Play Pools

Designed for Endless Fun & Relaxation

Turn Your Backyard into the Ultimate Play Space

Looking for the perfect blend of relaxation and fun? Play pools are the go-to choice for Arizona families, offering the ultimate backyard entertainment space. Designed with a shallow, uniform depth, they provide the ideal setting for pool games, floaties, and family-friendly activities.. We specialize in crafting custom play pools that fit your lifestyle. Whether you're envisioning a refreshing retreat from the Arizona heat, a game-friendly pool for endless fun, or a stylish addition to your backyard, we’ll bring your dream to life. Let us create the perfect play space for you!

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What is a Play Pool?

A play pool is a shallow, recreational pool designed for fun rather than diving or lap swimming. Typically ranging between 3–5 feet deep, these pools offer a safe and inviting space for games, lounging, and cooling off.

Unlike traditional pools with deep ends, play pools have a uniform depth, making them ideal for families with children or homeowners looking for a lower-maintenance, cost-effective pool option that maximizes backyard space.


Popular Cocktail Pool Features

Play pools provide a balance between recreation and relaxation, making them a smart investment for any backyard. These pools may be compact, but they can be customized to fit your needs. Some of the most common features include:
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Uniform Depth

Shallow design (3ft x 5ft x 4ft) for safer, more versatile use.
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Compact Size

Designed to fit smaller spaces without sacrificing function.
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Built-in Seating

Perfect for lounging & socializing in the water.
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Custom Lighting

Enhance evening ambiance with underwater LEDs.
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Water Features

Add bubblers, fountains, or spillover edges for extra style.

Custom Designs for Any Backyard

Every backyard is different, and a play pool can be tailored to your unique space. Whether you prefer a modern geometric design, a freeform shape that blends into your landscaping, or a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, there are endless options. Our design team will work with you to select materials, finishes, and features that complement your home’s style and outdoor layout while creating a functional, family-friendly retreat.

Why Homeowners Love Play Pools

Lower Maintenance & More Efficient

Lower Maintenance & More Efficient

Play pools are easier to maintain than traditional pools, requiring less water, fewer chemicals, and reduced filtration needs. Their shallow depth means quicker heating, improved energy efficiency, and lower operational costs over time.
Designed for Fun & Family Time

Designed for Fun & Family Time

Play pools are made for games, lounging, and socializing rather than competitive swimming. Whether it’s a poolside game of volleyball, a relaxed summer float, or quality time with loved ones, these pools provide a safe, interactive space for all ages.

All Great Builds Start With a Conversation

Whether you need an estimate, funding, or inspiration from our award winning designers, we're ready to roll our sleeves up and start building your dream space. If you're not quite ready... keep scrolling!
Safe & Family-Friendly Design

Safe & Family-Friendly Design

One of the biggest advantages of a play pool is safety. With a uniform depth of 3–5 feet, there’s no deep end to worry about, making it an ideal choice for families with kids. Play pools are less intimidating for beginner swimmers, and built-in seating or tanning ledges provide a place to rest. Paired with non-slip surfaces, pool covers, and safety fencing, they can create a worry-free water environment for homeowners.
Energy-Efficient Heating for Year-Round Enjoyment

Energy-Efficient Heating for Year-Round Enjoyment

With their shallow depth, play pools heat up quickly, making them ideal for year-round use. Many homeowners opt for solar heating, electric heat pumps, or gas heaters to extend the swimming season. Since these pools require less energy to maintain warmth, they’re a cost-effective alternative to larger pools that take longer to heat.
Smart Pool Automation & Filtration

Smart Pool Automation & Filtration

Play pools can be equipped with automation systems to make maintenance effortless. From self-cleaning filtration to smartphone-controlled heating, lighting, and water features, today’s technology lets you spend more time enjoying your pool and less time managing upkeep. Advanced filtration systems like saltwater pools, ozone, or UV sanitization reduce chemical use while keeping water crystal clear and safe.
Water Conservation & Eco-Friendly Benefits

Water Conservation & Eco-Friendly Benefits

Smaller pools use less water overall, making them an eco-friendly backyard feature. Additional sustainability upgrades like high-efficiency pumps, automated covers, and rainwater collection systems help homeowners reduce evaporation and minimize water waste while keeping their pools clean. By choosing a compact, shallow pool, you cut down on water and energy use while still enjoying all the benefits of having a private backyard retreat.


See What Our Customers Are Saying

Laura N.

Laura N.

California Pools was phenomenal to work with! From our designer Brian Magrath who listened to us and helped us stay within our budget, to Myra Olson and Vina Ortega who coordinated the project and kept us informed, to Matt White who was our construction manager and would stop in multiple times to check on the progress and do quality control. Our project included the pool, turf, extending the patio to the full length of the house and granite stone. Communication is KEY for us; they always promptly returned calls/texts and answered any and all questions that we had with patience. From breaking ground to our pool orientation was less than 3 months! I will recommend them to anyone who is thinking of putting a pool in, and if needed, will definitely use them again!!!
Anthony Austin

Anthony Austin

Scott and Jordan were great kept in constant communication with me with delays and scheduling. I was very pleased with Scott helping me design my and if I needed changes he was on point. Jordan was on point with the construction from start to finish he answered my calls no matter if it was on a weekend or night. California Pools gave me 5 stars service great company and great team. Thank you Scott and Jordan.
Andy C.

Andy C.

I had a great experience with my pool build. But even better is the continued excellent support I receive from Chelle McCarthy of the warranty department. I had tree die just outside of its warranty period (due to the extreme heat) and I contacted her and explained the situation and she agreed to have it replanted after summer. She is very friendly and responsive, and a great representation of the California Pools staff!
Michael S.

Michael S.

We had a fantastic experience with California Pools; something not often found in the pool building industry. Marc was our salesman. He knows a lot about pools and was a great resource. He did not try to up-sell us, and was enjoyable to work with. We did receive multiple proposals and found Cal Pools price to be competitive. Our scheduler, Cindy was amazing, always keeping us in the know about what was going to happen, and when.......she was never wrong, and a scheduled milestone was never missed! There is nothing like good communication to keep a customer happy, and California Pools certainly understands that contcept. Chuck was our superintendent. On a few occasions we expressed a concern about work that was done by one of the subs, and invariably Chuck had it resolved to our satisfaction the next day. He knows his business well, an how to get the best work from each trade. Customer satisfaction rep, Lynde followed up with us after completion, just to be sure we were happy. We had one small technical issue to resolve, and she took care of it immediately and without question. We love our new pool and fire wok, and would not hesitate to work with California Pools and Landscape again. Thanks to everyone on the California Pools team for a terrific job!
J W

J W

We just completed a large landscape and pool project with Calpools. Our coordinator Michelle did a great job of keeping us informed and following up on issues. Our supervisor Steve also did a great job getting things scheduled, and really came through at the end of the project when we had a fairly big issue to resolve. Our designer Matt was great to work with as well. In our initial meeting, he presented us with an initial design, which was very helpful getting the ball rolling. He provided a lot of technical expertise regarding pool equipment, and were very happy with the entire design process. One small issue is that we did have some startup issues with the pool equipment. It took a few people to resolve the issues over about a 2 week period, but everything seems to be taken care of now.
Byung C.

Byung C.

Jordan our construction manager provided top quality support, awareness and professionalism. It's the little things that count and we were very pleased with the level of support! Thank you!
Jeffrey W.

Jeffrey W.

Immediate responses to all our service call. Thorough explanations of the problems and the fixes. Could not be more cooperative
Mark S.

Mark S.

We decided to trust in California Pools for our backyard project and wow they did not disappoint. The fantastic experience started off with our swinger Matt Sauer helping us create our dream. Matt's experience kept us from making some major design flaws all while keeping us to our budget. Our project was then turned over to Darrin Castillo who was our construction manager. Our project was completed by the targeted deadline due to Darrin's professionalism. The company is customer oriented and holds its contractors to the same standards. Thank you Cal Pools!
Lee Weathers

Lee Weathers

Kyle was out today to fix a problem with my filter he did an awesome job and it was very easy to get an appointment Kathy the coordinator did a great job What is this?getting him out thank you
Carlos R S.

Carlos R S.

irrigation system not shutting down. I called Emma Sicairos to report the problem and immediately took action and within 48hrs we had Daniel the super whom very professionally and competently fixed the problem and it's now working properly. We are very pleased with the professionalism, effectiveness and competence of all the members of your tea. Definitely will highly recommend this company to others.
Mike E.

Mike E.

Adam Creswell went above and beyond one's expectations. Prior to our pool remodel, our water leveler malfunctioned and filled the pool to overflowing which could have created a disaster. Adam took time from his hectic schedule and came out to the home and back wash the pool.Thanks Adam
Gabrielle P.

Gabrielle P.

Chris kept us informed of the time he would be out to fix the pool, he was right on time, listened to what the problem was, made suggestions, wonderful job, thank you. We will request Chris any time we should have a problem.
Carrie O'Hearn

Carrie O'Hearn

California Pools made the pool building process as easy as I could have imagined. They were great about being in very regular contact via email all through the process and they made special accommodations for our HOA too. I can highly recommend them to anyone looking to build a great pool. Our pool turned out beautiful! It's exactly what we wanted down to the last detail.
Leilanie R.

Leilanie R.

We are so happy with our pool and landscape! We had just moved to AZ and it was our first time having a pool. We bought a new construction and Cali Pools was able to start construction before we even closed on the house. We are so happy with Dave's vision and Cari who helped with the warranty requests. We highly recommend them. Even our pool guy complimented how nice and high quality work California Pools did.
David and Allie Medawar

David and Allie Medawar

Awesome! We enjoyed working with Matt to design our landscape. We had a long lead time out and they were flexible with some unknowns / some changes we made. Highly recommended. We love our yard and the staff is very friendly and professional
Rachel G.

Rachel G.

Great experience using California pools! Mike, Tim, and Sara were awesome during the process and went above and beyond to ensure everything went smoothly! They were thorough, attentive to detail, and addressed any questions or concerns promptly. Everything went great and we are very happy with the finished product!
Christina H.

Christina H.

California Pools did a great job on my pool and spa. Everyone that I worked with was very professional, courteous and friendly. I would highly recommend them to install your new pool.Gordon
jamie galvan

jamie galvan

As a first time pool owner California Pools made our experience easy and we love the outcome. Our designer Les created exactly what we wanted. We had a wonderful and very helpful construction manager Pete B working our project along with our scheduler Sarese F. Communication is key and they always kept us informed and we saw Pete onsite regularly making sure we knew what was going on and taking care of our new pool project . We are very happy with the process and our experience with California Pools. I highly recommend them!
Sarah O.

Sarah O.

California pools was one of MANY companies that we met with for a consultation to build our dream pool. We ultimately decided to go with California pools because of their amazing reviews and our sales guy Robbie. Robbie made us feel like we were going to get everything we wanted and got us excited for the process from the beginning. Throughout the process we met Sean our construction manager who was beyond helpful and went out of his way to make the process as smooth as possible. Sean bent over backward and went above and beyond his duties to make sure that we were happy. After the Shotcrete was poured we were not going to be home to keep it watered so Sean came to the house and set up a sprinkler on a timer just so we wouldn't have to worry. We were super impressed. Sandra the scheduler was another person that made the pool building process spectacular for us. She answered countless phone calls and questions with the best attitude and sincere compassion. She had us up to date on every single thing that was going to be happening and a precise timeline. The sales manager Darren also met with us toward the end of construction just to make sure we were happy and that everything was going smoothly. The pool is now done and it looks AMAZING we are so happy with the quality of materials and service. We have already recommended California pools to a friend who is currently in the building process and will continue to refer in the future. Thank you California pools for turning our dreams into a reality!!!
Rosa T.

Rosa T.

Thank you Shelly and Noah for accomplish our repairs in our travertine and our spa. you guys did it great job with a little delay but it was done.I am very happy for everything.thank you againRosa T
Angela C.

Angela C.

Todd Hutchins was absolutely amazing! Our project consisted of a 55,000 gallon pebble tech pool, waterfall, spa, 1 meter diving board, travertine deck, 2 fire bars, Ramada, waterwall in the courtyard, and a 1/2 acre of landscaping-We have an incredible backyard it is stunning. Todd made our vision become reality. Todd made sure our project was finished on time, construction area was clean, and most important he communicated with me and the contractors. Every job has a few hiccups, Todd made sure that they were dealt with in a timely manner and communicated everything to us. My project was finished last July and I thought I would never hear from California Pools again, but Todd still takes the time to answer questions that come up and make sure I don't have any issues. More companies need employees like Todd. Honestly, I can't say enough about Todd. Any company can build a beautiful pool not all of them can provide quality customer service while doing it! Jesse R is another incredible employee, that I have had the pleasure of dealing with at California Pools. I meet Jesse once my project was completed-he did my pool start up. This guy knows his stuff! He know everything about the Hayward System. He took the time to make sure I understood how my whole system worked. He still answers my questions and it's been almost a year. He will try to walk me through how to fix whatever I have called about and if I still don't understand, he has stopped by to show me. More companies need employees that take the time like Jesse. California Pools built me an incredible courtyard, backyard, pool and spa but what makes them different is their employees who take the time to communicate with you and achieve your vision.
Mark C.

Mark C.

We have seen a big turnaround on our project since Darrin Castillo has taken over as site superintendent. Fredi Martinez has been instrumental in getting the FX color landscape lights that makes our property really pop in the neighborhood. We highly recommend Darrin and Fredi from California Pools for any pool and landscaping project.
Karin W.

Karin W.

We're building a house in Wickenburg Ranch! We met with Brian yesterday to design our pool. Clearly we hadn't a clue about what a pool would cost, but when Brian heard our budget he kept his poker face and smile and steered us to what we CAN afford! In short order I went from totally deflated to elated! In about 2 hours time we left with a beautiful plan for our back yard! You can tell that Brian genuinely loves his job! We're still about a month or so off of "breaking ground" and from there I'm not even sure when Brian and his team will begin, but we're looking forward to watching the building progress! I have no doubt that the experience with California Pools will continue to be excellent! Thanks Brian!!
Evangelina Y.

Evangelina Y.

We are very pleased with California Pools! The process starting from the sales office with Les up to completing the project was easy. We were never disappointed with the team that was assigned to us. Pete our construction manager was great. He was very professional and informative always keeping us I the loop of the project. He had great communication with us. Sarese had a great response time and kept us informed of all our appointments. Everyone we dealt with was very friendly. We are very happy the way our pool came out!
Jennifer De Pastors

Jennifer De Pastors

Where do I begin?! We just moved here from Chicago to be a part of this beautiful state with its warm weather and warmer people! Decided to purchase a home from Meritage at Sedella in Goodyear. After selecting my lot, I wanted to find the perfect pool company. California Pools was Meritage's preferred pool builder, but thinking that there was a price hike, I vetted 2 other pool companies along with Cal Pools. After speaking with all 3, I flew in from Chicago to meet with Les L. at Cal Pools. LOVE HIM! He listened to what I wanted, heard me when I said I was a "virgin" to pool ownership, designed the pool & landscape as I watched, at the same time talking to me on a personal level. The prices were NOT higher than 1 of the other companies, and company #2 designer never got back to me after the initial call. Pete B. was my construction manager who sent me a text every time something was about to happen or was happening or he called me, and more often than not, he was at my house making sure it was PERFECT! To back him up was Sarese S. from Cal Pools Chandler office who scheduled everything! She sent me emails almost daily! Actually, everyone I had contact with at Cal Pools has been AMAZING! I also have to compliment my construction manager from Meritage Sedella; Frank, who worked with Pete making sure Cal Pools had access to my yard and making sure everything went smoothly! It was so nice to have the pool construction being done alongside the house construction. I cannot recommend California Pools highly enough! Oh! I almost forgot Gabe W. who came out to give us our orientation on how to work a pool! He took his time, was patient, understood us being first timers & gave us his cell for immediate questions! The pool is beyond beautiful and the workmanship is beyond expectation! HIRE THIS COMPANY!!! ~Jennifer D. a very happy pool owner in Goodyear!!!
Shannon H.

Shannon H.

Our final result is wonderful!! We are in our pool every day. Ted, our salesperson, captured our vision perfectly. The process took awhile but it has been worth it. Can not figure out how to post pictures, sorry.
Debbie C.

Debbie C.

California Pools & Landscaping just finishes my pool along with decking and artificial turf for the pups. It looks awesome and the team of Sara, Dave and Sean were great to work with. Dave had my backyard vision come to life, Sara keep me informed on scheduling with the great app and always answered my questions quickly. Finally Sean made sure everything was completed to my satisfaction. The pool and yard are perfect.
Sharon O.

Sharon O.

We just completed a pool, water feature, fire pit and backyard lighting. The job was completed on time with great communication. Rob, Mike and Sarese for excellent customer service. The project was done as projected, a few delays but not without reason. Saris was excellent on communication of schedules. Very impressed with the subcontractors. All very friendly and very good at their trade. Thank you, Cal Pools, for turning our drab backyard into a resort!
Scott R.

Scott R.

Need to add to my prior review of California Pools. After the project was completed, Ryan Anderson , Service Tech, came out to the house to teach me everything from maintenance, to pool chemistry, to the actual workings of the pool. Very informative. Additionally, he came back today just to double check on the pool water. Due to all the construction, the initial startup, the water was a bit cloudy. Water tested well and it was determined it was construction dust/landscape dust. The pool is continually clearing up on its own. He adjusted the jets, tweaked the skimmer flow and re-tested the water to make sure all was good. Cannot beat that. Thanks Ryan ! you are an asset to CPL
Richard L.

Richard L.

TOP NOTCH IN EVERY WAY My HAYWARD POOL PUMP failed out-of-warranty and CALPOOL assisted in getting it replaced by HAYWARD and then installed the PUMP at-no-cost; even though they were under no obligation to do so. Leslie was incredibly helpful and had the replacement pump installed the day after the PUMP arrived at my residence from Hayward. I recommend CALPOOL without reservation. Rick D. Lucas-MacGibbon Mountain Bridge Mesa, AZ

Frequently Asked Questions About Play Pools


Q: What is a play pool used for?

These pools are designed for family fun, relaxation, and casual water activities like pool games, lounging, and cooling off. They’re not intended for deep diving or intense swimming workouts.

Q: How deep are play pools?

Most range from 3 to 5 feet deep, offering a safe and versatile space for games and water activities.

Q: Are play pools safe for kids?

Yes! The shallow, uniform depth makes them a safer option than pools with deep ends. However, adult supervision is always recommended.

Q: Do play pools require less maintenance than traditional pools?

Absolutely. With their smaller water volume, these pools use fewer chemicals, require less filtration, and are easier to keep clean compared to full-size pools.

Q: Can I add extra features like lighting or heating?

Yes! Many homeowners customize their play pools with underwater lighting, heating systems, water features, and tanning ledges for added comfort and style.

Q: How much does a play pool cost?

Play pools are more affordable than larger pools, with costs typically ranging from $33,000 to $40,000, depending on size, materials, and added features.

Q: What is the best pool material for a play pool?

Options include concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl liners, with concrete offering the most customization and fiberglass providing a smoother, low-maintenance finish.

Q: Can play pools be built in small backyards?

Yes! These pools are designed specifically for compact spaces and can be customized to fit a variety of layouts.

Q: Do play pools add value to a home?

Yes! Adding a pool, especially one that maximizes backyard space and is easy to maintain is an attractive feature for potential buyers.

Ready to Create Your Dream Oasis?

Start by establishing your budget today, and let us help you bring your vision to life with features like a Baja shelf that elevate both the luxury and enjoyment of your backyard. Get started now!
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MEET A DESIGNER
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Get an Estimate

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!

Meet a Designer

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.

Get Funded

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?