There’s nothing quite like walking into your own backyard and diving into crystal-clear water. A pool turns your outdoor space into a place to relax, play, cool off, and entertain. And with smart features like a self-cleaning system, it can even take care of itself.
But with so many options out there, how do you know which backyard pool is right for you?
From compact designs to full-size family pools, this guide breaks it all down. Whether you’ve got a small block or a sprawling yard, we’ll help you choose the pool that works for your space, budget and lifestyle.
What makes a great backyard pool?
A great backyard pool isn’t about size – it’s about fit. The right pool works with your space, meets your needs, and complements the way you live.
It’s easy to get swept up in tiles, decking and plants – but the pool itself is the real investment. Once it’s in, it’s in. Everything else can evolve around it. That’s why choosing the right shape, size and operating system upfront matters most.
Ask yourself:
• How much space do you have?
• How do you plan to use the pool?
• Who will be using it – adults, kids, guests?
• What’s your budget?
• What kind of backyard lifestyle do you want to create?
When you get those answers right, your pool becomes more than just a feature – it becomes the heart of your outdoor living space.
Backyard pool types
Plunge pools
• Best for: Cooling off and light exercise
• Typical size: Under 7m
Compact, stylish and incredibly versatile – plunge pools are perfect for smaller backyards, courtyards or even large blocks where you want to keep space for other features like firepits, gardens or an entertaining zone. Swim jets can be added for fitness, or you can simply float the afternoon away.
Small pool, big impact! Plunge pools prove you don’t need to go big to go beautiful.
All-rounder pools
- Best for: Water-games and entertaining groups
- Typical size: 7 -12m
If you want a pool that does a bit of everything, shapes like the X-Trainer, Sanctuary, or Vogue offer a great balance of space, style and usability. These pools often include wide steps, bench seating, and generous swim zones – ideal for relaxing, playing or hosting weekend get-togethers.
If your backyard is the main event space each summer, this X-trainer is your pool.
Lap pools
- Best for: Fitness, regular swimmers, long and narrow backyards
- Typical size: 10 – 15m
Looking for a pool that supports an active lifestyle? The Fastlane is designed for dedicated lap swimming, with a long, narrow shape that fits neatly alongside boundaries or fence lines. It also adds a sleek design element to your space – practical and premium.
Let’s quote you on your dream pool!
It’s the pool version of a treadmill. Only cooler. Literally.
How to plan your pool layout
Once you’ve picked the pool that suits your needs, it’s time to think about the final touches. A well-designed pool area should feel like a natural extension of your home – not just a mass of water plonked in the ground.
Think about:
- Sunlight: Pools should ideally be in full sun for most of the day
- Wind and shelter: Position your pool away from strong breezes or use landscaping to protect it
- Access: Will it be easy to get to from your living areas?
- Supervision: If you’ve got kids, can you see the pool from the house?
Also think about how you’ll use the space around your pool. Room for lounges? An outdoor kitchen or pergola? Somewhere for the dog to run? Design it all together so the result is seamless.
Cost of a backyard pool
The cost of your backyard pool depends on size, features, and site conditions. A small fibreglass pool may cost less to install and maintain than a large concrete one. Other cost factors include:
- Excavation and access
- Pool heating and lighting
- Automation and cleaning systems
- Fencing and landscaping
If you’re working to a budget, talk to your local pool dealer about what’s essential now – and what can be added later. For example, glass fencing, heat pumps and landscaping can be staged over time. But your pool – and how it operates – is something you want to get right from the start.
Choosing an advanced system like Compass Pools’ Vantage self-cleaning and circulation system can dramatically improve the long-term value of your investment. It keeps your pool cleaner, clearer, and swim-ready without the ongoing work.
Because let’s face it – if you have to come home and vacuum the pool before enjoying it, have you really bought the lifestyle you were dreaming of?
Tip: Our fibreglass plunge pools are typically more affordable to install and run, while larger pools offer more versatility and space for growing families.
Adding value to your home
Backyard pools aren’t just about the lifestyle, they can also add value to your property when done well. A thoughtfully designed pool area can make your home more appealing to future buyers.
To maximise value, here’s what you can do:
- Make sure the pool suits the scale of your home
- Integrate it with your outdoor entertaining area
- Choose finishes and colours that are timeless
- Don’t forget about compliance. Ensure your space is complaint with council and any fencing that’s needed is installed!
Common mistakes to avoid
- Going too big for your space: You still need room to move around your backyard pool
- Neglecting shade and shelter: Not every day is a scorcher, and even on the hottest ones, you’ll want a shady spot to escape the sun. Think umbrellas, pergolas or a nearby tree – your future self will thank you.
- Focusing only on the pool: The area around it matters just as much.
- Underestimating maintenance: Our self cleaning system can save you hours of maintenance and thousands in long-term running costs.
Learn more about our self cleaning pools!
So, what’s the right backyard pool for you?
That depends on what matters most to you. If you’re after a compact, low-maintenance space to cool off, a plunge pool could be perfect. If you want a place for the whole family to splash, swim and spend time together, a larger pool may be the better fit.
Remember: the pool is your starting point. Your lifestyle, your comfort, and your investment in home value all begin there. Everything else can be added when the time is right.
Whatever you choose, make sure it suits your lifestyle – not just your block. That’s how you get the most value from your investment and the most joy from your backyard.