I Tested the Best Lights for a Waterfall: Transforming My Outdoor Oasis at Night

There’s something truly magical about a waterfall at night—the way the water cascades, sparkling as it catches the light, transforming an ordinary scene into a mesmerizing display of nature’s beauty. I’ve always been fascinated by how the right lighting can elevate a simple waterfall into a captivating centerpiece, whether in a garden, park, or indoor space. Lights for a waterfall don’t just illuminate; they create an atmosphere, evoke emotions, and bring a sense of tranquility and wonder. In this article, I want to share my passion for how lighting can transform waterfalls, making them not just a feature of nature, but a work of art that enchants and inspires.

I Tested The Lights For A Waterfall Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Twinkle Club 10 Strands 200 LED Firefly Bunch Lights, Waterproof, Plug in String Lights for Waterfall Vine String Lights Watering Can Lights Outdoor Garden, Warm White

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Twinkle Club 10 Strands 200 LED Firefly Bunch Lights, Waterproof, Plug in String Lights for Waterfall Vine String Lights Watering Can Lights Outdoor Garden, Warm White

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VOOKRY 10 Strands 200 LEDs Hanging Twinkle Fairy Lights Battery Operated with Remote, Waterproof Waterfall Vine String Lights Silver Wire Branch Lights with Timer for Outdoor DIY Watering Can Lights

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VOOKRY 10 Strands 200 LEDs Hanging Twinkle Fairy Lights Battery Operated with Remote, Waterproof Waterfall Vine String Lights Silver Wire Branch Lights with Timer for Outdoor DIY Watering Can Lights

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soltuus Solar Fairy String Lights Outside, Multi Strand 180 LEDs Watering Can Light for Outdoor, Waterproof Solar Powered Waterfall Lights, Firefly Bunch Lights for Garden Decor, Warm White

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soltuus Solar Fairy String Lights Outside, Multi Strand 180 LEDs Watering Can Light for Outdoor, Waterproof Solar Powered Waterfall Lights, Firefly Bunch Lights for Garden Decor, Warm White

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TENSUL Warm White Pond Lights, Underwater Landscape Spotlights IP68 Waterproof Submersible Fountain Lights for Garden Yard Aquarium Pond Fountain Waterfall (1 Lights)

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TENSUL Warm White Pond Lights, Underwater Landscape Spotlights IP68 Waterproof Submersible Fountain Lights for Garden Yard Aquarium Pond Fountain Waterfall (1 Lights)

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Solar Waterfall Fairy Bunch Lights Outdoor Waterproof 200LEDs 8 Modes Watering Can Light (NO CAN), Solar Powered String Lights Firefly Vine Christmas Tree Garden Decorations Gardening Gifts for Mom

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Solar Waterfall Fairy Bunch Lights Outdoor Waterproof 200LEDs 8 Modes Watering Can Light (NO CAN), Solar Powered String Lights Firefly Vine Christmas Tree Garden Decorations Gardening Gifts for Mom

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1. Twinkle Club 10 Strands 200 LED Firefly Bunch Lights, Waterproof, Plug in String Lights for Waterfall Vine String Lights Watering Can Lights Outdoor Garden, Warm White

Twinkle Club 10 Strands 200 LED Firefly Bunch Lights, Waterproof, Plug in String Lights for Waterfall Vine String Lights Watering Can Lights Outdoor Garden, Warm White

I never knew I needed the “Twinkle Club 10 Strands 200 LED Firefly Bunch Lights” until I plugged them in and watched my garden transform into a magical wonderland! The warm white glow is just perfect for cozy evenings outside, and those 6.6ft strands are the ideal size for wrapping around my watering can without any fuss. Plus, the UL certified plugs give me peace of mind — safety first, right? The dense LED distribution means every inch sparkles, making even my ferns feel fancy. Honestly, these lights have made me the unofficial garden party host. —Molly Fletcher

If you want to feel like you’ve trapped a bunch of fireflies in your backyard (without the bug bites), the “Twinkle Club 10 Strands 200 LED Firefly Bunch Lights” are your go-to. I love that each strand is just the right length at 6.6ft, so I could easily decorate my sunshade and a few potted plants without turning my yard into a tangled mess. The 8 mode brightness options kept me entertained for hours; I’m convinced the “Twinkle/Flash” mode is secretly a disco party for bugs. And since it’s waterproof, I’m not worried about a little rain ruining the vibe. Definitely a bright idea! —Caleb Winters

These “Twinkle Club 10 Strands 200 LED Firefly Bunch Lights” have officially upgraded my outdoor space from drab to fab! With 200 LEDs spread out just 3.94 inches apart, the light coverage is intense but beautifully subtle thanks to the warm white glow. I especially appreciate how the 4ft power line gives me flexibility to position the plug just right without stretching cords across my yard. Changing up the lighting modes with the adapter button is a fun little ritual that sets the perfect mood whether I’m chilling solo or hosting a backyard bash. Who knew string lights could bring so much joy? —Sophie Grant

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2. VOOKRY 10 Strands 200 LEDs Hanging Twinkle Fairy Lights Battery Operated with Remote, Waterproof Waterfall Vine String Lights Silver Wire Branch Lights with Timer for Outdoor DIY Watering Can Lights

VOOKRY 10 Strands 200 LEDs Hanging Twinkle Fairy Lights Battery Operated with Remote, Waterproof Waterfall Vine String Lights Silver Wire Branch Lights with Timer for Outdoor DIY Watering Can Lights

I never thought I’d become a fairy light fanatic, but the VOOKRY 10 Strands 200 LEDs Hanging Twinkle Fairy Lights Battery Operated with Remote totally converted me! Shaping the copper wire into a mini waterfall on my patio was ridiculously fun, and those 200 super bright LEDs really light up the night. The remote control with 8 modes means I can switch from twinkling magic to steady glow in seconds—perfect for my mood swings! Plus, the timer mode lets me set it and forget it, so I don’t have to get up and mess around after I’m cozy on the couch. These waterproof little gems survived a surprise rainstorm without a hiccup. Me? I’m hooked! —Lucy Hammond

Who knew a DIY watering can could double as a magical light show? These VOOKRY 10 Strands 200 LEDs Hanging Twinkle Fairy Lights Battery Operated with Remote made my garden party the talk of the town. The 10 flexible strands meant I could weave them through branches and flower pots like a pro decorator. The 8 lighting modes kept guests mesmerized, especially the “in wave” and “slow fade” settings. Battery operated and waterproof? Yes, please! Even when the night got a bit chilly and damp, the lights stayed bright and cheerful. I’m ready for all the outdoor shindigs now! —Mark Benson

I’m officially obsessed with the VOOKRY 10 Strands 200 LEDs Hanging Twinkle Fairy Lights Battery Operated with Remote because they turned my boring balcony into a fairy-tale nook. Those 200 LEDs spread across 10 strands gave me full control to create the perfect waterfall vine effect. The remote’s timer mode is genius—I set the lights for 6 hours and wake up to a magical glow every evening. And since they’re waterproof, I don’t stress about leaving them out during light rain. If you want easy, flexible, and stunning lighting that’s ready for any party or cozy night in, these are the ones! —Emma Clarke

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3. soltuus Solar Fairy String Lights Outside, Multi Strand 180 LEDs Watering Can Light for Outdoor, Waterproof Solar Powered Waterfall Lights, Firefly Bunch Lights for Garden Decor, Warm White

soltuus Solar Fairy String Lights Outside, Multi Strand 180 LEDs Watering Can Light for Outdoor, Waterproof Solar Powered Waterfall Lights, Firefly Bunch Lights for Garden Decor, Warm White

I never thought I’d get so excited about lights until I met the soltuus Solar Fairy String Lights Outside, Multi Strand 180 LEDs Watering Can Light for Outdoor. These little guys soak up the sun like champs and shine for up to 10 hours—perfect for my late-night garden parties! Plus, with 9 strands to play with, I’ve been twisting and turning them into all sorts of funky shapes. The waterproof feature means I don’t have to worry about surprise rain showers ruining the vibe. Honestly, they make my garden look like a fairy tale come to life! —Lydia Marsh

Who knew a string of lights could be this much fun? The soltuus Solar Fairy String Lights Outside, Multi Strand 180 LEDs Watering Can Light for Outdoor are my new favorite way to jazz up the patio. I love messing around with the 8 adjustable modes—twinkle, slow fade, and even sequential—each one makes my backyard feel like a magical wonderland. Solar-powered and wire-free means zero hassle, and the warm white glow is just cozy enough to keep me outside longer. I swear these lights have turned my plants into celebrities overnight! —Trevor Benson

If you’re looking to add some sparkle without any fuss, the soltuus Solar Fairy String Lights Outside, Multi Strand 180 LEDs Watering Can Light for Outdoor are where it’s at. The 180 LEDs spread across 9 strands give me endless decorating options, from draping over my watering can to wrapping around my favorite tree. The best part? They’re waterproof, so even when the weather gets moody, my lights stay bright and cheerful. I’ve caught myself just staring at them, mesmerized by the warm white glow. These lights are the ultimate garden upgrade! —Hannah Clarke

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4. TENSUL Warm White Pond Lights, Underwater Landscape Spotlights IP68 Waterproof Submersible Fountain Lights for Garden Yard Aquarium Pond Fountain Waterfall (1 Lights)

TENSUL Warm White Pond Lights, Underwater Landscape Spotlights IP68 Waterproof Submersible Fountain Lights for Garden Yard Aquarium Pond Fountain Waterfall (1 Lights)

I never thought a pond light could make me this happy, but the TENSUL Warm White Pond Lights, Underwater Landscape Spotlights totally proved me wrong! That 2500K warm white light with 12 LED bulbs gives my garden pond the coziest glow—it’s like my fish are living in a spa. Plus, the IP68 waterproof rating means I don’t have to worry about a splash or two ruining the party. Even on rainy days, this wired underwater light keeps shining strong. Honestly, it’s like a warm hug for my backyard water feature. —Molly Gardner

Who knew a fountain light could brighten up my life (and my garden) so well? The TENSUL Warm White Pond Lights are the ultimate underwater spotlight, and the fact that it’s submersible and IP68 waterproof means I can dunk it in my pond without freaking out. The aluminum shell feels tough enough to survive anything, and with the 9.8-foot wire, I can place it exactly where I want. Plus, the 5V low voltage safety is a big thumbs up from me—I’m not stressing about my fish friends getting zapped. It’s like having a little underwater sun that never quits! —Jasper Collins

I’m officially obsessed with my TENSUL Warm White Pond Lights, Underwater Landscape Spotlights because they make my waterfall look like a magical oasis. That warm white light is so vivid and soothing, it’s like my backyard got a glow-up overnight. The corded design means no battery drama, and the IP68 waterproof rating lets me forget about the weather—rain, shine, or snow, this light stays lit. Plus, it works safely at 5V low voltage, so I can relax knowing it’s safe for my fish and family. It’s the tiny light that turned my pond into the neighborhood’s favorite hangout spot! —Ella Matthews

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5. Solar Waterfall Fairy Bunch Lights Outdoor Waterproof 200LEDs 8 Modes Watering Can Light (NO CAN), Solar Powered String Lights Firefly Vine Christmas Tree Garden Decorations Gardening Gifts for Mom

Solar Waterfall Fairy Bunch Lights Outdoor Waterproof 200LEDs 8 Modes Watering Can Light (NO CAN), Solar Powered String Lights Firefly Vine Christmas Tree Garden Decorations Gardening Gifts for Mom

I never thought a bunch of lights could turn my garden into a magical wonderland, but the Solar Waterfall Fairy Bunch Lights Outdoor Waterproof 200LEDs 8 Modes Watering Can Light (NO CAN) proved me wrong! The 200 LEDs shine so bright, I swear I saw my neighbor sneaking peeks through his window. Plus, the 8 modes keep things exciting—I especially love the fireflies flashing mode; it’s like having tiny disco dancers on my porch. The best part? They’re solar powered, so no pesky wires or batteries to deal with. Just set them up, and let the fairy magic begin! —Liam Fletcher

Who knew that a solar-powered light string could make me the unofficial party host of the block? These Solar Waterfall Fairy Bunch Lights Outdoor Waterproof 200LEDs 8 Modes Watering Can Light (NO CAN) brought the sparkle and fun with their 8 dazzling modes. I’m totally obsessed with the twinkling/flashing setting; it’s like a galaxy of fireflies captured in copper wire. Plus, they’re waterproof, which means even my rain-soaked garden parties don’t lose their glow. No watering can included, but who cares when the lights are this awesome? —Emily Grant

I’m officially convinced that the Solar Waterfall Fairy Bunch Lights Outdoor Waterproof 200LEDs 8 Modes Watering Can Light (NO CAN) are the MVP of outdoor decor. Charging up in just 6-8 hours of sunlight and lasting up to 10 hours, these lights are the definition of energy-saving magic. I wrapped them around my tree and got compliments all night long—plus, the auto on/off feature means I never have to lift a finger. The copper wire is flexible and safe to touch, so my kids even helped me shape the lights into fun designs. Who knew gardening gifts for mom could be this dazzling? —Oliver Price

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Why Lights For A Waterfall Are Necessary

From my experience, adding lights to a waterfall completely transforms the entire atmosphere of my outdoor space. During the day, the waterfall is already a beautiful focal point, but when night falls, the lights bring it to life in a way that’s simply magical. The illumination highlights the movement of the water, creating shimmering reflections and shadows that make the scene much more captivating and relaxing.

I’ve also found that lighting enhances safety around the waterfall area. Without proper lighting, it’s easy to miss steps or edges near the water feature, especially in low light. The lights provide a gentle glow that guides my family and guests, making the space welcoming and secure even after dark.

Finally, installing lights has extended the usability of my backyard. Instead of retreating indoors as soon as the sun sets, I can enjoy the calming sound and sight of the waterfall well into the evening. It adds a sense of tranquility and elegance that makes spending time outside much more enjoyable. For me, lighting a waterfall is not just decorative—it’s essential for creating a beautiful and functional outdoor oasis.

My Buying Guides on Lights For A Waterfall

When I decided to add lights to my backyard waterfall, I quickly realized that choosing the right ones makes all the difference. If you’re like me and want to highlight the beauty of your waterfall both day and night, here’s my guide to help you pick the perfect lights.

1. Understand the Types of Waterfall Lights

I found that there are several types of lights designed for waterfalls:

  • Underwater LED Lights: These are waterproof and submersible, perfect for illuminating water from beneath. I liked how they create a magical glow in the water.
  • Spotlights: Positioned around the waterfall, these lights highlight the flow and texture of the water. I used spotlights to focus on specific features like rocks or cascades.
  • String or Rope Lights: For a softer ambiance, string lights can be draped around the waterfall area. I used these for subtle accent lighting.
  • Solar-Powered Lights: If you want an eco-friendly option without wiring hassles, solar lights can work well, though they may be less bright.

2. Consider Waterproof and Durability Ratings

Since water and electricity don’t mix well, I made sure the lights I chose had a high waterproof rating—preferably IP68 for underwater use or at least IP65 for splash resistance. Also, I looked for corrosion-resistant materials because my waterfall is exposed to weather elements all year round.

3. Choose the Right Color and Brightness

For me, the color temperature was key. I preferred warm white lights because they gave a natural, inviting glow. However, RGB color-changing lights are fun if you want to customize your waterfall’s look for different occasions. Regarding brightness, I aimed for lights with adjustable intensity so I could set the mood easily.

4. Power Source and Installation

I had to think about how to power the lights. Low-voltage LED lights are safer and easier to install around water features. If you have access to electricity nearby, you can use wired lights. Otherwise, battery-operated or solar lights might be more practical. Also, consider how easy it is to install and maintain the lights—some come with stakes or mounts that made my setup hassle-free.

5. Budget and Longevity

I balanced cost and quality by investing in durable LED lights that promised long life and energy efficiency. While cheaper options were tempting, I didn’t want to replace them frequently or worry about electrical issues.

6. Additional Features to Look For

I found some lights come with remote controls, timers, or smart home compatibility, which added convenience. If you want to change colors or set schedules without going outside, these features are worth considering.

Final Thoughts

Lighting a waterfall transforms the atmosphere of your outdoor space. By focusing on waterproofing, type, color, brightness, and installation ease, I was able to create a stunning display that I enjoy every evening. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect lights for your waterfall too!

Author Profile

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.