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Latest resort-inspired backyard pool landscaping ideas

Imagine stepping into your own backyard and being transported to the serene and exotic ambiance of a luxury tropical resort. With the right pool landscaping, you can turn your outdoor space into a breathtaking oasis that rivals the world’s most exclusive destinations. In this article, we’ll explore the latest resort-inspired backyard pool landscaping ideas. It’s filled with specific details and examples to help you create a truly enchanting paradise in your very own backyard.

Creating a resort-inspired backyard oasis

When it comes to designing a backyard pool that captures the essence of a tropical paradise, choosing the right pool design is key. Consider options such as the stunning infinity pools that create a seamless blend between your pool and the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, lagoon-style pools offer a natural look and tranquil charm. For those with smaller yards, you can transform an above-ground pool or plunge pool into a private villa-inspired haven with the right landscaping and design elements.

An in-ground swimming pool with two pillars that have fire bowls on top, a statue and tropical garden surround.
A white two storey house with a swimming pool.
Resort-inspired backyard pool landscaping ideas

Incorporating tropical elements

To infuse your backyard with a tropical vibe, incorporate lush palm trees and a variety of tropical plants to create a vibrant and verdant setting. Water features such as cascading waterfalls or rock formations can add a touch of natural beauty, enhancing the visual appeal of your pool landscape. Flower beds and a rock garden can also be great additions, offering a splash of color and a captivating focal point.

A formal style backyard swimming pool with tropical plants.
A backyard swimming pool in a tropical setting.
A resort swimming pool with sunlounges and umbrellas along each side.
water-level shot of an above ground swimming pool with tropical screening plants in the background.

Poolside features for ultimate relaxation

Take your backyard oasis to the next level by creating comfortable seating areas, lounge spaces or adding a poolside gazebo. Add a fire pit for cozy evenings, where you can gather with friends and family to enjoy the warmth and crackle of the flames. Including an outdoor kitchen and dining area provides the perfect place to entertain, while an outdoor shower and changing room will add convenience and a touch of luxury. Submerged or in-pool seating areas on a pool shelf are a must-have feature in both resort and private pools. If your pool doesn’t have one, take a look at some of the luxe floating options available.

Tropical resort villa pool with sunlounges and umbrella.
Sun loungers and umbrella in prime position beside the pool with a second lounge area behind them.
Luxury resort swimming pool with thatched roof gazebo and outdoor beanbag-style lounges.
Outdoor bean bag style lounges are lightweight and comfortable, and ideal for a relaxed vibe.
An in-pool daybed on a custom built platform in a resort villa swimming pool.
An in-pool daybed on a custom-built platform.
An outdoor kitchen and pool bar beside a backyard swimming pool.
It’s not a swim-up bar, but you only need a small space to add an outdoor bar, beverage center or kitchen.
A luxury swimming pool and outdoor lounge area lit up at night.
An outdoor shower is positioned just behind the sun loungers
Buenaventura Resort swimming pool in Panama with poolside cabanas along each side of the pool and tall palm trees between each cabana.
Who doesn’t love spending the day in a poolside cabana like these at Buenaventura Resort, Panama
Large resort swimming pool with sunken lounges and cantilevered over-pool lounge nets.
Sunken lounges and cantilevered nets over the pool at Breathless Riviera resort in Cancun, Mexico

Water Features to Enhance the Experience

Transform your pool into a true resort-inspired pool destination by incorporating a hot tub or spa area. The soothing jets and warm waters will create a tranquil and inviting atmosphere. Consider sunken lounges or submerged seating within the pool itself, providing a unique and refreshing experience. For those looking to add a touch of elegance, a swim-up bar, or even just a floating breakfast tray can be the perfect additions.

In-pool sunlounges at the Riu Palace resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Submerged lounges at Riu Palace, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
A woman standing in a swimming pool with a floating breakfast tray
Floating breakfast trays are a luxurious start to the day
Rooftop infinity pool with a swim-up bar in Los Cabos, Mexico
Swim up bar and infinity pool in Los Cabos, Mexico

Lighting and ambiance

Extend the enjoyment of your pool landscape into the evening hours by incorporating well-placed lighting. Use ambient lighting options such as string lights or lanterns to create a magical atmosphere. Underwater LED lights can add a touch of drama and create stunning reflections on the water’s surface. Consider torch lighting along pathways and surrounding garden spaces to add a warm and inviting glow. For the ultimate in ambience add a pair of fire bowl pillars and enjoy the reflection of the flames in the pool at night.

Cinema screen suspended over a swimming pool at night.
Large resort swimming pool and landscaping illuminated at night with cityscape in background.

Designing for privacy and seclusion

Creating a sense of privacy in your backyard is essential for a true resort-like experience. Utilize privacy hedges, screens, and trellises to shield your pool area from prying eyes and create a secluded retreat. Outdoor curtains and drapes can add an elegant touch while providing both privacy and shade. Integrating elements like a pool house or pergola can further enhance the sense of seclusion and elevate the overall aesthetic.

White poolside cabanas beside a swimming pool.
Poolside cabanas at a resort in Sibenek, Croatia.
Backyard swimming pool with two sunlounges and potted pink bougainvillea plant in foreground.
Tall Travellers Palms provide extra privacy in a narrow space.
Backyard swimming pool with submerged sunlounges and dense planting of palm trees to create a screen in the background.
Layer palms of different heights to achieve a dense screen.

Maintenance and sustainability considerations

While the focus is on creating a stunning backyard oasis, it’s important to consider maintenance and sustainability. Opt for eco-friendly pool equipment and water-saving techniques to minimize your environmental impact. Select low-maintenance plants that thrive in your climate to reduce upkeep efforts. Consulting with a professional landscaper or landscape architect can help you design a sustainable and manageable pool landscape.

Outdoor living area and swimming pool at rear of luxury modern home.
Low maintenance landscaping with artificial turf and a few large planters with Bird of Paradise plants.

Real-life examples: Showcasing successful backyard transformations

Let’s take a look at some real-life examples of homeowners who have successfully transformed their backyard pool areas into resort-inspired paradises.

The Minimalist Oasis:

A retired couple with their small backyard, wanted to create a peaceful oasis reminiscent of a luxury tropical resort. They opted for a rectangular in-ground pool surrounded by palm trees and manicured plants. To maximize the limited space they positioned an outdoor shower in a discrete corner near the pool steps. By strategically placing tall trees and a privacy fence, they created a serene and secluded space that transports them to a true oasis.

Small backyard with an in-ground swimming pool and resort-style landscaping.
Outdoor seating area beside backyard swimming pool.
Outdoor shower flanked by low hedge and palm trees.

The Tranquil Garden Escape

With a backyard surrounded by a lush forest, these homeowners wanted to create a pool landscape that seamlessly blended with its natural surroundings. They opted for a discrete pool design with a stone wall as a focal point. By incorporating tropical plants and a rock sculpture, they enhanced the natural look and feel of their backyard. To create a sense of serenity, they added an outdoor shower nestled among the palms. Now they regularly escape to their private space to relax and soak up the tranquility of their surroundings.

Swimming pool in foreground with stone feature wall and tropical style landscaping in the background.
Round 2-person daybed beside swimming pool.
Outdoor shower with wall niches containing small potted plants.

The Contemporary Haven

A professional couple desired a modern and sleek pool landscape design. They chose an infinity pool with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic and added a waterfall to help disguise traffic noise in their inner-city location. To add visual appeal, they installed LED pool lights that illuminated the water at night, creating a stunning visual effect. A private pool deck with lounge chairs and a dining area provided the perfect place for entertaining guests. Installing a pergola to support growing vines and hanging plants provides shade and a cozy ambiance. By combining the simplicity of concrete pavers with a variety of vibrant poolside plants, they achieved a resort-inspired ambiance that is both inviting and elegant.

Wall-mounted water feature flowing into courtyard swimming pool.
Courtyard swimming pool with tropical palms and water feature.
Tiki torches and sun lounges beside courtyard swimming pool.
Tiki torch, hanging and potted plants beside swimming pool.
Outdoor dining area beside swimming pool.

The Family Retreat

A large blended family sought to recreate the charm of a tropical resort in their backyard. They transformed their existing pool into a resort-inspired paradise by incorporating a variety of building materials such as natural stone, concrete pavers and brick pavers. To soften they hard surfaces they used timber furniture, low maintenance plants, a faux grass mat and sculptural driftwood. Next, they created a covered lounge area with comfortable seating and adorned it with colorful cushions and throw pillows. At the opposite end of the pool the incorporated a cozy seating area with a fire pit. The end result is a family friendly space that can be used year round.

Green sunlounges beside large formal backyard swimming pool at rear of white house.
Swimming pool with built-in spa.
Outdoor living area with ceiling fans and xeriscaping.
Outdoor lounge room in foreground with swimming pool in background.

These real-life examples demonstrate that no matter the size or shape of your backyard, you can transform your pool area into a resort-inspired haven that reflects your personal style and offers a true escape from the everyday. All you need is the right landscaping ideas and creative ways of utilizing the available space.

Designing a resort-inspired backyard pool landscape is a fantastic way to create a luxurious oasis in your own backyard. By incorporating elements such as fire pits, water features, tropical plants, and comfortable seating areas, you can transform your pool area into a tranquil and inviting space. Drawing inspiration from the world’s best luxury tropical resorts, you can recreate the ambiance and beauty of these destinations right at home. So, let your imagination run wild, consult with professionals if needed, and get ready to create your very own backyard paradise. The only thing left to do is dive in and enjoy!


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Bettina Christensen wearing a straw hat and blue and green shirt

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