22 Hammock & Swing Ideas by the Pool
There’s something magical about lounging by a pool. The sun warms your skin, the water sparkles, and life slows down just enough for you to take a deep breath. But you know what makes that moment even better? Adding a hammock or swing by the pool. These aren’t just functional seating options—they’re invitations to relax, daydream, and connect with nature in a way no lounge chair ever could. Think of them as the punctuation mark that completes the sentence of your backyard paradise.
In this article, I’ll take you through 22 hammock & swing ideas by the pool that blend style with comfort. Each idea carries its own mood—some playful, some luxurious, others rustic or minimalist. By the end, you’ll have a clear vision of how to turn your poolside into the kind of retreat that makes every day feel like a vacation.
1. The Classic Rope Hammock
A classic rope hammock by the pool is timeless. It feels like summer in its purest form. The white woven ropes cradle you like a gentle net, swaying with every breeze. You can place it between two palm trees if your poolside has that tropical vibe, or use a wooden stand for a more practical setup. This design works beautifully because it’s breathable, meaning even on hot days you won’t feel sticky. Add a soft pillow and a light throw, and suddenly, your poolside looks like a scene from a beach resort.
2. Double Hammock for Couples
Sometimes relaxation is even better when shared. A double hammock gives you space to stretch out with someone else or just enjoy extra room for yourself. Picture lying side by side after a swim, sipping lemonade, and watching the sky change colors at sunset. It feels like you’re floating on water without ever dipping in. These hammocks come in cotton or quilted styles for more cushion, and the wide base keeps it from flipping over. It’s intimacy and comfort wrapped together.
3. Hammock with Canopy Shade
When the sun gets too intense, a hammock with a canopy is the hero you didn’t know you needed. This setup combines relaxation with protection. Imagine napping without worrying about sunburn, the fabric shading your face while the breeze cools you off. It looks elegant too, almost like a poolside cabana in hammock form. Choose neutral colors like beige or cream to create a calming aesthetic, or go bold with stripes for a nautical flair.
4. Woven Hammock Chair
If you don’t have space for a full hammock, a woven hammock chair is the perfect compromise. Hung from a sturdy beam or a freestanding frame, it swings gently as you curl up inside. It feels almost cocoon-like, giving you privacy while still letting you enjoy the pool view. These chairs often come in macramé styles, which add a bohemian touch to your space. Toss in a bright cushion, and suddenly your poolside feels Instagram-worthy.
5. Hammock Between Palm Trees
There’s no denying the romance of stretching a hammock between two palm trees. It’s straight out of a postcard. The tall trees sway above you, the pool shimmers nearby, and you’re suspended in the sweet spot between shade and sunshine. If you don’t have palm trees, other strong trees or even decorative posts can work. The key is anchoring the hammock securely. This setup is as natural and authentic as it gets, merging your hammock seamlessly with the landscape.
6. Hammock Lounge Bed
Think of this as a hammock’s luxurious cousin. A hammock lounge bed is wide, padded, and often comes with a sturdy frame. It feels less like a hanging net and more like a floating daybed. By the pool, this becomes the ultimate napping zone. It’s ideal if you want to relax without the “dip” of traditional hammocks. Add a tray table nearby for drinks, and you’ll never want to move. It’s like creating your very own mini-resort.
7. Wooden Swing Bench
A wooden swing bench by the pool brings rustic charm. Unlike hammocks, it offers structured seating, making it perfect for casual chats with friends. You can dress it up with weatherproof cushions and colorful pillows. Some even come with built-in canopies, adding comfort on sunny afternoons. This design has a nostalgic feel—like front-porch swings, only with the luxury of water glistening nearby.
8. Canopy Daybed Swing
If sophistication is your style, a canopy daybed swing is the ultimate statement piece. It’s like merging a hammock, swing, and outdoor sofa into one. These designs often feature plush mattresses, sheer curtains, and wooden or metal frames. Positioned by the pool, it feels like a private sanctuary where you can read, nap, or just watch reflections dance on the water. It’s not just seating—it’s an experience.
9. Macramé Hammock
A macramé hammock adds artistry to your poolside. Its handwoven patterns are as beautiful as they are functional. With tassels swaying in the breeze, it creates a bohemian, laid-back vibe. This style pairs well with tropical plants and vibrant cushions. The beauty of macramé is that it’s both durable and decorative. It doesn’t just give you a place to rest—it makes your poolside look curated and stylish.
10. Swinging Egg Chair
Few pieces of furniture are as iconic as the egg chair swing. Shaped like a cozy pod, it envelopes you the moment you sit down. By the pool, it becomes a personal retreat where you can sip your coffee, scroll your phone, or just sway peacefully. Many egg chairs come with stands, so you don’t need to worry about installation. Add a cushion inside, and suddenly it feels like your own little bubble of comfort.
11. Suspended Hammock Over the Water
For a bold statement, try a suspended hammock directly over the pool. It feels daring, like floating between two worlds—air and water. Some setups stretch across shallow sections of the pool, while others use platforms or beams to hold the hammock securely. Imagine lying there with your toes skimming the water. It’s playful, adventurous, and unforgettable.
12. Rustic Log Swing
If you love a natural, earthy vibe, a rustic log swing is perfect. Built from raw wood, it feels grounded and authentic, almost like something you’d find in a mountain retreat. Place it poolside, and the contrast between rugged wood and sparkling water creates a balance of nature and leisure. Add plaid cushions for a cabin-like feel, or leave it bare for simplicity. It’s nostalgia and comfort rolled into one.
13. Hammock Pergola
Combine architecture with relaxation by creating a hammock pergola. The wooden frame not only supports your hammock but also adds shade and structure to your pool area. You can drape climbing plants like bougainvillea or ivy over the pergola for a natural canopy. At night, string fairy lights for a magical glow. This setup feels romantic and intentional, like an outdoor living room beside the pool.
14. Swinging Sofa
Yes, sofas can swing too. A swinging sofa is a luxurious addition to any poolside. Imagine a cushioned outdoor couch suspended gently, giving you both comfort and motion. It’s large enough for multiple people, making it ideal for gatherings. When placed near the pool, it becomes the perfect spot for storytelling, laughter, or simply stargazing once the sun sets.
15. Fabric Hammock with Bold Prints
Sometimes, your poolside needs a pop of color. A fabric hammock with bold prints delivers just that. Whether it’s tropical leaves, stripes, or geometric designs, these hammocks turn into focal points. They’re lightweight, easy to move, and often machine-washable. Pair them with solid-colored pillows, and suddenly your poolside feels like a magazine spread.
16. Hanging Rattan Swing
Rattan is trending, and a hanging rattan swing by the pool is both chic and timeless. Its natural tones complement the outdoors, while its curved design makes it cozy. Add soft cushions inside for contrast. What makes rattan special is its ability to feel casual and elegant at the same time. Near a pool, it exudes a tropical resort vibe without trying too hard.
17. Hammock with Stand
Not every poolside has the right trees or beams. That’s where a hammock with a stand shines. It’s flexible, portable, and easy to set up wherever you want. The stand adds stability, so you don’t have to worry about anchoring it. Choose a wooden stand for warmth or metal for a sleek look. It’s convenience and comfort rolled into one.
18. Tree Swing with Rope Seat
Sometimes the simplest ideas carry the most charm. A rope tree swing is playful, nostalgic, and easy to install. Just a sturdy branch and a circular or wooden seat are enough. Place it near the pool, and suddenly you’ve created a whimsical corner where kids and adults alike will line up for a turn. It’s not about luxury—it’s about fun.
19. Hammock Nest
A hammock nest looks futuristic, almost like a hanging teardrop. These pod-like structures can be hung from a frame or tree and give you a semi-private space to curl up. By the pool, it feels like a cocoon where you can nap, read, or hide away from the world. Some come with sheer curtains, adding a magical touch as they sway in the breeze.
20. Bamboo Swing
Bamboo swings are lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly. A bamboo swing by the pool feels tropical and earthy, fitting seamlessly with palm trees or lush greenery. Its natural texture blends with outdoor spaces, giving your pool area a laid-back island vibe. Add soft white cushions for contrast, and you’ve got a setup that feels both inviting and sustainable.
21. Modern Metal Swing
If your pool area has a sleek, contemporary design, a modern metal swing might be the perfect match. With clean lines, minimal shapes, and neutral tones, it adds sophistication. Unlike rustic swings, these designs focus on simplicity. Place it beside an infinity pool, and the pairing looks straight out of a luxury travel brochure.
22. Hammock with Built-in Lights
For evenings by the water, nothing beats a hammock with built-in lights. Imagine tiny LEDs woven into the ropes or string lights draped over the frame. As night falls, the hammock glows softly, creating a magical poolside ambiance. It’s not just seating—it’s atmosphere. Perfect for late-night talks, quiet reading, or just enjoying the reflection of lights in the pool.
