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The Best Mermaid Toys

Last updated on July 3, 2023
Best Mermaid Toys

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Mermaids hold a unique place in many hearts, especially those of young children. This is because mermaids are depicted as beautiful, carefree, innocent and magical creatures — and some even have super powers.

Mermaids have been part of popular culture and mythology for centuries but they’ve taken on a major presence in the past 40 years, with movies like “The Littler Mermaid,” “Splash” and “Mermaids” all hitting theaters within a few years of one another.

Since then, mermaids are seen on clothing, in toys and in books, movies, TV shows and more. Boys and girls of all ages love mermaids, and adults often do, too.

Little kids tend to go through phases with their likes and dislikes, so try to avoid spending a small fortune on their mermaid toys. You can find many inexpensive options out there, but this does not mean that they are lacking in quality. There are a bevy of Barbie mermaid dolls to choose from, for example; and while these can cost from around $11 to $25, they are generally thought to be well-made.

Besides dolls, look for more out-of-the-box mermaid toys like tea sets, play sets, mermaid tail blankets and dolls with matching accessories. Waterproof mermaid toys are great for the bathtub, too, and young children may also like plush mermaids.

You can also shop for mermaid story books. There are many on the market besides Disney’s beloved story of Ariel. You can read these together with your children for a fulfilling family experience.

Our Picks For The Top Mermaid Toys

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

SwimWays Little Mermaid Flexible Princess Pool Dive Toys, 3-Piece

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SwimWays

Little Mermaid Flexible Princess Pool Dive Toys, 3-Piece

Little Mermaid fans will have hours of fun with this adorable set of three favorite Disney Princess Dive Characters. Kids can drop the miniature Ariel, Flounder and Sebastian and then swim down to find them beneath the deep.

Overall Take

Part of Her WorldThese cute little figures look just like the actual movie's animated stars and are also fun to play with in the bathtub.

 Best for Older Girls

TOKIA Pretend Play Mermaid Makeup Kit Toy

TOKIA

Pretend Play Mermaid Makeup Kit Toy

This 14-piece mermaid toy set is perfect for little ones who are interested in trying some makeup. The set features a portable cosmetic bag that is filled with blush, lip gloss, eyeshadow and more. There are even a few hair clips for good measure.

Overall Take

Budget-Friendly OptionThe affordable price tag on this mermaid toy makes it ideal for gift giving.

 Best for Toddlers

The First Years The Little Mermaid Squirt Pool Toys, 3-Piece

The First Years

The Little Mermaid Squirt Pool Toys, 3-Piece

The First Years Store's sweet little waterproof Ariel, Flounder and Sebastian are designed for ages six to 18 months; each one measures 4 inches by 2 inches by 2 inches. Surprise! Each of these squirts water when squeezed. (Probably best not to point this at little ones; it may scare them.)

Overall Take

For Your Little OnesMake your kids' bath time more fun with these three fun, kid-friendly toys!

 Runner Up

BETTINA Sequined Mermaid Doll Family Toy

BETTINA

Sequined Mermaid Doll Family Toy

This mermaid toy comes with a choice of a pink dolphin or a pink seahorse. A large and small mermaid doll complete the set, which can be used in a playroom, bathtub or outdoor pool. Kids are sure to love the mermaid's tale, as it changes from blue to purple.

Overall Take

Shiny SequinsThis mermaid toy is best for children ages 3 and up.

What to Look For

  • If you buy your child a mermaid costume and they want to wear it around the house, that’s great because dress-up fuels a child’s imagination.
  • Always check the age range when buying a toy, and make sure that there are no safety concerns. Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website for toy recalls if you have any concerns.
  • Older mermaid fans may also like themed accessories like purses, jewelry, rain boots and nail polish kits.

More to Explore

Before recent years, mermaids were often seen as dangerous beings who “led men astray and drove them mad.” They were also seen as harbingers of unfortunate events, predicting disasters to those who would listen.

In ancient Slavic mythology, water nymphs emerged from rivers, came into towns and dragged people back with them. Mermaids from British folklore were often just as bad.

In the 19th century, artist Frederic Leighton painted “The Fisherman and the Syren,” which depicted mermaids as beautiful waifs who rendered grown men helpless. Also that century, Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen published his fairy tale, “The Little Mermaid,” for a more sympathetic depiction.

MORE: These women are making a living as real-life mermaids

More to explore