15 Poolside Lighting Ideas: Create a Warm, Inviting Retreat
Creating the perfect outdoor space can transform any backyard into a special retreat. When it comes to enjoying evenings by the pool, lighting plays a crucial role in setting the right mood. The right lighting can make the area feel more welcoming and safer, allowing friends and family to relax and play by the water.

Good poolside lighting not only enhances the beauty of the area but also increases safety for all who enjoy it. With various styles and options available, it’s easy for anyone to find the perfect set-up for their pool. Adding ambient lighting to a poolside area can turn a simple backyard pool into a delightful space for entertaining or winding down after a long day.
String Lights

A soft strand of string lights floats above the pool, casting a warm, romantic reflection on the water. Subtle recessed lighting along the deck enhances the ambiance, perfect for relaxed evening swims or outdoor gatherings.
Vintage Lights

These vintage-style lights line the pool’s edge, casting a warm, inviting glow that enhances evening relaxation. Their classic shape and soft illumination create a charming atmosphere perfect for winding down at sunset.
Low lights around the pool

Compact low lights dot the path by the pool, casting soft pools of light that guide the way with understated charm. Their low profile adds safety and ambiance without disrupting the pool’s serene, elegant aesthetic.
Bulb Strings

Multiple strands of bulb lights crisscross above the pool, casting a golden canopy that twinkles in the water below. This playful setup instantly transforms any poolside lounge into a festive, cozy retreat.
LED Candles

LED candles shimmer softly, creating a warm and cozy vibe by the pool. They are safe and child-friendly, with no real flame to worry about. These candles come in a variety of colors and shapes, perfect for mixing and matching styles. They softly illuminate evening gatherings, making outdoor spaces feel magical and inviting.
Fairy lights in trees

Twinkling fairy lights in trees bring a magical glow to any poolside. Their gentle sparkle adds a touch of warmth and whimsy. They create a dreamy environment for friends and family to enjoy, setting the mood for relaxing evenings.
Solar Lights

Elegant solar lights line the poolside, casting a golden glow that enhances both safety and style. Their unique design complements the soft sunset backdrop, creating a serene and energy-efficient evening escape.
Poolside Pergola with Warm Lighting

Warm sconces mounted on the pergola create a cozy, inviting ambiance perfect for evening lounging. Their golden light softly illuminates in the pool, adding elegance and charm to any backyard escape.
Spotlights Beside Plants

Enchant your garden with spotlights nestled among plant by the pools. They create a magical glow, highlighting nature’s beauty.
Fence Lighting

Soft lights along the fence create a magical border around the pool. This look is both simple and delightful, perfect for warm, starry nights.
Lantern-Style Posts

Classic lantern-style posts line the poolside, casting a warm, cottage-like glow across the walkway. Their charming design blends function and style, guiding guests while enriching the nighttime garden atmosphere.
Metallic Outdoor Sconces

Brighten the poolside with shiny metallic outdoor sconces. These lights add a touch of class to any backyard. Their sleek design complements modern and traditional spaces alike.
Wall-Mounted Light Fixtures

Sleek wall-mounted fixtures cast soft beams downward, creating a minimalist glow that highlights the pool’s clean lines. This modern lighting choice adds elegance and visibility without disrupting the serene, spa-like ambiance.
Poolside Lanterns

A row of sleek, modern lantern-style lights casts a warm, welcoming glow along the pool’s edge. These evenly spaced lights enhance safety while adding timeless elegance to evening swims and backyard entertaining.
Soft Uplighting

Soft uplighting highlights the plants along the fence line, creating dramatic golden columns that dance across the pool’s surface. Paired with subtle edge lighting, this setup adds depth, warmth, and elegance to evening swims.