Pool Waterfalls & Grottos

Transform Your Backyard with Cascading Luxury

A Stunning & Functional Water Feature

A custom pool waterfall or grotto turns your backyard into a serene escape, blending sight, sound, and movement to create a resort-style oasis. Whether it’s the natural beauty of a stacked stone waterfall, the sleek elegance of a sheer descent, or the hidden retreat of a grotto with built-in seating, these features enhance your pool’s ambiance while promoting relaxation and aesthetic appeal. At California Pools & Landscape, we design each water feature with premium materials, ensuring a seamless integration with your pool, spa, and outdoor space. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape, a high-impact design, or a playful addition for family fun, we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your backyard and budget.


What Is a Pool Waterfall?

A pool waterfall is a decorative water feature where water flows from an elevated surface into the pool. This adds natural beauty, a soothing sound, and a cooling effect while enhancing water circulation. Beyond their beauty, waterfalls and grottos bring a sense of peace and tranquility to your outdoor space. The gentle sound of cascading water creates an atmosphere of calm and serenity, making your backyard the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Whether you’re sitting poolside with a morning coffee or enjoying a peaceful evening under the stars, the soothing ambiance of falling water enhances the experience year-round.
Classic Rock Waterfall

Classic Rock Waterfall

A timeless, nature-inspired design featuring stacked rocks and lush landscaping. Water cascades gently over textured stone, blending seamlessly with your pool's surroundings.
Sheer Descent Waterfall

Sheer Descent Waterfall

A sleek, modern waterfall where water flows in a smooth, uninterrupted sheet, creating a clean, elegant look. Ideal for contemporary pool designs, this feature enhances both aesthetics and water flow.

Waterfall Slides, A Splash of Fun for the Whole Family.

A waterfall slide brings excitement and adventure to your backyard. Combining the beauty of a cascading waterfall with the thrill of a waterslide, this feature creates a resort-style experience right at home. Waterfall slides can be integrated into rock formations or grottos, blending seamlessly into the poolscape. Whether it's a gentle, winding slide for younger kids or a steeper descent for thrill-seekers, this feature ensures endless fun while maintaining a polished, high-end look. From family pool parties to relaxing weekend afternoons, a waterfall slide adds energy, excitement, and lasting memories to your outdoor space.

What Is a Grotto?

A grotto is a cave-like structure built into your pool, creating a secluded, shaded retreat with water cascading over the entrance. It serves as a private escape within your backyard, providing a relaxing, resort-style feel. Grottos can be designed for pure relaxation or adventure, with options like a built-in bench for a tranquil hideaway, integrated slides for extra fun, and LED Lighting for a dramatic nighttime effect.
Organic Grotto

Organic Grotto

An organic grotto blends seamlessly with nature, using textured rock formations and cascading waterfalls to create a secluded, cave-like retreat. This design mimics a natural hideaway, offering cool shade, peaceful water sounds, and a private escape from the sun.
Modern Grotto

Modern Grotto

A modern grotto takes a more polished approach, using travertine, stacked stone, or smooth, sculpted finishes in monochrome tones like white, silver, or charcoal. A modern grotto delivers elegance and functionality, serving as both a stunning focal point and a peaceful retreat.

All Great Builds Start With a Conversation

Whether you need an estimate, funding, or inspiration from our award winning designers, we're ready to roll our sleeves up and start building your dream space. If you're not quite ready... keep scrolling!

What Is a Rain Sheer?

A rain sheer creates a curtain-like effect of falling water, often installed on shade structures, pergolas, or pool overhangs. It produces a gentle, high-volume cascade that enhances both visual appeal and relaxation. Rain sheers are a popular choice for modern pools, adding a sleek, high-end look that complements pergolas and shaded lounge areas.
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How Rain Sheers Compare to Sheer Descent Waterfalls

Rain sheers and sheer descent waterfalls both add movement, sound, and style to your pool, but they create different effects. Rain sheers produce a high-volume, cascading water effect that mimics natural rainfall, making them a bold, eye-catching feature. In contrast, sheer descent waterfalls create a smooth, continuous sheet of water, offering a sleek, modern look with a controlled, elegant flow. While rain sheers enhance high-impact designs with dramatic movement, sheer descents provide a more refined architectural aesthetic, making them perfect for contemporary pools.
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Designed for Your Backyard

A pool, waterfall or grotto isn’t just about looks. It should be effortless to enjoy. Our energy-efficient designs use variable-speed pumps to optimize water flow while reducing energy consumption. Smart automation lets you control water features and lighting with ease, while LED lighting adds a dramatic touch without increasing energy costs. Whether it’s a gentle cascade or a bold waterfall, our technology ensures beauty, efficiency, and low maintenance for your outdoor retreat.

See What Our Customers Are Saying

Mel Sánchez

Mel Sánchez

This has been a great experience. We are 1st time pool owners/buyers and California pools did a great job! JOE M (PROJECT MANAGER), RICK F (CONSTRUCTION MANAGER) SHANNON H.( SCHEDULE MANAGER ) They walked through each step with us. We had tons of questions everyday and they answered them. They made us feel like family. I will definitely be Referring California Pools! Very happy. The Wolf family.
Gary B.

Gary B.

We are very pleased with the end result of out backyard. CP did our swimming pool, fire-pit and gas BBQ along with all the landscaping. I wish the builder of our home would have used them for the front yard as who else do you know that gives a 1 year plant replacement warranty? This was our fourth pool and you learn something each time you build one. So glad that I did not go with someone else. Building anything there will always be things that come up and I understand that. It was such a relief that CP took care of any concerns we had. My main point of contact was Sara who was outstanding and was able to take care of any concerns we had. She was extremely pleasant and was a joy to work with. Our construction manager Darrin was great also and went out of his way to make sure we were satisfied. CP was not the cheapest quote we received but I am so glad that we went with them as sometimes you need to pay a little more to sleep good at night.
Deanna W.

Deanna W.

We had a wonderful experience with the team at California Pools from design to delivery. Marissa was great at keeping the project schedule on track and communicated at all times, Darrin for always walking the project and not missing a thing and Mike created a great design. We highly recommend!
Tony A.

Tony A.

We are so happy with our choice of selecting California Pools and Landscape. Mike, Darrin, Marissa and their team do an outstanding job. Communication is excellent and the entire process went very smoothly. Ready to enjoy our beautiful pool. Thanks!
Michael Tobian

Michael Tobian

California Pools warranty & support crew Kaitlyn Gulish, Scott Nagy, and Luis with landscaping have absolutely made my experience with California Pools spectacular! These three individuals, as well as a host of other incredible support folks, have truly made the experience with Cal Pools phenomenal! Thank you so much!!!
Troy Glover

Troy Glover

When we first selected California Pools, we were extremely happy with the service and attention to detail. The end product was perfect! We recently had a need to engage with California Pool for some work that is within warranty and a item outside of warranty. And they immediately stepped up and sent out technicians and the communication was very consistent as they kept me informed throughout. From start to finish, California pools stepped up and delivered. We sincerely appreciate the support from the team, especially Leslie and Cari for their terrific coordination!!
Carol M.

Carol M.

Our new pool was just completed. California Pools was great and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone. They handled all permits and they worked very well with the landscape team at Signature Outdoor Concepts (formerly The Landscape Brokers). Mike, Jerimiah, and Marissa were super responsive. We have only good things to say about California Pools.
Dennis W.

Dennis W.

Just wanted to say "thank you" to Jennifer Tabish in the Service and Warranty Department. My interest was to replace a cover for the switch on our BBQ area lamp which is a small thing, but Jennifer was relentless in her effort to find the part for me which was then delivered to my door by Chris exactly at the time promised. We live a significant driving distance from the parts shop, so Jennifer figured out away to save us the long drive. Jennifer, thank you for a job well done. Dennis W.
Tiffany A.

Tiffany A.

Awesome! We had such a great experience with EVERYONE at California Pools! I highly recommend this company if you are looking to have a pool built! We met with Brian and Cliff and they were knowledgable and honest, when they left our house my husband and I both looked at each other and said we WANT to work with them!!! The design Brian came back with was exactly what we had envisioned. He was always quick to respond if we had any questions. I have already recommended him to our family and friends! Once we signed the contract the processing department, specifically Cammy, was so helpful with ensuring we had everything we needed taken care of. Our Scheduling Manager, Sara, got in touch with us right away and kept things smooth sailing throughout the whole process! We ran in to a few rainy days and she was always on top of letting me know what changes were happening and getting things scheduled and rescheduled quickly. She was simply amazing!!! Steve (our Construction Manager) was a life saver! I was so nervous to have a pool built since we had never been through the process and Steve always made us feel so at ease. He would come by after every step and make sure it was all correct and looked good! We couldn't have done this without him! Once our pool was finish Gabe came out do our orientation for all of the equipment. He was very knowledgable and when I had a question a week later I was able to text him and he took care of it right away for me! If there is one thing I can say I was ALWAYS able to get in touch with someone! They were all so good at either answering calls, texts or emails! We never felt alone in the process and that made me feel so good with our decision to go with them! I would (and have) recommend them to anyone, they were simply amazing!!!
Jon K.

Jon K.

My wife and I purchased a California pool, And spa 2.5 years ago. California pools also orchestrated our landscaping installment as well. We have been extremely impressed with the service we have received from California Pools, in particular with Shelley Zammataro. Anytime I have had a question or needed service to the pool/spa or landscaping, Shelley has done an exemplary and timely job sending the appropriate personnel to our home. I cannot say enough great things about all of the great follow up Shelley and her colleagues have provided for our family. Outstanding job Califirnia Pools!
Christina H.

Christina H.

California Pools did a great job on my pool and spa. Everyone that I worked with was very professional, courteous and friendly. I would highly recommend them to install your new pool.Gordon
Jennifer P.

Jennifer P.

Thank you Jordan, Cody & the rest of the team for the most beautiful backyard. its even better than i could ever imagine. 🙂
Gregory P.

Gregory P.

California Pools & Landscape did an excellent job providing us with our backyard oasis. The quality of workmanship is excellent and everyone was pleasant and easy to work with. Any questions or issues were answered promptly and they were concerned to make sure we were happy with everything. I recommend them to anyone who asks!
Bill And Jen B.

Bill And Jen B.

California Pools provided an outstanding experience in the transformation of our backyard. They were very competitively priced and did not try to upsell us on unreasonable features, in fact helping us understand that some of the operating features that we had in mind were unnecessary. We signed in Oct 2021, expecting a lengthy process, knowing most pools around this time were taking 12 months or more. The pool and landscape was completed 7 months later. There were a couple of delays along the way, but the level of communication was so high that we were prepared for any curve in the road. And since completion, they have reached out numerous times to ensure all is well. Outstanding product! Outstanding service! - Bill B
Sheri S.

Sheri S.

Wanted to give a huge thank you to my team at California Pools! It all started with Brian Fox and the design of my entire backyard. Then I was passed to Jordan Thrasher and Sara Dougan which was a wonderful relationship. I have gotten so many compliments on my backyard. Best investment I have ever made!
Suzanne Houser

Suzanne Houser

If ya need a Great Pool Company this is totally it! Marc Olsen is the BEST all around Great guy who will go out of his way to help you with your pool design!! Great personality out going & just a Great guy!! Thanks Marc we appreciate you....Suzanne & Bob
Marcia P.

Marcia P.

When I started my pool with California Pool Sara was out on leave; however thank goodness she returned, as she is the secret weapon at CPL without a doubt. I was losing my mind with all of the unprofessional unpleasantries that I was experiencing. Sara moved mountains and people to get this pool completed at my home, Michael was a big help in supporting her efforts. I loved working with them both. Sara you are an absolute game changer and most valued in my book of all the staff at CPL, never worked with someone when my troubles seemed endless, your actions where momentous. Thanks Sara and Michael, I now have a great property to enjoy!!! nothing short of amazing....
Marcia Presberry

Marcia Presberry

I had a couple of lights that went out in my pool, California pools came out and made the experience very pleasant; Chris went above and beyond my expectations, informing me that my Hayward bearings were missing and proceeded to disconnect and turn the vacuum off and insuring I knew how to turn it back on, once I had the bearings replace later that day, I can't tell you how much that meant to me! Kaitlyn thank you for keeping us on track and staying in touch with me every step of the way and handling my frustration like a pro, well DONE!
John Kourgiantakis

John Kourgiantakis

California Pools turned our backyard into what genuinely feels like a five-star resort. What impressed me most is that the finished project looks EXACTLY like the original CAD rendering Joshua designed for us. That is an extraordinary accomplishment considering the size, complexity, and number of details involved in this project.Every stage of the construction was impressive, from excavation and steel installation to the shotcrete and finishing work. The hardscape crew may very well be the best in the Phoenix area. Their craftsmanship, precision, and attention to detail were outstanding. The softscape crew was equally impressive. They are an elite group, and the landscaping brought the entire design to life beautifully.Joshua is one of the finest outdoor-living designers you will find anywhere in the Phoenix metro area. He is a true professional with an exceptional eye for design, scale, materials, and how every element should work together. More importantly, he designed something ambitious that California Pools was actually able to build exactly as envisioned.Darrin and Marissa did an excellent job managing a massive and complicated project. They were responsive, knowledgeable, and committed to seeing everything through properly. A project of this size will inevitably have a few hiccups, and ours was no exception. What matters is how those issues are handled. California Pools took responsibility and addressed each concern as it surfaced until it was resolved.The final result exceeded our expectations. Our backyard has been completely transformed, and every time I walk outside, I am amazed by how closely it matches the original design. I would highly recommend California Pools, especially Joshua, Darrin, Marissa, and the remarkable hardscape and landscape crews who made this project a reality.
Mike P.

Mike P.

I was nervous about getting my first pool so I did my research and found CA Pools. My neighbor also recommended them as they just finished his pool. I had my appt for design and wanted nothing but a rectangle hole in the ground. No fireworks, lazer shows or flowing lava fountains. I had an amount in mind but the estimate came in over that. I told them I wanted to do it but that was just too much. They re-worked some of the design elements to get me where I wanted to be. I Didn't want to waste money on landscaping so I just wanted rock put down. I can plant plants on my own. With their app, they're in constant communication with you through your build which was extremely nice. Every question or concern was addressed All employees I have dealt with have been great and can't say enough about them. I had one issue with a wet spot in the shotcrete that would never dry, that could've been addressed quicker--but it was finally addressed. Things took longer than I anticipated due to shortage of shotcrete, but I understood this and I can't count this against them. My build took from Feb-Dec. I know they maybe a lil more pricey than their competitors, but from the reviews I'd rather have it done right. I know a few neighbors that went with other companies that are still waiting to complete their pools coming up on almost 2 years. That's unacceptable. Go with CA pools, you wont regret it.
Debbie B.

Debbie B.

We have been looking into building a pool. Christian Pierre was the 3rd pool contractor we spoke to. He was THE BEST of all pool contractors and California Pools & Landscape is THE Best of all the pool companies we received a bid from. Christian really listened to what we wanted. He created the most beautiful design of all the pool designs presented to us. Christian is not just an employee, he takes a personal interest to create what you want for your pool and backyard. He also found a way to work within our budget. I highly recommend you reach out to Christian and California Pools & Landscape.
Anne Sinnott

Anne Sinnott

California Pools and Landscape was a pleasure to work with. I had asked for a design idea for a backyard that is currently all pavers in AZ. They came up with a beautiful concept, which will allow buyers of the property to visualize the potential to build a backyard oasis. Thank you Dave & Sydney!
Robert B.

Robert B.

The experience with California Pools had some bumps along the way but in the end, the project turned out fantastic. Shoutout to all the team members who made our vision come true from the designer Dave Croskey who sat through endless changes and questions, to the project manager Stephen Dreher and Colin K. who made multiple visits to ensure things were on track and done correctly, and to the office personnel Leann Madar, Stephanie Aguirre who handled all the issues and scheduling thank you. You know you are dealing with a reputable company when they step up to the plate when things go awry, it's easy to pay compliments when things go as planned but the true test is when they don't and California Pools more than showed their reputation as a standup company. Thank you to the California Pool team for everything. Robert & Debbie B.
Michael R.

Michael R.

Hi my name is Michael and I would like to add a comment about a employee of this company. Her name is Connie and she works in the warranty dept. I have had the pleasure of working with her. She is a great communication person and get the job done. Very professional and gets the job done!
McKenna “McKenna Jackson” Jackson

McKenna “McKenna Jackson” Jackson

Such an easy experience from start to finish! Would absolutely do another pool with Carribean.
Tiffany Alexander

Tiffany Alexander

Awesome! We had such a great experience with EVERYONE at California Pools! I highly recommend this company if you are looking to have a pool built! We met with Brian and Cliff and they were knowledgable and honest, when they left our house my husband and I both looked at each other and said we WANT to work with them!!! The design Brian came back with was exactly what we had envisioned. He was always quick to respond if we had any questions. I have already recommended him to our family and friends! Once we signed the contract the processing department, specifically Cammy, was so helpful with ensuring we had everything we needed taken care of. Our Scheduling Manager, Sara, got in touch with us right away and kept things smooth sailing throughout the whole process! We ran in to a few rainy days and she was always on top of letting me know what changes were happening and getting things scheduled and rescheduled quickly. She was simply amazing!!! Steve (our Construction Manager) was a life saver! I was so nervous to have a pool built since we had never been through the process and Steve always made us feel so at ease. He would come by after every step and make sure it was all correct and looked good! We couldn't have done this without him! Once our pool was finish Gabe came out do our orientation for all of the equipment. He was very knowledgable and when I had a question a week later I was able to text him and he took care of it right away for me! If there is one thing I can say I was ALWAYS able to get in touch with someone! They were all so good at either answering calls, texts or emails! We never felt alone in the process and that made me feel so good with our decision to go with them! I would (and have) recommend them to anyone, they were simply amazing!!!
Jeanne F.

Jeanne F.

A great big thank you to Danni Parnell for her wonderful service and speed in sending a fabulous technician, Alan Vasquez, out to fix my water leveler problem. I'm so glad that I chose California Pools six years ago to fill my backyard with fun. All aspects of this company are GREAT!!
Ron F.

Ron F.

We had a truly great experience working with the people at California Pools. As a first time pool owner, and after just purchasing our dream home, I had a pretty strong vision of what we wanted for our pool. However, I couldn't quite bring all the pieces together until we met with the designer Robby Stubbs. I had a few unusual requests that only California Pools seemed capable of performing without hesitation. The first was the cascading water feature and the other was incorporating a partially sunken "Sit-and-Spin" spa (traditional spa with seats and head cushions, not concrete) that still looked like it was part of the pool. He brought the design to life.The construction process took a little longer than I had hoped, but as my wife said, it is better to get it right than get it quick. Stephen Dreher was our construction manager and the photos show what a wonderful job he did making sure the project was completed and built with high quality. He kept us informed during construction of what was happening as the project moved along.I'd like to make a special mention of Ron Pickard (Hardscapes) for really working closely with me during the water feature build. I was very particular on what we wanted (which is not usual for me), and Ron took it to heart and did everything in his power to make it just like I had hoped. It was a complicated feature, and Ron stayed on top of it - both by doing some of the finer work himself, but also checking in constantly to make sure each step or correction was going along smoothly.I final quick thanks to Chris for coming out twice to perform the pool orientation. As a new pool owner, and a retired engineer, I had a very long list of questions that he patiently answered.
Ms Classy

Ms Classy

Great work
Brooke M.

Brooke M.

Awesome experience with California Pools! They have designed and built two pools for us and both experiences were great! Super nice staff in the Scottsdale office and in the field! Their mobile app kept us up to date on all construction activities and phases. Jeremiah was great - he was consistently on site checking progress and making sure we were happy with all the work. Finished our pool just in time to start the summer. Very happy and would definitely use again!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Waterfalls & Grottos


Q: How much does a pool waterfall cost?

A basic pool waterfall starts at $5,000, while larger, custom-built designs with rock features or grottos can exceed $25,000. Costs depend on materials, size, and added features like slides or LED lighting.

Q: Are pool waterfalls energy-efficient?

Yes! Many pool waterfalls use variable-speed pumps that adjust water flow to reduce energy consumption. Smart automation can also control run times, keeping costs low while maintaining a beautiful waterfall effect.

Q: Do pool waterfalls help with water circulation?

Absolutely! Waterfalls keep water moving, which helps distribute heat, chemicals, and oxygen throughout the pool. This improves water quality while reducing algae buildup.

Q: Can I add a slide to my pool waterfall?

Yes! Many pool waterfalls can be custom-designed with an integrated slide, creating a fun, natural-looking feature. Slides can be built into rock formations, grottos, or raised waterfall structures.

Q: How long does it take to install a pool waterfall?

Installation time varies based on size and complexity, but most custom pool waterfalls take 2 to 6 weeks to complete. Larger designs with grottos, slides, or multiple features may take longer.

Q: Do waterfalls and grottos increase home value?

Yes! Luxury pool features like waterfalls, grottos, and slides can increase property value by enhancing curb appeal and creating a high-end backyard experience.

Q: What’s the best type of pool waterfall for a small backyard?

For smaller pools, a sheer descent waterfall or a rain sheer feature provides big impact without taking up extra space. These designs create a modern, elegant effect without requiring large rock formations.

Q: Are pool waterfalls noisy?

The sound of a waterfall depends on the design and water flow rate. A gentle rock waterfall produces a soft, relaxing sound, while high-volume rain sheers create a bold, dramatic effect.


Ready to Create Your Dream Oasis?

Start by establishing your budget today, and let us help you bring your vision to life with features like a Baja shelf that elevate both the luxury and enjoyment of your backyard. Get started now!
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Get an Estimate

We pride ourselves on understanding your unique needs and budget, and then delivering on our promise to build the perfect backyard at the right price. Fill out the form below, and get started on turning your vision into reality!

Meet a Designer

Visit one of our state-of-the-art pool, spa, and landscape design centers in Chandler, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, and Surprise, Arizona, or schedule an in-home meeting with one of our designers. Let’s start the conversation about your own personal resort. From there, it won’t take you long to see for yourself why we’re Arizona’s preferred swimming pool builder.

Get Funded

At California Pools we know that a pool is an investment in your home and in your family’s lifestyle. That’s why we offer pool funding options to help make your dream pool affordable.

California Pools & Landscape’s financial strength has enabled us to build exceptional relationships with financial institutions across the Valley. We have numerous unsecured and secured loan products available to you. How can we help make your dream backyard a reality today?