Build a Pool
Are you looking to add more fun, comfort, and style to your pool? Tanning ledges and sun shelves are among the most popular features in today’s custom pool designs—and for good reason. These shallow, multifunctional zones offer the perfect balance of relaxation, family fun, and visual appeal.
At Carlton Pools, we help homeowners across PA and NJ design new pools that reflect their lifestyle—and tanning ledges are quickly becoming a must-have in our residential builds.
Key Takeaways
- Tanning ledges and sun shelves offer safe, shallow areas for kids and pets to play, usually 4 to 18 inches deep.
- They serve as social hubs for gatherings and can be customized with bubblers, LED lights, and umbrella holders.
Practical Benefits of Tanning Ledges and Sun Shelves
Tanning ledges and sun shelves offer more than just a spot to soak up rays. They create safe, shallow areas for kids and pets to splash around, and double as cool hangout spots for grown-ups too.
Relaxation and Sunbathing
Tanning ledges and sun shelves offer the perfect spot for poolside relaxation and sunbathing. These shallow areas are big enough for lounge chairs or several people to enjoy. You can cool off with your feet in the water while soaking up some rays.
At night, LED lighting turns these areas into cozy hangout spots. The multi-use nature of tanning ledges makes them great for both active play and lazy lounging.
Safe Space for Children and Pets
Tanning ledges and sun shelves offer a safe haven for kids and pets to enjoy the pool. These shallow areas, usually 4 to 18 inches deep, give little ones a place to splash and play without the risks of deeper water.
High-traction surfaces, like textured tiles or exposed aggregate, help prevent slips and falls. Parents can relax knowing their children are having fun in a secure spot.
These areas aren’t just for kids, they’re great for pets too. Dogs can cool off without swimming in deep water. The shallow depth lets them stand comfortably while enjoying the pool.
Multi-use Functionality for Socializing and Play
Tanning ledges and sun shelves offer more than just a spot to soak up rays. These pool features create a social hub for gatherings and parties. Friends can chat while cooling off in shallow water, families can enjoy meals together on floating trays, and pets can safely join their owners poolside without swimming.
With so many uses, tanning ledges help maximize outdoor living space for the whole family to enjoy.
Aesthetic Advantages
Tanning ledges and sun shelves can turn your pool into a work of art. They add sleek lines and eye-catching shapes that make your backyard pop.
Enhancing pool design and visual appeal
Tanning ledges and sun shelves add a luxurious element to pools. These features create a resort-like atmosphere, transforming backyards into personal retreats.
These elegant additions enhance the visual appeal of pools. They come in various shapes and sizes, from semicircles to rectangles, allowing homeowners to personalize their poolside experience.
Customizable shapes, sizes, and finishes
Tanning ledges and sun shelves come in many shapes and sizes to fit your pool’s style. You can pick from semicircles, rectangles, or custom forms that match your yard’s layout.
You can make your tanning area unique with special touches. Add bubblers for a spa-like feel or put in umbrella holders for shade on hot days. LED lights can create a cool nighttime vibe.
The finish of your ledge can blend with your pool’s look or stand out as a feature. With so many choices, you can create a sun spot that’s perfect for you and your family.
Conclusion
Tanning ledges and sun shelves are more than just fancy pool add-ons. They offer a perfect spot for relaxation, safety, and fun for the whole family. These features boost a home’s value and create a stunning backyard oasis.
Homeowners love the mix of style and function they bring to outdoor spaces. As more people seek ways to enjoy their homes, these pool upgrades will keep making a splash.
Thinking about adding a tanning ledge or building a brand-new pool? Our residential construction department is ready to help you bring it all to life.
Contact us today for a free custom quote. Just tell us a little about your backyard space, and we’ll walk you through your options—from layout ideas to material selections.
FAQs
What are tanning ledges and sun shelves in pools?
Tanning ledges and sun shelves are shallow areas in pools. They let you relax in a few inches of water. You can sunbathe or cool off without fully swimming. These spots are perfect for lounging chairs or small tables.
Why are homeowners adding these features to their pools?
More homeowners like these features for many reasons. They’re great for kids to play safely. Adults can relax without getting fully wet. These areas make pools more versatile. They also add a touch of luxury to any backyard oasis.
How do tanning ledges and sun shelves affect pool design?
These features change how pools look and work. They create a smooth transition from deck to water. This makes pools more inviting. Designers can add fun elements like bubblers or fountains. The result is a more interesting and useful pool area.
