No pool? No problem. About 340 Dallas homeowners are offering their backyard oases this summer as a way to beat the heat and make some extra cash.
While questions of liability have been raised about the pool-sharing site Swimply, it’s increased in popularity in the Lone Star State as temperatures hit the triple digits. About 260 rentable pools were listed on the site in the Dallas area this time last year.
And while the Dallas City Council voted June 14 to ban residential short-term rentals, sharing pools, pickleball courts, and even big backyards for pets has not yet been restricted.
Dallas regulates and inspects commercial pools, health club pools, hotel/motel pools, and institutional pools, according to city code. While residents have to pull a permit to build a backyard swimming hole in Dallas, who they share it with is essentially up to them.
Here are a few Swimply listings worth checking out. Exact locations are provided at booking.
Swimply on The M Streets
This backyard oasis hosts up to 15 guests and features a beach entry, waterfalls, a hot tub, and an outdoor living area.
“We believe dogs are family, so they are welcome to join you,” the listing states. “Whether you’re a sun chaser or a shade seeker, our backyard offers both, and the beach entry is a favorite feature [for] a four-legged family.”
A reviewer called the pool “peaceful and relaxing.”
“Perfect place to unwind,” the review stated. “Lovely host and very neat and clean yard.”
This Swimply pool rental costs $60 an hour and offers four parking spaces and access to an indoor restroom.
Swimply Sunny in Elmwood
Up to 10 guests of any age are welcome at this Swimply pool in the heart of Oak Cliff’s Elmwood neighborhood.
“Perfect for floating around reading a book or cooling off with a cocktail on a warm evening,” the listing states. “We also have a volleyball net that can be set up upon request.”
This pool can be used for swim lessons or an evening adult gathering, but no pets are allowed.
Reviews for the Elmwood rental pool reflect nothing but fun in the sun. One guest said, “This pool is what dreams are made of.”
Parking is available for up to two cars. The pool rents for $40 an hour.
Affordable Pool Rental on Kiltartan Drive
The $25-an-hour Swimply rental has some special features for guests to keep in mind as the weather cools off this fall.
The backyard retreat features a heated pool and hot tub. But if that’s not your cup of tea during this brutal summer, other perks include provided towels and pool toys. Up to 15 guests are permitted, and two parking spaces are provided.
“We’re offering a peaceful oasis in the city where you can float your cares away,” the listing states. “You’ll be surrounded by beautiful roses, green grass, and tall trees. We typically keep our pool heated to 82 degrees for our own enjoyment and we welcome you to share in that perk with us.”
Reviewers rave about the beautiful space and gracious host. Pets and children are welcome.
Lake Highlands Beer Garden
Up to 15 guests can grill burgers and enjoy a “beer garden” patio at this Swimply pool in Lake Highlands.
The rental is $40 an hour and includes a newly renovated backyard with mature shade trees. The pool can be heated in cooler weather, and a hot tub is available.
“A covered patio is perfect for cooling off and watching the game on our outdoor TV,” according to the listing. “Keep drinks cool in a convenient outdoor refrigerator. The ‘beer garden’ patio is perfect for lounging in the sun, grilling burgers, and mingling.”
The host offers a private indoor restroom, four parking spaces, and accommodations for guests of all ages.
“I had a small barbecue with my best friends,” one reviewer wrote. “There were 10 of us and everyone was blown away by this pool. The landscaping was gorgeous and the pool was perfect. We ended up adding an extra hour.”
Because the Swimply model, like short-term rental homes, does not provide the host’s full name or contact information, we’re not sure if any of these 300-plus hosts get complaints from neighbors or have concerns about pool accidents. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Are you a Swimply host or renter? Share your experience with us in the comments.
