The Ultimate Guide to Creating Shade for Your Pool Area

Are you tired of getting too much sun while enjoying your poolside lounging? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with 21 creative pool shade ideas to keep you cool and comfortable by the water.

Table of Contents

Planting Ideas for Natural Shade

Plant Fast-Growing Arborvitae: Consider planting a row of Arborvitae along your pool area. These plants grow about 6 to 9 inches a year and can reach a mature height of up to 15 feet, providing natural shade over time.
Layer Multiple Plants: Create a beautiful border around your pool by using large landscaping plants. By layering different types of plants, you can ensure a denser and consistent form of shade throughout the day.

Utilizing Existing Structures for Shade

Use Your House as Shade: Strategically position your pool near your house to leverage the shadows it creates. This can provide shade in specific areas of the pool depending on the time of day.
Add on a Sunroom: If your pool is close to your house but still lacks shade, consider adding a sunroom to expand your indoor living space closer to the pool area.
Build a Pool House: Invest in a pool house for a luxurious shade option. Position it according to when you typically use the pool to maximize sun protection.

Creative Shade Solutions

Add Umbrellas Poolside: Scatter multiple patio umbrellas along the poolside and seating areas for a stylish and functional shade solution.
Construct a Pergola: A pergola over your pool can offer protection from the sun and other elements while also adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.
Enhance the Shade with Water Features: Consider adding a waterfall or water feature to your pergola for the ultimate cool-off area.
Install Twin Shade Sails: Combine two standard-size shade sails for maximum coverage over your pool area.

Innovative Design Ideas for Shade

Position a Pergola Nearby: Install a pergola to provide shade for lounging while still allowing the sun to warm up the water in your pool.
Add on a Pergola: Consider adding a pergola to the side of your house painted in a matching color for a seamless look.
Custom Shade Sail: Order a custom shade sail to provide ample cover for your pool area.
Create a Covered Patio: If your back patio lacks shade, consider adding a structure with an outdoor dining area for added comfort.

Natural Shade Options

Install a Privacy Fence: A privacy fence can double as a shade source and provide added privacy for your pool area.
Fence the Yard With Plants: Opt for a living privacy fence by growing tall trees to create more shade in your yard, including around the pool.
Plant a Landscaping Bed: Installing a landscaping bed along the pool edge with your favorite plants can add beauty and functionality.
Build a Retaining Wall: A short retaining wall around your pool can provide patches of shade and double as stylish planters.

Maximizing Shade in Unique Spaces

Put a Courtyard to Good Use: Install your pool in a courtyard for guaranteed shade coverage throughout the day.
Curate a Shaded Seating Area: Create a shaded seating area with hedge walls and umbrellas that will also provide shade for the rest of the pool as the day goes on.

Sharing Shade with Others

Share the Shade: Position a large patio umbrella over lounge chairs by the pool’s edge to provide ample shade for both lounging and swimming activities.

By incorporating these pool shade ideas, you can create a comfortable and luxurious outdoor oasis where you can relax and stay cool by the water. Whether you prefer natural plantings, innovative designs, or maximizing shade in unique spaces, there are plenty of options to suit your style and needs. So why wait? Start transforming your pool area into a shaded paradise today!