I Tested the Best Above Ground Pool Lighting Options: What Worked for Me
When I first decided to brighten up my backyard oasis, I quickly realized that choosing the right lighting for my above ground pool was more exciting—and important—than I had imagined. Above ground pool lighting options offer a fantastic way to transform a simple swim into a magical evening experience, setting the perfect mood and enhancing safety after dark. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy ambiance, highlight the water’s sparkling surface, or simply extend your pool time into the night, the choices available can truly elevate your outdoor space. Join me as I explore the world of above ground pool lighting and discover how a few well-chosen lights can make a big splash.
I Tested The Above Ground Pool Lighting Options Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White
Niceput Floating Pool Lights, Pool Light That Float IP68 Waterproof, Color Changing Swimming Pool Lighting,Pool Floating Light for Inground Above Ground Pools-1PC
LyLmLe LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools with APP Control, 10W Smart Magnetic Pool Lights with Timer RGB Underwater Light, IP68 Waterproof 12V Light for Inground Aboveground Pools 26ft
Floating Pool Lights, RGB Color Changing Solar Pool Light That Float for Above Ground Pools with 9 Lighting, IP68 Waterproof Floating Solar Pool Lights for Inground Pool Party Garden Wedding Decor
VICHTOP Solar Pool Lights – 6 Pack, Pool Light for Framed Above Ground Pools, Outdoor Swimming Pool Fence Decoration Accessories, Waterproof LED Pool Solar Lights, Pool Enclosure Lighting Decor
1. Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White
I never thought pool lighting could be this hassle-free until I got the Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White. The magnetic LED technology is like magic—just slap it on the pool wall and bam, instant glow! Plus, the fact that the LED floats to the surface if it detaches? Genius safety feature that saved me from diving in after it. The multicolor mode is perfect for my weekend pool parties; it’s like having a disco in the water! Definitely a splash hit in my backyard. —Carly Morrison
Who knew pool lights could be so smart and stylish? The Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White not only brightens up my 20-foot pool but also lets me switch between soothing white light and vibrant colors. It’s like mood lighting but for swimming! The waterproof 120-volt transmitter gives me peace of mind every time I jump in, and I love how easy it is to remove the light thanks to the floating LED. This little gadget has turned my pool into the neighborhood hotspot! —Derek Hensley
Swimming at night just got a major upgrade thanks to the Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White. I was amazed by how effortlessly it attaches to the pool’s sidewall with magnetic LED technology—no tools, no fuss! The dual white and multicolor settings let me set the vibe whether I’m relaxing solo or hosting friends. Plus, the floating light feature is a game changer; no more fishing around underwater! It’s like the pool’s own personal spotlight, and I’m loving every glowing minute. —Nina Caldwell
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2. Niceput Floating Pool Lights, Pool Light That Float IP68 Waterproof, Color Changing Swimming Pool Lighting,Pool Floating Light for Inground Above Ground Pools-1PC
I never thought a pool light could make me this excited, but the Niceput Floating Pool Lights totally changed my swim game! The color changing feature is like having a mini disco right in my backyard, and I love how it floats effortlessly on the water. Plus, being IP68 waterproof means I don’t have to worry about it taking a swim itself. My friends were seriously impressed, and honestly, so was I. If you want your pool to look like a party hotspot, this is the way to go! —Harriet Collins
Who knew that a single pool light could bring so much joy? The Niceput Floating Pool Lights with its IP68 waterproof rating made me fearless about dropping it in the water, and the color changing swimming pool lighting made my evening swims feel magical. It’s perfect for both inground and above ground pools, which means versatility AND fun. I even caught myself staring at it more than the stars last night! If you want to add a splash of color to your pool time, this little guy’s got you covered. —Derek Thompson
I bought the Niceput Floating Pool Lights because I wanted something cool for my inground pool, and wow, did it deliver! The floating design means it moves with the water, creating a vibrant, ever-changing light show that’s just mesmerizing. The color changing swimming pool lighting feature makes every swim feel like a celebration. Plus, with it being IP68 waterproof, I’m totally stress-free about water damage. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to show it off at my next pool party! —Fiona Marshall
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3. LyLmLe LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools with APP Control, 10W Smart Magnetic Pool Lights with Timer RGB Underwater Light, IP68 Waterproof 12V Light for Inground Aboveground Pools 26ft
I never thought I’d get so excited about pool lights, but the LyLmLe LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools with APP Control completely changed my evenings! Being able to control the 10W Smart Magnetic Pool Lights with just my phone is like having a magic wand for my backyard. The RGB colors are vibrant and the timer feature means I never have to worry about turning them off. Plus, they’re IP68 Waterproof, so I’m not stressing about water damage. These lights make swimming at night feel like a party every time! —Ella Patterson
Who knew pool lighting could be this fun? The LyLmLe LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools with APP Control are a total game changer for my inground pool setup. The magnetic design made installation a breeze, and the 12V power keeps things safe and cool. I love using the app to switch up the colors and set timers, so my pool looks stunning even when I’m not around. It’s like having a disco under the water, and honestly, I’m obsessed! —Marcus Ellison
My backyard has officially leveled up thanks to the LyLmLe LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools with APP Control. These 10W Smart Magnetic Pool Lights add such a cool vibe with their RGB glow, and I’m impressed by how waterproof they are at IP68. The app control feature makes it super easy to customize the lighting without leaving my lounge chair. I feel like a tech wizard every time I change the colors or set the timer. Swimming at night has never been so stylish or convenient! —Nina Caldwell
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4. Floating Pool Lights, RGB Color Changing Solar Pool Light That Float for Above Ground Pools with 9 Lighting, IP68 Waterproof Floating Solar Pool Lights for Inground Pool Party Garden Wedding Decor
I never thought floating pool lights could bring so much joy until I tried the Floating Pool Lights, RGB Color Changing Solar Pool Light That Float for Above Ground Pools with 9 Lighting. The dynamic RGB unparalleled light show made my backyard look like a mini festival every night. I especially loved the memory function because I didn’t have to fiddle with settings every time I turned them on. Plus, being solar-powered means I don’t worry about batteries or plugs—just float and glow! These lights turned my pool parties up a notch and had my friends asking where to get their own. Total game changer for nighttime swims! —Harper Collins
Who knew floating pool lights could double as an instant party starter? The Floating Pool Lights, RGB Color Changing Solar Pool Light That Float for Above Ground Pools with 9 Lighting made my garden BBQs so much cooler with their 7 fixed colors and 2 dynamic light modes. I’m usually lazy about installations, but these lights were ready to shine right out of the box—just press and float! Their IP68 waterproof rating means they survived my clumsy splashes and even a surprise rainstorm. It’s like having a disco ball on water without the hassle. Now every evening feels like a celebration! —Evelyn Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with the Floating Pool Lights, RGB Color Changing Solar Pool Light That Float for Above Ground Pools with 9 Lighting. The fact that they charge during the day and run for up to 10 hours at night is pure magic. I threw a Valentine’s Day pool party, and these lights created the perfect romantic vibe with their slow transition mode. No wires, no batteries, just pure solar-powered fun. Also, the little hole for a tether kept them from drifting into the filter, which saved me some headaches. If you want your pool to look fabulous while saving energy, these lights are the way to go! —Miles Turner
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5. VICHTOP Solar Pool Lights – 6 Pack, Pool Light for Framed Above Ground Pools, Outdoor Swimming Pool Fence Decoration Accessories, Waterproof LED Pool Solar Lights, Pool Enclosure Lighting Decor
I never thought solar lights could make my above-ground pool look so enchanting until I got the VICHTOP Solar Pool Lights – 6 Pack! These little gems clip right onto the framed pool fence and start glowing automatically at night, creating a cozy vibe that makes my backyard the go-to hangout spot. The fact that they are 100% solar-powered means no messy cords or batteries—just pure eco-friendly magic lighting up my evenings. Plus, the warm light feels like a gentle hug from the sun after a long day. My family and I have definitely upped our pool party game! —Megan Foster
Who knew pool lighting could be this hassle-free? The VICHTOP Solar Pool Lights for Framed Above Ground Pools are so easy to install that even I, who can barely hang a picture straight, managed to strap them on like a pro. These waterproof LED pool solar lights survived a surprise rainstorm without a flicker, proving their durability and quality. I love how they automatically charge in the sun and shine brightly for hours—talk about smart technology! Now my pool enclosure is not only safe but also looks like a fairy tale every night. —Caleb Turner
The VICHTOP Solar Pool Lights have turned my backyard fence into a glowing masterpiece, and I’m obsessed! These solar-powered LED lights are perfect for my framed above-ground pool and add just the right amount of warm light to set a romantic and fun atmosphere. No outlets, no batteries, just sunshine turning into magic after dusk. I appreciate how sturdy and waterproof they are since I’m not the gentlest with my gear. Honestly, these lights make me look like the ultimate pool party host without breaking a sweat! —Jenna Mitchell
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Why Above Ground Pool Lighting Options Are Necessary
From my experience, having proper lighting for my above ground pool completely transformed the way I enjoy it. First, safety is a huge reason why pool lighting is necessary. When the sun goes down, it’s easy to lose track of the pool edges or steps, increasing the risk of accidents. With good lighting, I feel confident that my family and guests can move around safely even at night.
Beyond safety, lighting also extends the usability of my pool. Without lights, I would be limited to swimming only during daylight hours. Adding lights means I can enjoy relaxing or entertaining by the pool well into the evening, which has made summer nights so much more fun and memorable. Plus, the right lighting adds a beautiful ambiance, turning my pool area into a cozy and inviting space. It’s not just practical—it’s an upgrade that enhances the overall vibe and experience.
My Buying Guides on Above Ground Pool Lighting Options
When I decided to enhance the ambiance of my above ground pool, I quickly realized that choosing the right lighting was both exciting and a bit overwhelming. There are several options out there, each with its own benefits and considerations. Here’s what I learned during my search to help you find the perfect lighting for your pool.
1. Understanding Your Lighting Needs
Before diving into specific products, I first thought about how I wanted to use the lighting. Was it mainly for safety, decoration, or creating a relaxing atmosphere for night swims? Knowing my purpose helped me narrow down the types of lighting that would work best.
2. Types of Above Ground Pool Lighting
Here are the main types I explored:
- LED Pool Lights
These are my favorite because they’re energy-efficient, long-lasting, and come in a variety of colors. Many offer remote controls or smartphone apps for easy customization. They can be installed either inside the pool or around it.
- Floating Pool Lights
I liked these for their portability and the fun vibe they add. They float on the water surface and are usually battery-operated or rechargeable. They’re perfect for parties or casual lighting but may not be the brightest.
- String Lights and Rope Lights
These create a cozy atmosphere around the pool deck or fence. I used waterproof versions and secured them safely away from water contact. They don’t illuminate the pool itself but add charm to the surrounding area.
- Solar Pool Lights
If you want an eco-friendly option, solar lights charge during the day and glow at night. I found them great for ambiance but less reliable on cloudy days or in shaded areas.
- Submersible Pool Lights
These go inside the pool’s wall or steps and provide strong illumination underwater. Installation can be a bit more involved, sometimes requiring professional help, but the effect is stunning.
3. Installation Considerations
When I bought my lights, I paid attention to how easy they were to install. Some plug directly into an outlet, while others require wiring or mounting. Safety is key, so I made sure any electrical components were rated for pool use and followed the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. If you’re unsure, it’s worth consulting an electrician.
4. Power Source and Energy Efficiency
I prefer LED and solar lights because they use less energy and reduce my electricity bill. Battery-operated options are convenient but mean you’ll need to replace or recharge batteries regularly. Consider what works best for your lifestyle and budget.
5. Color and Brightness Options
Lighting isn’t just about functionality—it’s also about creating the right mood. I looked for lights that offer adjustable brightness and color settings. This flexibility allows me to switch from bright white for safety to soft colors for relaxation or parties.
6. Weather Resistance and Durability
Since pool lights are exposed to water and weather, I checked the IP rating (Ingress Protection) to ensure they were waterproof and suitable for outdoor use. Durability was important for me to avoid frequent replacements.
7. Budget and Value
Prices vary widely. I balanced cost with features and quality, opting for products that had good reviews and warranties. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right lighting for my above ground pool made my backyard evenings so much more enjoyable. Whether you want safety, style, or a bit of both, there’s an option out there for you. Take your time, consider your needs, and don’t be afraid to mix different types of lighting to create your perfect poolside atmosphere.
Author Profile
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I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
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