What is a Baja Shelf?

Cost, Depth & Design Options

Everything You Need to Know About Baja Shelves

When you’re building a pool, you might hear a lot of words that you’ve never heard before. Scupper, bond beam, Baja shelf; we promise we aren’t making up words! Design trends come and go, but a Baja Shelf stands the test of time!

A Baja shelf, a tanning ledge, sun shelf, or extended step, is a wide, flat, shallow area in a swimming pool typically 6–18 inches deep. It's usually built at the pool's entry point, creating a smooth transition from the deck into the water. Baja shelves are designed for lounging, sunbathing, playing, and cooling off and can be a good option for people who like to relax in shallow water, have children or want a variety of depths in their pool.



How Deep is a Baja Shelf?

Baja shelves sit submerged underwater, but how deep under the water do they typically sit? A Baja shelf can sit anywhere from 6” – 18” under the waterline, depending on your preference.

If you’re looking into a Baja shelf, it’s essential to remember that any custom pool builder will offer various options for the depth. Depending on your preference for functionality when using your sun shelf, having the water at a shorter depth might make sense. At California Pools & Landscape, we typically build 6”, 12”, or 18” below the pool's waterline.

6" Baja Shelf

6" Baja Shelf

Creating a Baja shelf 6 inches below the waterline lets the water cover your legs while you relax in your chair. This shallow tanning ledge is popular for homeowners with children and small dogs. Dogs can easily hop in for a quick dip to cool off. Additionally, the shallow depth provides a safe area for small kids to play in the water.
12" Baja Shelf

12" Baja Shelf

Building a Baja shelf 12” below the waterline will allow the water to come up to your midsection while seated. This is a nice depth for you to kick out your legs and relax. This is a very popular depth for those looking to create a kiddie pool water height for children to splash around in the shallow water.
18" Baja Shelf

18" Baja Shelf

Building a Baja shelf 18” below the waterline will allow the water to come up to your arms while you are seated. It is at the same level as a pool bench. This is a popular selection for pool enthusiasts who want to put a lounging chair on the Baja shelf and relax with the lower half of their body in the water while the top of their body is above the surface.

What Design Options Are Available For A Baja Shelf?

When it comes to designing your Baja shelf, you have many options. The shape, size, and depth are all important decisions. This means the choices are endless when planning a Baja shelf because the configuration can be completely customized to fit geometric or freeform pools.

Your Baja shelf should mirror the design characteristics of your pool, with either straight lines and sharp angles or a free-flowing feel with round curves.


First Step Baja or Second Step Baja?

Do you want your shelf to be the first step into your pool? This initial entry is a popular option. Another trending design option is having a normal entry step and having your baja shelf below that. You likely haven’t thought about this decision before, but these two options have a different appearance.
First Step Baja Shelf

First Step Baja Shelf

A first-step Baja shelf is an extended entry step into your pool. This design choice provides an immediate large landing zone for entry and exit out of your oasis. Typically, these are created with a shallower depth than a second-step Baja shelf.
Second Step Baja Shelf

Second Step Baja Shelf

A second-step Baja shelf typically sits deeper than a first-step Baja shelf. These are also customizable to the size and shape of your choice. The first step will be connected to the Baja shelf, which can be small or large and located at a preferred entry point into your pool.

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Upgrade Your Tanning Ledge with Custom Features

Transform your pool into a luxurious retreat with additions like stylish umbrellas, comfortable tanning chairs, and elegant specialty tiles. These enhancements not only elevate the aesthetic appeal of your pool but also create a personalized and relaxing space, making your backyard the ultimate destination for comfort and enjoyment.
Shaded Oasis with Umbrella Sleeves

Shaded Oasis with Umbrella Sleeves

Adding umbrella sleeves to the design of your Baja shelf will enable you to easily add an umbrella to your environment. This can be a great addition whether the kids are playing on the Baja shelf or if you’re looking to escape the sun and relax.

Depending on the size of your shelf, you might be able to include multiple sleeves in your design. This would allow you to create an option for extra relief in places that get a lot of sunlight year-round, like Arizona, while relaxing in the water.

Enhance Your Pool with Water Features

Enhance Your Pool with Water Features

Water features are another popular design feature to add to your Baja shelf. They can be added to create symmetry in the design and add ambiance to the yard. Parascoping fountains are popular additions. They shoot water up above the pool’s water line, creating a relaxing look and sound in your backyard.
Elevate Your Pool Design with Specialty Tiles

Elevate Your Pool Design with Specialty Tiles

If you’d like to enhance the design of your Baja shelf with some specialty tile, there are several that you could add. We’ve seen rows of tile added near the step edge, mosaic designs and custom creations over the years.

Tile options provide you with a chance to add some flair or personality to your project. A Baja shelf is prime real estate for a specialty tile because it sits so close to the surface. Often, these tiles will be an upgrade and add to the cost of your project.

Poolside Fun with an Integrated Pool Table

Poolside Fun with an Integrated Pool Table

You can also enhance the design of your tanning shelf with a raised table to sit around. This will instantly create a popular watering hole to congregate around in the shallow water.

It is also possible to insert planters, creating an island effect in the middle of a Baja shelf. This can add a dramatic design pop, a tropical feel, and a ledge for sitting on or resting drinks on.


Frequently Asked Questions About Baja Shelves


Q: Is A Baja Shelf For Me?

A Baja shelf will be a good fit for you if:

  • You enjoy relaxing in shallow water
  • You want a shallow section for children to play
  • You want a variation of depths in your pool

A Baja shelf might not be the right fit for you if:

  • You are looking for a lap pool
  • You enjoy swimming in deep water

Q: Can I add a Baja shelf to an existing pool?

Yes, a Baja shelf can often be added to an existing pool. At California Pools & Landscape, our renovation experts can assess your pool’s structure and design a seamless addition that enhances both style and function.

Q: What is the difference between a sun shelf and a baja shelf?

A Baja shelf, a tanning ledge, sun shelf, or extended step, is a wide, flat, shallow area in a swimming pool typically 6–18 inches deep. It’s usually built at the pool’s entry point, creating a smooth transition from the deck into the water.

Q: How big is a Baja ledge?

A tanning ledge typically has a depth of around 4 to 12 inches. The exact depth can be customized based on your preferences and intended use, with shallower depths ideal for lounging and deeper shelves for a broader range of activities.

Q: Can I Have Water Features On My Baja Shelf?

Absolutely! Adding water features to your Baja shelf can enhance both the visual appeal and the ambiance of your pool. Popular choices like parascope fountains create stunning effects by shooting streams of water above the pool’s waterline, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.

Q: Can I Use An Umbrella On My Baja Shelf?

Umbrella sleeves can be installed into your baja shelf to elevate your pool into resort status! This will ensure you can catch some rays and escape from the sun when you want to cool off.

Q: What Type of Chairs Can I Use On a Tanning Ledge or Baja Shelf?

Tanning ledge chairs, known as sun shelf loungers, withstand water exposure. Manufacturers make them from materials like resin or fiberglass, ensuring they remain underwater without deteriorating.


See What Our Customers Are Saying

Greg Ridgley

Greg Ridgley

Cole Marvin is an asset to California Pools ! Cole is very knowledgeable, Great designer and Knows the Pool business prompt, returns calls & always on time. Good Person
Timothy Beagley

Timothy Beagley

TOP (Baja) SHELF Pool company! I obtained three quotes before deciding to move forward with California Pools to build my dream pool, and I have absolutely no regrets. One of the many important aspects of trusting a pool company with my yard and money was the requirement of excellent communication. When obtaining quotes, the other pool companies did not follow up with me or did so far too late after on sight visits and lots of my time invested; however, from the very beginning of the initial pool design and layout (Thank you to the late, Scott Greenbank) every aspect of getting the pool built I was informed each and every step of the way, whether is was the scheduling of various stages, or even delays. The CPL app was an excellent resource to keep me up to date on everything and when I needed extra details or information, Alex Barone-Jay was always there with and answer for me in a timely manner. In fact, each person associated with my pool build was an expert in their craft and it was fun and fascinating to watch it come to life over several months. I struck gold with having Adam Redding as my Pool Supervisor/Superintendent. Adam is knowledgeable and personable and ensured to follow up on all the stages of the build and for those reasons I never worried about anything! The end result was exactly what I wanted and dreamed of for the pool. It was a pleasure and I'm so grateful to California Pools for not only this pool, but for the continued support and follow up when I had questions or needed anything.
Mike P.

Mike P.

I was nervous about getting my first pool so I did my research and found CA Pools. My neighbor also recommended them as they just finished his pool. I had my appt for design and wanted nothing but a rectangle hole in the ground. No fireworks, lazer shows or flowing lava fountains. I had an amount in mind but the estimate came in over that. I told them I wanted to do it but that was just too much. They re-worked some of the design elements to get me where I wanted to be. I Didn't want to waste money on landscaping so I just wanted rock put down. I can plant plants on my own. With their app, they're in constant communication with you through your build which was extremely nice. Every question or concern was addressed All employees I have dealt with have been great and can't say enough about them. I had one issue with a wet spot in the shotcrete that would never dry, that could've been addressed quicker--but it was finally addressed. Things took longer than I anticipated due to shortage of shotcrete, but I understood this and I can't count this against them. My build took from Feb-Dec. I know they maybe a lil more pricey than their competitors, but from the reviews I'd rather have it done right. I know a few neighbors that went with other companies that are still waiting to complete their pools coming up on almost 2 years. That's unacceptable. Go with CA pools, you wont regret it.
Andrew F.

Andrew F.

In 1995 we had California Pools build our pool, deck and barbecue grill structure on the property of our newly built home. Twenty four years later, it was time to remodel. While searching for a contractor to do the work, we recalled that California Pools focused on "customer satisfaction" and the results that they delivered in 1995 reflected that focus. Even though 24 years is a long time to expect a company's culture to remain the same, we felt that given our previous experience California Pools would be worth another consideration. So they were among the handful of contractors we choose to submit a proposal for our remodel project. California Pools made our choice easy! The expertise of their team was apparent with in every meeting, conversation or email request we submitted. Their proposal was not only very competitive and but easy to understand and no question was too small or insignificant for California Pools not to answer to our satisfaction. For anyone who has undertaken a significant home remodel project, you know that there will likely be obstacles and problems that will need to be overcome. Rarely is the problem itself the ultimate issue, rather how the problem is handled that will make or break customer satisfaction. No company understands this better than California Pools. During our remodel an issue arose that needed the attention of Steve Dreher, Senior Manager of Construction. Steve visited my home assessed the situation and then simply said, "We will take care of everything at no additional cost to you and our work will only be finished when you are completely satisfied". Problem solved! Bill Schlis, Lead Hardscape Manager took charge and made Steve's commitment a reality. Not only did he personally attend to our project's needs but he and his highly qualified crew were a pleasure to work with throughout the process. Bill told me, "California Pools is all about making customers happy" and the results he and his team delivered reflect that belief! Every contractor will tell you that they are committed to making their customers happy. With many, those are just words. The difference here is that California Pools "walks the talk". Steve and Bill along with the rest of the team at California Pools are true professionals. In short if you are planning new or remodeled pool project or have other hardscape plans for your home or business and want a contractor who will perform quality work at a fair market price, I highly recommend California Pools and Landscape and their talented team of professionals. They not only promise but deliver customer satisfaction!
Chuck Martinez

Chuck Martinez

Our overall experience with CPL was considerably favorable, albeit there were some issues that came up during the construction phase. Brian F was our project & design manager and he was ultimately the reason we chose CPL from the bid selection. Brian was responsive, accommodating and detail oriented. He assisted us in developing a design that we are extremely pleased with today. He also addressed a misunderstanding that resulted in a bit of a delay with our project; taking ownership and satisfactorily resolving the issue. Our project manager Pete B was outstanding. Pete’s ethical approach throughout the construction experience was commendable. If something wasn’t right, he was up front in informing us and immediately taking the appropriate corrective measures. His follow up was extraordinary for a guy that is handling so many projects at any given time. Pete continually checked in with us to ensure that we were comfortable and satisfied throughout the process, and he was extremely accommodating, making himself available as needed. During construction I had the opportunity to speak with CPL’s owner Mike S, and it became clear to me why CPL is so customer centric; creating a culture around the customer and their needs.
Mike F.

Mike F.

California Pools & Landscape designed and built my pool, spa and landscaped the backyard nearly 10 years ago. They did a terrific job and since then, have provided very good service and equipment maintenance. For me, there are two people that have been great and make all the difference that I would say have been outstanding; Alison Sherwood and Jesse who heads up their pool/spa field work. The best and I highly recommend them.
Margaret T.

Margaret T.

I am thrilled not only with the beautiful end result of my pool/spa but also in the very professional and helpful people I dealt with - especially Shawn Lach and Marcee Walker. The job took longer than expected but was completed with the utmost integrity. California Pools is proud of their product and stands behind their work. It is rare to find a company so willing to assure that the customer is satisfied. I recommend them highly.
Krishna S.

Krishna S.

I got a reference from my friend to go with California Pools for building my swimming pool. And am glad it turned out to be a wonderful choice and experience. Right from the moment Jacob Gelo walked in to do his first meeting till the time the pool was handed over to me, it was an impeccable experience. Jacob deserves a special mention since he can provide a tip or two to even a sales guy like me on customer relationship. His attention to details, patience and above all, always having time for his customers and follow-ups / understanding your needs are very important qualities that made my pool building experience truly enjoyable. I would say that with Jacob, you are in safe hands. Next up would be Roy Dezentje, who has been my Construction Manager. With his vast experience, Roy put me at ease through the entire construction process and patiently answered every of my question or observation. Roy along with Jacob formed a great combo that showed up in the timely completion of my pool and to my utmost satisfaction. At this moment, I wanted to also thank Sara Dougan who was my scheduling manager. Her follow-ups made sure I don't miss on important alerts. Also, I was amazed at the super quick response I always received from her for any queries that I put up over email or on their portal. She was very thorough as well in her interactions. Overall, I would say that the entire Cal Pool team has been very professional, customer centric, thorough in their work and makes sure projects are completed on time. A big thumbs up and thank you to this company that has bred professionalism in every person that I interacted with!!! Best, Krish
Jose Rivera

Jose Rivera

Working with CPL has been a true pleasure. They walk you through the process patiently via their portal to assure you a great experience. Ernie Garcia our pool designer has been with us from the beginning of the project. He understands how important it is to be available throughout the process to answer client questions thoroughly. His knowledge and professionalism has made this construction experience pleasurable. I would recommend CPL to anyone who is in the market for a new pool.
Patrick Cooper

Patrick Cooper

Pool/yard project just wrapped up today! Could not be happier with the process and service we received from Cal Pools. After getting multiple bids, we were won over by the straight forward pricing as well as the ease of design by Doug. Once the project officially got underway, Ted and Sara were in constant communication and responded to every question timely and professionally. Ted was on site almost every week to check the progress and to discuss next steps. So happy that our yard is completed and we are ready to enjoy the pool this summer. Cal Pools far exceeded our expectations and their staff was all amazing through the entire process!
Norine Ceccarelli

Norine Ceccarelli

If you are looking for an amazing company to build your pool that is more than just a pool company , California Pools is the only place.I love the pool they did for us but this review is about more than that. My husband was recently killed and I needed help. Paola Ortega was my angel. Not only did she remember he died, she took the time with me to reassure me so I wouldn’t stress and be more overwhelmed. That is something very rare in today’s world. She stayed with me through everything and made sure I was taken care of. The 2 people she sent out explained everything and made sure everything was perfect. Paola if you read this I just wanted you to know you make a huge impact and I hope you are recognized for it. I always recommend California Pools but now I am going to share my experience with Paola to everyone. She is that special person we all hope we get that truly cares.
Alisha Thorson

Alisha Thorson

Our families loves the new pool. During the process Cal pools addressed any issues/concerns. They were responsive and attentive to our needs. The finished pool is as designed and good quality.
Jennifer Swanson

Jennifer Swanson

With two cracks appearing over the summer, we had a temporary repair until the weather cooled. Many thanks to Noah for staying in touch during the process, and doing fantastic follow-up during the draining/refill/reset process. The repair looks fantastic, and Noah was wonderful to work with.
marilyn poterson

marilyn poterson

California Pools did a beautiful job on our pool. We reviewed three other companies, but we felt most comfortable with California Pools. From the design process to the end construction everyone was helpful. Steve stepped in and gave us great pointers especially when it came down to the barrier walls, and everyone was always pleasant to deal with. Thank you CalPools for our beautiful pool. Shout out to Steve.
P C.

P C.

Cal Pools was the best in making our pool vision come true from design to start up. Be sure to ask for Jeremiah as your supervisor. He watches over ever detail.
Robert F.

Robert F.

Great to deal with all of the staff through designing to construction of the pool. They listened to our ideas got it on paper followed up on details and stayed on top of the job. Great warranty and continue to stay in touch after completion. Handled a couple of small issues quickly and to my complete satisfaction.
David L.

David L.

You could not be in better hands that with California Pools & Landscape. Specifically Bianca Leal, Service Coordinator at 4350 W Chandler Blvd Ste #1Chandler, AZ , 85226. Whenever I need help either diagnosing a problem I was having with my Spool or needed to schedule a repair, her response was in a manner of minutes. Best of all if the solution was something I could handle myself, she walked me through what I needed to do. She is professional, knowledgeable and extremely courteous always offering kind words.
Frank H.

Frank H.

Ever since they designed and installed our spool fifteen years ago, California Pools has responded to a number of request to diagnose and repair equipment issues. Not only have the technicians been prompt and helpful, the office staff has made numerous helpful suggestions to deal with the situation. In all cases, the work done and suggestions offered resulted in the least-cost solution to the problem. How's that for total customer satisfaction!
Michael Jahnke

Michael Jahnke

We recently moved back to the Phoenix area and selected California Pools & Landscape based on their bid to design and construct a small pool/spa, outdoor grill and landscaping. They completed the project ahead of schedule and within budget. The Team of Dave Grau, Nathan Reyes and Marissa Puzz were a delight to work with. We encourage everyone to consider their services when in the market.
John Shields

John Shields

I just want to say that every time that I have used California Pools for service they have been outstanding, especially Trevor, Kaitlyn and Brandon
Heidi Farina

Heidi Farina

We are so happy with our new pool, spa and outdoor space created by Mike Lillis at Cal Pool. This is our first pool, and he was very helpful, patient and responsive. We also appreciated Marissa's frequent updates and explanations at each point in the process. She was very prompt in answering questions and responding. Darrin outlined the whole project and kept his crews on task and completed everything ahead of the estimated delivery date. The workers were courteous and kept the area cleaned up at the end of each day.We highly recommend working with this team at Cal Pool.
Eliza A.

Eliza A.

We couldn't be happier with our back yard from California Pools & Landscape! Everything turned out exactly as we had envisioned. Jordan was the superintendent for our project and he really is the shining star of the company. Even though our pool and landscaping has been completed for some time, if I have any issues or concerns at all he is still just a text away. We are so fortunate he was a part of the build! As for any negative reviews about time to complete - I think it is important everyone realize that this is a very difficult time for construction in general - from material shortages to staffing insufficiencies throughout the entire country, everyone is experiencing delays and some things are just out of the company's control. We are in commercial construction, and we have experienced it as well. The most important thing to us is making sure we communicate these things to our customers, and Jordan always kept us well informed of any delays, etc. which we really appreciated. We have the yard of our dreams and it came to life because of CPL!
Marie-Claire W.

Marie-Claire W.

Have been very impressed with California Pools and Landscape through the design and build of our new pool/yard. Each piece of the process has been methodical and professional. We've had good service from everyone we have dealt with, and fantastic service from the landscape supervisor Nathan Aceves; Sarese Ferguson Scheduling Manager, and Sean Beavers, project mamager. Will definitely be recommending them.
Ray L.

Ray L.

So far, so good! We recently began the process of building our backyard with California Pools & Landscape. From the 1st meeting our experience has been wonderful. Marc Olsen has been very accommodating to our needs! He has been patient with any changes we have made and has designed us a beautiful backyard. We are very excited for our project!
Ruben Gonzalez

Ruben Gonzalez

Pete B. And Sarese F. and the whole team at Cal Pools were amazing. Made our pool buying experience very easy and stress free. They were very attentive and eager to please. Aaron H. was awesome to work with in designing our beautiful backyard. We even changed it a few times and he was very cool about it. Customer service all around was excellent. Pete and Sarese especially in their communication and response time. They made miracles happen with our schedule and were able to have everything completed at close of escrow. Great job team. We appreciate it.
Phyllis B.

Phyllis B.

California Pools just completed our pool remodel. The project included replacing the old tile and stacked stone on a 2ft water feature wall, chipped out the old pebble and replaced with CalPebble, Replaced our old pool light with the J&J Color changing LED light with the Bluetooth module. We are extremely pleased with the support from the California Pools team starting with Chris and the sales process, During the project great support from Ashton on scheduling and change orders and Kevin, our project manager for staying on top of the day to day processes and helping us with a change order adding a new LED color changing light. Both Ashton and Kevin went above and beyond to keep us updated and answer our questions. All of the California pools contractors did a great job as well. This includes the chip out, structural repair, pressure leak repair, CalPebble finish process, clean up, LED light installation and the startup teams. A lot of moving parts in the process that Ashton and Kevin had to facilitate and did so extremely well. Thanks for the support California Pools team!
Kitty C.

Kitty C.

We could not be happier with California Pools. Les, one of designers, created the perfect pool and patio/ barbecue island design for our new home. Along with Laurie - who is a true artist and designer helping us make tough choices. The construction was for the most part stress free and exciting. The scheduler will be your new best friend because the timing of each step is critical. And now the key piece is they guarantee their work - we had a few issues, nothing major and they sent their warranty expert, Brian over and there was no hesitation with the work and the work was done immediately. We checked out the competition and California Pools is in a league of their own!
Carol J.

Carol J.

We found California Pools merely due to it being nearby our neighborhood and we needed help with a pool at home we had just purchased. They were very helpful to resolve our immediate issue. We had a design meeting with Tim J. to discuss possible options for our back yard area and we decided to commit to do a backyard remodel. It was quite a large task and it was a long process due to the large scope of work (we understood from the start ). However with Tim's vision and ability to show us very clearly what the end result would be, we were happy to wait for an unbelievable backyard! Matt was our construction foreman and Leann was our scheduling manager. At all times through the process we felt like we were in very capable hands and that they listened to our concerns. They also interfaced very well with our interior general contractor. It was a fairly pricey remodel, but they are all quality here and very professional. I can highly recommend them.
First Last

First Last

David Croskey is the best! He has been helpful, and incredible at designing. This has been the best experience for designing my backyard! Definitely choose this company!
Reggie C.

Reggie C.

Is our second project with Mike and the team. As always they delivered a quality project and the design process was very easy and the communication was exceptional. We got daily updates on our California pull app so we knew where the project was. We would definitely continue to use Mike and the team for our next project.

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We pride ourselves on understanding your unique needs and budget, and then delivering on our promise to build the perfect backyard at the right price. Fill out the form below, and get started on turning your vision into reality!

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Visit one of our state-of-the-art pool, spa, and landscape design centers in Chandler, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, and Surprise, Arizona, or schedule an in-home meeting with one of our designers. Let’s start the conversation about your own personal resort. From there, it won’t take you long to see for yourself why we’re Arizona’s preferred swimming pool builder.

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At California Pools we know that a pool is an investment in your home and in your family’s lifestyle. That’s why we offer pool funding options to help make your dream pool affordable.

California Pools & Landscape’s financial strength has enabled us to build exceptional relationships with financial institutions across the Valley. We have numerous unsecured and secured loan products available to you. How can we help make your dream backyard a reality today?