13 Pool Party Games for Endless Fun That Will Make a Splash!
Make your next pool party unforgettable with exciting games, creative ideas, and must-have accessories that bring laughter, fun, and smiles for guests of all ages!
Welcome to Raquel's Reviews! We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases, but we promise the prices are still the same for you!
What makes any pool party truly memorable? The entertainment! Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or throwing a lively celebration, pool party games are a guaranteed way to create exciting energy, encourage friendly competition, and leave your guests talking. From kids to adults, there’s a perfect game for everyone.
Looking for ideas to craft unforgettable memories? Here’s a list of 13 fun, engaging swimming pool games followed by 5 must-have items to take your party to the next level.
13 Fun and Exciting Pool Party Games
1. Pool Noodle Races
Transform everyday pool noodles into racing equipment for an instant party hit!
How to play:
Divide players into two teams, and give each swimmer a pool noodle to use like a hobby horse. The players must race to the finish line on top of the water's surface without falling off their noodle.
Why it’s fun:
This is a great time for both kids and adults, offering a hilarious challenge that keeps everyone entertained while encouraging teamwork!
What you'll need:
- Pool noodles (Shop pool noodles here)
- Markers to create your start and finish lines
2. Ping Pong Ball Hunt
This classic game, played by diving underwater and racing to collect floating ping pong balls, will have your guests entertained.
How to play:Scatter ping pong balls across the pool, each marked with numbers using a permanent marker. Players must collect as many balls as possible within a set time limit. The numbers on the balls indicate their points!
Why it’s fun:It’s a fun way to combine quick moves and strategy, making it exciting for swimmers of all ages.
What you’ll need:
- Ping pong balls (Get them here)
- A net or bucket for collecting the balls
3. Water Volleyball
Add a refreshing twist to a classic game!
How to play:Set up a net over the pool and divide players into teams. Use a beach ball for a safer and easier-to-hit alternative to a regular volleyball.
Why it’s fun:Friendly competition paired with good-natured teamwork keeps everyone engaged. The game is both fun and challenging, requiring a mix of physical skill and strategy.
What you’ll need:
- Inflatable volleyball net (Check it out here)
- Beach ball (Shop here)
4. Water Balloon Toss
Turn the party up with this exciting game that combines precision and a whole lot of splashes!
How to play:Fill water balloons and have players toss them back and forth, taking a step further away with each toss. The first team to complete the most tosses without dropping the balloon wins!
Why it’s fun:It’s simple yet hilarious and perfect for all ages.
What you’ll need:
- Water balloons (Shop now)
5. Pool Basketball Shootout
Add a basketball hoop to your pool, and you’ve got yourself a thrilling poolside challenge!
How to play:Form teams and compete to score baskets against the opposing team before the shot clock runs out.
Why it’s fun:It’s a great time mixing a little competition and a lot of laughter.
What you’ll need:
- Inflatable or waterproof basketball hoop (View here)
6. Glowing Treasure Hunt
Take your pool party into the night with glow-in-the-dark fun!
How to play:Fill waterproof glow sticks and small toys with sand so they partially sink. Scatter them across the pool floor, and have players retrieve all the pieces!
Why it’s fun:The glowing visuals turn your pool into a magical hunting ground.
What you’ll need:
- Glow sticks (Shop glow sticks here)
7. Pool Obstacle Course
Turn the pool into an obstacle course using pool noodles, hula hoops, and inflatable rafts.
How to play:Create sections with tasks like swimming through a hoop, balancing on a raft, or racing from one side to the finish line.
Why it’s fun:Encourage friendly competition and swimming skills while keeping everyone active!
What you’ll need:
- Hula hoops (Find them here)
- Pool noodles and inflatable rafts (Shop now)
8. Floating Relay Races
Relay racing but with a twist!
How to play:Divide your large group into two teams. Each swimmer must complete a task before tagging the next participant. Tasks could include paddling on a float or diving underwater for objects.
Why it’s fun:It’s fast-paced and encourages teamwork.
What you’ll need:
- Inflatable rafts (Shop now)
9. Pool Scavenger Hunt
Dive in and explore with a pool scavenger hunt!
How to play: Toss a variety of waterproof items, like coins or colorful toys, into the pool. Depending on how many people are playing, give each swimmer a list or description of items to find. The first to collect all items on their list wins!
Why it’s fun: It’s a perfect activity for swimmers of all ages and adds a treasure-hunting thrill to the water.
What you’ll need:
- Waterproof toys or coins (Shop now)
10. Shark Attack
A high-energy game that keeps everyone playing on their toes—or fins!
How to play: Designate one player as the “shark.” The shark starts in the middle, and other players must swim from one end of the pool to the other without being tagged. If tagged, they become sharks too!
Why it’s fun: It’s a mix of strategy and speed, and players love the excitement of evading the shark.
What you’ll need:
- Optional: shark fin pool toy (Shop now)
11. Ping Pong Scramble
A wild and fast-paced scramble game!
How to play: Toss a handful of ping pong balls into the pool. Assign each ball a point value or color code. Players race to collect as many as possible before time runs out. Add a twist by making some balls worth negative points!
Why it’s fun: It’s chaotic, competitive, and perfect for larger groups of friends.
What you’ll need:
- Ping pong balls (Shop now)
12. Water Balloon Toss
A classic game with a splashy twist!
How to play: Pair players up and give each pair a water-filled balloon. Starting close together, each pair tosses the balloon back and forth, taking a step back after each successful toss. Everyone can participate, making it an inclusive and engaging activity. The team with the last unpopped balloon wins!
Why it’s fun: It combines laughter, suspense, and the thrill of water everywhere!
What you’ll need:
- Water balloons (Shop now)
13. Underwater Obstacle Course
Create an aquatic adventure with a fun obstacle course!
How to play: Set up an underwater course using weighted hoops, floating noodles, and other pool toys. Swimmers must complete the cool course as quickly as possible, navigating through hoops, under noodles, or fetching objects along the way.
Why it’s fun: This encourages creativity and adds a playful challenge to pool time.
What you’ll need:
5 Must-Have Items to Buy for Your Pool Party
After selecting your games, make sure you’ve grabbed the essentials to bring your pool party games to life on the deck! Here are our top picks:
Why? It’s lightweight, easy to set up, and adds instant fun for pool volleyball lovers! Buy it here.
Why? Perfect for nighttime games, they add a magical ambiance and offer endless possibilities. Shop glowing fun.
Why? They’re versatile, fun, and guarantee laughs for both kids and adults. Get bulk packs here.
4. Basketball Hoop
GoSports Splash Hoop 2-in-1 Pool Basketball Hoop & Volleyball Net Game Set
Why? Mix sports with play by adding a basketball hoop to your swimming pool games. View options here.
Why? Beyond races, they make floating and friendly competition simple. Stock up here.
Create Splash-Worthy Moments
With these exciting games and key items on hand, your next pool party is bound to deliver laughter, smiles, and unforgettable fun for your guests. Whether you’re hosting adults, kids, or a mix of both, these ideas will bring your party to life while making everyone feel included.
Want to feel even more prepared for your upcoming party? Check out these top pool accessories for even more inspiration.
Dive in, enjoy the sun, and have a great time! 😄
Raquel J
Raquel Juster
Raquel Juster
Raquel Juster
Raquel Juster
Raquel Juster
Raquel Juster
Raquel Juster
Raquel Juster
Raquel Juster