Lighting Ideas for Your Outdoor Pool Area

If you have a swimming pool, chances are that you would love to make the most of it. Adding lights to your outdoor pool area can not only extend the functionality of this outdoor living space but can also keep everyone safer while they’re enjoying it. Mix and match some of the options outlined below, and your pool area will soon become one of your favorite places to be.

Pathway and Stair Lights

When you’re planning out your lighting, think about safety first. Installing lights along pathways, steps, stairs, and around the deck of your pool is essential to make sure everyone can see where they’re going, especially moving to and from the house and getting in and out of the pool.

Even while focusing on safety you don’t have to sacrifice ambiance though. Choose warm lighting and aim it downward to make sure it doesn’t blind your visitors. The soft lights will create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere.

Floating Pool Lights

A quick internet search will pull up a ton of different choices for floating pool lights to add color and fun to your next night swim or party. Many affordable options on the market change colors or come in a variety of shapes (even flamingos!) and patterns to suit your style. 

Up Lights on Plants and Landscaping

Landscape lighting isn’t just for the front of your house. If you have plants or trees around your pool area, highlight them with uplighting. You’ll love the interesting shadows, shapes, and textures the light makes, and your pool area will feel more elegant.

String Lights and Lanterns

To give your pool area a festive feel, consider adding string lights or lanterns even if you’re not having a party. These lights are inexpensive, charming, and easy to install on a pergola, wrapped around trees or a fence, or attached to planter posts you can make yourself. 

Fire Pits or Fire Bowls

Fire pits or fire bowls are both functional and beautiful. They offer light and warmth but also create a cozy conversation area when you arrange seating nearby. You can even add a few Tiki torches leading to the fire pit area for a tropical or beachy feel.

Moonlighting

There’s definitely something magical about the play of light on water. Take advantage of this phenomenon by adding moonlighting to your pool area to add drama, romance, and whimsy to your night time swims. Moonlighting comes from lights placed high up in trees or on the upper levels of your home to shine down with a soft, silvery glow that is similar to natural moonlight. 

Accent Lighting for Water Features

If your pool has a waterfall or attached hot tub, spotlights or underwater lights can highlight these water features at night for a striking and modern effect. Color changing lights can be especially fun in these areas and make it easy to decorate for holidays, celebrations, and gameday.

Get Expert Help With Your Pool Lighting

Depending on the size of your pool and the kind of atmosphere you’re looking to create (i.e., peaceful, fun, good for entertaining, etc.) adding lights to your outdoor pool area is an easy and affordable way to increase safety and ensure you can enjoy it both day and night. Houston Lightscapes has over 30 years of experience creating custom landscape lighting systems, including for outdoor living areas like swimming pools, that can transform the look and feel of your home. Call for your free, no-obligation consultation today!