toys for swimming pool

I love hosting pool parties during the summer months. There’s nothing quite like lounging by the pool with friends, sipping on refreshing drinks, and soaking up the sun. But as much as I love a good pool party, I know that it can be challenging to keep everyone entertained.

That’s why I’ve put together a list of amazing pool games and toys that will take your pool party to the next level. From classic games like Marco Polo and pool volleyball to innovative water toys like inflatable loungers and water guns, there’s something for everyone on this list.

Whether you’re looking for competitive games to get your heart racing or relaxing floats to help you unwind, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. And if you’re feeling extra creative, I’ve even included some DIY pool games that you can make yourself.

So, grab your sunscreen and let’s dive into the world of pool party fun!

Key Takeaways

  • Pool games and toys, such as classic games and innovative water toys, can add excitement to pool parties for all ages.
  • Pool safety is crucial, including keeping the area hazard-free, educating swimmers about potential dangers, and encouraging adherence to safety guidelines.
  • Planning a successful pool party involves starting early, incorporating a theme into games and toys, providing a variety of activities, setting up a snack and drink station, and potentially hiring a pool party DJ.
  • It’s essential to prioritize both fun and safety at pool parties, ensuring all swimmers can swim, following safety rules, keeping equipment in good condition, and creating a memorable experience for everyone.

Classic Pool Games for All Ages

You can’t go wrong with classic pool games like Marco Polo and pool volleyball, they’re fun for everyone! When it comes to pool games, these are the ones that have stood the test of time and continue to be popular among all ages.

Marco Polo is a game that involves one person being ‘it’and trying to tag the other players who are swimming around with their eyes closed. The player who gets tagged becomes the new ‘it’.

Pool volleyball is another classic game that can be enjoyed by all ages. It’s a great way to get everyone involved and active in the pool.

Another classic game that is always a hit is the good old-fashioned game of ‘Chicken’. This game involves two teams of two players each. One player sits on the shoulders of the other player, and the two teams face each other in the pool. The object of the game is to knock the other team off their shoulders by pushing or pulling them. The last team standing wins! It’s a great game for both kids and adults and can get quite competitive.

If you’re looking for a game that is a bit more challenging, try playing pool basketball. This game involves shooting a ball into a hoop that is floating in the pool. It’s a great way to improve your shooting skills while having fun in the water. You can even add some friendly competition by keeping score and seeing who can make the most baskets.

No matter what classic pool game you choose to play, you’re sure to have a blast with family and friends.

Innovative Water Toys for Endless Fun

Get ready for non-stop fun in the water with these awesome new water toys that will keep everyone entertained all day long! These innovative toys will take your pool party to the next level and give guests of all ages something exciting to do.

From giant inflatable slides to water guns and squirters, there are so many options to choose from. One of the most popular new water toys is the giant inflatable unicorn or flamingo. These massive floats can fit multiple people and add a playful touch to any pool party. Kids and adults alike will love lounging on these fun and colorful floats while soaking up the sun and splashing around in the water.

Another innovative water toy that is sure to be a hit is the water slide. Instead of the classic slip and slide, there are now inflatable slides that can be set up right in your backyard. These slides come in all shapes and sizes, from basic straight slides to elaborate obstacle courses with tunnels and water sprayers.

With a water slide, your pool party will be the talk of the town and your guests will never want to leave.

Competitive Games for the Active Crowd

If you’re looking to add some excitement to your poolside gathering, nothing beats a little friendly competition with some high-energy water games. Here are three of my favorite competitive games for the active crowd that are sure to get everyone involved and having a blast.

  1. Water basketball: This classic game is always a hit and can be played with just a few people or a large group. All you need is a basketball hoop that can be secured to the side of the pool and a ball. The objective is to shoot the ball into the hoop while treading water. It’s fast-paced and requires some skill, making it a great option for those who want to show off their athletic abilities.
  2. Marco Polo: This game is a pool party staple and never gets old. One person is ‘it’ and has to keep their eyes closed while trying to tag the other players. The catch? The other players can move around and make noise to try and confuse the person who is ‘it.’ It’s a fun game for all ages and requires no equipment, making it an easy option for impromptu pool gatherings.
  3. Pool volleyball: Similar to water basketball, pool volleyball is a fun way to get everyone involved in a competitive game. All you need is a net that can be secured across the pool and a ball. The objective is to hit the ball over the net and onto the other team’s side without it touching the water. It’s a great way to get a workout in while having fun with friends and family.

Incorporating these competitive games into your pool party is a surefire way to keep everyone entertained and engaged. Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced game or something a little more relaxed, there’s a water game out there for everyone.

So, gather your friends and family and get ready for some friendly competition in the pool!

Relaxing Floats for the Chill Crowd

Nothing beats the feeling of drifting away on a relaxing float in the pool, letting all your worries float away.

When it comes to pool parties, not everyone is looking for competitive games that require a lot of energy. Some people just want to lounge around and soak up the sun. That’s where relaxing floats come in.

There are so many different types of floats out there that cater to different preferences. For those who want to work on their tan, a classic pool float is the way to go. They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, from simple round ones to giant swans and unicorns.

If you want to take it up a notch, consider getting a float with a built-in shade canopy. This way, you can float around comfortably without having to worry about getting too much sun. If you want to take relaxation to the next level, consider investing in a floating hammock.

These are essentially mini hammocks that are suspended in the water, allowing you to gently sway back and forth while you soak up the sun. They are incredibly comfortable and perfect for those who want to take a nap or read a book while floating around.

Whatever your preference, there’s a relaxing float out there that’s perfect for you.

DIY Pool Games for a Personal Touch

Improve your pool party experience by adding a personal touch with DIY pool games. Creating your own games is not only cost-effective, but it’s also a fun way to showcase your creativity.

One game that’s easy to make and fun for all ages is a custom ring toss game using pool noodles and plastic rings. To make this game, you’ll need at least two pool noodles and several plastic rings.

Cut the pool noodles into small pieces (about 6 inches in length) and arrange them in a circle on the ground. The number of pieces you’ll need depends on the size of the circle you want to create. Then, place the plastic rings on top of the pool noodle pieces and start playing!

Another fun DIY pool game to consider is a water balloon toss. This game is perfect for hot summer days and can be played in teams or individually. Fill up several water balloons and have players stand at a distance from each other. Players then toss the balloons back and forth, trying not to break them. The last team or player with an unbroken balloon wins!

In addition to these games, you can also create a DIY pool noodle race track. This game is perfect for kids and adults alike and can be as simple or complex as you want it to be. Cut the pool noodles in half lengthwise and arrange them in a straight line or a track with curves and turns.

Then, have players race their pool noodle boats through the track. The first player to reach the finish line wins! With these DIY pool games, you can add a personal touch to your pool party and create memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Safety Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Time

Before you dive in, remember to follow these safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for everyone at the pool.

First and foremost, make sure there’s always a responsible adult present to supervise the swimmers. Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, so it’s crucial to have someone who can keep an eye on the pool at all times.

Additionally, it’s important to establish clear rules and boundaries for swimmers, such as no running or diving in shallow water.

Another crucial safety tip is to ensure that all pool toys and equipment are in good condition and free from damage. Inflatable toys should be properly inflated and free from leaks, while diving boards and slides should be securely attached and not showing signs of wear and tear.

It’s also essential to keep the pool area clean and free from any obstacles or hazards that could cause someone to slip or trip.

It’s important to educate everyone about the potential dangers of swimming, such as the risk of drowning or injury. Make sure all swimmers know how to swim and are comfortable in the water, and encourage them to follow all safety guidelines and rules.

By following these safety tips, you can ensure that everyone has a fun and safe time at the pool, and that your pool party is a success.

Party Planning Tips for a Successful Event

To ensure your guests have a blast, you’ll want to start planning early and think outside the box, like a creative artist painting a masterpiece.

First, consider the theme of your party and how you can incorporate it into the games and toys you choose. If you’re going for a tropical vibe, consider getting a giant inflatable pineapple float or a palm tree sprinkler for some added fun.

Second, make sure to have a variety of games and activities available for your guests. Set up a volleyball net for some friendly competition, or provide a set of water guns for an all-out water war. If you have a larger group, consider a game of pool basketball or a relay race with pool noodles.

Lastly, don’t forget about the little details that can make a big impact. Set up a snack and drink station near the pool for easy access, and provide plenty of towels and sunscreen for your guests. And if you really want to go the extra mile, consider hiring a pool party DJ to keep the energy up and the good times rolling all day long.

With these party planning tips, your pool party’s sure to be a hit!

Conclusion

Well folks, I hope you’ve enjoyed this roundup of pool party games and toys as much as I have!

From classic games like Marco Polo and Sharks and Minnows, to innovative water toys like the AquaJet Dive Rings and the Inflat-A-Bull, there’s something for everyone at your next pool party.

For those who like a little competition, try out games like Spikeball or pool volleyball. And for those who just want to relax, there are plenty of floats and loungers to choose from.

But before you jump in, don’t forget to review some important safety tips to ensure a fun and safe time for everyone. And if you’re planning a pool party, be sure to consider factors like food, drinks, music, and seating to make it a successful event.

So what are you waiting for? Upgrade your pool party with these amazing games and toys and let the good times roll!

And ask yourself, what’s more refreshing on a hot summer day than a dip in the pool with your favorite people?

Brian Ozorco

Author: Brian Ozorco

Brian started working with pools more than two decades ago. He's really good at making old pools look new and beautiful again. This is called pool resurfacing, and it's one of his specialties. Brian is not just good at fixing pools; he's also great at helping people. He set up SwimPoolHero.com to provide pool services, via a network of expert pool contractors, to home owners all over the US. Brian believes it's important to treat customers well, and that's a big part of his business.