Choosing to install a pool is an exciting decision but it comes with plenty of questions, especially if you’re faced with limited backyard space or concerns over cost.

Should you go with a traditional in-ground pool? Or could a swim spa, like those from Endless Pools, be a better alternative?

If you’re toying with search queries like “Are swim spas better than pools?” or “Best pool for small gardens,” you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the key differences between Endless Pools swim spas and traditional swimming pools, helping you decide what will work best for your lifestyle, budget and backyard.

What exactly is an Endless Pools Swim Spa?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to understand what a swim spa is. Imagine combining the functionality of a pool with the compact, relaxing features of a hot tub. That’s a swim spa.

Endless Pools takes it a step further by offering adjustable resistance settings, allowing you to swim against a current, making it ideal for exercise and hydrotherapy. Swim spas are portable, versatile and often more energy-efficient than traditional pools, making them an increasingly popular choice for homeowners who want to swim all-year round.

Key Considerations When Choosing Between a Swim Spa and Traditional Pool

 If you’re debating between a traditional pool and a swim spa, you’ve probably got a checklist of “must-haves.” To simplify your decision-making process, here’s a direct comparison based on the most common factors homeowners consider:

1. Space Requirements

 Traditional Pools

Building an in-ground pool demands significant space not just for the pool itself but also for surrounding tiles, patios and safety barriers. If you have a sprawling backyard, this might not be an issue. But for suburban homes or smaller outdoor areas, a traditional pool can eat up all your available real estate.

Endless Pools Swim Spa

Swim spas are the ultimate space-savers. Compact yet powerful, they can fit into smaller backyards or even indoor spaces. If you’ve been Googling “pool alternatives for small backyards,” Endless Pools swim spas are worth a look.

2. Cost of Installation of Traditional Pools

 Traditional Pools

The upfront cost to install a traditional pool can be daunting. Costs in New Zealand typically range from $50,000 fibre glass pools to $150,000 (or more), depending on size, design and materials. Add landscaping, fencing, installation and ongoing maintenance and the expenses climb even higher.

Endless Pools Swim Spa

Installing a swim spa is significantly more affordable, with initial costs starting at around $30,000–$40,000 in NZ. Since they don’t require extensive digging or complex landscaping, you’ll also save on labour and installation time.

3. Maintenance and Energy Efficiency

 Traditional Pools

A larger pool means more water to maintain. Balancing chlorine levels, cleaning filters and monitoring pH levels can quickly become a time-consuming task. Additionally, traditional pools tend to consume more energy, especially if heated.

Endless Pools Swim Spas

Swim spas are designed to be low-maintenance. They’re smaller, which means less water to treat, heat and clean. Plus, many Endless Pools models come with energy-efficient features, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for year-round use.

4. Functionality & Versatility

 Traditional Pools

While in-ground pools are great for families and recreational swimming, their functionality can be somewhat limited. They’re perfect for leisure but aren’t particularly customisable.

Endless Pools Swim Spa

Swim spas are incredibly versatile. You can use them for training (thanks to the adjustable swim current), hydrotherapy or simply relaxing after a long day. With added options like underwater treadmills, cycling and powerful massage jets, they offer a tailored experience for exercise and relaxation alike.

5. Year-Round Use

 Traditional Pools

Living in New Zealand means dealing with fluctuating temperatures and traditional pools often go unused during the cooler months. Winterising and covering an unused pool is yet another maintenance chore to add to the list.

Endless Pools Swim Spa

One of the standout features of an Endless Pool swim spa is its year-round usability. Heated water and an insulated design mean you can enjoy your spa in any season, whether it’s for a morning swim or a cosy evening soak.

6. Aesthetic Appeal

 Traditional Pools

There’s no denying that a beautifully designed pool can be the visual focal point of a backyard. With the right landscaping and decor, a traditional pool can elevate the aesthetics of your outdoor space.

Endless Pools Swim Spa

While smaller, swim spas can still be stylish. Endless Pools offers sleek, modern designs that blend seamlessly into any garden or deck. You can also add decking or enclosures to enhance its appearance. 

Who Should Choose a Swim Spa?

Endless Pools Swim Spas are perfect for homeowners who:

• Have limited backyard space or are looking for versatile pool alternatives for small backyards.
• Want a cost-effective swimming solution without the extensive installation expenses of traditional pools.
• Are looking for year-round swimming options in NZ, thanks to their heated, insulated design.
• Enjoy exercising or relaxing in water but don’t need the sheer size of a traditional pool.
• Value energy-efficient and low-maintenance options. Who Should Stick to a Traditional Pool?

A Traditional Pool might be a better choice if:

• You have ample backyard space and no constraints on size.
• Your focus is hosting social gatherings or creating a recreational area for larger groups.
• You’re seeking a long-term landscaping feature that becomes a permanent part of your home.
• Make the Right Choice for Your Backyard The decision between an Endless Pools swim spa and a traditional pool ultimately depends on your lifestyle, budget and available space.
• Both options can enhance your property and offer relaxing ways to unwind, so you can’t really go wrong.

Still weighing it up? Chat with our Hawkes Bay pool experts. Our Napier and Hastings teams are here to help you explore how an Endless Pools swim spa could be the game-changer your backyard deserves. With year-round functionality, built-in resistance features and compact flexibility, it’s like having a personal aquatic centre just steps from your door.

Find the perfect swimming solution for your home - visit us in Napier or Hastings and test out an Endless Pool in action.