What Is an Infinity Pool? Size, Cost, and More

An infinity pool is designed with one or more sides constructed in a way that makes the water’s edge appear to disappear into the surrounding scenery. When viewed from inside or beside the pool, the boundary seems to merge naturally with the landscape beyond it.

For homeowners who prefer something different from traditional in-ground or above-ground pools, or for properties located near the sea, on cliffs, or elevated terrain, an infinity pool can be an ideal choice. This guide explains the essential features and details of infinity pools.

How an Infinity Pool Works

An infinity pool typically includes at least one edge positioned slightly below the usual water surface. Beneath this edge and hidden from view is a collection channel or overflow basin that catches the water as it flows over the side.

This concealed trough works as an extended skimming system, allowing water to move away from the pool without interrupting the clean appearance of the design. Unlike conventional pools that often have visible coping materials, metal edging, or exposed skimmer openings, infinity pools create a smoother and more elegant visual effect.

Main Features of Infinity Pools

The most recognizable element of an infinity pool is its disappearing edge. This signature design creates the illusion that the water continues endlessly into the surrounding environment, making the pool appear connected with the horizon, ocean, mountains, or other nearby scenery.

Another defining feature is the limited use of visible skimmers or openings along the pool walls. Instead, a specially designed overflow channel behind the vanishing edge collects the water and sends it toward the filtration system. This hidden mechanism helps maintain the uninterrupted appearance that makes infinity pools so visually appealing.

Infinity Pool Compared to a Traditional Pool

Infinity pools and standard swimming pools differ in several important ways. An infinity pool usually has one or more edges located below the waterline, allowing water to spill over and create the disappearing-edge effect. It may have few visible skimmers or none at all, with the collection system placed beneath the pool’s edge.

If a skimmer is included, it is generally positioned below the pump level, which can make starting the system slightly more complicated.

Traditional pools, on the other hand, usually have one or more built-in skimmers connected directly to the pump system. Since these skimmers are often installed below the water surface, they are generally easier to operate when starting the pool. Regular pools also feature a continuous upper edge made from materials such as stone coping or aluminum caps, depending on the design style.

Cost of Building an Infinity Pool

Infinity pools generally cost more than standard pools because their construction requires additional finishing work and more complex design elements to achieve the vanishing-edge appearance.

The plumbing system can also be more complicated, as the overflow and skimming components must be carefully positioned below the water level. These extra engineering requirements contribute to the higher overall installation cost compared with a conventional swimming pool.