What is a Sun Shelf?

If you are building a new custom pool, you may want to consider adding a sun shelf. Popularized by high-end hotels, sun shelves have become increasingly popular with pool owners in Tucson. Sometimes called a tanning ledge, baja shelf, or tanning shelf, a sun shelf is a flat, shallow area at the entrance of your pool. This feature acts as an entry point and can span your pool’s full or partial width.

Generally, the shelf design will be 4 to 8 feet wide and typically 3 to 18 inches deep. This allows space for lounge chairs. It is possible for the ledge to be larger so it can accommodate furniture like umbrellas and small tables, which creates an ideal location for entertaining.

Why Should You Add a Sun Shelf?

Adding a sun shelf can make your pool more aesthetically pleasing by bolstering its appearance and making the pool more luxurious and upscale. Beyond adding beauty, the functionality is unrivaled. It allows you to lay directly in the water without fully immersing your body which makes it the ideal place to cool off when you do not want to get fully wet.

Many people use their sun shelves to keep cool in the hot Tucson sun or for reading, relaxing, and socializing. With a traditional pool, you spend your time either in the water or next to it. With a sun shelf, you get the best of both worlds as it allows you to be both in and out of the water at the same time.

A sun shelf can also be used as the perfect supervised play area for young children or pets. Everyone in your household will be able to enjoy your pool with the addition of a sun shelf. At Pools by Design, we tailor our designs to meet our customers’ needs. We can customize your shelf’s width and depth so it is perfect for you and your family.

Advantages of a Tanning Ledge

A tanning ledge is a perfect addition if you are thinking of redesigning an existing pool or for a new pool installation. It is easily incorporated into different types of pool designs as it comes in a variety of shape and size options. It takes up less space than a beach entry and can easily fit into tight spaces.

A ledge also increases the time you can spend in and around your pool. It warms up more quickly than the deeper areas so you can relax early in the morning or during a cooler day. This can extend your swimming season and allow you to get more use out of your pool.

There are endless possibilities with a sun shelf in your pool that will allow you to enjoy it in a variety of ways. Common features that can be included are a built-in umbrella sleeve, massage jets, lights, fountains, and built-in loungers and tables.

Add Fun and Functionality to Your Pool

Let us add ease, comfort, and functionality to your pool. During a free consultation, we can go over all the designs and features that are available and we will make sure that your pool looks and functions great. We are a premier pool builder in Tucson and are the only member of the Master Pools Guild in Southern Arizona.

Contact Pools by Design today with any questions about a sun shelf for your swimming pool.