These beautiful plunge pool ideas give you the benefits of a swimming pool, without the maintenance or space requirements.
9 Plunge Pool Ideas
Updated on Sep. 28, 2024
If you have a small yard, you might think installing a swimming pool is simply not in the cards. But your dreams of summers spent poolside are more attainable than you think! A plunge pool is a space-saving pool made to fit in small outdoor spaces. They can be installed above or in the ground, and are just the right size for taking a cool dip. Ahead, find out more about plunge pools including inspirational images of some of our favorite plunge pool designs.
What Is a Plunge Pool?
A plunge pool is a small-scale pool — usually about 8 to 10 ft. wide, 12 to 20 ft. long, and 5 ft. deep. We spoke to plunge pool expert and co-founder of Soake Pools, Karen Larson, to learn more.
“A plunge pool is a small deep pool, also known as a cocktail pool, a small pool or a spool,” says Larson. “Plunge pools have a smaller footprint, are less expensive to install, and much easier to maintain. [They] take up less space, use about 80% less water than a typical large inground pool, and require less energy than a standard-size swimming pool, as well as fewer chemicals.”
How Much Does a Plunge Pool Cost?
Plunge pools are cheaper than full-size inground swimming pools because they are smaller. But like regular swimming pools, the cost of plunge pools varies greatly, depending on the size and design of the pool.
“Cold plunge options range from rubber barrels at approximately $1,000 to hand-tiled, concrete cold plunge tubs that are approximately $27,000,” says Larson. “The lower cost options are generally a ‘set down and plug-in’ scenario while the more expensive options typically involve installation, plumbing, and landscaping in addition to the cost of the cold plunge tub itself.”
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Rock Surround Plunge Pool
Hardscaping and plant life work together to create magic around a plunge pool. This pool from @soakepools has a river rock surround for a rustic look that blends well with the natural surroundings. Soake Pools also include a fully tiled interior, a salt water sanitation system, and an LED color-changing pool light.
What We Like About It: “A Soake Pool is a hybrid between a traditional pool and a hot tub because it can be used year-round and heated to hot tub temps in cooler weather,” says Larson.
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Inground Plunge Pool with Deck
Plunge pools can be made of concrete, vinyl or fiberglass. This fiberglass plunge pool from @bostockpools is durable and flexible, so unlike concrete pools, it won’t crack. The pool is surrounded by a stained wood deck for a seamless transition and a beautiful finish to the pool area.
What We Like About It: The simple plunge pool and deck design helps even the smallest yard reach its full potential.
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Modern Plunge Pool
This sleek plunge pool by @tinypoolsnz features sandy travertine pavers and a refreshingly light turquoise interior. Along with the modern white fencing and tropical potted plants, the overall pool area has a relaxing resort-style look.
What We Like About It: This chic pool design is the perfect example of how to create your own mini-oasis even when you don’t have a large outdoor space to work with.
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Small Backyard Plunge Pool
When planning your plunge pool project, there are a lot of components to consider outside the pool. This design from @leisurepoolsau includes both wood decking and grass, providing an impactful look with high contrast. The pool itself is the centerpiece, creating a stunning focal point for the small rectangular yard.
What We Like About It: To pull off a successful finished look like this one, Larson says, “Keep an idea board to finalize a design aesthetic that can be maintained and reinforced through the duration of the project. This includes everything from the color of the interior pool tile to external materials—stone work, patio, grasses, and plantings!”
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Round Plunge Pool
A cute little plunge pool like this one from @caba_cottage might be the perfect addition to your outdoor space. A concrete precast plunge pool (this one is manufactured by All Cast Plunge Pools) is delivered to your doorstep completely tiled and finished, saving time and money. Simply hook up plumbing and electricity, and you’re ready to swim!
What We Like About It: The pool transforms this corner of the yard into its own retreat. Because of their small size, plunge pools are great for unused or awkward sections of your outdoor space.
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Semi-Inground Plunge Pool
When designing their plunge pool area, @jimmyandtam wanted a midcentury Palm Springs vibe—and they definitely achieved it! A semi-inground installation is more affordable and gives a better aesthetic than a fully above-ground pool. It also puts that stunning white mosaic tile on full display.
What We Like About It: Every element of this design helps achieve the modern Palm Springs look, from the funky lounge chairs to the tropical plants. Don’t overlook the details!
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Tiled Plunge Pool
This plunge pool from @plungeplus demonstrates the high-end look you can achieve with a small pool. The 7-ft. by 13-ft. design is compact yet elegant, with a gray tile deck and interior. It can also be converted into a hot tub for year-round enjoyment.
What We Like About It: The built-in benches are perfect for a refreshing lounge after a long day.
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@texastinypools 🔹 Eastside Al Fresco 🔹 This is a perfect example of what a Tiny Pool is all about! We tucked this 10'x12' between the main home and ADU in this East Austin neighborhood. It's partially above-ground to match the elevation of the adjacent deck. Featuring an extended ledge entry step and bench seating with spa jets, this heated Tiny Pool will get lots of use all year! The durable Tahoe Blue mini pebble interior looks great and is built to last. The UV and Ozone systems help to keep the water crystal-clear while using less chemicals. Despite some challenging circumstances (tight access, existing utilities, and tree considerations), we pulled it off and we know that our amazing clients (and their family) will enjoy their Tiny Pool for years to come! ❣️ Specs: 🔹 Size: 10' x 12' 🔹 Depth: 3'8" to 4'7" 🔹 Plaster: StoneScapes Mini Pebbles – Tahoe Blue 🔹 Tile: NPT Mix 1×1 Series Sandy Beach Blend 🔹 Coping: Lueders Stone (Charcoal) 🔹 Features: Heater, Spa Jets, UV, Ozone 🔹 Landscape Design/Construction: ADLA Studio #tinypool #plungepool #spool #cocktailpool #pooldesign #smallpool #custompool #poolbuilder ♬ original sound – ray marco
Square Plunge Pool
At 10-ft. by 12-ft., this plunge pool from @texastinypools isn’t perfectly square, but the squarish shape helps it fit in the tight space. Despite its small size, this pool has all the extras, including an extended ledge entry step, bench seating and spa jets. It’s also heated for year-round use.
What We Like About It: The mini pebble interior gives the water a lovely blue color and is extremely durable.
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@plungeplus This sleek modern hideaway is a showstopper!! ☀️✨ #plungepool #smallpool #pool #plungeplus #plunge #swimmingpool ♬ A Bar Song (Tipsy) – Shaboozey
Automatic Plunge Pool Cover
Watch the automatic cover in action as it extends onto this plunge pool from @plungeplus. Automatic covers are operated with a flick of a button to protect the water from debris when not in use, plus it fully retracts and stays hidden, ensuring your pool always looks great.
What We Like About It: An automatic cover will cost you a little extra, but the convenience and clutter-free look makes the upgrade worth the price.
About the Expert
- Karen Larson is the co-founder of Soake Pools located in New Hampshire. Karen and her husband Brian created the company from the ground up in 2014 after discovering there was no affordable, high-quality option for plunge pools in their area. Soake Pools proudly offers revolutionary, space-saving pools that combine the best of a pool and a hot tub, and provide year-round enjoyment.
