Article Inspiring Reasons to Get a Tanning Ledge By Probuilt Staff July 18, 2022

Also referred to as a sun shelf, Baja shelf, or splash pad, a tanning ledge is a great add-on to your backyard pool. This is an exciting feature that allows you to do all sorts of activities that you might normally do outside of the pool inside of the pool.

What is a tanning ledge?

Essentially, a tanning ledge is a shelf or extended ledge in the pool that offers enough space for a couple of lounge chairs or even a small table. It is usually deep enough to keep you cool and refreshed but it does not hold enough water for you to float or swim.

If you are wondering why you would even want such a shallow area in your pool, let us assure you it is a multifaceted feature that should bring you lots of joy and fun in the years to come.

Browse some of our tanning ledge options here.

The Illusion from Imagine Pools offers a built-in tanning ledge which enhances its sophisticated rectangular design. This inground fiberglass pool style still gives you room to swim and exercise while keeping a watchful eye on the kiddos!

The Freedom from Imagine Pools with splash pad offers a flat bottom design. This is ideal for swimming and playing games. The larger splash pad also makes it the perfect spot for bubblers. Remember! Water features are a great add-on to your backyard pool.

Fun uses for a tanning ledge:

  • Helps to keep you cool in the heat of the summer.
  • With the right lounge chair, it is the ideal spot for an afternoon siesta.
  • It’s a great way for your dog(s) to enjoy the water with you.
  • A tanning ledge as a fun place to enjoy a snack and a beverage.
  • It is the ideal place for toddlers and young kids to play…supervised, of course!
  • You can play a board game here or just read a book.
  • Listen to some great music.
  • And, as the name suggests, you can work on your tan!

If none of those ideas appealed to you, consider the following:

  • Do you have small children?
  • Do you have any pets?
  • Is there someone else in your household who just might enjoy a relaxing spot to lounge in the pool?

If you answered “yes” to one or all of these questions, perhaps you should strongly consider adding a tanning ledge to your swimming pool.

How much space does a tanning ledge require?

The answer to this is really up to you. Do you want a place to put one lounge chair or more? Do you want a tanning ledge that spans the entire width of the pool, or would you prefer a smaller one?

At Probuilt Pool & Patio, we have tanning ledges to fit your needs, wants, and lifestyle. You can actually choose a fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge already built in without adding additional customization costs to your overall project.

A tanning ledge is the ideal place to rest, relax, and unwind at the end of the day. Consider it a self-care feature.

However, if you plan to use your pool more for exercise and want the space, then perhaps a tanning ledge is not the best choice for you.

On the flip side, if you have kids, pets, love to relax, and enjoy working on your summer glow in a cool and inviting space, then a tanning ledge just may be the thing for which you have been searching to enhance your overall backyard pool experience.