What Is a Sun Shelf in a Pool?: Uses and Benefits

What Is a Swimming Pool Tanning Ledge? Discover This Luxurious Pool Feature

A swimming pool tanning ledge—also known as a sun shelf or Baja shelf—is a refined, shallow extension of your pool designed for leisurely relaxation beneath the sun. Typically 5–12 inches deep, it offers just enough water to refresh without full immersion, creating the ideal space for unhurried comfort and conversation.

A sun shelf in a pool is perfect for lounging. Often adorned with in-water loungers or umbrellas, this space invites you to recline in cool, glimmering water while soaking in the serenity of your surroundings. 
An expertly crafted swimming pool sun shelf integrates seamlessly with the rest of the pool, evoking the tranquil luxury of a boutique resort.

Picture All the Ways to Use Your Tanning Ledge

A tanning ledge enhances your pool’s versatility, serving as both a haven for relaxation and a thoughtful design feature. Imagine the myriad functions a sun shelf unlocks:

  • Sunbathing: Relax and soak up the sun in a shallow, comfortable space without being fully immersed in the water.
  • Children’s Play Area: Unlock a safe and shallow area for young children to play, giving parents and grandparents peace of mind.
  • Water-Resistant Furniture: Add lounge chairs or umbrellas to cultivate a haven for reading, relaxing, or socializing.
  • Pet Access: Create a convenient entry and exit point for pets, allowing them to cool off without swimming in deeper water.
  • Aquatic Exercises: The stable, shallow platform allows for low-impact workouts and stretching.
  • Stylish Design: The shelf adds a stylish and functional touch to any pool, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and utility.

Baja shelves can complement pools of various shapes and sizes, combining form and function to create a design uniquely yours.

Benefits of a Tanning Ledge

  1. Versatility: A tanning ledge introduces exceptional flexibility—ideal for sunbathing, reading, or sharing conversation with friends. The shallow design invites universal enjoyment, ensuring comfort for every age and level of swimmer.
  2. Aesthetic Appeal: Adding a tanning ledge enhances your pool’s visual appeal. It creates a unique and inviting look, making your pool stand out. Incorporate bubblers, fountains, or LED lighting to create a mesmerizing interplay of movement and light.
  3. Comfort and Convenience: With a tanning ledge, you don’t need to choose between the water and basking in the sun. Stay cool while enjoying the sunlight, making your pool experience more enjoyable. It’s also a great spot to socialize, have a drink, or relax without the need for additional outdoor furniture.
  4. Property Value: This elegant feature enhances your home’s appeal and distinction, positioning your property as a standout in both beauty and value.

Designing a Pool with a Tanning Ledge

Balance is essential. 

The size of the tanning ledge should complement the overall shape and dimensions of the pool. You’ll want to ensure that it’s spacious enough to accommodate lounge chairs and other accessories. 

Consider the material and finish of the ledge. Opt for materials that remain cool underfoot, with textured, non-slip finishes for comfort and safety alike.

Reach out to our artisan builders so we can collaborate on a sun shelf-equipped pool design that brings your vision of luxury to life.

Elevate Your Pool Experience with a Tanning Ledge from Coastal Pools

A swimming pool tanning ledge is a fantastic addition to any pool, offering a versatile, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing space for relaxation and recreation.

At Coastal Pools (serving Maryland and Delaware), we combine artistry, engineering, and expertise to create pools that feel timeless from the first step in. Our team has designed hundreds of stunning poolscapes, from coastal properties in Rehoboth to suburban backyards in Annapolis and Easton.

Contact us online or at 410-827-0888 today to discover how a tanning ledge can elevate your pool experience and bring your dream backyard to life.

Request an On-Site Pool Consultation

During your design meeting, we’ll discuss every detail to create a pool and patio design that’s uniquely tailored to your property. We’ll also explore a wide variety of materials for your project.

From standard tile and coping selections to custom-cut natural stone, our showroom is arranged to inspire and help bring your vision to life.

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At Coastal Pools, we specialize exclusively in designing and building custom concrete (gunite) pools. We do not build vinyl or fiberglass pools. However, we proudly offer renovation, repair, and relining services for vinyl pools, as well as cleaning and maintenance for inground pools only.

Our service routes are expanding every day, but currently do not cover the full geographic area where we design, build, and remodel pools. Our office staff will be able to confirm availability for service routes.

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