How to Incorporate a Beach Entry into Your Gunite Pool

A beach entry, also known as a zero-entry pool, is a luxurious and practical design feature that adds resort-style sophistication to your backyard. Instead of steps or ladders, a beach entry mimics the natural slope of a shoreline, allowing you to walk gradually into the pool as the water deepens. This feature blends both beauty and functionality—and it’s a perfect fit for the flexibility of a custom gunite pool.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about incorporating a beach entry into your gunite pool, including its benefits, design tips, and considerations for construction and maintenance.

🏖️ What Is a Beach Entry Pool?

A beach entry is a sloped entrance to a swimming pool that starts at ground level and gently slopes down to deeper water—just like walking into the ocean.

Instead of using stairs or ladders, the pool gradually increases in depth from zero inches to typically 12–18 inches over several feet, creating a smooth and accessible transition into the water.

💡 Why a Beach Entry Works Perfectly with Gunite Pools

Gunite, a mixture of sand, cement, and water sprayed over rebar, is highly moldable—making it the best material choice for building custom-shaped features like beach entries.

Key benefits of using gunite for a beach entry:

• Unlimited design flexibility (you choose the slope, finish, and width)

• Seamless integration with tanning ledges, seating areas, and water features

• Structural strength that lasts for decades

• Ability to blend into freeform or geometric pool styles

🌟 Benefits of Adding a Beach Entry to Your Gunite Pool

Incorporating a beach entry enhances your pool’s style and usability in several ways:

1. Increased Accessibility

• Perfect for kids, seniors, and individuals with mobility issues

• Easy to walk in and out without climbing steps

2. Elegant Resort-Style Aesthetic

• Mimics the look and feel of a luxury resort

• Enhances the visual flow between pool and patio

3. Multi-Functional Space

• Acts as a tanning ledge, splash zone, and lounging area

• Great for toddlers or pets to play safely in shallow water

4. Customizable to Fit Any Pool Shape

• Can be integrated into rectangular, lagoon, or kidney-shaped pools

• Offers more surface area for creative finishes like pebble, textured tile, or stamped concrete

📐 Design Tips for a Gunite Pool Beach Entry

✅ 1. Plan the Slope Carefully

The slope needs to be gradual enough to be safe and comfortable, but still functional.

• Typical slope ratio: 1:10 (every 10 feet = 1 foot depth)

• Start with a wide entrance (6–12 feet) for visual impact and space

• Ensure it’s wide enough for loungers, children to play, or multiple users

✅ 2. Choose the Right Finish

Use a finish that is:

• Textured and slip-resistant (like pebble tec, quartz, or broom-finished concrete)

• Light-colored to reflect sunlight and stay cooler

• Comfortable to walk and lay on (avoid rough aggregate for sensitive feet)

🎨 Pro Tip: Blend your beach entry with natural stone, shells, or tropical-themed decking to complete the look.

✅ 3. Integrate With Other Features

A beach entry can seamlessly connect to other amenities, such as:

• Tanning ledges with in-water loungers

• Bubblers or fountain jets for visual and sensory appeal

• Built-in benches or shallow seating for social spaces

• Fire bowls or palm trees for the ultimate luxury effect

🛠️ Construction Considerations

🧱 1. Reinforcement and Framing

Because the beach entry requires a long, sloped transition, it must be properly reinforced with steel rebar and carefully shaped during the gunite application.

• The slope must be structurally sound to avoid cracking or shifting

• Transitions between depths must meet local safety and code requirements

💧 2. Water Circulation

Shallow areas like beach entries can sometimes have reduced water movement, which may lead to debris accumulation or algae if not properly addressed.

• Install returns or jets in the shallow end to keep water circulating

• Consider in-floor cleaning systems for low-maintenance solutions

🧼 3. Maintenance

Beach entries are relatively low-maintenance, but you should:

• Regularly brush the sloped surface to prevent buildup

• Skim debris frequently, as it may settle in the shallow area

• Keep the pH and sanitizer levels balanced to protect finishes and prevent algae

🌿 Landscaping and Decking Around a Beach Entry

To complete the beach-inspired look, consider integrating your beach entry with surrounding landscape and hardscape elements:

• Palm trees, tropical plants, or ornamental grasses for a lush look

• Natural stone or wood decking for a seamless transition

• LED lighting embedded in the slope or along the edges

• Misting systems or shade sails to keep the area cool

🌴 Whether your style is modern, tropical, or Mediterranean, a beach entry can be customized to match your backyard theme.

🏡 Is a Beach Entry Right for Your Backyard?

While beach entries are a beautiful addition, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

If you have enough deck space or a custom-shaped pool, a beach entry can absolutely enhance your pool’s value, function, and enjoyment.

💧 Build Your Dream Pool With Harpeth Valley Hardscape

At Harpeth Valley Hardscape, we specialize in building custom gunite pools with features like beach entries, tanning ledges, fire features, and water walls. Our expert designers will help you choose the perfect layout, slope, and materials to match your style and space.

We handle everything—from 3D design and permitting to construction and finishing touches—so you can enjoy a backyard experience that feels like a five-star resort.

📆 Fill out the form below to schedule a consultation and start designing your custom gunite pool with a beach entry today!