond is safe for both humans and wildlife by adding barriers, netting, and shallow areas for easy access.
• Local codes: Check local regulations and codes regarding pond construction, water usage, and wildlife protection to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Whether you’re a seasoned pond enthusiast or a newbie looking to dive into the world of water features, incorporating a small pond with a waterfall into your yard can transform your outdoor space into a tranquil oasis. With these 25 stunning designs as inspiration, you can create a personalized and beautiful water feature that brings joy and serenity to your everyday life. Dive in and start planning your own backyard paradise today!