Sunshelves and Tanning Ledges Built by Pool Professionals in Columbia and Myrtle Beach
A sunshelf can turn an ordinary pool edge into the most-used spot in the backyard.
Our Columbia and Myrtle Beach pool pros design custom sunshelves, tanning ledges, and shallow lounging areas that make your pool feel more comfortable, social, and resort-inspired.
Layouts built around how you live
Sunshelves, bubblers, lighting, and spas
Built for South Carolina heat, use, and style
Clear options from concept to completion
Beautiful Tanning Ledges and Sunshelves for Year-Round Swimming and Chilling
Sunshelves and tanning ledges are popular because they create a calm, usable place between the patio and the deeper swim area.
You can relax in a lounge chair, keep an eye on kids, sit with a drink, cool off without swimming, or enjoy the pool on days when you only want your feet in the water.
The best version of a sunshelf looks simple after it’s built, but it takes thoughtful planning. Depth, dimensions, entry flow, finish texture, chair placement, shade, bubblers, lighting, and circulation all affect how useful the feature feels every day.
Popular Sunshelf and Tanning Ledge Options
Your sunshelf should feel like part of the pool, not an afterthought. Our pool contractors in Myrtle Beach and Columbia can help you choose features that fit the shape of the pool, the style of your home, and the way you want to use your backyard.
Designed Into a New Pool or Explored During a Remodel
For new custom pools, a sunshelf can be planned from the start so the layout, steps, depth, equipment, and water features all work together. For existing pools, the possibility of adding or reshaping a tanning ledge depends on the pool structure and remodel scope.
- New pool concepts with integrated sunshelf layouts
- Remodel evaluations for existing shallow areas or step redesigns
- Finish, tile, coping, and deck transitions that feel cohesive
- Equipment and circulation planning for shallow-water comfort
- Family pools where adults want a comfortable watch zone
- Entertaining-focused backyards with lounge seating
- Luxury pool designs with spa, water, and fire features
- Relaxed outdoor living spaces with shade and soft lighting
Want a Pool that Feels Like a Resort at Home?
A tanning ledge is one of the easiest ways to make a pool feel more personal. Let our pool specialists in Columbia and Myrtle Beach help you plan the right size, shape, features, and finish for the way you want to relax outside.
How We Plan Sunshelves and Tanning Ledges
A great sunshelf starts with practical questions about comfort, layout, maintenance, and long-term use. Our process helps turn the idea into a feature that feels natural once the pool is complete.
Small Choices Make a Big Difference
A tanning ledge can look beautiful in photos, but the day-to-day experience depends on the details, especially in hot and humid South Carolina.
Water depth should match the seating and intended use. Bubblers should be positioned carefully. The finish should feel comfortable underfoot. The shelf should connect naturally to the deck, steps, and main swim area.
Our Myrtle Beach and Columbia pool renovation experts help you make those decisions with a practical eye, so the feature feels intentional, polished, and easy to enjoy.
- How many lounge chairs should fit comfortably?
- Do you want bubblers, lighting, or umbrella sleeves?
- Should the ledge connect to wide entry steps?
- Will children, pets, or guests use the shallow area?
- How much shade does the location need?
- Will the design work with the patio and outdoor living area?
Frequently Asked Questions About Sunshelves and Tanning Beds
What is a pool sunshelf?
A pool sunshelf, also called a tanning ledge or tanning shelf, is a shallow platform built into the pool where you can lounge in a few inches of water. It creates a comfortable place for chairs, children, pets, conversation, and relaxed afternoons, all while not being fully submerged.
Is a sunshelf the same as a tanning bed?
Homeowners in North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach,, and Daniel Island often use these terms interchangeably. A sunshelf, tanning ledge, tanning shelf, and in-pool tanning bed all describe a shallow lounging area designed for relaxing at the edge of the pool. The final design depends on pool shape, water depth, finish, seating, and how you want to use your space.
Can a sunshelf be added to an existing pool?
Sometimes. A sunshelf can be part of a new custom pool design, and in some Grand Strand or Myrtle Beach pool remodels, it may be possible to add or rework shallow lounging space. The right answer depends on the pool structure, current layout, depth, plumbing, finish condition, and remodel scope.
How deep should a tanning ledge be?
Many tanning ledges in Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Horry County, and Lexington are designed with shallow water for lounge chairs and relaxed use, but the ideal depth depends on your goals, chair style, entry design, and how children or pets may use the area. We can help you choose a depth that feels comfortable and practical.
What features pair well with sunshelves?
Popular additions include bubblers, umbrella sleeves, LED lighting, wide entry steps, benches, nearby spas, water features, and pool automation. The best combination depends on whether you want a quiet retreat, a family-friendly pool, or an entertaining-focused backyard.
Are sunshelves good for families?
Yes. Sunshelves are popular with families because they create a shallow, social area at the edge of the pool. They aren’t a substitute for supervision or safety measures, but they can make the pool more useful for young swimmers, adults who want to lounge, and guests who want to cool off without swimming laps.
Do sunshelves require special maintenance?
A sunshelf doesn’t usually require complicated maintenance, but shallow water can warm faster and may need good circulation. During design, equipment planning, returns, bubblers, and cleaning access should all be considered so the feature can be readily enjoyed.
How much does a sunshelf add to a pool project?
The investment depends on whether the sunshelf is part of a new build or remodel, along with its size, shape, finish, plumbing, bubblers, lighting, seating, and surrounding design. A quote based on your actual pool plan is the best way to understand cost.
Request A Complimentary Quote
Have a sunshelf, tanning ledge, or shallow lounging area in mind? Our pool builders in Myrtle Beach and Columbia can help you understand what makes sense for your pool, yard, and budget.