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The Best Pool Game

Last updated on June 22, 2022
Best Pool Game

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Anyone who’s ever been fortunate enough to have a backyard swimming pool — or a friend with one — knows that things get a little livelier when a game (or two) is involved. There are, of course, standard pool games like Marco Polo and freeze tag that don’t require any props or toys. But there are also some accessories you can buy to add a little extra fun. Pool game accessories come in all shapes and sizes, from targets for diving after to water guns and balls.

For younger kids, simple games with floating items like basic beach balls offer safe fun. Slightly older kids who are learning to swim can play games that will help them hone their skills. If you can create an obstacle course that will challenge children to stay underwater longer (closely supervised, of course) you can make learning more exciting.

Then there are the older kids and adults. One pool standard for more skilled swimmers is the poolside basketball hoop. With a basketball hoop, all you’ll need is a water-friendly basketball for hours of competitive fun. There are also floating pool games like tic-tac-toe boards and ring toss sets, which can be fun for swimmers of all ages.

For adult pool parties, there’s always beer pong! With a floating version of the classic game, you can create a fun party in your very own swimming pool.

Our Picks For The Top Pool Games

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

JOYIN Non-Toxic Sports Pool Game Set

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

JOYIN

Non-Toxic Sports Pool Game Set

With this pool game, you not only get to challenge a friend to a game of hoops, but you also get to gather the family together for some volleyball fun. The material is non-toxic and high-quality, so you'll be able to use it for many seasons to come. The set is also quick to inflate, allowing you to get right to the fun.

Overall Take

Two in OneThis inflatable pool game set is available in a choice of orange or blue.

 Runner Up

90shine Children’s Ring Toys Pool Game

90shine

Children’s Ring Toys Pool Game

You won't have any trouble keeping your kids active this summer when you opt for this exciting pool game. The set includes a floating basketball hoop, as well as an inflatable ring toss game. Kids can work on practicing their aim or organize a match with a few friends at their next pool party.

Overall Take

Hours of FunConstructed from a durable PVC, this pool game is easy to set up and keep clean.

 We Also Like

Watermelon Ball Underwater Pool Game

Watermelon Ball

Underwater Pool Game

Encourage your kids to stay active with this fun pool game. The watermelon-shaped ball is designed to sink to the bottom of the pool, and then slowly rise up toward the surface. Kids can bounce, dribble or pass the ball in a variety of exciting underwater games.

Overall Take

Cute Fruit DesignA patented filling adapter is provided with this pool game for fast and easy use.

 Strong Contender

Water Sports 81055-7 No Assembly Swim Through Rings Pool Game

Water Sports

No Assembly Swim Through Rings Pool Game

These swim-through rings let you create a fun underwater obstacle course. The rings unfold easily and collapse for quick, convenient storage. The inflatable air chambers let you adjust their depth, and the chambers are decorated with fun aquatic characters.

Overall Take

Helps with LearningMake swimming lessons fun and challenging with this inflatable pool game.

What to Look For

  • Most swimming pool games are inflatable. Before you buy, check into how easy or difficult the items will be to inflate. If a pump is required, make sure it’s included. If not, check that you can easily find one that’s compatible.
  • The best thing about inflatable pool toys is that they can often be easily collapsed into a compact design. This makes stuffing them into your suitcase or storing them in a pool closet easy.
  • Carefully measure any basketball hoop to make sure your participants will be able to reach it. You might want to upgrade your hoop as your little ones grow to make it more challenging.
  • When it comes to playing hoops in the pool, you can purchase either an inflatable, floating game set or an actual backboard and hoop that’s heavily weighted for placement next to the water. If you go with the weighted option, make sure it’s sturdy enough that it won’t topple into the pool, possibly injuring a player, if someone grabs onto the edge of the hoop and pulls down.
  • Poolside hoops are designed specifically to stand up to water exposure. You’ll also want to make sure your basketballs are designed for water use.
  • Mixing alcohol and swimming can be dangerous. Make sure a responsible adult stays sober and monitors the situation closely to quickly spot someone in danger.
  • Safety is a top priority with children. For children who aren’t yet comfortable in the water, a simple game that requires minimal movement can be better. Look for a game that lets kids stand still and toss or move items around. As they get more comfortable, you can progress to more active games.

More to Explore

Marco Polo is named for the 13th-century adventurer whose stories entertained Europeans for years, though the game itself doesn’t have a direct connection to Polo. Its origins have been traced back to the 1960s, but it’s very similar to a land-based game called blind man’s bluff, which was wildly popular in the 1500s.

With both games, one player is “it,” which means that player tries to catch other players while blindfolded or with eyes closed. In the pool version, the player who’s trying to find everyone shouts “Marco,” while the moving players shout “Polo” in response until the one who’s “it” tags someone. The tagged person then becomes the new “it” player.

More to explore