Summer is all about fun in the sun, and a backyard pool is the perfect place for some refreshing family fun. But simply splashing around and swimming laps can get a bit repetitive, especially for the little ones. Why not spice up your pool time with a few swimming pool games that will keep everyone entertained?
Here are 10 creative swimming pool games that each member of the family can enjoy, regardless of their age or athletic prowess.
1. Marco Polo, Animal Style
For the ultimate underwater hide and seek, give this classic game a little twist. As usual, one player closes their eyes and calls out “Marco,” trying to tag their scattered friends by listening for their response of “Polo.” But here’s the catch—each player is also assigned a different animal. If your animal is called, you must respond with the matching animal noise while everyone else yells “Polo!”
2. Shark Attack!
All you need for this frenzied team game is a few foam noodles and a rubber duck or toy shark. Divide the players into two teams. The object of the game is for each team to push their duck or shark from one end of the pool to the other with their noodles—however, players can only touch the noodle with one hand at a time. The first team to get their mascot across the finish line wins!
3. Water Balloon Toss
A spin on the traditional water balloon fight, the water balloon toss encourages cooperative play. Players pair up and toss water balloons back and forth across the pool (or even inside the pool), with each successful catch resulting in a small step backwards. The last pair with an intact balloon wins. It’s all about coordination!
4. Volleyball With a Splash!
Turn your pool into a makeshift volleyball court by using a beach ball or a special floating volleyball set. Split into two teams, and set up some ground rules like no catching the ball or players remaining stationary in the water. This high-energy game is sure to keep everyone active and entertained.
5. Underwater Treasure Hunt
This game combines swimming skills with treasure hunting. Toss a variety of objects—rings, coins, or other fun trinkets—into the pool. Then, kids can compete to find the most “treasure.” It’s a great swimming pool game to help little ones become more comfortable and confident in the water, all while having fun!
6. Learn to Swim Relay
This game is great for families with young swimmers learning the basics of swimming. Set up a relay race, covering different skills such as kicking with a board, paddling without floaters, or even swimming with their faces in the water. It’s a fun way to encourage skill development and build confidence.
7. Noodle Jousting
Grab some pool noodles and let the battle begin! In this swimming pool game, players sit on a floating raft or noodle while using their noodles to try and knock each other off into the water. The last person standing wins. This game is sure to bring out some friendly competition and lots of laughter.
8. The Great Splash-Off
Take your family’s swimming pool games to new heights with a splash-off. Participants take turns leaping from the side of the pool to create the biggest splash. Judges score each splash for height, spread, and overall impact. It’s a fun way to test bravery and entertain the whole family.
9. Whirlpool
Whirlpool brings the excitement of nature’s whirlpools to the family pool. All players run or swim in a counter-clockwise direction for several minutes, creating a powerful current in the center of the pool. Once the whirlpool is formed, the fun really begins—see who can stay afloat the longest!
10. Pool Olympics
Host your own family-friendly competition by creating a multi-event series of swimming pool games including races, style competitions (such as synchronized swimming), and cannonball contests. You can award points for each event and crown the top swimmers at the end of the day. It’s a great way to bring the family together for a day of fun and friendly competition.
Looking to enhance your family’s pool time even further with a remodel, or even a brand new pool? Consider Pool Icons. Our team of pool experts specializes in creating custom swimming pools with innovative designs that are perfect for swimming pool games of every shape and size.
With Pool Icons, your backyard can become the go-to destination for family fun and a lifetime of memories. To ensure your summer is the coolest on the block, reach out to us and start planning your perfect pool escape today.
