Fun Games to Play in the Pool This Summer

A swimming pool is the perfect place for activities and to play exciting games. Whether you’re looking for classic poolside fun, friendly competitions, or unique challenges, there are plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained. From timeless games like Marco Polo to creative races and scavenger hunts, we’ll help you make the most of your pool time. Get ready to splash, laugh, and create unforgettable memories this summer!

Classic Pool Games

Some pool games never go out of style. These classic favorites have been enjoyed for generations and are perfect for kids, families, and friends. They require little to no equipment, so they’re easy to play anytime you’re in the water.  

Marco Polo

This timeless game is just as fun now as it was decades ago. One player closes their eyes and calls out “Marco,” while the other players respond with “Polo.” Using sound only, the “it” player tries to tag someone. Once tagged, the new player becomes “it,” and the game continues.

Sharks and Minnows 

This exciting chase game turns the pool into an underwater adventure. One player starts as the “shark” and waits in the middle of the pool. The rest of the players, or “minnows,” line up at one end and try to swim to the other side without getting tagged. If a minnow is caught, that player becomes a shark for the next round. The last minnow left wins!

Chicken Fight

This game is perfect for pairs. Two players team up, and one sits on the other’s shoulders. The goal? Knock opposing teams into the water while staying balanced. It’s a test of strength, teamwork, and strategy. Just be sure to play safely and avoid rough moves.

A sturdy pool float adds an extra twist to these games.

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Competitive Pool Games

Do you love some friendly competition? Then these are the games for you. Whether you’re racing, scoring points, or testing your endurance, these activities add excitement to any swim session. They’re great for kids and adults who enjoy a challenge.

Football Push Relay

This game is all about teamwork and strategy. Players split into teams and push a football across the pool without using their hands or touching the bottom. The first team to reach the other side wins. It’s a fun way to work on coordination while keeping everyone engaged.

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Pool Volleyball

This classic poolside sport never gets old! Set up a net across the pool and divide players into teams. The goal is simple – keep the ball in the air and try to score against the opposing team. This game is great for all ages and can be played casually or with official volleyball rules.

Pool Noodle Race

The pool noodle race is a fast-paced game that puts swimming skills to the test. Each player grabs a pool noodle and uses it to paddle across the pool without touching the bottom. The first person to reach the other side wins. It’s a fun way to mix fitness with playtime.

Scavenger & Discovery Pool Games

If you love searching for hidden treasures, these games will add a fun and adventurous twist to your pool time. These activities challenge players to dive, search, and race to find objects underwater. They’re perfect for kids and families.

Ring Dive

This classic diving game is often used to improve swimming skills while having fun. Simply toss several pool rings into the water and let them sink to the bottom. Players then race to collect as many rings as possible. The one with the most rings at the end wins.

Invisible Bottle Hunt

This game offers a tricky challenge that tests your eyesight. Fill a clear plastic bottle with pool water, close the cap, and drop it into the pool. The bottle blends in with the water, making it nearly invisible. Players must search and retrieve it before their opponents do.

Underwater Treasure Hunt

Turn your pool into a treasure-hunting adventure! Toss small waterproof toys, coins, or diving sticks into the pool, and let players dive to retrieve them. Want to make it even more exciting? Assign point values to each object and see who can collect the most points.

Unique and Creative Pool Games

Looking for something new to try in the pool? These creative games add a fresh twist to classic pool fun. 

Cardboard Boat Race

Put your engineering skills to the test. Players, or teams, build boats using only cardboard and duct tape. Once the boats are ready, it’s time to race across the pool. The last boat floating wins. This game offers a fun and exciting challenge for both kids and adults.

Atomic Whirlpool

Teamwork makes this game work. Everyone lines up along the pool's edge and starts walking in a circle. After a few minutes, the water creates a strong whirlpool effect. Then, players turn around and try to swim against the current. It’s harder than it sounds!

Octopus Attack

This game starts with one player as the “octopus” in the middle of the pool. Other players must swim from one side to the other without getting tagged. Each time someone is tagged, they join hands with the octopus, creating a growing chain. The last player remaining wins. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there different types of pool games?

Yes! Pool games come in many forms. These include classic games like Marco Polo, competitive challenges like pool volleyball, and creative activities like the cardboard boat race. Whether you enjoy teamwork, racing, or strategy, there’s a game for everyone.

What games can be played in a swimming pool?

There are endless options! Popular choices include Marco Polo, Sharks and Minnows, Ring Dive, and Pool Noodle Race. You can also create your own games using pool toys and floats for even more fun.

What are old-fashioned pool games?

Classic pool games like Chicken Fight, Ring Dive, and Marco Polo have been around for generations. These games are simple, require little to no equipment, and are always a hit with swimmers of all ages.

How can I make my pool fun?

Try mixing things up with new games, adding pool toys, or organizing a friendly competition. Diving sticks, inflatable obstacles, and floating basketball hoops take pool play to the next level. We have a variety of pool toys and accessories to get you started.

Make Every Pool Day More Fun

Playing games in the pool is a great way to stay active, bond with friends and family, and beat the summer heat. Whether you’re diving for hidden treasures, racing across the water, or battling it out in a friendly game of pool volleyball, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun.

Looking to enhance your pool experience? Check out our wide selection of pool floats, toys, and swimming pool frames to make every time at the pool even better. No matter your age or skill level, these games will turn any pool day into an unforgettable experience.