Backyard Pool Glow Up Landscaping Ideas Around Above Ground Pool With Deck That Just Work

Okay, real talk—if you’ve got an above ground pool with a deck, chances are it’s doing its job but maybe not looking like the backyard dream you pinned on Pinterest. Don’t worry though, because with a few clever landscaping moves, you can take that “meh” pool setup and turn it into a staycation-worthy oasis 🏖️.

Below are a bunch of landscaping ideas around above ground pool with deck that are easy, doable, and make a huge difference. No bulldozer needed. Let’s get into it.

🌿 Plants Make Everything Better

Let’s start with the easiest (and prettiest) upgrade: plants. Adding greenery around your pool deck gives it a softer, more natural vibe instead of the “giant tub in the yard” look.

Some plant ideas that work great:

• Tall grasses like pampas or fountain grass (very Insta-worthy)
• Shrubs like hydrangeas or boxwoods for structure
• Creeping thyme or sedum as cute little ground covers

Just make sure you don’t plant anything with aggressive roots too close to the pool. You don’t want a jungle crawling under your liner.

“Important: Plants with deep or spreading roots near the pool = long-term headaches. Keep them at a friendly distance.”

Add mulch or decorative stones to tie it all together and keep weeds from crashing the party.

🪵 Planters = Instant Personality

Already got a deck? Awesome. Now let’s decorate it. Big planters or pots can totally change the vibe and give your pool area some life (literally).

Here’s the move: grab some sturdy pots that match your deck (wooden, metal, concrete—you name it), and fill them with fun stuff like:

Hanging planters or rail planters are a great option too if you’re short on floor space but still want that leafy look.

🌸 Border That Pool With Flowers

You know what distracts from a basic above ground pool? A whole bunch of colorful flowers blooming around it. A flower border gives your pool some “I belong here” energy.

Try these easy bloomers:

• Coneflowers (butterflies love ’em)
• Daylilies (tough and gorgeous)
• Marigolds (bright and bug-repelling)

Mix it up, add mulch, and enjoy the glow-up.

🧱 Rock It With Gravel and Stones

Tired of mowing around the pool? Same. Swap the grass for gravel or decorative rock. It’s low maintenance and looks way cleaner.

Options:

• Pea gravel for soft, walkable areas
• Crushed stone for a more rustic or natural feel
• River rock if you’re going for a chill, zen look

Edge it with bricks, wood, or metal borders so the rocks don’t wander off into your yard.

🔥 Add Some Fire (Literally)

Want to level up your pool hangout game? Add a firepit area nearby. Whether it’s a full-on firepit with seating or just a cute tabletop fire bowl, it brings the vibe. And bonus—it’s great for drying off after a night swim.

Add string lights or lanterns around the area to really sell that “vacay-at-home” feeling 🔥.

🪑 Built-In Benches for the Win

Dragging furniture in and out of storage every summer? Hard pass. Built-in bench seating on your deck saves space, looks polished, and can even double as secret storage (hello, towel stash!).

Add a few cushions and suddenly your deck becomes a cozy lounge spot instead of just a sunbathing slab.

💡 Lights = Mood Maker

Let’s be honest: good lighting makes everything look better, even your pool at night. A few clever lighting ideas can totally change the atmosphere and make it feel like a fancy hotel.

Some ideas:

• String lights draped over your deck = instant charm
• Solar post lights on deck rails = practical AND pretty
• LED underwater lights in the pool = ooooh ahhhh 💡

It’s like magic, but cheaper than a vacation.

🧺 Hide the Mess With Stylish Storage

Look, we all love floaties, noodles, and towels… but scattered everywhere? Nope. Add hidden storage to keep your pool deck looking clean and chill.

Try:

• Storage benches (yep, the ones we just talked about)
• Waterproof deck boxes tucked behind bushes
• Tall cabinets disguised as decor

No one needs to know where you hide the 17 squirt guns and pool snacks.

🌳 Crave Privacy? Plant It.

If your pool is a little too exposed to neighbors (or the street—yikes), time to build a green wall. Not literally. But planting for privacy is a game-changer.

Top picks:

Now you can swim, tan, and chill without feeling watched. 👀

☀️ Block the Sun in Style

Decks can get hot in the summer (like fry-an-egg-on-it hot). Adding some stylish shade options can make your hangout spot usable all day.

Cool shade ideas:

• Pergolas with vines for a dreamy garden look 🌿
• Shade sails that look sleek and modern
• Retractable awnings if you want full control over sun and shade

Add curtains or outdoor fabric panels for bonus flair and privacy.

🧩 Don’t Forget the Pathway

If your pool deck is floating in the middle of your yard like a lonely island, add a pathway to connect it to your house or patio. Makes it feel intentional—and your feet will thank you on hot days.

Path material inspo:

• Concrete stepping stones with grass or gravel
• Brick (classic and cozy)
• Flagstone for a natural vibe

A path makes your whole space feel finished and way easier to navigate.

🧚 Make It Fun With Decor

Once the big stuff’s done, bring on the fun little touches that show off your style.

Decor ideas that slap:

• Quirky garden statues 🐸
• Chill wind chimes or hanging lanterns 🎐
• Fun outdoor signs or wall art
• Bright outdoor rugs to define spaces 🧺
• Water features or birdbaths if you’re feeling fancy

These are the things that take it from “just a pool” to “heck yeah, this is my backyard.”

🎁 Bonus: Go Big or Go Home

Wanna go extra? Add some of these to your pool deck and turn your place into THE hangout spot all summer long:

• Outdoor shower (nothing feels more bougie 🚿)
• Mini outdoor kitchen or bar (yes, please 🍹)
• Bluetooth speakers or a hidden sound system 🎶
• Hot tub next to your pool deck (why not both?!)

No need to book an Airbnb when your backyard feels this good.

Wrapping It Up

You don’t need a landscaping crew or a huge budget to upgrade your above ground pool setup. With these landscaping ideas around above ground pool with deck, you can create a backyard space that feels like you—fun, relaxing, and way more put-together than a lonely blue tub.

Start with a few plants, add a light or two, throw in some cozy seating… and before you know it, your pool’s not just functional—it’s fabulous.