45 Inspiring Plunge Pool Ideas for Your Backyard Retreat

Plunge pools are the ultimate addition to any outdoor space, combining luxury and practicality in a compact design.

Perfect for small backyards or stylish patios, these pools offer a refreshing way to cool off or unwind with a good book and a drink.

Small rectangular pool with wooden decking, surrounded by cushions, overlooking a calm lake and distant mountains under a clear sky.

From minimalist modern designs to lush tropical hideaways, plunge pools can transform your yard into a serene retreat tailored to your taste.

This list showcases unique and inspiring plunge pool designs, packed with creative decor and landscaping ideas to elevate your outdoor experience.

45 Plunge Pool Ideas for Your Backyard

1. Modern Zen Retreat

A narrow outdoor space with a small rectangular pool, a bamboo fence, potted plants, and a wooden bench with cushions. Stone tiles and pebbles create a pathway beside the pool.

A rectangular plunge pool with sleek black tiles creates a serene modern oasis. Bamboo fencing and a gravel border enhance the minimalist design, while oversized stone pavers lead to a teak daybed with neutral-toned cushions.

2. Tropical Garden Nook

Small square blue-tiled pool surrounded by lush greenery with a rattan swing chair nearby.

A compact plunge pool is framed by lush greenery, featuring monstera leaves and palms for a jungle vibe. Aqua-blue tiles shimmer beneath the sun, while a rattan hanging chair adds a touch of laid-back relaxation.

3. Rustic Stone Sanctuary

A small round stone pool under a wooden pergola with string lights, surrounded by greenery and overlooking a rural landscape.

Natural stone walls encase this rustic plunge pool, offering privacy and charm. Earthy tones blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, while a pergola draped with fairy lights casts a warm, inviting glow at night.

4. Infinity-Edge Dream

Rectangular pool with clear water, surrounded by a tiled deck, two lounge chairs, and trees. Overlooks a hilly landscape under a clear blue sky.

A small infinity-edge plunge pool overlooks a scenic landscape, blending beautiful blue sky and water. Light gray tiles and clear glass fencing create a modern, airy feel, while minimalist loungers keep the focus on the view.

5. Mediterranean Courtyard Escape

Small square pool surrounded by terracotta pots with olive trees and lavender. Nearby iron chairs and a parasol provide seating in a courtyard setting.

A tiled plunge pool with Greek meander patterns anchors this small sunny courtyard. Terra-cotta pots bursting with lavender and olive trees line the edge, paired with wrought-iron chairs and an off-white umbrella.

6. Desert Oasis Delight

A small, round stone hot tub surrounded by desert landscape with cacti and plants, next to a wooden canopy with a cushioned seating area.

This compact plunge pool, surrounded by sandy-hued stone, complements an arid desert landscape. Cacti and succulents provide decorations around it, while a rustic wooden deck and a shaded cabana invite relaxed laid-back lounging.

7. Hidden Urban Haven

A rooftop pool with a small waterfall feature, surrounded by ornamental grasses, in an urban setting with glass and brick buildings in the background.

A plunge pool on a rooftop deck offers those living in the city a cooling retreat.

Concrete planters with ornamental grasses create privacy, while a waterfall feature adds soothing soundscapes to this stylish hideaway and helps drown out the city noise.

8. Mid-Century Marvel

Small backyard pool with two orange-cushioned chairs and an orange umbrella. Surrounded by tropical plants and a white privacy wall. Palms and blue sky in the background.

Clean lines and mosaic tiles bring retro vibes to this chic plunge pool. A bold orange sun umbrella and mid-century-style loungers add playful contrast, while colorful poolside planters enhance the vibrant aesthetic.

9. Lush Jungle Perch

Small circular stone hot tub with water flowing over the edge, surrounded by tropical plants and two wooden chairs on a pebble-lined patio.

This raised plunge pool sits amid dense tropical plants, with a waterfall edge cascading into a gravel basin below. Woven chairs and warm wood accents create a cozy retreat for cooling off in nature.

10. Compact Courtyard Luxury

Rectangular tiled plunge pool with blue water, surrounded by white walls and overhead trellis with climbing plants. Two potted plants placed beside the pool.

A rectangular plunge pool finished in deep teal tiles brings sophistication to a small patio. Bright white walls reflect the sunlight, while an overhanging pergola with climbing vines provides dappled shade.

11. Scandinavian Minimalist Escape

Minimalist patio with small rectangular pool, surrounded by black outdoor chairs and small potted trees. Wooden decking and light gray walls frame the space.

A plunge pool with pale concrete walls and light wood decking exudes Scandinavian simplicity. Black steel chairs and neutral throws add a touch of modern elegance to the pool, surrounded by potted evergreens for subtle greenery.

12. Boho Garden Retreat

A small circular pool surrounded by colorful cushions and blue lounge chairs, shaded by large fringed umbrellas and set amidst green foliage and pink flowers.

A small kidney-shaped plunge pool is surrounded by flowering bougainvillea and fringed umbrellas. Vibrant patterned towels and woven poufs complete the Boho-chic vibe, making this compact pool a perfect summer sanctuary.

13. Terraced Tropical Bliss

A small outdoor wooden hot tub is surrounded by lush greenery and illuminated by string lights.

A tiered wooden deck surrounds a plunge pool, with ferns and palms cascading over the edges. A built-in bench with plush cushions offers seating, while lanterns and string lights set the mood for evening dips.

14. Crisp Monochrome Oasis

Modern patio with a geometric pattern, featuring four black chairs around a hexagonal fire pit, adjacent to a sleek rectangular pool, surrounded by greenery and contemporary fencing.

This black-and-white plunge pool design combines sleek black tiles with white stone decking. A geometric fire pit adds contrast, while minimalist outdoor furniture completes the modern, sophisticated look.

15. Walled Garden Serenity

Small circular pool surrounded by vine-covered walls, framed by wrought iron gates. Pink roses hang overhead.

A circular plunge pool is nestled within a private walled garden, surrounded by flowering vines and climbing roses. A wrought-iron gate and mosaic tile floor evoke Old World charm, perfect for a romantic escape.

16. Rustic Farmhouse Pool

A small rectangular pool with metal planters on a wooden deck. Stone walls surround the area. String lights are hung above.

Stone walls and wooden decking create a farmhouse-style plunge pool. Overhead string lights and corrugated, galvanized steel planters filled with fragrant herbs bring charm and functionality to this cozy outdoor retreat.

17. Industrial-Chic Cooling Spot

A small rectangular outdoor pool with blue water is surrounded by brick walls and metal railings. There's a bench with a brown cushion and plants along a concrete planter.

A small plunge pool with dark slate tiles complements the industrial-style setting of exposed brick and black metal fencing. An oversized concrete planter adds greenery, while a bench with tufted leather cushions softens the space.

18. Coastal Retreat Vibes

Small outdoor pool with clear water, surrounded by white tiles. Two wicker lounge chairs with cushions under a blue and white striped umbrella. Potted plants decorate the area.

White decking, navy accents, and a compact plunge pool with pebble-blue tiles create a breezy coastal aesthetic. A striped umbrella, a striped rug, and wicker loungers offer a relaxing setup reminiscent of fun seaside getaways.

19. Rainforest-Inspired Hideout

Tiled pool with a waterfall feature surrounded by lush green plants and a wooden chair on the side.

This plunge pool is surrounded by towering tropical plants, with teal to navy tiles blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings. A small waterfall feature adds a relaxing touch, while rattan furniture completes the rainforest vibe.

20. Floating Deck Elegance

Modern rooftop pool with blue lights, surrounded by glass panels, adjacent to a seating area with cushions. Steps with glowing lights lead to the pool. Sky is clear.

A raised plunge pool with infinity edges sits atop a floating deck. Glass railings keep the view unobstructed, while neutral furniture and subtle lighting elevate this luxurious, contemporary design.

21. Meditative Stone Pool

Minimalist courtyard with a rectangular pool, cascading water feature, and surrounding greenery against white walls under a clear blue sky.

Smooth soft gray stone tiles and a tranquil water feature give this plunge pool a spa-like feel. Minimalist landscaping creates a peaceful space for unwinding.

22. Sunken Fire Pit Pool Combo

A square fire pit is surrounded by water in a tiled outdoor setting, with greenery and trees visible in the background.

A sunken seating area encircles a compact plunge pool, with a central fire pit for added ambiance. Dark tiles contrast with glowing flames, making this an ideal gathering space for cool evenings.

23. Zen Courtyard Delight

A small, rectangular courtyard pool is surrounded by bonsai trees and stone lanterns, with wooden benches and a pebble pathway leading around the pool.

A rectangular plunge pool is surrounded by gravel and potted bonsai trees, creating a Japanese-inspired retreat. Simple live-edge wooden benches and stone lanterns add to the tranquil atmosphere.

24. Modern Forest Refuge

Outdoor pool surrounded by a wooden deck, seating area with sofas, and tall trees.

This plunge pool, lined with charcoal and teal tiles, blends into a forested backyard. A sizeable wooden deck with soft seating invites sunning and relaxation, while the surrounding trees create a peaceful natural canopy.

25. Mediterranean Rooftop Escape

Rooftop terrace with seating area, tiled pool, and potted plants under a pergola. City skyline visible in the background.

A rooftop plunge pool with azure mosaic tiles pairs beautifully with terra-cotta planters and pavers and whitewashed walls. A shaded pergola and wicker furniture complete the Mediterranean charm.

26. Cottage Garden Pool

Small rectangular pool in a garden courtyard, surrounded by vibrant flowers and greenery, with stone paths and seating. Ivy-covered walls and windows in the background.

Surrounded by wildflowers and ivy-clad walls, this petite plunge pool feels like a secret garden. Weathered stone tiles, flower beds, and rustic wooden loungers add to the enchanting cottage vibe.

27. Minimalist Zen Tub

Circular outdoor spa pool with a small central fountain, surrounded by bamboo fencing and tropical plants. The area features stone and pebble flooring under a wooden pergola.

A round, cement plunge pool doubles as a hot tub in this clean-lined setup. Bamboo fencing and a white gravel border add simplistic style to the space, while a simple water feature creates a soothing focal point.

28. Lakeside Simplicity

A plunge pool with wooden decking sits steps from a serene lake. Soft linen cushions and minimal decor blend seamlessly with the surrounding water views.

29. Color-Pop Patio Pool

A small, bright blue tiled pool is surrounded by potted cacti and palm plants. Two colorful cushions rest on its edge.

Bright turquoise tiles bring playful energy to this plunge pool, surrounded by vibrantly patterned outdoor cushions, potted palms, and cacti.

30. Tiled Courtyard Gem

Small tiled plunge pool with wooden deck, surrounded by plants and arched walls. Circular seating area with pillows and a large lantern nearby.

A plunge pool with mosaic tiles serves as the centerpiece of a sunlit courtyard. A curved bench with textured, patterned pillows and low tables with lanterns bring warmth and charm to this outdoor haven.

31. Eco-Friendly Hideaway

Rectangular pool surrounded by tall grasses, purple and yellow flowers, and a wooden deck. Lush green trees and lawn are visible in the background.

A solar-heated plunge pool features sustainable materials like reclaimed wood decking. Tall grasses and wildflowers create a natural border around the water, blending this compact pool seamlessly into the eco-friendly landscape.

32. Cozy Alpine Retreat

Four wooden chairs surround a stone fire pit on a wooden deck near a steaming hot tub, with landscaped plants in the background.

This plunge pool, surrounded by warm cedar decking, is designed for cold mountain escapes. A steaming hot tub effect and Adirondack chairs around a fire pit complete the cozy atmosphere, combining both cool and warm relaxation options.

33. Geometric Elegance

Modern outdoor patio with a square water feature surrounded by succulent plants. Two lounge chairs are placed on a tiled surface, and a landscaped garden wall is in the background.

A square plunge pool with intricate black, gray, and white mosaic tiles anchors a minimalist backyard. Concrete planters with succulents and sleek gray loungers with white upholstery complete this clean modern design.

34. Sunlit Rustic Corner

Circular stone hot tub in a fenced outdoor patio with terracotta pots, a small rug, and cushions. Surrounded by trees and clear sky.

A stone plunge pool sits in a sunny corner of the yard, framed by wooden fencing and large terra-cotta jars. Colorfully patterned textiles bring rustic warmth to this inviting space.

35. Beach-Inspired Paradise

A small, kidney-shaped pool surrounded by rocks and greenery. A thatched umbrella and seating area are on the left, with trees and cloudy sky in the background.

A plunge pool with pale blue tiles is surrounded by smooth sandy-colored gravel and pavers. White upholstered wicker furniture, a thatched umbrella, and swaying seagrass give this space a breezy, coastal vibe.

36. Modern Jungle Rooftop

Rooftop terrace with a small green-tiled pool, surrounded by various potted plants. A cityscape with tall buildings is visible in the background.

A rooftop plunge pool with green and teal tiles complements tropical potted plants. A retractable awning offers ample shade, creating a perfect relaxing urban retreat.

37. Stone-Clad Serenity

A minimalist patio features a small rectangular pool, stone walls, a wooden pergola, and blue-cushioned seating with colorful pillows. Palm trees are in the background.

Natural stone cladding around this plunge pool provides earthy appeal, while a wooden pergola overhead filters sunlight. Cozy seating with colorful cushions completes this relaxing outdoor space.

38. Secluded Spa Haven

Small rectangular pool with a waterfall feature, surrounded by tall green hedges and a wooden panel with two lights, creating a secluded garden setting.

Tall hedges frame this compact rectangular plunge pool, ensuring complete privacy. Warm wood accents and a bubbling water feature transform the space into a personal spa retreat in the corner of your garden.

39. Compact Deck Escape

A small square pool surrounded by a wooden deck and potted orange trees, partially enclosed by sheer curtains under a pergola.

A small square plunge pool with white tile borders fits snugly into a small backyard deck. Potted citrus trees and a pergola draped with sheer curtains add unique charm and functional privacy to the space.

40. Fire and Water Harmony

A rectangular pool surrounded by stone tiles at twilight. A round fire pit is at the far end, with trees and foliage in the background.

This plunge pool pairs beautifully with a nearby fire bowl, creating a harmonious contrast of elements. Dark stone tiles enhance the contemporary feel, while low lighting adds intimacy.

41. Tropical Waterfall Retreat

Tropical pool scene with a small waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and a thatched-roof cabana with a lounge chair.

A plunge pool with a small waterfall feature sits amid towering palms and ferns. A thatched pool house and teak sunbeds create a small laid-back tropical escape right in your backyard.

42. Garden Pergola Pool

A small backyard pool surrounded by cobblestone, with a pergola overhead. There's outdoor seating with cushions and plants around. A colorful rug is on the ground.

A pergola with climbing jasmine shades this compact plunge pool that’s surrounded by cobblestone paving. Weathered wooden loungers and colorful cushions and rugs make it a stylish yet relaxing spot.

43. Desert Chic Plunge

A small, round outdoor hot tub with stone edging, surrounded by desert plants. An orange patterned rug and steps leading into the water are visible in the foreground.

Sand-colored stone surrounds this plunge pool, blending into and highlighting a dry, desert landscape. Cactus-lined planters and a bright patterned woven rug bring a touch of vibrant energy to the space.

44. Black-Tiled Mystery

A small rectangular pool with tiled interior is illuminated by string lights overhead. The surrounding area is bordered by dark walls and lush greenery.

A black-tiled plunge pool shimmers under carefully draped golden string lights, creating a moody, luxurious ambiance. Polished concrete seating enhances the upscale atmosphere.

45. Treehouse Pool Haven

Circular pool surrounded by a wooden deck, set in a forest with tall trees and connected by rope bridges.

Nestled among tall trees, this raised plunge pool sits on a rustic wooden deck of an expansive home. Rope railings add charm to this unique nature-inspired retreat.

Create Your Perfect Plunge Pool Paradise

A plunge pool isn’t just a design choice; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. And it can elevate your home to a whole new level of style and relaxation.

Whether you crave relaxation, a private escape, or an eye-catching feature, these ideas offer endless possibilities for creating a backyard sanctuary.

From lush tropical settings to sleek modern designs, a well-thought-out plunge pool can elevate the ambiance of any space.

Let your imagination flow, and start planning your personal oasis today. No matter your style or space, a stylish plunge pool awaits to make your home truly unforgettable!