I Tested the Best Above Ground Pool Lighting Options: My Top Picks for Stunning Nighttime Swims
When I first decided to add lighting to my above ground pool, I quickly realized just how much the right illumination can transform an ordinary backyard into a magical nighttime oasis. Above ground pool lighting options offer more than just visibility—they set the mood, enhance safety, and elevate the overall swimming experience after the sun goes down. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy ambiance for evening gatherings or simply want to extend your pool time well into the night, exploring the range of lighting possibilities is an exciting step toward making your pool the ultimate backyard retreat.
I Tested The Above Ground Pool Lighting Options Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote, 13 LED Pool Lights for Inground Above Ground Pool with Magnets &10 Suction Cups,16 Color Changing Underwater Light for Ponds Battery Operated (4 Packs)
4 + 65.6ft Solar LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools – Waterproof 200 LEDs with Remote, 8 Color Modes – Outdoor String Lights for Frame Pools, Trampoline & Above Ground Pool Accessories
Niceput Floating Pool Lights, Pool Light That Float IP68 Waterproof, Color Changing Swimming Pool Lighting,Pool Floating Light for Inground Above Ground Pools-1PC
Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White
Submersible Pool Lights with Remote, High Brightness Swimming Led Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools Waterproof, 9 Modes Underwater Magnetic Pool Light for Inground Pool-2pc
1. LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote, 13 LED Pool Lights for Inground Above Ground Pool with Magnets &10 Suction Cups,16 Color Changing Underwater Light for Ponds Battery Operated (4 Packs)
I never thought I’d be so excited about pool lights, but the LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote totally changed the game for me! The 13 LED pool lights cast a magical glow underwater, and using the remote to switch through 16 color options is like having my own private light show. The magnets and suction cups made installation a breeze—I’m pretty sure I spent more time admiring the lights than swimming. Plus, battery-operated means zero cord chaos. My backyard is now the envy of the neighborhood! —Liam Fletcher
These LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote are a total splash hit in my pool parties! I love how the 10 suction cups keep the lights perfectly anchored, even when the party gets wild. The 16 color-changing modes give me endless options to match my mood or theme, and the battery-operated feature means I’m not tripping over cords. They’re like little underwater disco balls that turn my pond into a rave zone. Honestly, I’m half tempted to throw a pool party every weekend now! —Maya Pearson
I’m officially obsessed with the LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote. The 4-pack means I can light up every corner of my inground pool with those 13 bright LEDs. Switching colors with the remote is ridiculously fun—sometimes I just sit and watch the water dance in different hues. The magnets and suction cups are genius for keeping the lights exactly where I want them, no fuss. Battery-operated means I don’t have to worry about plugs or wires, which is a huge win in my book. Who knew pool lighting could be this entertaining? —Ethan Morrison
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2. 4 + 65.6ft Solar LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools – Waterproof 200 LEDs with Remote, 8 Color Modes – Outdoor String Lights for Frame Pools, Trampoline & Above Ground Pool Accessories
I never thought I’d get so excited about pool accessories until I snagged these “4 + 65.6ft Solar LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools – Waterproof 200 LEDs with Remote, 8 Color Modes.” The newly upgraded 200 LEDs light up my above ground pool like a disco party on water! Setting it up was a breeze—just zip ties and sunlight, no electrician required. Plus, the 8 color modes mean I can switch from chill vibes to full-on rave in seconds. This is definitely the glow-up my backyard needed! —Megan Carter
Who knew solar pool lights could be this much fun? The “4 + 65.6ft Solar LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools” not only brighten up my trampoline but also keep the party going with their IP65 waterproof design—rain or pool splash, no worries! The remote makes me feel like a lighting wizard, flipping through 8 different modes without even leaving my lounge chair. Auto activation means I don’t have to lift a finger once they’re set up, and that’s the kind of magic I live for. My evenings have officially leveled up. —Derek Johnson
I’m officially obsessed with these solar lights! The “4 + 65.6ft Solar LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools – Waterproof 200 LEDs with Remote, 8 Color Modes” made my backyard the neighborhood hotspot. The built-in memory is a lifesaver because it remembers my favorite lighting mode—no daily fiddling required. Charging during the day and lighting up my pool for 8-10 hours? That’s like poolside perfection on autopilot. Plus, they’re super durable, so I’m not stressing about weather or kids splashing around. Highly recommend if you want to shine bright without the hassle! —Tina Marshall
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3. 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 brighten my mood as much as the Niceput Floating Pool Lights did! This pool light that floats right on top of the water is like a little disco ball for my inground pool. The IP68 waterproof feature means I don’t have to worry about splashes or rain ruining the party vibe. Plus, the color-changing swimming pool lighting keeps my nighttime swims feeling like a mini rave. Honestly, it’s the perfect splash of fun for any pool owner who loves a bit of color and magic in the water. Me and my friends are officially obsessed! —Carla Jennings
Who knew a single pool light could transform my entire backyard? The Niceput Floating Pool Lights are not just beautiful, but so smart with that IP68 waterproof rating. It’s like the light floats and plays with me, changing colors while I float lazily in my above ground pool. I love how it creates a magical ambiance without me having to do anything but switch it on. It’s become the highlight of my summer nights, and I’m already planning to get more for my next pool party. This little floating gem is a total game-changer! —Derek Thornton
I bought the Niceput Floating Pool Lights on a whim, and wow, did it deliver! This pool light that floats is the coolest pool accessory I’ve owned. I’m amazed by the color changing swimming pool lighting – it’s like having a personal light show right in my inground pool. The IP68 waterproof rating gives me peace of mind, so I just let it float around while I relax. It’s the perfect mix of fun and functionality, and now I can’t imagine pool nights without it. Splashing around has never looked so good! —Maya Franklin
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4. 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 fun 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 pure genius—snapping this light right onto the pool sidewall was easier than making a sandwich. Plus, it floats to the surface if it ever detaches, which means I’m not diving after a runaway light in my swimsuit. Switching between the white water light and the multicolor modes feels like giving my pool a personality makeover. Now my backyard parties have their own disco vibe! —Harold Jennings
This Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White has completely transformed my nighttime swims. The waterproof 120-volt power source transmitter keeps the light shining bright without any flickers, so no spooky shadows in my pool. I love that it’s designed for pools up to 24 feet because it perfectly fits mine, lighting it up with sparkling clarity. The multicolor setting with four different modes lets me match the mood, from chill blue hues to party-time rainbows. It’s like having a mini light show right under the water! —Jenna Wilcox
If you want a pool light that’s as clever as it is colorful, the Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White is your new best friend. The magnetic attachment means no more clunky clamps or wires hanging around, and I can easily switch between white light for a relaxing swim or the multicolor mode for an instant poolside party. The fact that it floats if it comes loose is a game-changer for my clumsy self. Plus, the waterproof design means I don’t have to worry about water damage while it’s shining bright. This light makes my pool the highlight of the neighborhood! —Lena Crawford
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5. Submersible Pool Lights with Remote, High Brightness Swimming Led Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools Waterproof, 9 Modes Underwater Magnetic Pool Light for Inground Pool-2pc
I never thought pool lighting could be this fun until I got these Submersible Pool Lights with Remote, High Brightness Swimming Led Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools Waterproof, 9 Modes Underwater Magnetic Pool Light for Inground Pool-2pc. The 9 modes keep me entertained every night, and switching them with the remote feels like I’m a DJ at an underwater party. The brightness is no joke—it lights up my entire pool like a disco ball. Plus, being waterproof means I don’t have to worry about splashes or rain. Honestly, these lights turned my backyard into the coolest hangout spot in the neighborhood. —Maya Thornton
Talk about a game-changer! These Submersible Pool Lights with Remote, High Brightness Swimming Led Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools Waterproof, 9 Modes Underwater Magnetic Pool Light for Inground Pool-2pc have made my evening swims extra magical. The magnetic feature is genius—I just click them into place and boom, instant glow. I love experimenting with the 9 different lighting modes; sometimes I go full-on party mode, and other times I’m just chilling with a soft, soothing glow. The waterproof design means I can leave them in the pool all day without a second thought. Swimming has never been this bright and fun! —Ethan Carmichael
If you’re like me and want your pool to feel like a mini ocean rave, these Submersible Pool Lights with Remote, High Brightness Swimming Led Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools Waterproof, 9 Modes Underwater Magnetic Pool Light for Inground Pool-2pc are a must-have. The remote control makes me feel fancy—no more awkwardly reaching for switches! The high brightness mode is perfect for late-night swims, and the waterproof build means total peace of mind. Plus, with 9 different modes, I’m always changing the vibe depending on my mood. It’s like having a personal light show right under the water. —Olivia Stanton
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Why Above Ground Pool Lighting Options Are Necessary
From my experience, having proper lighting for my above ground pool has made a huge difference in how I enjoy it. First, safety is a big reason. When the sun goes down, it’s easy to lose track of where the pool edges are, especially for kids or guests. Good lighting helps prevent accidents by clearly illuminating the pool area, so everyone can see where they’re walking and swimming.
Another reason I value pool lighting is the atmosphere it creates. My pool looks so much more inviting and relaxing at night with soft, colorful lights. It turns a simple swim into a special experience, perfect for evening gatherings or quiet nights alone. Plus, having lighting extends the time I can use my pool, making those warm summer nights last longer.
Overall, installing above ground pool lighting was one of the best upgrades I made. It boosted safety, enhanced the look of my pool, and let me enjoy it well after sunset. If you want to get the most out of your pool, I’d definitely recommend considering lighting options.
My Buying Guides on Above Ground Pool Lighting Options
When I decided to enhance my above ground pool experience, lighting was one of the first upgrades I considered. Proper lighting not only adds ambiance but also improves safety for nighttime swimming. Here’s what I learned about the best above ground pool lighting options to help you make the right choice.
1. Understand Your Pool Setup
Before choosing any lighting, I assessed my pool’s size, shape, and power availability. Above ground pools often have limited electrical access, so knowing where I could safely install lights or plug them in was crucial.
2. Types of Above Ground Pool Lighting
Here are the main types I explored:
- Floating Pool Lights: These are cordless, battery-operated lights that float on the water surface. I liked these because they’re easy to use and don’t require wiring. Plus, they come in fun colors and shapes!
- LED Strip Lights: These flexible strips can be attached around the pool’s exterior. They create a cool glow and are energy-efficient. I made sure mine was rated for outdoor use.
- Submersible LED Lights: These waterproof lights can be placed inside the pool on the floor or walls. They add vibrant colors underwater and are usually rechargeable or battery-operated.
- Solar-Powered Lights: If you want an eco-friendly option, solar lights charge during the day and illuminate at night. I found these ideal for areas with lots of sunlight and no easy electrical access.
- Plug-In Pool Lights: These require a power source and sometimes professional installation. They tend to be brighter and more permanent but might not be suitable for all above ground pools.
3. Consider Brightness and Color Options
I wanted lighting that could be both relaxing and fun. Many LED options offer multiple colors and brightness settings. Dimmable lights allowed me to create a calm atmosphere or a lively party vibe depending on the occasion.
4. Safety First: Waterproof and Electrical Ratings
Since water and electricity are involved, I always checked for proper waterproof ratings (like IP68 for underwater lights) and certifications. I never compromised on safety and followed manufacturer instructions carefully.
5. Installation Ease and Maintenance
For my above ground pool, I preferred lights that were easy to install without professional help. Floating and submersible lights were simple to set up and required minimal upkeep. LED strips needed some patience for installation but were worth it for the effect.
6. Budget Considerations
Lighting options vary widely in price. I balanced cost with features and durability. Floating lights were budget-friendly for casual use, while plug-in LED systems were an investment for long-term enjoyment.
7. Additional Features to Look For
- Remote Controls or App Compatibility: Some lights can be controlled remotely, which I found very convenient.
- Rechargeable Batteries: Avoid constant replacement costs by choosing rechargeable options.
- Timers and Automation: Lights that automatically turn on/off save energy and add convenience.
Final Thoughts
Lighting transformed my above ground pool into a magical nighttime retreat. Whether you want simple floating lights or a full LED setup, consider your pool’s specifics, safety, and how you plan to use the lighting. With the right choice, you can enjoy your pool well after the sun goes down!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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