Summer is peak decision season for anyone considering a backyard pool. Between space limitations, permitting timelines, and upkeep, a lot of Long Beach homeowners are taking a closer look at swim spas as a faster, more flexible alternative to a traditional in ground pool.
Space and Installation
A traditional pool often requires significant excavation, permitting, and months of construction. A swim spa like the Endless Pools E-Series or X-Series can typically be installed in days rather than months, and it fits into a much smaller footprint, which matters in many Long Beach yards.
Year Round Use
One of the biggest advantages of a swim spa is the ability to heat the water. A traditional pool in Southern California is usually only comfortable for a few months a year without added heating equipment, while a swim spa can be used through the fall and winter for both swimming and relaxation.
Cost Considerations
Traditional pools generally cost more upfront once you factor in excavation, decking, and permitting. Swim spas have a more predictable installation cost and lower ongoing maintenance since they hold significantly less water.
| Factor | Traditional Pool | Swim Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Installation time | Weeks to months | Days |
| Water volume | Very high | Moderate |
| Heating for year round use | Costly add on | Built in |
| Space needed | Large | Compact |
| Exercise features | Limited | Adjustable current for swimming and resistance training |
FAQ
Can you actually swim laps in a swim spa? Yes. Endless Pools swim spas use an adjustable current that lets you swim in place, so you get a real workout without needing pool length.
Is a swim spa good for relaxation, not just exercise? Many models include separate seating areas so you can use one side for swimming and the other for relaxing, similar to a hot tub.
How much space do I need for a swim spa? Sizes range from 12 to 20 feet, so most yards that could not accommodate a full pool can still fit a swim spa.
If you are weighing a pool against a swim spa this summer, come see the Endless Pools lineup at California Home Spas & Patio. We can walk you through sizing, features, and what installation actually looks like for your yard.
