If you’ve spent any time around a pool in Louisiana during the summer, you already know bees are part of the deal. They’re attracted to pool water the same way they’re attracted to any water source — especially during the hot months when natural water is scarce. The good news is there are several practical things you can do to make your pool less attractive to them without harming the bees or ruining your backyard setup.
Why Bees Are Drawn to Your Pool
Bees need water to survive, and they use it to cool their hive and dilute honey. A pool is basically an all-you-can-drink water bar for a bee colony. Once scout bees find your pool and report back, you can end up with a steady stream of visitors all summer. The key is to give them a better option before they get too comfortable with yours.
Give Them Their Own Water Source
This is the most effective long-term solution. Set up a shallow dish or birdbath with fresh water somewhere away from the pool — ideally on the far side of your yard near a garden or wooded area. Add a few rocks or marbles so bees can land without drowning. Once they find it, they’ll prefer it over your pool because it’s easier to access. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and mosquito-free.
Keep Bees Away From Your Pool with a Pool Cover
A pool cover eliminates open water access when you’re not swimming. This is one of the simplest fixes and it has the added benefit of keeping your pool cleaner, holding heat, and reducing chemical evaporation. If you’re not already using a cover, this is worth doing for several reasons beyond just bees.
Use Plants That Repel Bees Near the Pool Area
Certain plants naturally deter bees — eucalyptus, mint, citronella, and wormwood are all known to keep bees at a distance. Potted versions near the pool deck can help discourage them from hanging around. Just be mindful that some of these same plants attract other insects, so do a little research before committing to a planting strategy.
Avoid Floral Fragrances Near the Pool
Bees are attracted to floral scents — sunscreen, shampoo, and certain pool chemicals can all draw them in. This one is hard to control entirely, but being mindful of heavily scented products when you’re spending a lot of time outside can make a small difference.
Check for Hives on Your Property
If you’re seeing a significant number of bees around your pool consistently, there may be a hive nearby. Check your eaves, fence posts, trees, and any hollow structures on your property. If you find one, don’t attempt to remove it yourself — contact a local beekeeper or pest control service. Beekeepers will often relocate hives for free since they value the colony.
Keep Your Pool Chemistry Balanced
Pools with high chlorine levels actually repel bees — the strong chemical smell keeps them away. If your water chemistry is off and the chlorine smell is weak, bees may be more likely to visit. Keeping your pool properly balanced is good practice regardless, but it’s one more reason to stay on top of your water chemistry throughout the summer.
A Well-Designed Pool Helps Too
If you’re planning a new pool build, a few design choices can naturally reduce bee activity. Pools with covered lounge areas, proper landscaping buffers, and nearby water features give you more control over your outdoor environment. When Pinnacle designs a pool, we think through the whole outdoor space — not just the water.
If you’re ready to build a pool that fits your lifestyle, give us a call at (225) 757-6138 or contact us here. We’d love to show you what’s possible for your backyard.