Above Ground Pool Deck Ideas That Just Make Sense
So, here’s the thing about above ground pools—some people love ’em, some people think they’re a bit of an eyesore.
But add the right deck around one, and suddenly you’re not just swimming—you’re lounging in your own backyard resort.
I’ve seen folks in Auckland (including my mate Jess, who’s got one tucked in the corner of her garden) do absolute wonders with a bit of timber, some clever layout, and a whole lotta elbow grease.
Whether you’re working with a tight space or going all-out with a full wraparound, a solid deck changes the whole vibe.
Trust me, once you’ve had a pool deck to stretch out on, you’ll never go back to just grass and gravel.
Creating a Flow That Feels Natural
The biggest trick with decking around an above ground pool is making it feel like it belongs there.
A deck that hugs the shape of the pool can make it feel more built-in, like it’s always been a part of your yard. You can go halfway—just enough for a couple of loungers and a space to dry off—or go all the way and build steps, platforms, even a pergola overhead.
Think of it like building a stage for the pool to shine on.
And hey, it doesn’t all have to be perfectly symmetrical. I’ve seen some great L-shaped designs that open up to garden paths or lead into a patio area.
If your pool’s nestled into a slope (pretty common here on the North Island), you can make the most of that by terracing the deck. Add a railing, a few fairy lights, and boom—instant summer hangout.
What Materials Actually Hold Up
Kiwi weather can be a bit unpredictable, so choosing the right decking material matters.
Pine’s affordable and easy to stain, but you’ve gotta seal it properly unless you want a green slip-n-slide after the first wet season. Hardwood looks lush but can get pricey real quick.
Composite decking? Bit of an investment, but it lasts forever and doesn’t give you splinters—pretty ideal if you’ve got kids or you’re padding around barefoot.
Also worth mentioning: if your pool gets full sun most of the day, lighter-colored decking is your friend. Dark wood looks fancy, sure, but it’ll cook your feet like eggs on a hotplate. Learned that the hard way.
Add-Ons That Level Things Up
If you’re dreaming bigger, you can sneak in built-in bench seating, a few planter boxes, or even a bar rail so you can sip something cold while the kids splash about.
One clever build I saw had hidden storage for pool toys underneath the deck—genius. Another had a hammock strung up between two posts on the shaded side.
It’s these small touches that make the space somewhere you want to spend time.
Lighting’s another game-changer. A few solar lights on the stairs or some festoon bulbs overhead can turn the whole area into an evening chill zone.
If you’ve ever floated in a pool under warm lights with a cool breeze rolling in, you know what I mean. Absolute bliss.
Keep It Safe, But Stylish
Safety’s gotta be part of the plan too, especially if you’ve got little ones running around. Proper railings, non-slip surfaces, maybe even a lockable gate depending on your layout.
It’s one of those things you don’t think about until you really need it, so best to sort it early.
But here’s the good news: safety doesn’t have to look boring. You can choose balusters that match your home’s vibe, or even go with a bit of wire cabling or glass panels if you want that modern, open look.
The options are endless—and honestly, kind of fun to play around with.
The Build Doesn’t Have to Be a Beast
You don’t need a massive budget or a professional crew to get started. If you’re handy (or know someone who is), even a basic platform deck can be knocked together over a weekend.
Local spots like Mitre 10 usually have the hardware, and you can get plans or inspiration online pretty easily. I’ve seen families team up for a DIY weekend, and by Sunday arvo, they’re having their first cannonball contest.
Whether you go simple or all-out, adding a deck around your above ground pool is one of those upgrades that just makes life better.
It’s not just about swimming anymore—it’s about lounging, gathering, playing, and soaking up every sunny moment. And if you ask me, that’s what backyards are meant for.
Got a pool already? Or just dreaming about it for now? Either way, hope these ideas spark something.
