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Shallow Pools, Tanning Ledges & Beach Entries
The most-used feature in many luxury pools isn't the deep end — it's the shallow water. Tanning ledges, beach entries, a...
Selah Pools designs shallow pool features including tanning ledges, beach entries, and sun shelves across DFW. Family-friendly designs integrated into custom gunite pools — not afterthoughts or add-ons.
- 4.8★
- from 154 verified reviews
- 107+
- custom pools completed
- 54
- cities served across DFW
- Options
- Tanning ledges, beach entries, sun shelves, finger ledges, and wading areas
- Design
- Integrated into the pool from the first concept — not an afterthought
- Materials
- Same premium finishes as the main pool — pebble plaster, stone coping, LED lighting
Our Work
Shallow Water Features for Every Family
The most-used feature in many luxury pools isn't the deep end — it's the shallow water. Tanning ledges, beach entries, and sun shelves create spaces where families actually spend their time: adults lounging in six inches of water with a book, toddlers wading safely in a gradual-entry zone, teenagers stretched out on in-pool loungers under the Texas sun.
At Selah Pools, shallow water features are designed as integral parts of the pool — same plaster finish, same coping material, same LED lighting. A tanning ledge isn't a shelf bolted onto the pool; it's engineered into the gunite shell with its own depth profile, drainage, and optional bubblers or jets. Beach entries transition gradually from deck to water, creating a resort-like arrival that's also the safest entry for young children and older family members.
Every shallow feature is customized to the pool geometry and the family's use. Oversized tanning ledges can accommodate four loungers side by side. Finger ledges provide a narrow perch at the pool's edge. Sun shelves at different depths serve different purposes — shallow for toddlers, deeper for adults who want to sit submerged to the chest.
Shallow Water Options
Tanning Ledges
Flat shallow platforms (4-8 inches deep) designed for in-pool loungers. Bubblers and LED jets optional. The single most requested feature in DFW custom pools.
Beach Entries
Gradual slope from deck to water — zero-depth entry that mimics a natural shoreline. The safest entry for young children and the most resort-like arrival for adults.
Sun Shelves
Submerged platforms at multiple depths for sitting, standing, or lounging partially submerged. Customizable to family needs and pool geometry.
Finger Ledges
Narrow perimeter ledges at the pool's edge — a place to sit with feet dangling or to rest during laps. Subtle, functional, and space-efficient.
Like What You See?
Every project starts with a conversation. Tell us about your vision and we'll show you what's possible.
(817) 618-5731What Our Clients Say
4.8 stars from 154+ reviews
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Shallow Pool & Tanning Ledge Questions
Can you integrate tanning ledges into geometric pool designs?
Tanning ledges integrate seamlessly into geometric pools when designed as extensions of the angular composition rather than afterthoughts. The Vannoy project features a tanning ledge at 18-inch excavation depth that follows the pool's geometric lines while providing shallow water relaxation within the 12,307-gallon design. This approach maintains design integrity while adding functional space for lounging, reading, or supervising children. Bubblers complement the tanning ledge with kinetic water movement, proving that contemporary geometry enhances rather than limits outdoor living space functionality.
How does beach entry construction work with deeper pools?
Beach entry design allows gradual depth transition from shallow lounging areas to full swimming depths, as demonstrated in the Burrow project's progression from four feet to eight feet. The stepped construction guides swimmers naturally while maintaining the gentle slope aesthetic that defines a true resort-style approach. This works particularly well for families who want both shallow play areas and serious swimming depth within a single pool, with the Burrow pool ultimately reaching nine feet nine inches at its deepest point.
What makes an oversized tanning ledge worth the investment?
An oversized tanning ledge transforms shallow water from a transitional space into a destination for relaxation and socializing. The Cloud family's expansive ledge accommodates multiple loungers while maintaining comfortable water depths for both children and adults. Dedicated spa lighting illuminates this feature after dark, extending usability well into the evening hours. Combined with four umbrella sleeves positioned around the perimeter, the oversized ledge becomes a flexible entertaining zone that adapts to different group sizes and weather conditions throughout the year.
How deep should a tanning ledge be for comfortable lounging?
Tanning ledges perform best between nine and eighteen inches deep, offering flexibility for different users and activities. The Fletcher project features this exact range, creating shallow areas perfect for reading and deeper zones ideal for cooling off during volleyball breaks. This depth variation also accommodates pool furniture and provides natural spectator seating during games, maximizing the functionality of the outdoor living space. For active families, this dual-purpose design transforms a simple shelf into genuine recreation infrastructure.
Can you integrate new pool equipment with existing utilities?
Selah's approach to the Loutsch project included connecting the new fire bowl propane system to existing equipment infrastructure, demonstrating our integration capabilities. Rather than requiring complete utility overhauls, experienced design-build teams can work with existing gas lines and connections to minimize disruption and investment. Successful integration requires thorough site assessment to ensure new loads don't exceed existing capacity. The Anna project benefited from adequate existing infrastructure supporting additional propane demand. Each project receives individual evaluation to determine the most efficient approach for connecting new outdoor features to established utility systems.
Design Your Perfect Shallow Water Feature
Schedule a consultation to discuss tanning ledges, beach entries, and sun shelves for your custom pool. We'll help you find the right depth profile for your family.
(817) 618-5731