Pool Pebbles: A Beginner’s Guide

Black pool pebbles - Grey pool pebbles
Black pool pebbles used to create a modern, sleek design

Summer is here, and so is pool season.  Many of us are looking to update the pool area, or finally tackle that long-overdue pool landscaping project.  If you are thinking of installing landscape rocks around your pool, Mexican beach pebbles (also known as Mexican river rock) are your perfect choice!  In fact, they are so often used for high-end pool landscapes that many people refer to these smooth, rounded stones as Mexican pool pebbles. 

Pebbles for Pool: What Color Rocks to Choose?

We offer Mexican pool pebbles in various colors.  Here are some of them:

  • Black pebbles (also called grey pebbles)
  • Mixed pebbles
  • Buff ivory pebbles (cream and white shades)
  • Buff sunburst pebbles (brown and red shades)
  • Green pebbles

Black and Grey Pool Pebbles

By far the most popular color for pool areas is black / grey.  These stones range in color from light grey to dark grey.  They have very elegant bluish undertones that are accentuated by the green tropical plants often found in pool areas.  When dry, these rocks look grey.  When splashed with water, they look shiny black.

 A note about size: If you choose very small pebbles, they are available as black mix.  This means that most of the tiny pebbles will be black / grey, but the rest will be all other colors mixed in.  In mm-sizes occasional smooth seashells are also mixed in. The result is an eye-pleasing, natural beach-y color.

Mixed Pool Pebbles

The next most popular color for pools is mixed.  The standard mix includes all natural Mexican beach pebble colors in roughly equal proportions.  Customers who choose mixed pebbles are typically after a relaxed, tropical beach-inspired look. 

Our mixed pebbles overall are a lot lighter than the black pool pebbles. This means that they also get slightly less hot than darker pebbles.

What Size Pebbles to Choose?

The best pebble size for your pool depends on where you will place them.  Around the pool so people can walk on pebbles barefoot? Then we recommend size ½-1” or larger pebbles.  These stones are easy to walk on, they will not end up between your toes, and they will not easily slide in the pool.

Looking to create unique pool walls or floor by adding beach pebbles? Then your best bet are size 3/8-5/8” pool pebbles or smaller.  These tiny pebbles (also known as criva) can be easily worked in a variety of concrete and other materials.  They set beautifully and instantly transform your swimming area into a high-end custom pool.

More Questions? Ask Us – We Are Here to Help

If you have more questions about your specific pool landscaping project, ask us.  We will gladly share our expertise to help you choose the best pebbles for your pool. Contact us today by filling out the quick quote request form, or simply click here.

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