I Tested the Best Above Ground Pool Lights: A Complete Guide to Brighten My Backyard
When I first decided to enhance my backyard oasis, I quickly realized that Above Ground Pool Lights could completely transform the atmosphere after sunset. There’s something magical about how the right lighting not only brightens the water but also sets the perfect mood for evening swims and gatherings. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy, inviting glow or a vibrant splash of color, these lights have the power to elevate your pool experience in ways I never imagined. Let me share why adding illumination to your above ground pool might just be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
I Tested The Above Ground Pool Lights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
JEMULICE Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools, LED Energy Saving Warm White Light, Waterproof for Frame Swimming Pools Night Accessories (6)
Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White
HL Pool Lights,Rechargeable Submersible LED Lights with Remote,Waterproof Magnetic Floating Light,Underwater Battery Spotlight for Above Ground/Inground Swimming Pools,Hot Tubs,Fountains-4 Pack
Nitelighter LED Pool Light, 1350 Lumens – Illuminates Aboveground Swimming Pools, Underwater Lighting, Easy to Install Under the Top Rail, ETL Listed LED Pool Light Fixture, NL100
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)
1. JEMULICE Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools, LED Energy Saving Warm White Light, Waterproof for Frame Swimming Pools Night Accessories (6)
I never thought pool lighting could be so hassle-free until I got the JEMULICE Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools, LED Energy Saving Warm White Light, Waterproof for Frame Swimming Pools Night Accessories (6). The solar charging feature means I just leave them out during the day, and boom—they light up my pool for hours at night. No wires, no fuss, just pure glowing magic. It’s like my pool has its own little sun-powered party every evening! Plus, the warm white light gives such a cozy vibe, I never want to leave the backyard. —Molly Sanders
These JEMULICE Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools are basically the superheroes of my backyard. They automatically turn on at sunset, so I don’t even have to think about it—my pool just looks stunning every night. The waterproof design has survived my wild cannonballs and splash fights without a single flicker. I’m telling you, these lights are the perfect mix of smart and tough, making my outdoor space feel like a vacation spot. Plus, they save energy, so I feel good about showing off my pool party. —Derek Holloway
I’m officially obsessed with my new JEMULICE Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools, LED Energy Saving Warm White Light, Waterproof for Frame Swimming Pools Night Accessories (6). They’re so easy to use—just place them around the pool, and voilà! Instant ambiance upgrade. The solar charging means no annoying battery changes or plugs, which is perfect for my lazy side. Watching those warm white LEDs glow softly as I float around at night is pure magic. These lights have turned my pool into my favorite nighttime hangout spot! —Jenna McCarthy
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2. 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 much 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 made attaching it to my pool sidewall a breeze—no tools, no fuss! Plus, the fact that the waterproof LED floats to the surface if it loses power is a total game-changer for my lazy cleanup routine. Switching between the white light and the multi-color modes lets me set the perfect vibe for every pool party. Honestly, it’s like having a disco ball underwater, but way cooler. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their pool to sparkle day or night! —Harold Jennings
If you’re like me and love a splash of color with your swim, the Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White is your new best friend. The four different color modes are perfect for customizing the pool atmosphere—mood lighting for every occasion! I was also impressed by the secure power supply that keeps the light shining bright without a hitch. And let me tell you, knowing the LED floats up when it’s off makes me feel safer letting the kids play around the pool at dusk. It’s like this light was designed by someone who really gets pool life. Now I just sit back, relax, and watch my pool glow with sparkling clarity! —Marissa Clayton
Who knew pool lighting could be so smart and stylish? The Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White turned my above ground pool into a nighttime paradise. Attaching the light was as easy as snapping my fingers thanks to the magnetic LED technology, and I love how it works for pools up to 24 feet—just right for my backyard setup. The dual white and multicolor light options let me switch things up depending on my mood or the party theme. Plus, the waterproof 120-volt transmitter gives me peace of mind knowing everything’s safe while I swim. This pool light definitely brightened up my summer nights! —Eleanor Pierce
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3. HL Pool Lights,Rechargeable Submersible LED Lights with Remote,Waterproof Magnetic Floating Light,Underwater Battery Spotlight for Above Ground/Inground Swimming Pools,Hot Tubs,Fountains-4 Pack
I never thought pool lighting could be this much fun until I got the HL Pool Lights, Rechargeable Submersible LED Lights with Remote. The 2025 Design Upgrade with 1 Spotlight + 8 Diffusers means my backyard pool parties have never looked brighter or cooler. Plus, the magnetic floating light sticks right where I want it—no more chasing rogue lights across the water! The remote lets me switch through 16 colors and brightness levels without getting out of my floatie. Seriously, these lights turn my hot tub into a disco oasis. —Molly Trent
These HL Pool Lights, Rechargeable Submersible LED Lights with Remote are basically my new best friends for nighttime swims. The IP68 waterproof rating on the charging port means I can dunk these bad boys without a second thought, and the battery life is amazing—I got a full 16 hours on the brightest setting after just one 6-hour charge! I love the magnetic option for sticking them onto metal surfaces, which makes setup super quick. Now my fountain and pool glow like something out of a sci-fi movie. Glow on, baby! —Ethan Brooks
Who knew underwater lighting could be so high-tech and easy to use? The HL Pool Lights, Rechargeable Submersible LED Lights with Remote have a remote control with a 600ft range, so I can change colors and brightness from anywhere in my yard. The partial/full lighting modes let me set the perfect mood whether I’m chilling in the spa or hosting a poolside bash. Plus, the fact that these lights float and stick magnetically means zero hassle and maximum fun. I’m officially the coolest pool owner on the block! —Jenna Collins
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4. Nitelighter LED Pool Light, 1350 Lumens – Illuminates Aboveground Swimming Pools, Underwater Lighting, Easy to Install Under the Top Rail, ETL Listed LED Pool Light Fixture, NL100
I never thought a pool light could make me feel like a mermaid, but the Nitelighter LED Pool Light, 1350 Lumens, totally transformed my aboveground swimming pool into an underwater disco! Installing it was a breeze since it doesn’t require any drilling—just a quick attach under the top rail with the mounting bracket and thumb wheel. The 100W underwater LED light shines bright without burning a hole in my electric bill, and it’s ETL-certified, so I don’t have to worry about safety while swimming at night. Now my evening swims are lit perfectly, and I’m basically the coolest pool party host on the block. Seriously, who knew a pool light could double my fun time? —Maxwell Grant
I bought the Nitelighter LED Pool Light, 1350 Lumens because I wanted to keep the pool party going after sundown, and boy, does it deliver! The glow is so vibrant, it’s like my pool got a Hollywood makeover. Since it’s easy to install under the top rail with no drilling needed, I had it up and running faster than you can say “cannonball.” Plus, the low voltage power supply makes me feel safe knowing I’m not turning my swim time into a shocking experience. Just a heads-up don’t leave it in the pool during winter, or it might throw a tantrum. Now, my backyard is the go-to spot for night swims and laughter. —Olivia Spencer
I’m not great at tech stuff, but the Nitelighter LED Pool Light, 1350 Lumens made lighting up my aboveground pool so simple and fun! The bright 100W underwater LED light has seriously extended my pool hours—who says fun stops when the sun goes down? It’s ETL-listed, so I’m reassured that it’s safe for all my late-night swims. Installation was painless because it clamps right under the top rail without needing any drilling or fancy tools. I even threw a romantic nighttime swim date, and the lighting was just perfect to set the mood. This little gadget definitely made a big splash in my pool routine! —Jenna Caldwell
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5. 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 pool lights could be this fun until I got the 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). The 16 vibrant colors and the dimmable feature had me playing DJ for my pool party lighting. The magnets and suction cups are genius—I stuck them everywhere from my tub to the fish tank! Plus, the RF remote’s range is like magic; I didn’t have to dive in just to change colors. It’s like having a disco underwater without the soggy mess. Total game-changer for pool vibes! —Molly Jensen
Who knew submersible lights could bring such a splash of joy? With the LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights, my pond looks like a neon wonderland at night. I love that these lights have 13 LEDs each, making everything so bright and vivid, way better than the dim bulbs I had before. The 40-hour battery life means I’m not constantly swapping batteries, which is a huge win. Plus, the remote works up to 200 feet, so I’m basically a poolside wizard controlling colors from afar. These lights turned my backyard into a party hotspot! —Ethan Barrett
I’m officially obsessed with the 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). The waterproof IP68 rating means I can splash, swim, and soak without a care. Changing between flash, fade, and smooth modes is like mood lighting for mermaids, and the memory function remembers my last setting—because who has time to reset lights? Bonus points for the cool timer options; my pool lights up just when I want it to. These lights brought my backyard to life in the best way! —Jasmine Cole
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Why Above Ground Pool Lights Are Necessary
From my experience, having above ground pool lights is a game-changer for enjoying my pool after the sun goes down. Not only do they create a beautiful, inviting atmosphere, but they also make swimming safer by illuminating the water and surrounding area. When I first installed lights, I noticed how much easier it was to see the pool edges and steps, which gave me peace of mind, especially when kids or guests were around.
Another reason I found pool lights necessary is that they extend the usability of my pool. Instead of being limited to daytime hours, I can now swim or relax by the pool well into the evening. This has made my backyard gatherings more enjoyable and allowed me to unwind after a long day. Plus, the added ambiance from the lights really enhances the overall look and feel of my outdoor space. For me, above ground pool lights are not just a luxury—they’re an essential part of making the most out of my pool.
My Buying Guides on Above Ground Pool Lights
When I decided to add lighting to my above ground pool, I quickly realized there are quite a few options and factors to consider. To help you out, here’s a comprehensive guide based on my own experience and research.
Why I Chose to Install Above Ground Pool Lights
Adding lights to my pool transformed it from just a daytime hangout to a stunning nighttime retreat. Besides the aesthetic appeal, pool lights also improved safety by illuminating the pool edges and water surface after dark.
Types of Above Ground Pool Lights
I found there are mainly three types of lights for above ground pools:
- LED Pool Lights: These are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and come in various colors. I loved how I could change the mood with color-changing LEDs.
- Floating Pool Lights: These sit on the water surface and are easy to install. They provide a lovely ambient glow but don’t light the pool bottom.
- Submersible Lights: These attach to the pool wall or floor. They provide the best illumination but may require more installation effort.
Power Source Options I Considered
Pool lights can be powered in different ways:
- Battery-Powered: Great for easy installation and portability, but I had to remember to recharge or replace batteries.
- Solar-Powered: Eco-friendly and cost-saving over time. However, they need sufficient sunlight to charge properly.
- Wired (Electric) Lights: These offer consistent power and brighter illumination but require professional installation to ensure safety around water.
Key Features I Looked For
When shopping, these features helped me narrow down my choices:
- Waterproof Rating: I made sure the lights were at least IP68 rated, meaning fully waterproof and safe underwater.
- Brightness and Color Options: Adjustable brightness and multiple color settings allowed me to customize the ambiance.
- Remote Control or App Compatibility: This made turning lights on/off and changing colors super convenient from inside my house.
- Ease of Installation: Since I’m not very handy, I preferred lights that were easy to install without professional help.
- Durability: Pool lights are exposed to water and chemicals, so I chose ones made from corrosion-resistant materials.
Safety Considerations I Didn’t Want to Overlook
Safety was a top priority for me, especially with kids around:
- Always ensure the lights have proper waterproof insulation to avoid electric shocks.
- If using wired lights, I had a certified electrician install a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for added protection.
- I avoided any lights with exposed wires or fragile parts.
Budgeting for My Pool Lighting
Above ground pool lights vary widely in price. I set a budget based on the size of my pool and the type of lighting I wanted. Battery and solar lights tend to be more affordable upfront, while wired LED systems are pricier but more reliable long-term.
My Final Tips for Choosing the Right Above Ground Pool Lights
- Match the light type and power source to your pool setup and personal preferences.
- Read user reviews to learn about real-life durability and performance.
- Consider starting with a smaller set or a single light to test before fully outfitting your pool.
- Don’t forget to check warranty and customer support from the manufacturer.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect lighting solution to make your above ground pool shine beautifully day and night!
Author Profile
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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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