Looking for the best pool toys for kids this summer? As a swim team mom in Texas, we practically live at the pool — year-round. My daughters swim competitively, which means I've tested more floats, diving toys, waterproof games, and pool gear than I can count. I've updated this list for summer 2026 with a few new favorites, but the tried-and-true picks are still here too. This is the list I actually stand behind 🏊
Whether you're heading to a local pool, staying at a resort, or setting up in a friend's backyard, there's something on this list for every kind of pool day. And while there's definitely some crossover between what I pack for a family beach trip and the pool, the biggest differences come down to the pool toys for kids and a few pool-specific essentials I never leave home without — including our favorite sunscreen for adults and kids, because Texas sun is no joke. ☀️
What to Consider When Packing for the Pool
Every pool outing is different, and what you bring to the pool depends on:
-
Your kids’ ages and swim skills
-
Whether you’re flying, driving locally, or staying somewhere with a pool
-
How long you’ll be there (and if snacks will be required—spoiler: they will!)
Here’s how to pack smart for each scenario:
-
✈️ Flying: Keep it light! Pack compact floats, skip towels if your hotel provides them, and choose pool toys for kids that dry fast.
-
🚗 Local pool: Bring towels, sunscreen, and small, easy-to-carry toys, but leave the giant inflatables at home.
-
🏡 Backyard pool: The sky’s the limit—oversized floats, games, chairs—go for it!
If you need a little help packing for the pool, I’ve created a list of pool gear and pool toys for kids that will work for all ages and any situation. Just browse my ideas below and pick the ones that are right for you and your family!
This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me continue sharing helpful parenting tips with you!
Best Pool Toys by Age
Not all pool toys work for all kids — and if you've ever handed a toddler a diving stick, you know exactly what I mean. 😂 Here's a quick breakdown by age so you can skip straight to what's actually going to work for your crew.
Best Pool Toys for Babies & Toddlers (Ages 0–3)
If you've got a toddler at the pool, the goal is less "entertainment" and more "not terrifying them." These are the toys that make little ones feel comfortable and confident in the water — which honestly is the whole win at this age.
- Baby Swim Ring with Canopy: This baby swim ring comes in a lot of fun styles and features a removable canopy with sun protection. It's the move for babies who need shade AND splashing.
- Baby Pool Float with Toys: A slightly larger baby pool float with toys on the front keeps little hands busy while they float.
- Bath Squirters: Simple, cheap, and endlessly entertaining. These are perfect for shallow-end play and help toddlers get comfortable with water.
- Pool Noodles: Pool noodles are just plain fun, and they help young swimmers feel more relaxed in the water. Endless uses — just look up pool noodle hacks!
- USCG-Certified Swim Vest: If you want to give young kids a little more independence in the pool, choose a swim vest with arm floaties certified by the US Coast Guard.
- Water Shoes for Babies & Toddlers: A must for little feet that can't manage flip-flops yet. Hot pool decks are no joke.
💡 Safety note: Always supervise toddlers closely in and around the water, no matter what floatation device they're using. Floaties can give kids a false sense of security, so balance float time with plenty of in-arms water time too.
Best Pool Toys for Little Swimmers (Ages 4–6)
This is the age where pool toys go from "comfort object" to "obsession." Kids in this range are building real water confidence and love toys that feel like a challenge — without being too hard.
- Kick Boards: A kick board gives young swimmers more confidence while helping them work on their floating and kicking skills. Competitive kids especially love racing with one.
- Dive & Catch Game: Perfect for kids who aren't quite ready to dive all the way to the bottom. The set includes five animals that float at different depths and a net to scoop them up.
- Bluey Floatin' Figures: If your kids love Bluey (and whose don't?), they'll have so much fun splashing around with these floatin' figures. A great transition toy for kids still building their water confidence.
- Robo Fish: These robo fish swim in five different directions and can be used in the pool, the tub, or any container of water. Practical AND magical — my favorite combo. 🩵
- Inflatable Pool Floats: I guarantee that even if you only go to the pool once this year, your kid is going to want a float the second you arrive. I love this sea turtle float because it has handles for kids to hold onto. Classic ring floats are always a win too.
- Mini Water Guns: Older kids in this range love mini water guns for a poolside battle that also gets them moving.
Best Pool Toys for Big Kids & Tweens (Ages 7+)
Kids 7 and up are ready for more challenging pool toys. Ones that build real skills, spark some friendly competition, and keep them entertained for longer than five minutes. These are the picks my daughters keep coming back to every single summer.
- Diving Sticks: These diving sticks sink fast, stand upright, and come in bright colors so they're easy to spot. My daughters will play with them for hours — great for racing and that underwater treasure-hunt energy.
- Diving Gem Toys: Turn pool time into a treasure hunt with colorful diving gems that sink and sparkle underwater. Kids in this age group go absolutely feral for these in the best way. 🤣
- Swim Thru Rings: Give your kids an extra challenge by creating an obstacle course underwater. Perfect for kids who like to get a little competitive!
- Reusable Water Balloons: A blast in the backyard, at the pool, and at the beach all summer long.
- Volleyball Net & Basketball Hoops: Have your own pool at home? Make it extra fun with a pool volleyball net and basketball hoops set that works for all ages.
- Inflatable Dart Board: Another great option for backyard pools — and it doubles as an outdoor lawn toy.
- Watermelon Pool Ball: This one is exactly what it sounds like, and it is exactly as fun as you're imagining. A must for big kids and adults alike. 💗
Shop Pool Toys & Games on Amazon 👆
Pool Floats
Pool floats are always so much fun! When deciding which pool float to get, remember to stick to the weight limit for your kids so it remains safe. Floaties can also give children a false sense of security in the water, so it’s a good idea to give them some time in the pool without one. Whichever pool float you choose, remember to stay close by and keep an eye on them at all times.
- Inflatable Pool Floats: I like this sea turtle float because it has handles for kids to hold onto. You also can’t go wrong with some classic ring floats.
-
Baby Pool Floats: This baby swim ring comes in a lot of fun styles and features a removable canopy with sun protection. Or you can grab a slightly larger baby pool float that has toys on the front.
-
Pool Noodles: Pool noodles are just plain fun, and they can help young swimmers feel more relaxed in the water. There are also so many other ways to use them too — just look up pool noodle hacks!
-
Kick Boards: A kick board can give young swimmers more confidence while helping them work on their floating and kicking skills.
-
USCG-Certified Swim Vest: If you want to give young kids a little more independence in the pool, choose a swim vest with arm floaties that’s certified by the US Coast Guard.
-
Pool Chair: This one’s for the adults! If you’re in a pool with plenty of room for lounging, this pool chair comes with a headrest and cup holders for drinks.
Waterproof Games
Plan on being at the pool for a while? These cards are perfect for when you need a break from playing in the pool but still want to do something fun. You can also take them with you on any outdoor adventure or wherever spills might happen.
-
Waterproof Playing Cards: These cards can get wet or dirty and they’ll still be easy to shuffle and handle.
-
Taco Cat Goat Cheese: This is a fun game for ages six and up. We have the original at home, and I love the idea of this waterproof travel version!
-
Spot It! Waterproof: The fast-paced matching game you can take to the beach, pool, or splash pad thanks to its durable, water-resistant cards.
-
UNO Splash: UNO is a family game night staple — and the waterproof version means the pool is officially fair game.
Resort Pool Picks
Heading to a hotel or resort this summer? This is its own category because resort pools have rules — and showing up with a 6-foot inflatable flamingo is a great way to make enemies.
Most resorts allow soft pool toys, dive sticks, and small floats, but skip the large inflatables since they're hard to manage in shared spaces and many properties don't allow them. Here's what I always pack for resort trips:
-
Reusable Water Balloons: These reusable water balloons are compact, reusable, and poolside-approved at most resorts.
-
Diving Sticks: I love pool toys for kids that are both fun and help them work on their swimming skills. These diving sticks are compact, easy to pack, and kids will play with them for hours.
-
Diving Gem Toys: Same deal. These diving gems have zero bulk and are extremely fun.
-
Mini Water Guns: These mini water guns are small enough for a carry-on, fun enough to keep everyone busy
- Waterproof card games: Taco Cat, Waterproof Playing Cards, and UNO Splash all pack flat and play anywhere
Post-Pool Hair Care for Swimmers
Chlorine can be really harsh on hair, so removing it quickly is key to preventing damage. My daughters swim competitively so we’ve tried a lot of products to find the best ones! Our typical routine is to rinse off, wash hair, and use a leave-in conditioner. Then we use a detangling brush to remove tangles.
-
Chlorine Removal Shampoo: This gentle shampoo removes chlorine while also hydrating and moisturizing hair.
-
Detangling Brush: You can use this detangling brush on wet or dry hair to gently loosen any knots or tangles. There’s also a mini version that is great for toddlers or keeping in your purse.
-
Conditioning Detangler: There are two leave-in conditioners I always take with me to the pool and beach — Sun Bum and Unite Hair. Both work to detangle knots and keep hair smooth, strong, and healthy.
Other Pool Essentials
These are the more practical items I always bring to the pool to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
-
Sunscreen: The sun reflects water, so it’s important to wear sunscreen — even if it’s cloudy! Since you’ll be in the pool, make sure to choose a water-resistant sunscreen and re-apply at least every two hours. Check out this post for my complete list of our favorite sunscreens.
-
UV Detection Stickers: These stickers detect UV exposure and tell you when it's time to reapply sunscreen. Such a smart little find — especially for kids who don't want to be bothered with reapply reminders. 🔎
-
Swimmer’s Ear Drops: My oldest daughter often gets swimmer’s ear, so I keep these on hand when we go to the pool. If your kids have ever struggled with water-clogged ears, these drops help dry out ears quickly.
-
Bogg Bag: A worthwhile investment! Bogg bags are super durable, hold a lot, and can be rinsed off, making them perfect for outdoor activities. A mesh bag is also a great option.
-
Wet bag: Anything dirty, wet, or damp can go in this bag. You can also use it to pack extra clothing for kids to switch into once they’re done at the pool.
-
Towels: Obviously towels at the pool are a must! These beach towels are compact, quick-drying, and ultra-absorbent—and the fun patterns make them just as cute as they are functional — perfect for the pool or beach.
-
Sunglasses: Chlorine can damage sunglasses so make sure to rinse them off if they get wet in the pool. Here are my favorite sunglasses for babies and toddlers and sunglasses for kids three and up.
-
Water Bottle: Swimming and playing in the pool is a workout, so it’s important to stay hydrated. My favorite water bottle for kids is this Hydro Flask or this one the my kids and I fight over!
-
Snacks: I think all parents know that snacks are always a must anytime you go anywhere!
-
Portable Lock Box: If everyone is going to be in the pool, you might want to lock up any valuables (like your phone and wallet) in a small lock box.
-
Waterproof Pouch: If you’re taking photos or videos while in the pool, it’s a good idea to keep your phone protected.
-
First Aid Kit: I take this DIY kit with me whenever we travel anywhere.
Swimwear
Obviously, swimwear is a must at the pool, even if you’re just lounging! In this list are my favorite swimwear styles for the whole family, including the goggles my kids like best.
-
Swimwear for Kids: Choose a brightIy colored swimsuit so it’s easier to spot in the pool. I love this Boden swimsuit for girls and these swim trunks for boys. Rash guards are also good for added sun protection. My girls love these long sleeve one piece rash guards.
-
Swimwear for Adults: The two swimsuits I always pack are this one-piece swimsuit and this front crossover swimsuit. Mr. Kids wears these quick-drying swim trunks.
-
Swim Diapers: For kids who aren’t potty trained yet, layer a disposable swim diaper with a reusable swim diaper.
-
Goggles: My kids compete on the swim team year-round, so they love their goggles. These racing goggles and these Swimple goggles are our favorites as they are mirrored, so they basically act like sunglasses too!
Clothing
Similar to the beach, you’ll want to bring swimsuit cover-ups or other clothes that are easy to change out of. You may also want to bring along an extra pair of clothing for your kids to change into, depending on if you’re driving home or going somewhere after.
-
Flip Flops: Mr. Kids loves these flip-flops, while these are my go-to sandals for the pool. My kids can't get enough of these sandals. They come in several fun colors too!
-
Water Shoes for Babies & Toddlers: These are a great option for little feet that can't manage flip-flops yet!
-
Swimsuit Cover-Up: This dress shirt is super cute, lightweight, and easy to throw on, then remove while at the pool. I can't get enough of the sarong cover up either!
-
Hats: Make sure to grab hats for your kids and sun hats for babies that offer UPF protection. If your kids don’t like to wear hats, remember to use scalp sunscreen. Personally, I always pack along my straw hat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Toys for Kids
What are the best pool toys for kids?
The best pool toys for kids depend on age and swim level, but the ones my girls come back to every single summer are diving sticks, swim-thru rings, and reusable water balloons. For younger kids, Robo Fish and Bluey floaties are always a hit. For the whole family, waterproof card games like Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza are a pool bag staple.
What are the best pool toys for toddlers?
For toddlers, stick to shallow-water toys that don't require swimming skills. Bath squirters, baby pool floats with canopies, and simple ring floats are all great options. Always supervise toddlers closely in and around the water, and consider a USCG-certified swim vest for added safety.
What pool toys are safe for resort pools?
Most resorts allow soft pool toys, dive sticks, and small floats. Skip large inflatables at resort pools as they're hard to manage in shared spaces and some properties don't allow them. Waterproof card games, small dive toys, and kick boards are your safest bets for keeping the peace with other guests. 😂
What are the best pool toys for kids ages 6 & up?
Kids 6 and up are usually ready for more challenging pool toys that build skills. Swim-thru rings, diving gem sets, and volleyball nets are perfect for this age group. Competitive kids especially love anything with a scoring element like dive sticks and gem toys are great for racing siblings.
What should I pack in a pool bag for kids?
Beyond pool toys, a well-packed pool bag includes sunscreen (reapply every two hours!), a water bottle, towels, goggles, a wet bag for damp suits, swim diapers if needed, and snacks because there is not a single child alive who doesn't need a snack at the pool. 🍎 My full pool packing list is above!
What's the difference between pool toys and beach toys?
The biggest difference is sand! Beach toys need to handle grit, while pool toys can be more delicate. Pool toys also tend to work better in clear, still water (like diving sticks and swim-thru rings), while beach toys are built for waves and wet sand. There's definitely overlap though, think waterproof cards and reusable water balloons work great at both!
What are the best pool toys for 7-year-olds?
Seven-year-olds are usually strong enough swimmers to love toys that involve diving, racing, or a little friendly competition. Diving sticks and diving gem sets are always a huge hit as kids this age love the challenge of going deeper and beating their own record. Swim-thru rings are great for setting up obstacle courses, and reusable water balloons are pretty much universally beloved at any age. If they're at a backyard pool, a volleyball net or pool basketball hoop will keep them busy for hours.
Final Thoughts: What’s in Your Pool Bag?
I'd love to hear what you bring to the pool, whether it's pool toys for kids or the more practical items that make the whole day run smoother. Honestly, being prepared is what makes pool days actually fun instead of stressful — and a few great finds go a long way. 💗
If you've seen the Bluey episode where they go to the pool, you know exactly what I'm talking about. 😂
Looking for more summer fun ideas? These posts have you covered:
🏊 Pool Toys & Gear: You're already here, but bookmark it for next time!
📚 Summer Books for Kids: Our favorite reads to keep little minds going all summer long
🎬 Summer Movies for Kids: The best picks for family movie nights when it's too hot to go outside
🌿 Yard Games for Kids: Because screens are great but fresh air is better 😂
🌞 Outdoor Play for Little Kids: Ideas to get the little ones outside and moving
🍽️ Easy Summer Dinners: Because nobody wants to cook when it's 95 degrees out
☀️ Summer Bucket List for Kids: Print it, hang it on the fridge, and start checking things off
Here's to a summer full of good pool days, happy kids, and sunscreen that actually stays on. 🙌
