White reflects more light than gray. That is why it appears white. It's your house, so go with what you want. Should you decide the white is too bright consider adding shade sails to cut glare.

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Sealing the concrete pavers will prevent staining and make them easier to hose off. You can also stain the pavers, though you have to remove any sealer before they will take stain. Stain can appear dull or glossy depending on what is used to seal it.

We had white and they definitely showed more dirt ...

I would be hesitant about white and think your contractor has a point. We put our pool in 2 years ago (also in So Cal) and went gray.

My contractor said the same thing when we put in our pool- but I am SO glad I stuck with the white!! When wet feet walk on it and it is dirty(but you can't tell..yet), you will see the blackish or gray footprints so have to have gardener or you hose it down ...worth it SO gorgeous the way it reflects moonlight etc,,! Go for it! Do porcelain white with gray undertones-and very rough so no slipping- I live in So Cal too- I am happy I did it. But yes, bit more work than gray...but the look is more striking.

PS I even put some of my pool decking tile on one side of my pool. White in a pool is great because does not show any calcium deposits from the fountains and water line. Oh and I did put in on my baja shelf- avoids scratching-

Thank you! So grateful for your input. Just what I was hoping to hear! Appreciate the tips as well.

Thanks everyone. This is very helpful. I appreciate the photos as well!

Rebecca, I'm in So. Cal too. Message me if you want the material and shop name etc. in Anahiem where I got it. It is gorgeous.