23 Small Pools for Small Yards Ideas
So, you’ve got a small backyard but a big dream of having your own pool? Yeah, I feel you.
For years, I thought pools were only for people with sprawling backyards, massive patios, and neighbors who probably also owned yachts.
Spoiler alert: I was wrong. Turns out, you don’t need a giant yard to enjoy a pool—you just need the right design.
Today, I’m walking you through 23 small pool ideas that actually fit into small yards (without making your backyard feel like a crowded waterpark).
Whether you want something sleek and modern, cozy and rustic, or just a simple spot to chill in summer, there’s a small pool design here with your name written all over it.
1. Plunge Pool Perfection
Plunge pools are the ultimate small-space hack. They’re compact, easy to maintain, and perfect if you’re more into lounging than doing Olympic laps.
Why I love it: It feels like having your own private spa without sacrificing all your yard space.
2. Narrow Lap Pool
If you’re into fitness but don’t have much space, consider a skinny lap pool. Think of it as a treadmill for swimming—long and narrow, not wide.
Bonus: They make small backyards look longer than they are.
3. Round Above-Ground Pool
Above-ground pools don’t get enough love. A small round version can look chic when paired with decking or landscaping.
FYI: They’re budget-friendly and way easier to install.
4. Stock Tank Pool
Yep, those galvanized steel tanks farmers use for livestock can double as trendy pools. It’s rustic, affordable, and very “Pinterest aesthetic.”
Pro tip: Add a small wooden deck around it, and suddenly you’ve got a magazine-worthy backyard.
5. Cocktail Pool
Ever heard of these? They’re basically plunge pools but with a fancy name. Perfect for sipping margaritas while dangling your feet in the water.
6. Spa-Pool Combo
Why not get the best of both worlds? A compact pool with a built-in spa section means you can cool off and then warm up—all in the same spot.
7. Infinity Edge Pool
Who said infinity pools are only for cliffside mansions? A small infinity pool in your yard creates major luxury vibes.
Truth: It’ll trick your eyes into thinking your backyard is bigger.
8. Square Pool
When in doubt, go square. Simple, modern, and easy to fit into tight spaces, a square pool works almost anywhere.
9. Kidney-Shaped Pool
This retro design has made a comeback. The soft curves fit neatly into awkwardly shaped yards.
IMO: It’s the ultimate throwback style with modern comfort.
10. Small Natural Pool
Want to feel like you’re swimming in a hidden pond? A natural pool with rocks and plants creates a dreamy, eco-friendly vibe.
11. Corner Pool
Got wasted space in the corner of your yard? A small triangular or wedge-shaped pool can tuck in perfectly.
Rhetorical Question Time: Why let that corner collect weeds when you could be dipping your toes in it instead?
12. Glass-Walled Pool
If you want modern drama, a pool with glass or acrylic walls will give your backyard serious “boutique hotel” energy.
Warning: Your neighbors might suddenly want to “visit more often.”
13. Hidden Pool
Some pools double as decks when covered. Push a button, and boom—pool revealed. It’s like James Bond meets backyard relaxation.
14. Small L-Shaped Pool
This design tucks neatly along two edges of your yard, leaving more room for dining or lounging areas.
Pro move: Add LED lights along the inside curve for nighttime ambiance.
15. Indoor-Outdoor Pool
If your yard connects to a sunroom or patio, you can create a pool that slides from inside to outside. Compact but dramatic.
16. Sunken Pool
Dropping your pool slightly below yard level adds depth without eating up space. Pair it with built-in seating for a sleek look.
17. Pool with Water Feature
A small pool feels fancy when you add a fountain or waterfall. The sound alone transforms your yard into a mini-resort.
18. Deck Pool
Install a tiny pool right into your deck. It looks integrated, polished, and oh-so-practical for small yards.
19. Tropical Plunge
Add lush plants, bamboo fencing, and tiki lights around a tiny pool. Suddenly, you’re not in the suburbs—you’re in Bali.
20. Rectangle Minimalist Pool
Simple, sharp, and super chic. A small rectangular pool works best in modern yards where clean lines rule.
21. Pool with a Fire Feature
Pairing a small pool with a fire pit or fire bowl creates the ultimate balance of chill and cozy. Swim, then s’mores. What’s not to love?
22. Raised Pool
Instead of digging into the ground, build a raised pool with seating or planters along the edges. It doubles as a centerpiece.
23. Tiny Saltwater Pool
Saltwater pools are easier on the skin and eyes than chlorine. And yes, they can be done on a small scale.
FYI: Maintenance is a breeze compared to traditional pools.
Quick Tips for Small Pool Success
Before you run off calling pool contractors, here are a few things I learned the hard way:
- Plan around your lifestyle. Want to swim laps? Don’t choose a tiny round pool. Want to chill? Skip the long, narrow design.
- Think of your yard flow. Place the pool where it complements your lounging/dining areas.
- Budget wisely. Small pools cost less than big ones, but extras (like decking, landscaping, or heating) add up fast.
- Don’t forget storage. Even small pools need space for equipment and cleaning supplies.
- Lighting is everything. A few LEDs can turn a basic pool into a nighttime showstopper.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, having a pool isn’t about the size—it’s about how it fits your space and lifestyle. Small pools can feel just as luxurious, relaxing, and Instagram-worthy as big ones, sometimes even more because they force you to get creative.
So, which of these 23 small pool ideas grabbed your attention? Are you leaning toward a sleek rectangle, a quirky stock tank, or maybe the secret-agent hidden pool? (Personally, I’m still daydreaming about the tropical plunge pool setup. Pass the coconut drink, please!)
Whatever you pick, remember this: your backyard deserves to be more than just grass and a BBQ grill. A small pool might just be the thing that makes it your favorite hangout spot.
