19 Stunning Lagoon Swimming Pool Designs
Lagoon-style swimming pools are famous for creatively recreating the feel of a backyard oasis. Their tropical aesthetic makes them enduringly popular with designers and homeowners. Lagoon swimming pools have two defining features: their freeform shapes and water features.
The freeform shapes attempt to create a more organic feel to the design, adding curvilinear swoops and gentle curves. At times, they have inset islands to accommodate palm trees or other landscape elements. The design features that are quintessential to lagoon-style pools include waterfalls, rock sides, black bottoms, and whatever else adds to the experience of making the area feel tropical and organic.
There are a slew of creative and practical benefits to opting for using a natural shape as opposed to the equally common rectilinear type swimming pools. The pleasing curves inherent in these types of pools are limited only by your imagination. It’s called “free”-form for a reason. The curves can also be used to accommodate their construction in spaces that are not very conducive to outdoor water-based recreation.
Irregular corner lots or cramped backyard spaces, for example, can now afford to have pools in them in the form of freeform design. Lastly, lagoon designs can have added features such as wading niches, refreshing waterfalls, and tanning ledges that only serve to enhance your swimming pool experience.
Lagoon pools are perfect for forest-side views such as this one.
Lagoon Shaped Pool
Lagoon-shaped pools are the most diverse sub-genre of swimming pools in landscape design. This is due to its characteristic of employing free-form and curvilinear layouts with almost limitless creative potential.
Free-form or lagoon-shaped pools are close cousins to kidney-shaped designs and are sometimes called radius pools due to their curvilinear nature. The more popular shape common for lagoon pools nowadays is called the cloud or bubble, named aptly after the perceived form of those shapes. The flowing and smooth sweeps and curves of these pools very faithfully depict the true essence of tropical landscape design.
Lagoon-shaped pools also commonly employ niches or pockets for different landscape elements. Trees and shrubbery integrated into the landscape design provide a nice source of shade from harsh sunlight. They also add a heap of aesthetic value to the swimming experience, not to mention the backyard as a whole.
The niches or pockets are also commonly utilized for tanning ledges, perfect for a relaxing dip in the swimming pool while also getting that nice, sun-kissed summer complexion.
Curved lagoon-shaped pools do wonders for irregularly shaped lots and can adapt to any lot shape. However, they also serve as nice contrasts to sharp, regularly shaped backyards by softening the edges and corners of the property with their gentle curves.
Swimming pool construction typically consists of one of three major materials: gunite, fiberglass, or vinyl.
Gunite is the most expensive yet durable of the three. This material, in its simplest form, is sprayed on concrete with steel reinforcement bars. Due to its durable construction, it is known to last a lifetime.
Fiberglass is not as pricey as gunite but not as affordable as vinyl. Fiberglass pool linings are resistant to algae buildup and require short installation times.
A vinyl lining is the most affordable option of the three. A continuous sheet of vinyl on the topmost surface of the pool separates the water from the subsurface of mortar and sand. Vinyl pools are versatile and less prone to cracks.
Adding a modern fire bowl to your backyard landscape is a stylish way to create an exotic ambiance and provide warmth and light for nighttime swimming or backyard entertaining.
Lagoon Style Pool Water Features
Lagoon style pools employ different design features to enhance their look and to enhance its users’ experience. Rock waterfalls are among the most common design additions. They are perfect complements and really add to the ambiance of the scene.
They are great visual and acoustic design elements. When used correctly, they can help mask any unwanted views or noises that might take away from the pool’s appeal.
When recreating nice rock waterfall scenes, it is good to consult with your contractors and suppliers about the feasibility of using either synthetic or natural rocks. Depending on your location and the availability of supplies, finding the right balance between artificial and natural will keep costs low and aesthetic values high.
Cave features and grotto additions are also quite popular design features for lagoon style pools. These man-made nooks serve as intimate spaces for relaxation or privacy. Depending on the design, these niches can also serve as bars, spas, and even shower rooms.
As mentioned before, smart landscaping is also seen in many lagoon-style landscaping. For the most part, popular choices for tree or shrub landscaping are tropical species – usually palm trees and foliage with sprawling, wide-set leaves. These types of plants enhance the tropical vibe of the lagoon pool’s surroundings and make it look much more organic and natural.
Although sometimes quite difficult to maintain due to their preference for more humid, tropical climates, the presence of a pool and some other climate-centric landscape modifications will help sustain these tropical plant species. This makes it possible to utilize them even in areas with generally colder climates.
Outdoor lighting is also an essential design element to really make your backyard design stand out. Color-changing submersible LED light strips can really give your pool an otherworldly glow especially at night. We also have outdoor lighting specifically purposed to illuminate walkways and landscape elements for visual clarity in less-than-ideal conditions.
Thanks to their freeform shapes, lagoon pools can accommodate even smaller backyards. These custom wading pools often feature a beach entry design to resemble a real tropical beach.
Lagoon Pool Cost
Like any other major construction, lagoon-style pool prices will fluctuate depending on the materials and layouts preferred. Given their freeform nature, they are slightly higher priced than simpler layouts such as kidney-shaped or rectilinear pools.
Add the price of ancillary features a client might want to add such as waterfalls, islands, or built-in fountains, and your budget also goes up a tad.
For quick and easy installation and affordable prices, homeowners might want to go for above-ground lagoon pool kits. Cheaper materials, such as vinyl or fiberglass, will also affect the cost of the construction.
Regional considerations must also be given thought. Local higher water tables, soil conditions, aquifers, and other digging conditions will make construction a bit more complicated. These, in turn, affect the price for labor and construction.
Southern parts of the country, for example, will have mostly tropical weather for the majority of the year. Not having to worry about frost and winter climates can make it so that there is a larger window for construction. This is especially true for outdoor construction and landscaping projects.
The climate also affects the type of vegetation you can utilize for your lagoon pools. More harsh climates will limit the plants you can use, and more high-maintenance plants will cost more to obtain and plant, as well as to water and groom.
Here are some sample lagoon style pool costs sorted according to size and price, the size indications being dimensions of the three larger curves of the layout.
| Size (ft) | Estimated Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 12′ × 22′ × 24′ | 45,000–65,000 | Small lagoon pool; basic curves, minimal rock features. |
| 14′ × 26′ × 28′ | 55,000–75,000 | Slightly larger, may include a small waterfall or tanning ledge. |
| 16′ × 34′ × 28′ | 65,000–90,000 | Mid-sized with more curves; likely includes some natural rock accents. |
| 20′ × 38′ × 40′ | 80,000–120,000 | Large, custom shape; likely includes waterfalls, boulders, and landscaping. |
| 20′ × 42′ × 31′ | 85,000–130,000 | Extra length adds complexity; high-end finishes and features. |
Why the Big Price Difference?
- These designs are custom-created, so prices vary widely.
- Additional features (rockwork, waterfalls, lighting, landscaping) add 10,000–10,000–50,000+.
- Material choices (plaster vs. pebble finish) affect cost.
- Excavation & site prep (sloping land, accessibility) can increase expenses.
Real-World Cost Factors:
- Basic lagoon pool (no rocks/waterfalls): 50,000–50,000–80,000
- Mid-range (some rock features): 80,000–80,000–120,000
- Luxury (full naturalistic design): 120,000–120,000–200,000+
Price Per Square Foot Assumptions:
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Shape Simplification: We’ll treat each pool as an oval or kidney shape to estimate surface area.
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Average Depth: Assuming a 4 ft average depth (since lagoon pools often have shallow lounging areas and deeper sections).
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Price Range: Using the midpoint of the revised cost estimates from earlier.
Cost per Square Foot (Surface Area) Breakdown
| Size (ft) | Approx. Surface Area (ft²) | Mid-Range Cost | Cost per ft² |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12′ × 22′ × 24′ | ~250 ft² | $55,000 | $220/ft² |
| 14′ × 26′ × 28′ | ~350 ft² | $65,000 | $186/ft² |
| 16′ × 34′ × 28′ | ~450 ft² | $77,500 | $172/ft² |
| 20′ × 38′ × 40′ | ~700 ft² | $100,000 | $143/ft² |
| 20′ × 42′ × 31′ | ~750 ft² | $107,500 | $143/ft² |
Observations:
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Smaller pools cost more per ft² due to fixed expenses (permits, equipment, labor).
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Larger pools have economies of scale, dropping the per-ft² cost.
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Average cost range: 140–220 per ft² (basic lagoon pool without high-end rock features).
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With premium features (waterfalls, boulders, etc.): 200–400+/ft².
This is assuming the bare minimum of lagoon style pools. Considering extra landscaping costs and additional design elements, these pools will be at least $220 per square foot. This is assuming the labor of a five-man crew at two weeks of uninterrupted work.
As always, try not to forget about extra costs affecting the overall construction budget, such as local building permit fees and applicable taxes. Consultants and installers in your area will most likely be more knowledgeable on those matters, so don’t be afraid to ask them for advice.
Multi-level waterfall features add another dimension to your lagoon style pool.
Lagoon Style Pool Designs
Installation or renovation of lagoon style pool designs depends on the overall feel you’re seeking to recreate. Homeowners will most often look for that tropical, beach-type ambiance for their patio design setup.
Tropical plants such as palm trees, hibiscus plants, birds of paradise, and princess flowers are the more common landscaping vegetation elements integrated into lagoon pools. Lush vines are also commonly utilized throughout the surroundings. Ask your local planters and landscape architects for the best species to use for your location.
Pool fountains are also popular design choices for these types. The same goes for other water features, such as bubblers and the aforementioned landscape waterfalls. Pool size and shape, available space, and allowed budget are factors to consider.
Pavers also affect the overall look of the area. The more commonly suggested paver material would be light-colored travertine stone. They’re pleasant on bare feet, functionally non-slip, aesthetically pleasing, and enduringly timeless.
Many lagoon pool designs also employ wading or spa areas. Young children will benefit from these areas where wading can be done safely.
You can create a multi-level layout for lagoon pools and take your design to another dimension. Bridges, stairways, and elevated walkways will work well for these types of layouts.
There are pool design software programs that are available for free or are inexpensive to help you draw your own plans.
With ample yard space and sloping topography, you can make lagoon pools with rock faces as tall as this one.
Tanning ledges and wading areas make for great play areas for children.
Adding an infinity edge pool in seaside locations makes you feel like you’re wading in the sea.
You can separate hot tubs from the swimming area with rock design features.
Tropical trees give the landscape a more organic and natural look.
Underwater neon lights make your lagoon style pools pop at night.
Ample lighting for lagoon pools is stylish and functional for nighttime parties.
Curvilinear sides of lagoon-style pools can accommodate integrated spas and hot tubs quite easily.
Rock floors, edges, and waterfall features are the integral design elements of most lagoon style pools.
You can be creative when integrating cove features and pool slides. Here, we have an example of a slide, waterfall feature, and cove feature all in one design element.
Small Lagoon Swimming Pool
Smaller lagoon pools are perfect for yards with limited space. With the freeform flexibility of these types of pools, the possibilities are endless.
Smaller pools are perfect for light wading before or after a swim at the beach. This oceanfront backyard provides a modern deck surrounding a green bottom pool to mimic the look of a tropical oasis. Lounge chairs are positioned in the water to maximize views and relaxation.
With limited space, you could choose to employ just one accent vegetation landscaping element to give your swimming area some shade. This small backyard villa creates the perfect spot for a private swimming pool.
Integrating stilts or columns into the design is a smart way to give your pool some extra appeal. This elevated swimming pool looks out upon a real tropical jungle to create the perfect backdrop for an exotic escape.
Reflective lakeside lagoon pools really add a certain ambiance that not many other landscape features can achieve. A tiki hut off to the side is a great place to escape the heat and seek cocktails and some shade.
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