If you’ve spent time around newer custom backyard pools, especially in warm climates, you’ve probably noticed the growing popularity of sun shelves (also called tanning ledges or Baja shelves). These shallow platforms built into custom-designed pools create a place where you can relax partially submerged in the water, often with lounge chairs, umbrellas, or decorative water features.
For some homeowners, a sun shelf becomes the highlight of their custom inground pools. For others, it can feel like an expensive feature that takes away from the main swimming area. If you’re looking into pool companies or talking with builders about your dream backyard, knowing the pros and cons of sun shelves can help you decide if this feature fits your lifestyle.
Advantages of Sun Shelves in Custom Backyard Pools
Resort-Style Relaxation
A sun shelf’s main appeal is the luxury, resort-like feel it brings to your pool. The shallow water lets you set up waterproof lounge chairs right in the pool, so you can relax and stay cool while soaking up the sun.
Rather than sitting on the pool deck, you can relax comfortably in the water. This makes the sun shelf one of the most popular features in many custom pools. If you love entertaining or spending time outdoors, a sun shelf can make your custom backyard pool even more enjoyable.
Safety and Accessibility
Sun shelves also provide a gradual entry point into the pool. This makes them particularly helpful for:
- Children learning to enjoy the water
- Older adults who prefer not to use ladders
- Guests who want a comfortable place to sit in shallow water
The shallow area gives kids a safe place to splash and play in the pool. It’s a lot like having a built-in kiddie pool, but without needing a separate space.
Pet-Friendly Pool Design
Many homeowners designing custom inground pools appreciate sun shelves because they provide a safe area for pets.
Dogs can walk into the water, lie down, and cool off without having to swim in the deep end. For pets that aren’t confident swimmers, this makes the pool more comfortable and helps protect the pool steps and edges from extra wear.
Enhanced Features and Customization
Sun shelves can be customized with a variety of luxury features, including:
- Bubblers or deck jets
- Decorative fountains
- LED lighting
- Umbrella sleeves
- In-water lounge seating
These upgrades make custom pools look even better and help create a lively atmosphere, especially during evening get-togethers or outdoor parties.
Increased Aesthetic Appeal
Sun shelves give pools a modern, upscale look that many homeowners really like.
They’re a common feature in luxury custom pools because they add visual depth and make the design more interesting. In some real estate markets, having a resort-style pool can also make your home more appealing to future buyers.
Disadvantages of Sun Shelves
While sun shelves have a lot of benefits, there are also some downsides to think about before adding one to your pool.
Reduced Swimming Space
The main drawback is that sun shelves take up space in the pool. In smaller pools, a sun shelf can use up a lot of the swimming area. If you want to swim laps, play games, or exercise, having less open water might get frustrating after a while.
When working with pool builders near me, many homeowners choose larger pool designs to accommodate both a sun shelf and adequate swimming space.
Higher Installation Cost
Adding a sun shelf usually raises the cost of a custom pool by $1,000 or more, depending on its size and any extra features like bubblers or umbrella sleeves.
While the extra cost might be worth it if you want a luxury design, some people may rather spend that money on other features, such as:
- Pool automation systems
- Heaters
- Larger pool dimensions
- Water features or spas
Water Temperature Challenges
Since sun shelves are usually only about six inches deep, the water on them heats up quickly in direct sunlight. In warmer climates, this can make the water on the shelf much warmer than the rest of the pool during the hottest months.
Maintenance Considerations
Shallow areas get more sun and heat, which can lead to more algae if the pool isn’t well maintained. This doesn’t mean sun shelves are hard to take care of, but they might need a bit more attention than deeper parts of the pool.
Experienced pool companies often recommend proper circulation and water chemistry to prevent these issues.
Limited Value for Active Swimmers
If your main goal is exercise or swimming for fun, a sun shelf might not add much practical value. People who like lap swimming or water sports often prefer to keep the pool open, rather than use space for a shallow lounging area.
Key Considerations Before Adding a Sun Shelf
Depth
Most sun shelves are about six inches deep, which is a good depth for lounge chairs or sitting comfortably in the water.
Some people like a slightly deeper shelf for more comfortable seating, while others choose a very shallow shelf for kids and pets.
Lifestyle Fit
For many families, the sun shelf ends up being the favorite gathering spot in the pool.
It’s ideal for:
- Relaxing with friends
- Supervising children while they play
- Socializing during parties
- Cooling off without fully swimming
But whether it’s right for you really depends on how you plan to use your pool every day.
The Bottom Line
A sun shelf can turn your backyard pool into a relaxing, resort-style retreat. For homeowners focused on aesthetics, entertaining, and comfort, it’s often one of the most loved features in custom-designed pools.
However, sun shelves do have trade-offs when it comes to cost, upkeep, and swimming space. In the end, the best choice depends on what matters most to you.
Sun shelves are often worth it if:
- You value relaxation and entertaining
- You want a luxury resort-style pool design
- You have enough space for both a shelf and swimming area
You may prefer skipping one if:
- Swimming space is your top priority
- You plan to use the pool for exercise
- You want to maximize pool size within your budget
Ready to Design Your Dream Pool?
If you’re searching for pool builders near me or researching pool companies near me that specialize in custom inground pools and custom backyard pools, our team can help bring your vision to life.
We create custom pools that fit your lifestyle, space, and budget. Contact us today to set up a consultation and start building the backyard you’ve always wanted.
