What is a Swim Pond?
California Waterscapes creates custom swimming ponds and natural pools for homeowners in Encino who want to transform their outdoor spaces into serene, swim-friendly environments. These are often referred to as recreation ponds or natural swimming lakes, designed for both relaxation and beauty. Every pond is customized to the size, depth, and layout that suits your vision.
Optional Upgrades For Swim Ponds
Take your swim pond to the next level with a variety of optional enhancements:
- UV light filtration for clear water
- Deeper zones for full swimming areas
- Natural entryways with steps or beach-style slopes
- Flagstone lining in place of gravel
- External pumps for optimized circulation
How Are Swim Ponds Filtered?
Our natural filtration method uses a two step system to keep your pond clean without chemicals.
A mechanical filter or skimmer clears the water’s surface of debris like leaves and dust.
A biological filter uses beneficial bacteria to break down nutrients. Larger pond systems often include a wetland filter that works like nature’s own purification system for clear and healthy water.
How much do Swim Ponds Cost?
For residents in Encino, swimming ponds and natural pools generally range from $50,000 to $200,000 depending on design choices and scope. Larger, more elaborate water features can exceed $250,000 based on size and custom upgrades.
Are Swim Ponds More Cost Effective Than Pools?
Yes. Swim ponds are usually more affordable per square foot than traditional pools. They require fewer synthetic materials and less labor, offering a more natural and budget friendly option for outdoor enjoyment.
How We Design and Build Ponds
We design ponds to feel like natural elements of your backyard. Using PondGuard liners, real boulders, aquatic plants, and thoughtful shaping, we bring your vision to life in a way that blends beautifully with your landscape.
Standard features include:
- Durable rubber liner from PondGuard Aquascape
- Organic curves outlined with boulders and native plants
- Gravel or optional flagstone bottoms
- Integrated, concealed filtration systems
Do I need fish in my Swim Pond?
Fish contribute to the natural balance of the pond by controlling algae and supporting the ecosystem. While fish are not required, we suggest including small species like minnows to help maintain water clarity and biological filtration.
Fish and Wildlife Common in Natural Pools:
- Koi
- Goldfish
- Mosquito Fish (Gambusia)
- Tilapia
- Catfish
- Bass
- Trout
- Shubunkin
- Sturgeon
- Rosette or Golden Rudd
- Banded Shark Algae Eater
- Gobi Algae Eater
- Frogs (as tadpoles)
- Turtles