A large number of swimming pools now have waterfalls on their edges in order to increase their visual appeal. The waterfalls are constructed so that their water falls into the swimming pool, thus creating a continuous water effect with the pool. Small submersible bulbs are placed strategically at the point where the water just hits the pool, to give a glittering effect. Colored bulbs can also provide different hues to the waterfall.

Pool waterfalls are differently designed from other waterfalls. Here the water does not flow through a cascading slope, but it creates a neat arc as it falls. The entire mechanism of the waterfall is hidden in a concrete structure, which forms one wall of the swimming pool. This wall is generally tiled with the same tiles that are used for the rest of the swimming pool. The waterfalls can be designed to have different levels, or there may be different arcs at different heights. Water may also be made to spurt as a fountain from a point in the center of the pool.

Swimming pools with waterfalls are generally considered to be a status symbol. They are primarily found in big hotels and resorts. People with big mansions also opt for waterfalls around their pools. Even water attraction spots have pool waterfalls. Pool waterfalls are great attractions for children, who like to play in the water splashing over their heads. In such water parks, the outlet of water can be designed to be the face of some popular cartoon character or any other such creative idea. A single swimming pool can have several waterfalls, depending on its size.

But nowadays, private swimming-pool waterfalls are becoming increasingly affordable and popular. Small pools also are constructing small waterfalls around their pool walls. These do not produce wide arcs, but create a splashing effect.

The basic requirement for a pool waterfall is definitely the swimming pool. The ideal way is to construct the waterfall when the swimming pool is being built, so that it can be made continuous and hidden within the pool. Swimming pool waterfalls must have absolutely clean water, as people would be swimming in it. The tank of the waterfall must be repeatedly cleaned and treated; otherwise, it would harbor algae and moss.

Some swimming pools allow warm water to flow through the waterfalls. There are health professionals who believe in the curative powers of flowing hot water. These waterfalls are more for the health benefits than aesthetic appeal. Water is made to flow through thinner and stronger jets from a wall in the swimming pool.

A pool waterfall may cost several thousands of dollars. Constructing the waterfall along with the pool greatly reduces the cost of the waterfall. Hence, pre-planning is important.