21 Ridiculously Fun Things to Do in the Pool This Summer
Not sure what to do in the pool this summer? Here are 21 fun and creative things to do in the pool—alone, with your boyfriend, or at your next pool party.
When summer hits and the heat gets unbearable, there’s nothing better than jumping into a pool. Whether you’re flying solo for the first time, staying home, or planning your kid’s birthday pool party, a pool day is a must on any summer bucket list.
But let’s be real—after a while, just floating around gets boring. I’ve definitely had those moments where I’m in the water thinking, “Okay… now what?” That’s exactly why I started collecting fun, creative, and sometimes just downright silly things to do in the pool.
From quiet solo time to games with your boyfriend, or a full-on pool party with friends, this list has something for every kind of swimmer and every kind of vibe.
So if you’re searching for new swimming pool games, fun pool activities without equipment, or just some fresh inspiration to make your pool days a little more exciting, I’ve got you covered.
This blog post is all about fun things to do in the pool this summer
Table of Contents
Things to Do in the Pool Alone
Just because you’re alone in the pool doesn’t mean you have to be bored! Whether you’re looking to relax, get some exercise, or try something creative, there are plenty of fun things to do in the pool by yourself. Here are some of my favorite solo pool activities to keep you entertained.
1. Aqua Yoga or Water Exercises
If you’ve never tried working out in the water, you’re missing out! The pool is the perfect place for low-impact exercises that help with flexibility, strength, and balance.
Try simple moves like leg kicks, arm circles, or walking against the water’s resistance. If you want more of a challenge, do squats or lunges underwater—the resistance makes them way more effective than on land.
For something more calming, try a few aqua yoga poses. Stand in the shallow end and do tree pose, or practice floating on your back while focusing on deep breathing. The best part? You don’t have to be a fitness pro to enjoy it. Just move however feels good!
2. Reading on a Pool Float
One of my absolute favorite things to do in the pool by yourself is floating with a good book. There’s just something so calming about drifting in the water, feeling the sun on your skin, and getting completely lost in a story.
If you’re anything like me and don’t trust yourself not to drop a book in the water, grab a waterproof Kindle or listen to an audiobook instead.
Want to make it even better? Bring a cold drink—iced coffee, a fruit smoothie, or even your favorite cocktail if it’s that kind of day. Just don’t forget the sunscreen… trust me, nothing ruins a peaceful pool day like turning into a tomato.
Read Next: 13 Things You Can’t Forget to Pack for Your Next Solo Beach Day
3. Floating Meditation
Even if meditation isn’t usually your thing, floating meditation is one of the most peaceful things to do in the pool by yourself. Just lay back, close your eyes, and let the water carry you. Focus on your breath, the sound of gentle ripples, birds in the distance, or the breeze brushing your skin.
Sometimes, you don’t need to do anything. Just float, breathe, and be present. It’s even better during a glowing sunset. I did this a few times on the beach during my Sri Lanka tuk tuk adventure, and it quickly became one of my favorite parts of the trip.
Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Don’t miss my quick guide on the pros and cons of renting a tuk tuk—it’s a unique way to explore, but not for everyone!
4. Underwater Photography
Who says you need someone else to take great photos? If you have a waterproof phone case or an action camera, underwater photography is one of the most fun things to do in the pool alone. It’s the perfect way to get creative while enjoying the water.
Try taking artsy shots with bubbles, experiment with slow-motion videos, or challenge yourself with different angles and lighting effects.
If you need inspiration, check out Pinterest and read my guide on how to take stunning solo travel photos. You might just capture your new favorite summer selfie!
5. Underwater Swimming Challenges
Looking for a fun way to push yourself? Underwater swimming challenges are one of the best things to do in the pool alone if you enjoy a little competition.
Try holding your breath and swimming as far as you can without coming up for air—you might be surprised how much you improve! For extra fun, practice underwater handstands or flips and see how long you can stay upside down.
These mini-challenges might sound simple, but trust me, they’re addictive. Before you know it, you’ll be spending half your pool time seeing if you can break your own records.
Going to the beach alone? Here’s how to keep your valuables safe at the beach!
Things to Do in the Pool with 2 People
If you’re looking for fun things to do in the pool with your boyfriend, a friend, or a sibling, I’ve got you! Whether you want a friendly challenge, a relaxing activity, or something romantic, here are some of the best ways to enjoy the water with just two people.
6. Pool Noodle Jousting
Grab a pool noodle, climb onto a float (or just tread water), and get ready to battle it out! The goal? Use your noodle to knock the other person off balance—no hands, no pushing, just pure noodle combat.
Want to make it even more ridiculous? Add fun challenges like keeping one eye closed, balancing something in your other hand, or trying not to laugh. If you’re looking for things to do in the pool with two people, this one guarantees non-stop laughter and some truly dramatic wipeouts.
7. Ultimate Pool Frisbee
A simple frisbee can turn a regular swim into a full-on workout. Start by standing at opposite ends of the pool and tossing it back and forth. After each successful catch, take a step back—before you know it, you’ll be diving and lunging just to keep it from hitting the water!
For fun things to do in the pool with your best friend, add a challenge: every time someone misses a catch, they have to answer a question. Get it wrong, and they move one step deeper into the pool. Keep playing until someone ends up fully underwater!
Not sure what to ask? Try this ultimate travel compatibility quiz to see how well you and your friend (or boyfriend) match as travel buddies!
8. Race to the Bottom
This is one of the easiest pool activities to set up—and it’s always a hit. Toss a handful of coins, diving toys, or small waterproof objects into the water, then race to collect as many as you can. Whoever grabs the most wins!
It’s a great option if you’re after fun, active things to do in the pool with kids. To make it more challenging, spread the objects across different pool zones or add a countdown timer. It’s simple, energetic, and guaranteed to get everyone moving.
9. Synchronized Swimming Showdown
If you’re up for something fun and a little dramatic, this is one of the best pool activities to try. Pick your favorite song, come up with a routine filled with spins, kicks, and splashy moves, and put on a full synchronized swimming performance.
It’s a hilarious way to spend time in the water and one of the most memorable things to do in the pool with your best friend. My sister and I did this every summer—making up wild routines and forcing our parents to be the judges. We never took it seriously, but we had so much fun!
10. Floating Date Night
For a romantic and low-effort evening, nothing beats a floating date night. Grab an oversized float, pack a few easy snacks, and drift together under the stars while soft music plays in the background. Add a few floating lanterns or flameless candles for extra atmosphere and you’re all set.
If you’re after sweet and simple things to do in the pool with your boyfriend, this is the perfect way to relax, reconnect, and enjoy each other’s company—no fancy equipment required.
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Things to Do in the Pool with Friends (3+ People)
Nothing beats a day in the pool with friends! Whether you’re looking for classic swimming pool games, friendly competitions, or just ways to have fun this summer, these pool activities will keep everyone entertained for hours.
11. Sharks and Minnows
This is one of the best swimming pool games for a group, and it never gets old! One person starts as the “shark” in the middle of the pool, while everyone else lines up on one side as the “minnows.”
When the shark calls out “Go!” the minnows must swim to the other side without getting tagged. If you get tagged, you become a shark, too. The game continues until there’s only one minnow left—the final survivor!
12. Pool Volleyball or Basketball
If you have a floating volleyball net, this is easily one of the most popular games for the swimming pool. But even without one, you can divide the pool into two sides and volley a ball back and forth—trust me, it still turns into a competitive, splash-filled match. Plus, it doubles as a great full-body workout!
More into basketball? Grab a floating hoop or a poolside net and get your game on. The water adds a fun challenge—every shot is harder with all the movement, but that’s what makes it so fun!
Whether you’re spiking, blocking, or going for a slam dunk, this is hands down one of the best things to do in the pool with friends this summer.
13. Chicken Fight
This classic pool party game is chaotic, competitive, and ridiculously fun. One person climbs onto another’s shoulders, forming a team, and then faces off against another duo.
The goal? Knock the opposing team over without falling in yourself—no easy task when the water’s working against you.
It’s one of the most laugh-out-loud things to do in the pool with friends, especially when everyone starts wobbling around and losing balance. Trust me, it looks easier than it is!
Bonus Tip: Play in a deeper part of the pool to stay safe when someone inevitably topples over. And watch out—tickling is a sneaky but surprisingly effective strategy!
14. Water Fight!
Sometimes the best swimming pool games are the ones that don’t require anything at all.
Forget water guns—just grab cups, pool noodles, or use your hands to start an all-out splash war. It’s simple, chaotic, and guaranteed to get everyone laughing. If you’re after fun things to do in the pool with friends without equipment, this is one of the easiest and most entertaining options.
Want to raise the stakes? Split into teams, use inflatables as shields, and see who can stay dry the longest. Have water balloons on hand? Launch a surprise attack—but be ready, because payback always comes fast!
15. Traditional Pool Games with Friends
When you’re ready to take a break from splashing and just hang out in the water, these classic pool party games for adults are perfect for keeping things fun and relaxed. They’re easy, interactive, and add just the right dose of laughter to your pool day.
- Truth or Dare – Customize the rules! If you refuse to answer a truth, swim one lap underwater. If you fail a dare, do the biggest cannonball!
- Never Have I Ever – Hold up five fingers; if you’ve done it, dunk yourself as a penalty.
- Would You Rather – Go with summer-themed or pool-related questions to keep things fun and on-topic.
- I Spy – A great swimming pool game for kids, perfect for spotting colorful floats, towels, or sunglasses.
These lighthearted options are ideal between rounds of more active swimming pool games or when everyone’s just floating, sipping drinks, and enjoying the moment.
16. Swimming Relay Races
If you’re feeling competitive, swimming relay races are one of the best pool activities to get everyone moving. Split into teams and race across the pool using different strokes—freestyle, backstroke, or even the “mermaid challenge” where you swim with your legs together.
Make it more fun by adding silly twists like racing with pool noodles doing an underwater handstand before tagging the next swimmer, or using an actual mermaid tail (kids love this!). For high-energy things to do in the pool with friends, this one always delivers.
17. Best Pool Trick Contest
Show off your coolest flips, jumps, or cannonballs in a pool trick contest! Whether you’re diving from the edge or flipping off an inflatable, the goal is to impress the judges (aka your friends). Points can be awarded for creativity, height, splash size, or even the funniest fails.
Try different challenges, like:
- Biggest Splash Contest – Who can make the loudest and highest splash?
- Best Backflip or Twirl – Bonus points if you land gracefully!
- The Silliest Jump – Think belly flops, superhero poses, or ridiculous slow-motion dives.
This is one of those classic pool activities that works for all ages. If you’re planning a birthday pool party, offer small prizes for extra motivation. Just remember—have fun, be safe, and only try tricks you’re comfortable with.
Need inspiration? Check out 50 creative ways to jump into a pool!
18. Inflatable Obstacle Course
If you want to take playing in the swimming pool to the next level, an inflatable obstacle course is a total game-changer. These floating challenges test your balance, speed, and coordination as you climb, crawl, and jump without falling in.
If you don’t have a full obstacle course, you can DIY one using:
- Pool floats as stepping stones
- Pool noodles as hurdles
- Inner tubes to crawl through
- Floating rings to dive through underwater
It’s one of the most exciting swimming pool games for kids and adults, and perfect for bigger groups. If you’re hosting a teen pool party or just want to shake things up, this is absolutely worth adding to your summer setup!
19. Floating Movie Night
A floating movie night is one of the most relaxing and fun things to do in the pool with friends—and it’s way easier to pull off than it looks. All you need is a projector, a blank wall or sheet, and a few comfy pool floats to turn your backyard into a floating cinema.
For the perfect setup:
- Pick a summer classic like Mamma Mia!, The Sandlot, or The Parent Trap. If kids are around, Finding Nemo is always a hit.
- Create a cozy vibe with fairy lights, glow sticks, or floating lanterns.
- Keep drinks and snacks nearby—set up a poolside popcorn station or bring floating snack trays into the water.
This is also one of the most romantic things to do in the pool for couples. Floating under the stars, watching a movie, and soaking up the calm? It’s a must on any summer bucket list. Whether it’s a teen pool party or a laid-back night with friends, this one’s always a hit.
20. Host the Ultimate Pool Party
A pool party isn’t just about swimming—it’s about having fun in the pool with friends and family, making memories, and soaking up those summer vibes. And what better way to do that than by throwing an epic pool party? Here’s how to plan the perfect one.
Pool Party Essentials
- Decorate with inflatables – Think flamingos, unicorns, pineapples—anything oversized and fun. Add beach balls and hang up string lights for that perfect poolside vibe.
- Create a killer playlist – A mix of upbeat summer hits, tropical beats, and throwback classics will keep the energy high. Consider making a collaborative playlist so everyone can add their favorites!
- Set up a snack bar – Light and refreshing is the way to go—fruit skewers, popsicles, chips, and salsa. For adults, don’t forget the frozen margaritas or ice-cold mocktails.
- Plan fun pool games – Make sure there’s something for everyone, from pool volleyball and chicken fights to floating beer pong and lilo races.
- Choose a theme – A Hawaiian luau, neon glow night, or retro summer bash makes everything more fun. Encourage guests to dress up and match the vibe with themed drinks and decor.
Planning a great pool party for adults or teens isn’t hard—it just takes a few fun details and a lot of floaties. And snacks. Never forget the snacks.
21. Fun Swimming Pool Games for Adults
If you’re throwing a pool party for adults, lounging on a float probably won’t cut it for long. You’ll want games that get everyone laughing, moving, and maybe a little competitive.
The best adult swimming pool games bring just the right mix of chaos and fun—especially when drinks are involved. These are some of my go-to things to do in the pool with friends when we’re in party mode.
Best Pool Games for Adults:
- Floating Beer Pong: Set up a floating pong table or use cup holders. Try to land the ping pong ball in the other team’s cups—harder than it looks with waves and wind!
- Drunken Darts: Use floating darts and a waterproof target. Miss your shot? Take a sip. You can even assign drink penalties based on where the dart lands for extra laughs.
- Lilo Races: Race across the pool on inflatable loungers. You’ll look ridiculous and laugh the entire time—especially when people fall off mid-race.
- Flip Cup Frenzy: Use a floating table or the pool ledge to play the classic drinking game. First team to finish wins!
- Inflatable Ring Toss: Toss rings onto a target like an inflatable flamingo or beach ball. Turn it into a drinking game by assigning dares or challenges to missed shots.
These are some of the most fun swimming pool games for adults—perfect for a summer BBQ, a birthday pool party, or just an excuse to get silly in the sun. Want to take it up a notch? Combine a few into a pool game tournament and crown your ultimate champion.
FAQs: Fun & Easy Things to Do in the Pool
Now that we’ve gone over all the best pool activities for both adults and kids, let’s dive into some of the most common questions about things to do in the pool this summer!
Absolutely! Going to the pool alone can be super relaxing. You can swim laps, float with a good book, or just enjoy some sunshine. If you’re looking for things to do in the pool by yourself, try water meditation or solo pool activities like handstands or timing your breath holds.
Some of my favorite swimming pool games without equipment include Sharks and Minnows, Marco Polo, and underwater races. You don’t need toys to have a blast this summer—just bring your energy! These fun games to play in a pool are perfect for both kids and adults.
At a pool party, keep the vibe lively with water balloon tosses, float races, and team relay challenges. Add in pool party games like pool volleyball or floating beer pong, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect splashy celebration. Don’t forget the music and fun pool party outfits!
Some of the best swimming pool games for adults include floating beer pong, lilo races, drunken darts, chicken fights, and flip cup frenzy. These fun and easy things to do in the pool with friends or at a pool party for adults guarantee laughter, friendly competition, and unforgettable summer vibes.
To make your pool more fun, try adding floating loungers, LED lights, or a Bluetooth speaker for great vibes. Plan pool party games, themed events, or rotate new swimming pool games for adults and friends. Even solo, switching up things to do in the pool keeps it exciting all summer.
Final Thoughts on What to Do in a Pool This Summer
Whether you’re spending time alone, with your partner, or planning a pool birthday party, there are so many fun things to do in the pool this summer. From competitive swimming pool games to relaxed floating sessions, it’s all about making the most of those sunny days.
I hope this list gave you some fresh ideas for your next swim day—or maybe even your next Southeast Asia bucket list pool adventure (hello, cheap rooftop infinity pools!).
Got a favorite swimming pool game or a fun thing you love doing in the water? Share it in the comments—I’d love to try it too!
Great ideas, they all sound like fun!
This is a great round up! I love the idea of inflatable ring toss.
Great ideas, makes me look forward to summer!
So many fun ideas! I can’t wait to try some! Thank you for sharing.
This is an amazing list! We don’t have a pool but we live near the beach and some of these fun things to do can also be applied!
These ideas are great! Can’t wait to try them out with the kiddos.