Pool types
Private pool types, explained.
Listings use the word “pool” for very different things. Here is how the main types differ, and how we label them, so you know exactly what you’re booking.
| Type | Size | Best for | Ask before booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swimming pool | Full pool you can actually swim in | Families, groups, long summer days | Size and depth, fencing, open dates, heating |
| Plunge pool | Small: for dipping, soaking and cooling off | Couples, design-led stays, hot climates, cool-evening soaks when heated | Dimensions and depth; heating fee; pool, spa or both |
| Stock-tank pool | Small, round galvanized tank, typically about 2 ft deep | Relaxing on ranch, farmhouse and desert stays | Shade, cleaning and filtration, season |
Heated and indoor are separate questions
Any of these pools can be outdoor, covered or indoor, and heated or not, so we list those separately. A heated plunge pool makes a great warm soak on a desert night. An unheated stock tank is for hot afternoons. A heated indoor pool is the dependable choice for a winter cabin trip.
How PoolCabinFinder labels pools
- Private only. We list only pools reserved for the booking party, never shared resort or community pools.
- The exact type. A plunge pool or stock-tank pool is never described as a full swimming pool.
- Heating as stated. Year-round, seasonal, on request, not heated, or not confirmed, using the owner’s or source’s own terms.
- How we checked. Each listing says whether the owner verified the details, or whether we compiled them from cited sources.
Pool guides
