Sun Shelves & Tanning Ledges: Cost & Design

A sun shelf (also called a tanning ledge or Baja shelf) is a shallow section of the pool — usually 6–12" of water depth — sized to hold a chaise lounge, a couple of kids, or an umbrella. It's an extension of the pool floor rather than a separate feature.

Adding a sun shelf to a new gunite build runs $5,000–$12,000 depending on size and any features (bubbler jets, integrated umbrella sleeve). Adding one to an existing pool during a full renovation runs $10,000–$25,000 because it requires shell modification.

Standard sun shelves run 6–8 feet wide by 10–14 feet long — big enough for two chaise lounges or a chaise + umbrella + side table. Bigger is better if your yard supports it.