Once only found at exotic resorts and high-end hotels, tanning ledges are quickly becoming popular among homeowners installing inground fiberglass pools. Also called baja shelves and sun shelves, more and more homeowners are incorporating tanning ledges into their pools because these features are both practical and beautiful. When having an inground pool installed, here’s how you could use a tanning ledge to add both function and class to your backyard pool.
What is a tanning ledge, baja shelf or sun shelf?
Tanning ledges, baja shelves and sun shelves are all different terms used for the same inground pool feature. They’re large, shallow shelves. Typically big enough to fit at least a couple of lounge chairs and an umbrella, their size may range from 5 feet 6 inches by 12 feet to 8 feet 10 inches by 18 feet 1 inch. Their depth is usually between 6 and 12 inches, with 10 inches being an especially popular depth.
What types of pools can tanning ledges be installed in?
Tanning ledges are highly customizable and can be adapted to almost any pool style and construction. For instance, Trilogy Fusion Pools come with tanning ledge options for all of the line’s free-form modular designs (Gemini, Genesis, Synergy and Picasso). If you have a more square swimming pool, the modern Europa or Semi Circle design will fit perfectly alongside a pool’s straight side. Additionally, these shelves can be incorporated into most of our Viking Pools, Trilogy Pools, Blue Hawaiian Fiberglass Pools, and Liberty Pools.
What do people use tanning ledges for?
The large, shallow area of a tanning ledge is, of course, perfect for tanning. Lounging in a chair with a favorite beverage or book and sunning yourself is just one way you can use a sun shelf. These shelves are also ideal for:
- Letting young children play in your pool (while supervised)
- Giving elderly adults a way to enjoy a pool without struggling to get in and out of it
- Splashing around in the water with your dog
- Staying cool while doing yoga outdoors
To learn more about a new pool with a tanning ledge from Aquamarine Pools (aquapools.com), visit our Pool Styles section on our main website.