The interior finish is one of the most important design decisions you’ll make for a new concrete pool. Choosing between luxury swimming pool finishes such as pebble, glass bead and full tiling affects not only the colour and feel of the water, but also durability, maintenance and long-term cost.

When researching pool finishes, you may also see this topic described as:

• Pool interior finishes
• Concrete pool finishes
• Pool tiles vs pebble
• Pebblecrete pool finishes
• Glass bead pool finishes
• Fully tiled swimming pools

A concrete pool shell is structural, so it needs a waterproof interior surface that is comfortable underfoot and stands up to pool chemicals and Melbourne’s weather. The finish you choose influences:

• Water colour: lighter finishes create bright aqua tones, while darker finishes give a deeper, lagoon-like look.
• Texture: from smooth tiles and polished aggregates to more textured pebble surfaces.
• Lifespan: some finishes need recoating within a few years, while quality tiles and aggregates can last for decades with good care.
• Maintenance: smoother, less porous surfaces are generally easier to keep clean.
• Budget: upfront cost varies widely between finishes.

Because Exotic Pools specialises in custom concrete pools, every interior finish option is available to you, unlike a pre-moulded shell where the surface is fixed at the factory.

Here’s how the most popular luxury swimming pool finishes for concrete pools compare:

Painted or Rendered Concrete

A cement render coated with pool paint is the most affordable option. It can look clean and crisp, but it generally needs repainting every few years and doesn’t offer the depth or longevity of premium finishes.

Pebble and Exposed Aggregate (Pebblecrete)

A blend of cement and natural pebbles or quartz that is exposed or polished after application. Pebble finishes are hard-wearing, hide minor marks well and come in a wide range of colours. Polished versions offer a smoother feel underfoot.

Glass Bead Finishes

Aggregate finishes that include glass beads or crushed glass, creating a subtle shimmer under sunlight and pool lighting. They combine the durability of an aggregate with a smoother, more refined look.

Fully Tiled Interiors

Ceramic, porcelain, glass mosaic or natural stone tiles offer the ultimate luxury finish. Fully tiled pools deliver crisp lines, rich colours and a smooth, non-porous surface that is easy to clean. Tiling is usually the most expensive option, but it is also one of the longest-lasting when installed correctly.

Waterline Tiles and Coping

Even if you don’t tile the whole pool, a waterline tile band protects the area most exposed to oils and sunscreen and is easier to clean. Coping and surrounds such as bluestone, granite, travertine and porcelain frame the pool and connect it to your outdoor area. Natural stone should be suitable for pool use and correctly sealed. See our poolside inspiration ideas.

There’s no single best finish for every pool. When comparing luxury swimming pool finishes, consider:

• The look you want: a natural lagoon, a bright resort-style aqua or a sleek architectural pool.
• Your home’s style: the finish, coping and paving should complement your home and landscaping.
• How you use the pool: families with young children may prefer smoother surfaces that are gentle on feet.
• Maintenance: smoother, non-porous surfaces are generally easier to keep clean.
• Water treatment: your sanitation system and water balance affect how a finish wears over time. Read our guide to choosing the right water sanitation.
• Lighting: pool lighting can transform how glass bead and tiled finishes look at night.
• Budget and lifespan: a higher upfront investment can mean fewer resurfacing costs in the future.

Planning to update an existing pool? A new interior is a central part of many of our pool renovations.

Exotic Pools offers a full range of custom concrete pool design and construction services across Melbourne and Victoria:

• Family Pools – Designed for fun and entertaining, with options such as wading areas, integrated spas and water features.
• Infinity Pools – Vanishing-edge designs for properties with a view.
• Lap Pools – A dedicated swimming lane for fitness, ideal for long, narrow spaces.
• Plunge & Courtyard Pools – Compact, elegant pools for smaller backyards.
• Natural Pools – Chemical-free pools using biological filtration.
• Pool Renovations – Revitalising older pools with new finishes, features and equipment.

From painted render to pebble, glass bead and fully tiled interiors, each finish offers a different balance of appearance, feel, durability and cost. For a truly luxurious result, many homeowners pair a premium interior with a waterline tile band and natural stone coping. Viewing finish samples in natural light and discussing how you’ll use the pool with an experienced concrete pool builder is the best way to make the right choice.

Since 1990, Exotic Pools has specialised in custom-designed concrete pools across Melbourne. With more than 30 years of experience, we help you select finishes, coping and features that suit your home and lifestyle.

What Sets Exotic Pools Apart:

• Custom Concrete Specialists: Every pool is individually designed, so your finish options aren’t limited by a pre-made shell.
• Premium Materials: We use quality materials and equipment for lasting durability and performance.
• Registered Builders & SPASA Members: Committed to the highest standards of quality and compliance, and members of the Master Builders Association of Victoria (MBAV).
• Award-Winning Work: Recognised in the SPASA Awards of Excellence.
• Ongoing Support: Fair pricing, warranties and reliable after-sales service.

Ready to choose the perfect finish for your pool?

• Learn more about our story on our About Us page.
• Browse our work in our Latest Pool Builds gallery.
• Contact Exotic Pools to arrange a design consultation for your property.