Long Island backyards come in all shapes and sizes, and so should your pool. Whether you have a compact quarter-acre lot in Levittown or a sprawling estate in the Hamptons, there is a perfect pool design for your property. Here are ten inspiring ideas to spark your imagination.
1. The Classic Rectangle
Clean, timeless, and versatile. A rectangular pool with a simple stone deck works beautifully on Long Island properties of all sizes. This design maximizes swimming space and pairs perfectly with colonial, cape, and ranch-style homes throughout Nassau and Suffolk County. Add a few lounge chairs and a built-in bench, and you have a clean, sophisticated setup.
2. Freeform Natural Pool
Organic, flowing curves that mimic a natural pond or lagoon. Freeform pools pair beautifully with natural stone decking, boulder waterfalls, and lush plantings. Popular in wooded North Shore communities like Cold Spring Harbor, Dix Hills, and Oyster Bay where the pool becomes part of the landscape.
3. Pool + Spa Combination
An integrated spa that spills over into the main pool is one of the most popular upgrades on Long Island. The spillover creates a beautiful visual and audible waterfall effect, and the spa extends your pool season deep into fall and even winter. A winning combination for year-round enjoyment.
4. Plunge Pool for Small Yards
Compact and powerful. Plunge pools (typically 10x15 to 12x20 feet) deliver the full pool experience on smaller Long Island lots. Perfect for villages like Rockville Centre, Floral Park, and Northport where backyards are cozy but homeowners still want to swim. Add a jet system for exercise swimming in a compact footprint.
5. Infinity Edge Pool
The ultimate luxury statement. Infinity edge (vanishing edge) pools create a stunning visual effect where the water appears to flow into the horizon. Particularly dramatic on sloped properties with elevated views — popular in premium communities like Lloyd Harbor, Sands Point, and the Hamptons waterfront.
6. Resort-Style Complex
For homeowners who want it all: a main pool, attached spa, sun shelf, swim-up bar, waterfall grotto, fire features, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. These multi-element complexes transform Long Island backyards into private resorts. Common in luxury Hamptons properties and the North Shore Gold Coast.
7. Minimalist Modern Pool
Clean lines, dark-bottom finishes, and sleek concrete or paver decking. Modern pool designs pair beautifully with contemporary architecture and make a bold statement on Long Island properties. Consider a dark pebble finish with LED perimeter lighting for a striking nighttime look.
8. Beach Entry (Zero Entry) Pool
A gradual slope from the deck into the water — just like walking into the ocean. Beach entry pools are family-friendly, accessible, and perfect for young children and older adults. Add a shallow sun shelf with built-in loungers for maximum relaxation. Very popular with families in Smithtown, Commack, and East Northport.
9. Lap Pool
Long, narrow, and purpose-built for fitness swimming. Lap pools (typically 10 feet wide by 40+ feet long) are ideal for Long Island homeowners who swim for exercise. Fits well on longer, narrower lots and can be enhanced with jet systems for resistance swimming.
10. Cocktail Pool
A cocktail pool (or spool — spa + pool) is a compact pool designed for relaxation, socializing, and cooling off rather than lap swimming. Typically 10x15 to 12x20 feet with built-in seating, jets, and heating. Perfect for Long Island couples and empty nesters who want outdoor luxury without maintaining a full-size pool.
Ready to Design Your Dream Pool?
Every one of these designs can be customized for your specific Long Island property. Schedule a free design consultation and our team will help you choose the perfect pool for your backyard, budget, and lifestyle.