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

Jim & Trish Kloch

Jim & Trish Kloch

We would highly recommend California Pools. From the initial meetings with Brian, throughout design and subsequent change orders he was able to help us create our dream pool and landscape concept, working closely with the landscapers to provide us a breathtaking design. Once the project was handed off to implementation, things moved quickly. We were very fortunate to work with Stephen as our project manager. A consummate and highly experienced project manager is essential to a project like this, and Stephen delivered every step of the way, We appreciated the professionalism and expertise of every crew we worked with, particularly Colin and the travertine crew including Jose, Pedro, Salvator and Domingo. The excavation crew member was also a highly skilled operator. One of the key differences of working with California Pools is their communication. Ciarra was central to that, and we knew at all times exactly where we were at on the project and what steps remained to completion. Thank you to the entire California Pools team for helping transform our backyard into a dream oasis we will enjoy for years to come!
Kirk L.

Kirk L.

I would definitely recommend California Pools. We have had our pool now for 7 years and have always received great customer service anytime we ran it any issues with our pool. Their staff is always friendly and we get great service from our technician Jesse. Even when we ran into issues outside of our warranty coverage their customer service team was able to work with us and the manufacturers to make sure we did not incur a large out of pocket expense.- Kirk L
Deanna L.

Deanna L.

Grace Johnson with California Pools has been an amazing support through our initial process for financing. David Craw, our project manager, has also been outstanding and we are excited for our new pool and backyard!!!
Justin S.

Justin S.

My experience with California Pools has been outstanding. Sara's communication kept me updated on every aspect of my project and the app made communication very efficient. Scott's design was exactly what I had wanted. Thank you California Pools for a job well done.
Ben Richman

Ben Richman

California pools built my pool a year ago. The peace of mind that they bring to pool ownership is next level. All of my concerns from start to finish and during ownership are wiped away. Huge huge huge shoutout to Jacob, pool designer, Kathy, service manager, and TREVOR - this guy is THE man. Everyone is so polite, informative, and personal. Love this company
Roseann ..

Roseann ..

Giving this company five full stars, because they were at the mercy of the labor crews. Although it feels like it took quite a while to get a pool in my backyard, It was really really wonderful to see it come to fruition. The office staff was completely engaged and always came out scheduled times to review everything. The quality and workmanship is outstanding. In fact, it is better than my new home build from the builder! The salesman, Doug Lillis, is fantastic at his job. He was very responsive all of the time. Also, Dustin was so helpful and came out as well to attend to things. We are absolutely thrilled with the project. It may have felt like a long wait and I hope that doesn't give this company negative reviews, because even the leadership staff that I spoke with, was also very attentive and responsive.
Al W.

Al W.

Let me start off by saying the process wasn't as smooth as I wished it would have gone. When it didn't go as planned, Stephanie stepped in and made her best of a tough situation. The speed of workmanship was as expected and when it was time to finish, Stephanie got us to the finish line as promised. We had our site superintendent, Kevin, get the final touches addressed and made us to feel our expectations were not unfounded. In all, pool remodels are stressful, but the team was up to the task. Cory, thank you for having us believe in the process even in our most stressful times. Much appreciated!
Kevin B.

Kevin B.

We had a great experience and it was completed sooner than anticipated! Our super Adam was extremely responsive and diligent. Between him and Vina someone was always available to respond to a message in the portal or phone call. We got a few bids from other competitors and California pools was by far the most reasonable we received. We felt like the quality and products used were better than other quotes we received for cheaper materials. It was incredibly easy to make changes, talk through items of discussion, and bring up any concerns. I'd recommend California pools to anyone and would definitely use them again in the future.
Greg C.

Greg C.

We had Cal Pools build our pool a little less than 2 years ago. Everything about the experience has been great. I recently had a minor plumbing issue, and contacted Cari Gossmann from the Warranty department. She couldn't have been more friendly, understanding and communicative. She scheduled the work, which was completed on time and as promised. She followed up with me to confirm my satisfaction. Much appreciated. You have choices, but you can't go wrong with the team at California Pools!
Robert P.

Robert P.

Cal-Pools did our remodel last year and did a great job. They where not the cheapest, but they where the best at understanding what we wanted. We were very pleased. So now I called them because I screwed up my timers and was to dumb to figure it out They sent out Gabe there service tech who solved my problem and gave me instructions for the future. I was expecting a service charge, but the tech said it was a warranty issue, (even though I screwed up) which I did appreciate, and wasn't expecting. Once again, Cal-Pools has proven to be the best and I'm so glad we chose you for our pool.
Cilla M.

Cilla M.

I recently discovered that rats had eaten the innards of my pool heater, which went unused for two years. Working with Kathy Venn, I detailed all my issues (which included clogged filtering and a lack of vacuuming). CalPools sent someone to see what needed doing (Alan, great guy) and eventually, when all the parts came in, sent Chris (shadowed by Adam). So happy to have had this crew come and knock off all my issues, one by one. I had a nice early evening spa today, and am looking forward to the first drain/clean my pool will have had since I owned it. Happy with the service all around. Thank you, Kathy and Chris! (And Adam!)
Roxanne Larouche

Roxanne Larouche

Scott Ford was our construction manager for our backyard project. Scott is very professional. He also has excellent people skills and we knew we were in good hands with Scott. He would get back to us anytime we had questions or concerns and find a way to solve any issues. He his also hard working and very reliable. It was a pleasure working with him.
John S.

John S.

Continued great after service from Kathy and her team. After 3 years Im still impressed by the continued after service. Responsive and ability to resolve issues right away.
Ruchi

Ruchi

Had an amazing experience with CA pools and landscape. We were screwed over by two contractors prior to meeting with Kyle at CA Pools. He helped us move quickly to get our pool finished up and had techs and project manager Matt come over multiple times to make sure everything was working absolutely perfectly. Customer service is truly amazing. I wish we would have known of this company from the very beginning!
cristin ford

cristin ford

Excellent design process. It was fun to collaborate on the backyard, pool, styles and materials, but still lean on my knowledgeable experts to make proposals and recommendations so it wasn’t an overwhelming process. The build went fast with great communication and no hiccups. I love the final result! Simple, modern, functional, and beautiful.
Gwen S.

Gwen S.

Overdue review. Project manager stopped by to check if we had any issues since pool completion late AUG 22. We were given a timeline of 9 months with an understanding it could go longer. Everyone at CAL POOL and associated trades did an awesome job at every phase of the project. Thanks to Brian for taking it from and idea to the design. Our construction manager (Jordan Thrasher) was present for every phase of construction, addressed our concerns, explained future phases, and accommodated numerous contract changes. Schedulers clearly stated upcoming schedule especially if delays were to be incurred. Awesome pool, have received many positive comments from neighbors and friends. The period from start to finish was 10 months, we were aware of possible delays for numerous reasons and some delays did occur. CALPOOL highly recommended.
Richard Traulsen

Richard Traulsen

We have had Trevor out a couple times to service/repair some issues on our complex pool system. He has always been right on time or early, finishes faster than anticipated, explains what he's doing and why, and makes sure we are satisfied before he leaves.
Ruth Yheulon

Ruth Yheulon

Our experience with California Pools was above expectations from the initial visit at their facility to the first cannon ball into our pool. Everyone at California Pools was very helpful especially DJ who was our project manager. He was fun to work with and extremely helpful in designing the project including landscaping (really loved the 3D video!). The entire build time was 5 weeks and the results are spectacular! There were a number of different crews to do the work and all were pleasant and informative about whichever stage they were working on. We highly recommend California Pools to anyone considering installing a pool....Great People to work with!
Debbie G.

Debbie G.

My husband and I are thrilled with our new pool! We initially met with Mike Lillis who drew up a great design for us. He was so easy to work with and spent time with us to come up with the most amazing pool and spa while keeping within the budget we had set. Once everything was rolling it was a steady and fast process. Shawn was always on the ball and oversaw the project. Marcee was amazing with all the email correspondence, because I always liked knowing who was coming next. It really was such a great experience and I highly recommend California Pools.
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
Amy S.

Amy S.

Amazing!!!!! I cannot say enough good things about this company and our experience. Joel did an amazing job designing our pool and landscape. Sean went above and beyond to get our project moving quickly and impeccably. We had a small leak and Sean was out there sweating and digging it up right away to find the issue. They also found a crack in the concrete that we never saw and scheduled right away for the whole thing to be replaced. Rebecca was also incredible emailing and keeping us up to date with everything! Always very prompt to answer any questions we had. I would highly highly recommend them and definitely request Sean!!!
Walt R.

Walt R.

Called Calpools support yesterday requesting assistance with what appeared to be a small leak issue. Trevor came out the next morning and made the quick repair and had the system up & running in just minutes. Excellent service, competent staff, and everyone had the customer focus and satisfaction as their primary goal!
Lance Erikson

Lance Erikson

This project had all the hurdles. The backyard had an 18" slope from the retaining wall to the back of the house. Then it was a hard dig. Then the footers for the walls were poured like slop. Randy and Dylan were phenomenal. They took their time to do it right and engaged me constantly. The outcome is a true resort transformation. Everything looks so clean.
Nivine S.

Nivine S.

Working with Jeremiah Price on the major remodel of our backyard has been a smooth journey! Having recently done a complete remodel of our home, I speak from experience when I say that Jeremiah & his team are exceptional in their professionalism, their prompt & efficient communication and most importantly in the outstanding quality of the work this far. We are very excited to see the end result as we near the completion of our project!
Rob C.

Rob C.

When my wife an I began researching firms to help us remodel our pool and landscape we researched many firms. Our neighbors down the street had recently had Calpools do work for them and they couldn't have been more impressed. After looking at many different proposals we decided on Calpools. From the very beginning we felt they truly valued our choosing them. Our Project manager, Robby Stubbs was attentive from the get go, helping us design our dream yard and pool. With any big remodel, inevitably there will be revisions and he could not have been more accommodating. With final plan on hand, he introduced us to our Construction Superintendent, Rick Friedenbach. Like Robby, Rick listened and adjusted to make sure everything thing was as we wished for. Keeping everything running like a well oiled machine was Leann Madar, our Scheduling Manager. The Calpools crew were always prompt and professional. As our project wrapped up, Calpools ensured our satisfaction by checking off a punch list of any final details. We can't recommend Calpools enough! Rob and Stephanie
Kelly T.

Kelly T.

We just wrapped up the build on our second pool with California Pools and we are thrilled with the results. Our project this time around was a whole lot more involved than the one they did for us 10 years ago, but they did a fantastic job again. The first person we met was our sales rep, Aaron Heninger and he's a great representative for the company. Aaron is friendly, knowledgeable and easy to work with. He spent several sessions with us, first meeting to get our ideas and then when he presented the final CAD version to us. We had multiple changes during our build, probably close to a dozen, and each time he responded immediately and got us a change order within hours. The appointment with Lori to pick colors/finishes was a pleasure. Lori was helpful without being at all pushy and was totally easy to work with. I got through with my decision making quickly and have been happy with every choice. I spoke with Marcee Walker almost from the first day and she is just a sweetheart. Again, very responsive to every little thing that came up, very easy to work with, knows what she's doing and kept the project on track. I'm sure she's super nice to everyone but half the time I felt like I was calling a friend to talk about my project. Marcee was great about keeping me in the loop and letting me know when each crew would be out. Every crew came in and got their part of the job done efficiently and well. We had a few minor glitches with our landscapers not really having a plan of attack on day one, but with Marcee & Luis we got it all sorted out quickly and everything worked out great and most importantly, it looks great. From the excavation at the beginning through the misting system install, the whole project seemed to flow and move along smoothly. Special shout outs to: The travertine crew: We had a massive amount of travertine laid for this project and these guys did an amazing job. It came out better than we ever thought it could, it's simply stunning! Pergola dude: One guy, three days, amazing. I don't think this guy even took a break, he just methodically put together my pergola from the ground up by himself. It came out exactly as I'd envisioned and made such a difference in how our backyard looks. It even made an eyesore of an outbuilding into something that looks like it was meant to be part of my backyard oasis. We had a huge pool party after the project was done and everyone commented on how gorgeous our yard looks now. We couldn't agree more. Overall all, we had a great experience and we would use California Pools again if we ever needed a pool built or remodeled.
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.
Harold M.

Harold M.

Many thanks for the outstanding job California Pools did for us. From start to finish your company and it's personnel excelled in providing excellent service. I couldn't be more pleased. A special thanks to LeeAnn for always keeping us informed about our schedule. Sean Beavers was our project manager. Outstanding! Sean is a true professional and was always right on top of every detail. He was always available or returned my calls immediately. I could ask anything of him during this project and he always came back with a "can do" attitude and made it happen. One time I called him and told him there was flooding in my side yard. I thought there was something wrong with the new plumbing that had been installed that day. He came over after I had left for work and discovered that it was a drip system problem and had nothing to do with the pool renovation he was overseeing. Sean dug up the main line, found the split in it, and repaired it on the spot. He didn't have to do that, but he did. That's the kind of guy he is. That's the kind of company California Pools is. You guys are Rock Stars. California Pools initially installed my pool many years ago and now has done an amazing job at renovating it and making it look better than new again. I had it re-pebbleteched, added two new sitting benches, all new plumbing and lighting, and resurfaced my decks with travertine. The project came in on schedule with absolutely no glitches. Again, many thanks for the outstanding job you all do. I give you guys a solid 10 for excellence.
Marcia P.

Marcia P.

When I started my pool with California Pool Sara was out on leave; however thank goodness she returned, as she is the secret weapon at CPL without a doubt. I was losing my mind with all of the unprofessional unpleasantries that I was experiencing. Sara moved mountains and people to get this pool completed at my home, Michael was a big help in supporting her efforts. I loved working with them both. Sara you are an absolute game changer and most valued in my book of all the staff at CPL, never worked with someone when my troubles seemed endless, your actions where momentous. Thanks Sara and Michael, I now have a great property to enjoy!!! nothing short of amazing....
Lisa S.

Lisa S.

We chose California Pools to put our pool in at Trilogy at Verde River. We are VERY happy with the project from start to finish! The California Pools app was extremely helpful as each step completion was communicated to us. The people who worked with us were helpful, thorough, and informative. Thank you California Pools for a job well done!!!

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?