The 7 Most Popular Pool Water Features in Phoenix
What’s an oasis without luxurious custom pool water features? Custom pools aren’t just a place to cool off in the Phoenix heat—they are a backyard oasis that enhances relaxation, entertainment, and property value. Whether remodeling your swimming pool or building a new one, adding the right pool water features is essential to taking your outdoor space to the next level.
From elegant custom pool fountains to fire-and-water combinations, these seven pool features are some of the most popular choices for homeowners in Phoenix looking to create a luxurious and functional backyard retreat.
Custom Pool Water Features Worth Diving Into
Carefully selected custom pool water features transform an ordinary backyard into a private oasis tailored to your lifestyle. The right combination of water features will create a space that reflects your personal style while maximizing comfort and relaxation.
Whether you desire the soothing sounds of cascading water or the elegance of a flame-lit pool night, each element works together to enhance the ambiance and functionality of your pool. With thoughtful design, your backyard becomes more than just a place to swim—it becomes a private retreat, perfect for unwinding, entertaining, and making lasting memories.
Ready to create your dream oasis? Check out the most popular custom pool water features for today’s relaxation enthusiasts –
1. Pool Fountains: The Ultimate Elegance
Pool fountains add movement, sound, and beauty to your pool while creating a soothing ambiance.
They come in many styles, including:
- Spouting Pool Fountains – These shoot water up in dramatic arcs, perfect for a playful or elegant look.
- Cascading Pool Fountains – Water flows gently over ledges or structures, adding a natural, calming effect.
- Floating Pool Fountains – These can be placed anywhere in the pool for a dynamic visual centerpiece.
Not only do pool fountains enhance aesthetics, but they also help with circulation, keeping the water cooler and fresher—essential in the hot Phoenix climate.
2. Pool Scuppers: Modern & Stylish
A pool scupper is a small water spout that allows water to flow from a raised wall or structure into the pool, often creating a beautiful and uniform sheet of water. Scuppers can be installed in various materials, such as copper, stainless steel, or natural stone, to match your pool’s design.
These sleek features provide a gentle water sound and an elegant look, making them a favorite in contemporary and resort-style pools.
3. The Baja Shelf: Perfect Sunbathing
A Baja shelf, also known as a tanning ledge, has become one of the most popular pool water features in recent years. The Baja shelf is a wide, shallow platform built into the pool, typically just a few inches deep. It’s the perfect place to lounge while staying cool.
Many homeowners enhance their Baja shelves by adding:
- Ledge loungers – Built-in or removable chairs for ultimate relaxation.
- Umbrella sleeves – A shaded spot to escape the Arizona sun.
- Pool Bubblers – Small jets that create a gentle water effect for added ambiance.
A Baja shelf is ideal for families, offering a safe, shallow area for kids while providing adults a resort-like sunbathing space.
4. Swimming Pool Waterfalls: A Natural Escape
A pool waterfall instantly transforms your backyard into a tropical paradise. These custom pool water features can be designed to complement various styles, from natural rock formations to sleek, modern cascades.
Benefits of adding a waterfall include:
- Aesthetic appeal – Waterfalls create a stunning focal point.
- Soothing sounds – The flowing water drowns out background noise, making for a peaceful atmosphere.
- Improved circulation – Moving water helps keep your pool clean and fresh.
For those who love the sound and feel of nature, a custom-designed waterfall can bring an element of serenity to your outdoor space.
5. Fire Bowls by the Pool: A Stunning Contrast
When it comes to the best pool water features in Phoneix, there is truly no match for installing a fire bowl by your pool. The combination of fire and water creates a dramatic and luxurious effect. Fire bowls are typically placed on the edges of a pool, adding warmth and ambiance to nighttime swims and outdoor gatherings.
Phoenix homeowners love fire bowls for:
- A striking visual element – The flickering flames contrast beautifully with the cool water.
- Functional warmth – They make evening swims more comfortable, especially in cooler months.
- Entertaining appeal – Perfect for hosting guests in a stylish setting.
Fire bowls can be fueled by natural gas or propane and come in a variety of styles to complement your pool’s aesthetic.
6. Swim-Up Bars: Resort-Style Relaxation
Custom swim-up bars are among the ultimate pool water features when it comes to entertaining and relaxation. Often found in high-end resorts, these bars allow you to enjoy a drink or snack without ever leaving the water.
Key elements of a swim-up bar include:
- In-water seating – Built-in stools make it easy to socialize.
- Counter space – A raised ledge provides a convenient surface for drinks and food.
- Integrated shade options – Such as pergolas or overhangs for added comfort.
Whether you’re hosting pool parties or simply want to enjoy a laid-back afternoon in the water, a swim-up bar is one of the best custom pool water features for making your backyard feel like a five-star retreat.
7. Customizable Mood Lighting: Set the Atmosphere
Lighting can transform your pool from an ordinary backyard feature into a mesmerizing nighttime escape. With today’s LED technology, you can customize your pool’s lighting to match any mood or occasion.
Popular Pool Lighting Options include:
- Color-changing LED lights – Set the mood with vibrant hues that shift at the touch of a button.
- Underwater Pool Lighting – Creates a beautiful glow beneath the surface.
- Pathway and perimeter lighting – Enhances safety while adding elegance.
Smart lighting systems allow you to control brightness and color schemes from your phone, making it easy to switch between a relaxing ambiance and party mode.
Create a Dream Oasis with The Best Pool Water Features & Designs
Adding water features to your pool enhances its beauty, function, and overall enjoyment. Whether you want a relaxing retreat with waterfalls and Baja shelves or a lively entertainment space with fire bowls and a swim-up bar, the right features can make your pool uniquely yours.
If you’re considering a new pool or looking to upgrade your existing one, our custom pool builders in Phoenix can help bring your vision to life.
At Sun State Pools, we specialize in custom pool builds and remodels throughout Phoenix and the surrounding areas, bringing your unique vision to life with expertly designed custom pool water features backed by high-quality craftsmanship and experience.
Whether you want to upgrade your existing pool or create a brand-new backyard escape, our team is here to help. Contact us today at 602-584-7867 to schedule a consultation and start designing the perfect pool for your home!