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15 Ultimate Swimming Pool Games to Play This Summer

Because you can only do so many rounds of Marco Polo.

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When the summer heat hits, it's time to jump in the pool. Floating is fun ... for about five minutes, then it's time to turn to one of these swimming pool games that will make your backyard feel like an actual arcade. Seriously, you can play golf, ring toss, and even poker (for candy, of course) without having to leave the water if you really don't want to.

1

Emoji Ball

Emoji Ball
Now 52% Off
Credit: Kangaroo

If your pool doesn't have the emoji with sunglasses as an inflatable beach ball, is it even summer?

RELATED: 30+ Pool Floats for Adults Who Know How to Party

2

Giant Shootball

Giant Shootball

This float takes basketball battles up a notch: The multiple ports mean defense has to work a little harder as the hoop moves around the pool.

RELATED: This Pool Float Is Motorized, So You Can Cruise While You Lounge

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3

Skip Fun Ball

Skip Fun Ball
Credit: Skip Fun

Unlike traditional balls, the Skip Fun bounces on water rather than sinking, making bouncy games like tennis possible in the pool.

RELATED: These GOT-Inspired Pool Floats Will Make You Feel Like the Mother of Dragons

4

Giant Beach Ball

Giant Beach Ball
Now 12% Off
Credit: Intex

Sure, you have an inflatable beach ball ... but do you have one the size of your ENTIRE BODY?

RELATED: Kick Off Summer Right Now With Target’s $40 Inflatable Pools

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Pool races are about to get even more competitive with this bonus obstacle.

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6

Cactus Ring Toss

Cactus Ring Toss
Credit: Amazon

This cactus ring toss offers a fun game during the barbecue and will pop on your Instagram feed.

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7

Tic-Tac-Toe

Tic-Tac-Toe
Credit: Amazon

The pool version of tic-tac-toe is simple enough for shallow-end swimmers, so everyone gets to play!

RELATED: The 6-Person Swan and Flamingo Pool Floats Are Back, So Start Making Your Summer Plans Now

8

Watermelon Ball

Watermelon Ball
Now 53% Off
Credit: Amazon

This ball will act just like a real watermelon does underwater — meaning you can dribble, kick, bounce, and pass it. (Cute swimmer guy not included.)

RELATED: This Pool Float Is Every Pregnant Woman's Summer Dream

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9

Poker Table

Poker Table
Credit: Homeju

This floating pool table makes all card games possible — go fish included!

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A summertime staple. Rally the neighborhood — your team serves first!

RELATED: Stock Tank Pools Are Going to Be All the Rage This Summer

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11

Aqua Golf

Aqua Golf

Help Dad take his golf skills from the green to the ... blue?

RELATED: 23 Breathtaking Natural Swimming Pools

12

Arcade Shooter

Arcade Shooter
Credit: Swim Central

The best part about this arcade game: You don't need any quarters to play!

RELATED: This Pool Float Is Motorized, So You Can Cruise While You Lounge

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13

Splash Battle Islands

Splash Battle Islands
Credit: Amazon

Each player gets her own floating island and a jousting baton. The last one above water is the winner!

14

Spark Shark Toss and Catch Net

Spark Shark Toss and Catch Net

This fun game encourages hand-eye coordination for the smallest swimmers.

RELATED: These Goggles Won't Pull Your Hair — and They Are Selling Out FAST

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15

Chuck-O Splash

Chuck-O Splash
Credit: Poof

Don't get sweaty playing corn hole in the hot sun. Take it to the water!

RELATED: The 6-Person Swan and Flamingo Pool Floats Are Back, So Start Making Your Summer Plans Now

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Lindsey Murray
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Lindsey works with the Good Housekeeping Institute to test and review products including appliances, bedding, baby items, pet products and more.

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