What Is a Cocktail Pool? The Complete Guide to Compact Luxury

What Is Considered a Cocktail Pool?

A cocktail pool (sometimes called a "spool"—a spa-pool hybrid) is a compact swimming pool designed primarily for relaxation and socializing rather than vigorous swimming or exercise. Typically ranging from 10 to 16 feet in length and width, these small but luxurious pools create an elegant focal point for outdoor entertainment while requiring less space, water, and maintenance than standard pools.

The idea was the wish to have a high-end outdoor lounging place that adults could use for enjoying the drink (that is how the name of the pool originated – cocktail pool), whereas the modern version of the pool has changed to fit all kinds of needs while still being low in your footprint.

Although other small pools put an emphasis on exercise, a cocktail pool is designed with a specific aim to provide leisure and entertainment. Despite the fact that a lap pool can be small but long and narrow for swimming laps, a cocktail pool values comfortable seating and the atmosphere, as well as social contact.

Cocktail Pool Types and Designs

Cocktail Pool designs vary from classic to more modern but solutions can be found to accommodate different budgets, landscapes, and different preference as far as aesthetic appeal is concerned. The following are the major types that you’ll find:

Inground Cocktail Pools: In ground cocktail pools provide the highest level of customization and the best integration with your landscaping. There are three major ways on which they can be constructed.

Concrete/Gunite: These are built to order pools which have limitless creative design opportunities and durability. With concrete construction you can achieve virtually any shape, add built in seating and you have a multitude of finish options from plaster, pebble or you can use tile.

Fiberglass: Ready-made fiberglass cocktail pools have any number of shapes and sizes with smooth, membrane-like surfaces that are resistant to the growth of algae. These pools are mounted very quickly (usually in 2-3 days) and have lower lifetime maintenance cost.

Vinyl-Liner: Generally, the cheapest inground alternative, vinyl-liner cocktail pools come with a custom-fit liner inside an enclosed structure. Though a lower initial investment, the liner usually needs replacement within a period of 7-10 years.

Above Ground Cocktail Pools

Accessible cocktail pool above the ground offers at lower prices:

Prefabricated Kits: Many manufacturers provide contracted above-ground pool kits that are branded as cocktail pools, which have an attractive appearance and have comfortable seats.

Custom Deck Integration: A common option is construction of a deck around a small above ground-pool, by this one creates an illusion of a costly inground pool.

Semi-Inground Installation: Partial burial of such hybrid designs hides the exposed sides with decorative walls or landscaping.

Cocktail Pool Designs

Popular design themes include:

• Modern Minimalist: Clean lines, darker finishes, and frameless glass barriers give a contemporary look.

• Tropical Oasis: Rock waterfalls and rich plantings and natural stone coping create a resort setting.

• Mediterranean: Expand cape looking out on azure blue water with decorative tile work, columns in tribute to European elegance.

• Urban Courtyard: Small city lots are maximized by space-saving designs with vertical plantings and built-in additions.

  
  

What are the added features that I can add to a cocktail pool?

What makes cocktail pools beautiful is how they can fuse luxury features in their relatively small size. There are popular cocktail pool features that increase functionality and ambiance:

Heating and Temperature Control

• Heating Systems: Long term enjoyment is one of the main attractions of cocktail pools, and there are gas, electric and solar options for heating.

• Cooling Systems: Chillers or water features are used in warmer climates to help keep temperatures comfortable in periods of hot summer weather.

Water Features

• Bubblers and Fountains: These create soothing sounds and visual interest while helping circulate and aerate the water.

• Waterfalls: From subtle sheers to dramatic cascades, falling water adds both visual and auditory pleasure.

• Laminar Jets: These create arcing streams of water, often illuminated for nighttime drama.

  
  

Cocktail Pool with Hot Tub Integration

One of the most requested combinations is a cocktail pool with an attached hot tub or spa section. This pairing offers:

• Temperature versatility for year-round use

• Hydrotherapy benefits from spa jets

• Distinct zones for different experiences within a compact footprint

The hot tub section can be designed at the same level with a dividing wall, raised for a cascading effect, or completely separate but visually cohesive.

Seating and Socializing Features

• Built-in Benches: Conversation places are created by arranging underwater chairs around the perimeter.

• Tanning Ledges: Shallow platforms, sometimes known as Baja shelves, are ideal for partially submerged loungers.

• Swim-Up Bars: Embracing the "cocktail" motif, integrated countertops with submerged seating provide resort-style elegance.

  
  

Lighting and ambiance

• LED Systems: Color-changing lights produce spectacular effects and varying moods.

• Fiber Optic Lighting: Produces starlight effects in pool floors and walls.

• Landscape Integration: Thoughtful lighting enhances the overall atmosphere.

  
  

Exercise and Wellness

• Swim Jets: Counter-current systems allow for stationary swimming in even the smallest pools.

• Exercise Attachment Points: Anchors for resistance bands expand exercise options.

• Hydrotherapy Jets: Strategically placed jets provide therapeutic benefits.

  
  

What Is a Good Size for a Cocktail Pool?

Cocktail pool dimensions typically range from 10×10 feet to 16×16 feet, with depths between 4 and 5.5 feet. However, sizes can vary based on available space, intended use, and personal preference.

When determining the ideal cocktail pool size for your needs, consider:

• Available Space: Allow for decking, equipment, and safe movement around the pool.

• Intended Uses: Purely for lounging? Occasional swimming? Exercise with swim jets?

• Number of Users: How many people will typically use the pool simultaneously?

• Budget Considerations: Larger pools increase costs for materials, excavation, and ongoing maintenance.

Some popular cocktail pool dimensions include:

• 12×14 feet: A versatile size accommodating 4-6 adults comfortably

• 10×10 feet: Ideal for couples or small urban spaces

• 16×16 feet: The upper end of cocktail pools, offering more swimming space

What Is the Average Cost of a Cocktail Pool?

Cocktail pool cost varies widely based on construction method, features, and location. Here's a general breakdown of what you might expect to invest:

Inground Cocktail Pool Costs

• Fiberglass: $25,000 to $45,000 installed

• Vinyl Liner: $20,000 to $40,000 installed

• Concrete/Gunite: $30,000 to $60,000+ installed

Above Ground Cocktail Pool Costs

• Prefabricated Kits: $5,000 to $15,000 (DIY installation)

• Professional Installation: $10,000 to $25,000 including decking

Additional Cost Factors

Several elements can significantly impact your final price:

• Site Preparation: Challenging access, rocky soil, or necessary retaining walls increase costs.

• Premium Features: Water features, advanced heating systems, and high-end finishes add 15-30% to base costs.

• Decking and Landscaping: Quality surroundings often cost as much as the pool itself.

• Permits and Regulations: Requirements vary by location and can add $500-$2,000.

• Optional Extras: Automatic covers, advanced filtration, or smart control systems increase investment.

Ongoing Maintenance Costs

Cocktail pool maintenance is typically lower than traditional pools due to smaller water volume:

• Chemicals: $20-40 monthly

• Electricity: $20-60 monthly (higher with heating)

• Professional Services: $80-150 monthly if professionally maintained

Are Cocktail Pools Worth It?

Whether a cocktail pool is worth the investment depends on your specific situation, but they offer several compelling advantages:

Advantages of Cocktail Pools: - 

• Space efficiency. Ideal for small or urban yards where standard pools do not fit.

• Lower Initial Costs: Typically 30-50% cheaper than full-sized pools.

• Reduced Maintenance: Less water implies reduced chemical and energy expenditures.

• Extended Season: Smaller water volumes are more cheap to heat.

• Entertainment Value: Provides a stylish focal point for outdoor parties.

• Property Value: Can boost home value, especially in warm climates.

• Water Conservation: It uses substantially less water than regular pools.

Disadvantages of Cocktail Pools

• Limited Swimming: Not suitable for vigorous swimming or water games.

• Capacity Limitations: Can feel crowded with more than 4-6 adults.

• Temperature Fluctuations: Smaller water volumes heat and cool more quickly.

Conclusion

Cocktail pools represent the perfect intersection of luxury, practicality, and efficient design for today's homeowners. Their versatility allows them to serve as sophisticated entertainment spaces, private retreats, or even exercise venues, all while requiring less space, water, and maintenance than traditional swimming pools.

Whether you're working with limited square footage, seeking a more intimate aquatic experience, or simply wanting a lower-maintenance alternative to a full-sized pool, a thoughtfully designed cocktail pool can transform your outdoor living space and enhance your lifestyle.

FAQs

What is a cocktail pool used for?

A cocktail pool is primarily designed for relaxation, socializing, and cooling off rather than vigorous swimming. 

Can you swim in a cocktail pool?

Yes, you can swim in a cocktail pool, though the experience differs from a traditional pool. While cocktail pools don't provide enough length for lap swimming without assistance, many owners install swim jets or resistance systems that create a current to swim against, effectively allowing "stationary swimming" even in small spaces. 

Are there any disadvantages to cocktail pools?

The primary disadvantages of cocktail pools include limited space for vigorous swimming or water games, capacity constraints for larger gatherings, and potentially faster temperature fluctuations due to smaller water volume. Some homeowners find the cost per square foot higher than larger pools, though total costs remain lower. From a resale perspective, buyers specifically wanting a traditional swimming pool might consider a cocktail pool insufficient. However, these limitations are typically offset by the advantages of lower maintenance, reduced water and chemical usage, and space efficiency.

How deep is a cocktail pool?

Cocktail pools typically range from 4 to 5.5 feet at their deepest points, with many featuring variable depths to accommodate different uses. Common configurations include:

• Tanning ledges or entry areas at 6-18 inches deep

• Seating areas at 3-4 feet deep (allowing seated adults to have water at chest level)

• Central areas at 4.5-5.5 feet (deep enough for immersion without requiring diving precautions)

This versatile depth profile allows for comfortable standing in most areas while providing sufficient depth for a refreshing plunge, making cocktail pools suitable for both relaxation and light exercise.