5 Outdoor Kitchen Ideas with Pool: Creative small-space outdoor kitchen ideas to elevate poolside livingAileen MossNov 03, 2025Table of Contents1. Compact L-shaped Kitchen by the Pool2. Wet Bar with Built-in Ice Bin3. Covered Outdoor Kitchen with Retractable Roof4. Pool-Adjacent Pizza Oven Corner5. Minimalist Prep Island with StorageDesign Tips and ConsiderationsFAQTable of Contents1. Compact L-shaped Kitchen by the Pool2. Wet Bar with Built-in Ice Bin3. Covered Outdoor Kitchen with Retractable Roof4. Pool-Adjacent Pizza Oven Corner5. Minimalist Prep Island with StorageDesign Tips and ConsiderationsFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEI once designed a poolside BBQ where the grill accidentally ended up facing the neighbor's lounge—awkward smoke and an even more awkward apology later, I learned that placement matters more than style. Small outdoor spaces and pools often force you to think twice, and that pressure has made me a better problem-solver. In this piece I’ll share 5 practical outdoor kitchen ideas with poolside appeal that I’ve used in real projects.1. Compact L-shaped Kitchen by the PoolAn L-shaped layout is my go-to for tight pool decks. It keeps the cook in view of guests and the water, offers sensible prep space, and can tuck a fridge and sink into the short leg. The obvious advantage is efficiency and sightlines; the trade-off is limited counter length—so plan appliances tightly and prioritize multifunction pieces. In one renovation I combined a slim fridge-drawer and an induction cooktop to save space and keep the area cool.save pin2. Wet Bar with Built-in Ice BinA wet bar with a built-in ice bin is perfect for casual pool parties. It reduces foot traffic to the indoor kitchen and keeps drinks chilled near floaties and loungers. The challenge is drainage and water splash—use stainless steel and plan for a dedicated drain. I’ve used a small slope in the counter and a hidden drain cover, which worked wonders for cleanup after lively summer nights.save pin3. Covered Outdoor Kitchen with Retractable RoofAdding a retractable canopy protects appliances from sun and rain while preserving an open-air vibe. It’s pricier but extends the season of use and protects finishes. I recommended this to a client who wanted year-round entertaining; we combined weatherproof cabinetry with a motorized awning and it instantly became the family hangout. Just budget for the motorized system and routine maintenance.save pin4. Pool-Adjacent Pizza Oven CornerInstalling a pizza oven in a dedicated corner creates a focal point and a cozy gathering station. It pairs nicely with a prep counter and a small herb garden so you can garnish pies fresh. The downside is ventilation and placement—keep it away from loungers and use a heat-resistant base. I staged one behind a low privacy wall so the oven heat and smoke never bothered swimmers, and the oven nights were a massive hit.save pin5. Minimalist Prep Island with StorageA slim prep island offers extra counter space without crowding the deck. Add waterproof drawers for towels, sunscreen, and grilling tools to keep the pool area tidy. The main benefit is flexibility—you can move lightweight islands as needed, though true permanence requires anchored units. One of my favorite tricks is to specify powder-coated aluminum legs for longevity in coastal climates.save pinDesign Tips and ConsiderationsThink about circulation between the pool, seating, and kitchen; you want clear paths so guests don’t weave between swimmers and the cook. Use non-slip tiles and choose corrosion-resistant materials like marine-grade stainless steel. For quick 3D planning of layouts I often mock up options in a room planner to test sightlines and spacing.save pinFAQQ: What materials are best for outdoor kitchens near pools?A: Choose marine-grade stainless steel, powder-coated aluminum, and porcelain countertops that resist chlorine, salt, and sun. Regular sealing and maintenance extend lifespan.Q: How close can an outdoor kitchen be to a pool?A: Maintain safe circulation and splash distance—typically at least 3–6 feet from the pool edge to prevent constant wetting and slipping hazards.Q: Do outdoor appliances need special installation?A: Yes, outdoor-rated appliances require proper ventilation, weatherproofing, and often dedicated electrical or gas hookups by licensed pros.Q: How do I prevent rust and corrosion in a poolside kitchen?A: Rinse metal surfaces periodically, use protective coatings, and select corrosion-resistant materials; stainless steel grade 316 is preferred near saltwater.Q: Can I use regular countertops outdoors?A: Most indoor countertops aren’t UV- or moisture-stable; opt for porcelain, granite, or specialized outdoor composite surfaces.Q: Is lighting important for poolside kitchens?A: Absolutely—layered lighting (task, ambient, and accent) keeps the space safe and inviting after sundown. Consider low-glare, waterproof fixtures.Q: Where can I visualize different outdoor kitchen layouts in 3D?A: I often use online 3D planning tools to test layouts quickly; they help spot circulation issues before construction.Q: Are there any authoritative guidelines for outdoor electrical safety by pools?A: Yes—follow local electrical codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC) which has specific rules for receptacles and equipment near pools (see NEC guidance for exact requirements).save pinStart for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE