9 Pool Party Games That’ll Make Your Kids the Splash Champs of Summer
Okay, so we all know swimming pool parties are one of the best ways to kick back, laugh way too loud, and make some unforgettable memories at the party . But let’s be real—there’s only so many times we can play Marco Polo and other pool games with the kids before everyone’s rolling their eyes.
That’s why it’s so important to have a few new tricks up our sleeves, just like the page suggest !
The right swimming pool games in the pool area can turn an ordinary splash-fest into an epic day that our kids will talk about. Whether our little ones are just starting to swim, our teens need to burn off some energy, or we grownups (yes, us too!) want to join in the action, finding the perfect mix of games helps everyone feel included and keeps the fun going strong.
1) Marco Polo – Classic freeze-tag style but underwater, because why not?
We all know Marco Polo is basically the MVP of pool party games because it involves multiple players . One person closes their eyes and shouts “Marco!” while the rest of us try to dodge and weave across the pool yelling back “Polo!”
It’s super simple, but we’ll admit—we still get the giggles when someone accidentally grabs a pool float instead of a person. If you need a refresher on how to play Marco Polo, or want to incorporate some fun pool toys, check out this easy guide.
2) Sharks and Minnows – Swim for your life, dodge the shark, and feel like a total champ.
Okay, let’s be real—who doesn’t love a good chase? In Sharks and Minnows, one of us plays the “shark,” hanging out in the middle of the pool.
The rest of us are the “minnows.” When the shark yells “Go!” we all try to swim to the other side without getting tagged.
If we get caught, we become a shark too! The last minnow left wins major bragging rights.
It’s that classic pool game our children will beg to play every summer, so be ready to blow up those balloons!
3) Water Balloon Toss – Get your aim on, and prepare to get soaked (and laugh nonstop).
We seriously can’t have a pool party without a water balloon toss. Grab your bestie, stand face-to-face, and toss that balloon—just try not to flinch!
With every successful catch, we take a step back and make it even more wild. Once those water balloons pop, it’s instant giggles for everyone.
If you want easy rules, check out this quick guide on how to play a water balloon toss.
4) Pool Volleyball – Spike, serve, and dive like you’re the MVP of the summer.
Let’s be real—nothing says “summer boss” like a killer beach ball volleyball match with a fun theme . We grab our crew, break out the inflatable net, and make those serves count.
Every splash and spike just brings out the giggles and friendly bragging. What’s awesome is that everyone can play, littles and grown-ups.
There are inflatable sets and even portable ones that are easy to set up, so we can jump right into the action. Check out these pool volleyball game ideas for inspo!
5) Sponge Ball Tag – Squishy, splashy, tag game that’s perfect for all ages.
Okay, let’s talk about Sponge Ball Tag with our friends ! We’re obsessed with this one because it’s like regular tag, but way wetter—and honestly, more fun.
We just grab some squishy sponge balls, soak them in water, and get tagging.
Whoever gets hit with a wet sponge is “it.” No one stays dry and nobody cares.
Our favorite part? Zero cleanup compared to water balloons—plus, sponge tag is actually eco-friendly and reusable.
6) Ping Pong Pursuit – Paddle around the pool chasing those bouncy balls, so much fun!
Ping Pong Pursuit is pure chaos in the best way. We toss a whole bunch of ping pong balls into the pool, then everyone jumps in and races to collect as many as possible.
No one cares about style points—just get those balls! We usually play in teams, but free-for-all works too.
The splashing and chasing is nonstop, friendships might get tested, but laughs are guaranteed. If you need more details, check out how Ping-Pong Pursuit works over at these poolside game ideas.
7) Change Champion – Race to swap accessories mid-pool (sunglasses, hats, floaties – go wild)
Okay, picture this: we’re in the pool, and it’s time for a fashion show, but make it soggy! We each start with one pool accessory—maybe a hat, crazy sunglasses, or a floatie.
On “go!” we race to the other side, swap our accessory with someone else, then splash back.
The fastest (and most stylish) swapper wins. It totally turns into a goofy, slippery party.
If you want more inspo, check out ideas like Change Champion for even wilder pool swaps while lounging in our lounge chairs !
8) Floatie Races – Hop on your fave float and paddle like your life depends on it.
We all know the real battle starts when everyone grabs their favorite big, ridiculous floatie. Race across the pool and try not to fall off—bonus points for style and the best wipeout!
Let’s face it, we’re not Olympic swimmers here, so flailing counts as strategy.
If you want ideas, check out these pool float races for inspo. The best part? Anyone can join—teen or grandma, just hold on tight and paddle like a boss!
9) Water Gun Fights – Splash wars that bring out your inner kiddo, squirt away!
Let’s be real—there’s nothing that brings out our parents’ super silly side faster than a classic water gun fight with our guests . We split into teams (or go total chaos mode), grab our water blasters, and let the squeals begin.
It’s wild, it’s unpredictable, and it cools everybody off—parenting win!
Plus, there are so many fun twists to try, like the Beach Ball Race or team elimination rounds. We say, the more splashes, the better!
Pool Party Game Safety Tips
Listen, we all want our family pool party to be nothing but good vibes, giggles, and perfect sunshine, with plenty of light . But keeping our little (and not-so-little) swimmers safe is a whole thing.
It’s easy to miss a detail or two, so let’s make safety part of the fun — not just an afterthought!
Keeping the Kiddos Safe While Having a Blast
We know, supervising a pool full of kids feels wild. Still, eyes on the pool at all times saves so much worry.
Designate a “Water Watcher” — yes, that’s an official title now! Rotate this job every 20–30 minutes so everyone gets a break and no one zones out watching cannonballs.
If possible, have at least one adult on land and one in the water, especially if some kids are new swimmers. The “land adult” can handle snacks and bathroom runs; the “water adult” keeps those floaties and noodles from turning into chaos.
Keep the pool rules super clear and simple (like, “No running, no pushing, and ask before you jump in”). You can even use a silly whistle or hat for whoever is on duty—make it fun to remember who’s in charge!
More helpful pointers on pool party safety can be found at YMCA’s safety guide.
Must-Have Supplies for Stress-Free Fun
Ready for our mom-approved, sanity-saving must-haves list? Here’s what we never skip:
Brightly colored life jackets or floaties. These are much easier to spot than those barely-there clear plastic ones.
First aid kit. Pack bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers—because, well, bees happen.
Phone. Make sure it’s charged for those “just in case” calls.
Plenty of water and shade. Hydration matters, and sun shirts are a lifesaver.
Pool toys and games that are age-appropriate. Giant donuts? Always. Hard-to-throw dive sticks? Maybe skip those for the little ones.
We always stash extra towels and a change of dry clothes in a cute basket nearby in the backyard . If you want more ideas for keeping things safe and fun by the pool, check out these helpful pool party tips.
How to Get Everyone Involved
Pool parties just work better when nobody’s stuck on the sidelines, making them more enjoyable . Let’s get everyone jumping in, making new friends, and finding a reason to laugh.
Blending ages can be tricky, but it’s totally doable with a few creative spins. Nobody wants to feel left out or bored, right?
Mixing Ages for Maximum Giggles
Honestly, having little kids, teens, and adults all in one pool can sound chaotic. But it doesn’t have to be a disaster!
We love team games that mix ages so everyone brings their own energy.
Try giving younger kids a head start in Marco Polo or letting them team up with an older buddy. For relay races, let the littles do silly moves like belly-flopping or wearing goofy floaties between laps.
Teens and adults can hype things up—loud cheering, goofy play-by-plays, and even the kids can join in! Assigning silly, rotating “team captains” helps break the ice if people don’t know each other.
Keep pool noodles, floats, and water wings handy so everyone can join in, whether they’re strong swimmers or prefer sticking close to the edge. Isn’t the real goal just lots of laughs and as few complaints as possible?
Creative Twists for Any Crowd
Let’s throw out the challenge of rulebook and get wild with it. Classic pool games are way more fun when you tweak them for whoever shows up to socialize. —because honestly, sometimes your crowd is just a random mix of ages, swimming skills, and energy levels.
Try making up goofy rules to create even more fun . In pool volleyball, maybe you have to yell your favorite ice cream flavor before hitting the ball.
Or, in a water gun battle, teams could rock wacky uniforms—think goggles and neon towels. We once played “Floatie Fashion Show,” where everyone strutted their silliest float across the pool. Bonus points for dramatic poses, obviously.
For kids who need breaks, let them be the game referees or timekeepers with a permanent marker to keep track of score . Got some shy adults or older teens? Hand them jobs like music DJ or judge for the “Best Splash” contest.
