Summer Pool Party Games

A splash in the pool provides a perfect party option for the hot summer months. Swimming is an obvious activity, but structured games enhance the entertainment. Always review the pool safety rules before beginning a game, particularly when children are involved. Supervise the kids closely to ensure they are following the rules. This allows everyone to have a fun and safe time at the pool party.

  1. Duck Race

    • Each player in the pool has his own rubber duck which he must race to the opposite end of the pool. Set ground rules for the method of moving the duck to the other end. For example, require the players to blow the duck along the surface, make waves behind it to move it, or use their noses to guide the ducks to the other side. The restrictions on moving the ducks add a fun challenge to the game.

    Prize Diving

    • Favors and prizes are a common offering at a party. Make the guests work for the prizes during a pool game. Throw several small prizes that will sink into the pool; coins or toy cars work well for the game. Have the players dive under the water to retrieve the sunken treasure. Each player is allowed to keep the prizes that he retrieves. If younger kids are present, include some prizes that float, such as bath toys, in case they cannot dive under the surface.

    Ball Hunt

    • Purchase a big package of small, plastic balls that will float. The balls used for ball pits are available in many toy stores and are an ideal size for the activity. Use a permanent marker to write a different number, letter or word on each ball. Dump all of the balls into the pool. Call out one of the numbers, letters or words and have the participants search to find the corresponding ball. Continue calling out specified balls until the players grow bored with the game.

    Shark Tag

    • Start with one person in the pool who is named the shark. She races around the pool, attempting to tag the others players. When someone is tagged, he also becomes a shark and helps tag the other players. Continue play until everyone has been turned into a shark. Start a new round with someone else as the first shark.