The Pros and Cons of Tanning Ledge Pools
- mike
- Mar 19
- 4 min read
Pros and Cons of Tanning Ledge Pools
If you’ve been researching inground pools—especially fiberglass models like the River Pools D Series, L36, I Series, X36, or C Series—you’ve probably noticed one feature showing up again and again:
👉 The tanning ledge (also called a sun shelf or Baja shelf)
And at first glance, it looks like a no-brainer. Chairs in the water.Kids splashing safely.A place to relax without fully swimming. But here’s the truth most pool companies won’t tell you:
👉 A tanning ledge is one of the most loved—and most regretted—features depending on how you use your pool. So let’s break it down the honest way.
What Is a Tanning Ledge?
A tanning ledge is a large, shallow platform, typically 6–12 inches deep, built into the pool.
You’ll find them in many popular fiberglass pool models like the River Pools:
D Series → Full-width ledge, very social layout
L36 → Integrated ledge with curved design and flow
I Series → Clean, modern ledge with long swim lane
X36 → Ledge paired with deep-end seating/spa options
C Series → Compact ledge designs for tighter spaces
👉 In short: it’s a hybrid space between a pool and a patio.
The Pros of Tanning Ledge Pools
1. It Becomes the Most Used Spot in the Pool
This is not an exaggeration.
In most backyards, the tanning ledge becomes:
The hangout zone
The kids’ play area
The “dip your feet in with a drink” spot
👉 Many homeowners say they use the ledge more than the pool itself.
2. Perfect for Families with Young Kids
Shallow water = controlled environment.
Safer entry point
Easier supervision
Less intimidating than deeper water
Models like the D Series and L36 are especially popular for families because of how usable that space is.
3. Built for Relaxation (Not Just Swimming)
Let’s be honest…
Most people aren’t swimming laps every day.
They’re:
Lounging
Talking
Cooling off
👉 A tanning ledge is built specifically for how people actually use pools.
4. Adds a High-End, Resort-Style Look
This is a big one.
A pool with a tanning ledge:
Looks more custom
Photographs better
Feels more “complete”
👉 If you care about aesthetics, this feature punches above its weight.
5. Great for In-Water Furniture
Ledge loungers
Umbrellas
Small tables
Models like the I Series and X36 are designed with this in mind.
👉 It turns your pool into an outdoor living space—not just a swimming hole.
The Cons of Tanning Ledge Pools
Now let’s talk about what people don’t realize upfront.
1. You Lose Swim Space (This Is the Biggest Trade-Off)
There’s no way around it:
👉 A tanning ledge takes up a significant portion of your pool.
On a 16x36 pool:
That ledge might take 6–8 feet of length
That’s a big chunk of usable water gone.
This is especially noticeable in:
C Series (smaller footprints)
L36 (curved layout already limits straight swim space)
2. Not Ideal for Lap Swimming
If your goal is:“I want to swim for exercise”
A tanning ledge works against you.
Interrupts your lane
Shortens swim distance
Changes the flow of the pool
👉 The I Series is usually the best compromise if you want both—but even then, it’s a trade.
3. Can Feel “Wasted Space” for Some Owners
This is where regret can creep in.
If you:
Don’t use loungers
Don’t have young kids
Prefer deeper water
👉 That ledge can start to feel like space you paid for but don’t use.
4. Water Temperature Gets Warmer
Shallow water heats up faster.
In the Midwest (like Wisconsin), that can be:
Nice in spring
Very warm in peak summer
👉 Not a dealbreaker—but something people notice.
5. More Cleaning Attention Required
Because it’s shallow:
Dirt and debris are more visible
Sunscreen buildup shows more
Water circulation can vary
👉 It’s not harder to maintain—but it is more noticeable.
6. Limits Design Flexibility
With fiberglass pools:
The ledge is built into the mold
You can’t resize or remove it
So when you choose a model like:
D Series → Large ledge commitment
X36 → Balanced but fixed layout
👉 You’re locking that feature in.
So… Is a Tanning Ledge Worth It?
✅ It’s a Great Fit If You:
Want a relaxation-first pool
Have kids or entertain often
Like the idea of in-water seating and lounging
Care about visual appeal and resale perception
❌ It Might Not Be Right If You:
Want to maximize swim space
Plan to swim laps regularly
Prefer a simpler, more open pool
Have a smaller backyard
The Honest Bottom Line
A tanning ledge isn’t a “must-have.”
👉 It’s a lifestyle choice.
You’ll probably love it.If your vision of a pool is:
Lounging
Socializing
Spending time with family
You may wish you skipped it .If your vision is:
Swimming
Exercising
Maximizing water space
MORAL OF THE STORY
The best pool isn’t the one with the most features. It’s the one that matches how you will actually use it.
And that’s the part most people don’t slow down long enough to think through.
SHAMELESS CALL TO ACTION
If you are ready to dive in and explore the possibilities of fiberglass pool ownership don't hesitate to call Pool Pros today @ 920-771-0107. Our in house pool designers are waiting to help create the outdoor living area of your dreams. When Quality Counts, Count on Pool Pros.
AUTHOR BIO
Mike Bowers is the founder and owner of Pool Pros Inc. in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He has spent 29 years installing and servicing swimming pools throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Is an Advanced Certified Building Professional, Certified Service Professional, Licensed General Contractor, Father to 4 beautiful children and Husband to the one and only "PoolWife" Lysti.
HELPFUL LINKS
