If you’ve ever dreamed of having a backyard pool but felt intimidated by the cost or construction, a partial above ground pool might be the perfect middle ground. These pools are partly built into the ground, giving you the sleek look of an inground pool without the full expense. Plus, they blend beautifully with decks, patios, or natural landscaping, making your yard feel like a resort escape right at home.
I love the flexibility of this style because it works with uneven terrain or sloped yards where a fully inground pool would be complicated. You can design it to fit your space, add built-in seating, or wrap it with wood for a warm, modern look. If you’ve been picturing lazy summer afternoons floating in your own pool, let’s talk about how to make that happen with these beginner-friendly partial above ground pool ideas that are both stylish and practical.
Below are 13 ideas to help you plan, design, and build your dream backyard pool.
1. Choose the Right Location for Sun and Privacy
Before digging or ordering materials, take a few days to observe your yard. Notice where the sun hits in the morning and where shade falls in the afternoon.
A partial above ground pool thrives in a spot that gets consistent sunlight for warmth but still has natural shade nearby for comfort.
If you want privacy, choose an area that can be fenced or surrounded by plants later.
You’ll thank yourself when you’re relaxing in the water without feeling like the whole neighborhood can see you.
2. Level the Ground Before Building
Even though your pool will be partially above ground, leveling the foundation is key.
Uneven soil can put pressure on one side of the pool, causing cracks or leaks over time.
Use a long level or hire a contractor with a laser leveling tool to check every corner.
It’s a step most people rush, but it’s what makes your pool stable and long-lasting.
Think of it as the foundation for your mini backyard oasis.
3. Opt for a Semi-Buried Design on a Slope
Got a sloped yard? Perfect.
A partial above ground pool actually works better on uneven terrain. Instead of leveling everything, you can bury the pool into the higher side of the slope while leaving the lower side exposed.
It looks naturally integrated into the land, like it’s always been there.
Add some stone retaining walls and landscaping around it, and it instantly feels high-end without the inground pool price tag.
4. Use a Retaining Wall for a Polished Look
Building a retaining wall around your partial above ground pool doesn’t just look nice, it also provides extra support and safety.
A wall can double as built-in seating, or you can use it to hold decorative planters and lighting.
Try materials like stacked stone, wood, or concrete blocks depending on your backyard style.
Plus, it makes the pool area feel cohesive and intentional, not like an afterthought.
5. Add a Wraparound Deck for Style and Function
One of the easiest ways to elevate your pool design is by adding a wraparound deck.
It makes entering and exiting the pool safer and provides a spot for lounge chairs or a small table.
Pressure-treated wood, composite decking, or even stone pavers can all work beautifully.
Imagine stepping out of the water and walking right onto warm wood instead of grass or mud!
6. Choose Durable Materials for the Pool Walls
When you’re deciding between metal, resin, or hybrid wall pools, think about your climate.
Metal-sided pools are strong but can rust if not treated properly.
Resin is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making it great for humid areas.
Hybrid pools combine both for extra durability.
Since your pool will be partially buried, strength and moisture resistance matter more than you’d expect.
It’s worth spending a bit more on materials that last.
7. Blend the Pool with Landscaping
This is where your backyard starts to feel like a retreat.
Add plants that complement the pool’s edge – think ornamental grasses, lavender, or small shrubs that can handle splashes of water.
Stones and mulch around the base help with drainage while keeping the area clean.
The goal is to make your partial above ground pool feel natural, as if it’s part of the garden rather than sitting on top of it.
8. Plan for Easy Maintenance Access
It’s easy to forget this step, but make sure you can still reach all sides of your pool for cleaning and maintenance.
Leave enough space between the pool wall and any deck or fence.
If part of it is buried, plan for a small access hatch or panel for plumbing and filtration.
You’ll be grateful later when you don’t have to crawl under a deck to fix a hose or pump.
9. Install a Small Waterfall or Spillover Feature
A simple waterfall can transform your backyard pool into a relaxing sanctuary.
It also helps circulate water and prevent stagnation, especially in partially buried pools.
You can install a small spillover feature built into your retaining wall or deck edge.
The sound of running water adds a spa-like vibe that makes the whole space more soothing, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
10. Add Built-In Seating Along the Edge
If you’re planning to host family or friends, built-in seating is such a smart idea.
You can create a small bench inside the shallow end or along one side.
Concrete or resin seats can be integrated during installation, or you can build a wood ledge around the top edge.
It’s perfect for sitting halfway in the water with a cold drink in hand. Who wouldn’t love that?
11. Incorporate Solar Pool Heating Panels
Because partial above ground pools are smaller and shallower than inground ones, they heat up faster and solar panels make that even better.
Mount them on your roof or a sunny fence nearby.
They’ll extend your swimming season by keeping the water at a comfortable temperature without high energy bills.
12. Light It Up with Pool and Deck Lighting
Don’t overlook nighttime ambiance.
Add waterproof LED lights inside the pool and string or recessed lighting around the deck.
It’s not just about looks, it also keeps the area safe for evening swims.
Try warm white lighting for a cozy glow or colored LEDs if you want something more playful.
13. Think Ahead About Safety and Fencing
Even if your pool isn’t fully above ground, local regulations might require fencing.
Check your area’s safety codes before you start building.
A glass or wood fence can protect kids and pets without blocking your view.
It’s one of those steps that’s easy to overlook until later, but planning it early saves time and headaches.
Plus, it frames your pool beautifully, giving it that finished, resort-like look.
