Pool Party Essentials

Longer days and warmer temperatures mean it’s time to start planning your next backyard pool party. While there are plenty of ways to make your poolside get-together great, we’ve put together a list of must-haves that no pool party should be without. Read on to check out our top 14 pool party essentials.

14 Must-Haves for Summer Pool Parties

Cool Pool Toys

No pool party is complete without plenty of bright, fun pool toys for you and your guests to enjoy. Stylish inflatable swan, flamingo, and unicorn floats are essential for that flawless summer selfie, while other pool toys like beach balls provide plenty of fun for your guests. Foam noodles are the ultimate in low-maintenance pool party fun.Shop Pool Toys2

Water Games

When it comes to friendly competition in the pool, nothing beats water games and sports. Diving toys are a great way to keep younger kids entertained during the party, while floating basketball hoops and volleyball nets are perfect for a quick match between guests.Shop Water Toys3

Sunblock

Although most people will probably bring their own sunscreen, it’s definitely a good idea for the pool party host to have some on-hand. It’s always nice to feel the warm summer sun on your face, but it can also cause damage to your skin. Good sunblock will protect you and your guests from uncomfortable sunburns while you play.Shop Sun Care

Extra Towels

Towels are an important part of any pool party. While they’re useful for drying off, you might also consider laying out a towel or two on your poolside loungers or lawn so guests have a comfy place to lie back and soak up the sun.Shop Beach Towels

Umbrellas

Most pool parties take place on hot, sunny days in the late spring or summer. Even though it’s nice to celebrate that seasonal warmth after a long winter or wet spring, your guests may want to escape the sun’s rays from time to time. A solid and sizeable patio umbrella can provide the perfect touch of shade for any guests who find themselves overheating.Shop Patio Umbrellas

Poolside Lounge Chairs

Lounge chairs are the perfect place to recline and soak up some summertime sun. If you don’t already have a few around your pool, invest in some comfortable loungers before you throw a pool party. With tons of unique styles and looks to choose from, you can find just the right lounge chairs to match the look and feel of your pool area.Shop Outdoor Chaise Lounges

Outdoor Games

While swimming is at the heart of any pool party, it’s always a good idea to include a variety of games and activities outside the pool as well. Outdoor games like bean-bag tosses or oversized dice are pool party staples that can provide hours of fun for you and your guests. Other activities like hula hoops and sidewalk chalk are popular with both kids and kids at heart, and they can add plenty of amusement to your party.Shop Lawn Games

Outdoor Entertainment

Outdoor media is a great addition to any pool party. Outdoor speakers flood your pool space with all your favorite tunes to make them perfect for a poolside dance floor, while outdoor projectors and a resilient screen make it easy to kick-back on a lounger or pool float and enjoy a screening of your favorite films.Shop Speakers

Plastic Cups

No matter what kind of drinks you serve at your pool party, plastic cups are the way to go. Plastic cups drastically cut down on cleanup time and won’t shatter like glass if accidentally dropped on a hard pool deck. It’s also a great idea to keep a permanent marker within arm’s reach so your guests can mark their cup and keep track of their drink.Shop Plastic Glasses & Barware

Backyard Grill

Grilled foods and pool parties go hand in hand, and your guests will love a fresh burger or hot dog after a long afternoon of swimming and poolside play. When it comes to feeding your pool party guests, the bigger the grill area the better. After mealtime is over, nothing beats roasting marshmallows over a firepit or fire-table for dessert.Shop Grills & Outdoor Cooking

Stylish Serveware

Refreshments are an important part of any pool party, and summertime staples like chips and dip or fresh fruit salad pair perfectly with swimming and sunbathing. Bowls, platters, and trays made from plastic or melamine won’t shatter if dropped, making them ideal for outdoor meals and treats.Shop Serveware

Poolside Drink Makers

No party is complete without some delicious drinks, and that’s especially true of a pool party in the hot summer sun. If you don’t have some already, invest in a few cocktail shakers and other drink-making necessities. Arrange drink ingredients and glasses on a poolside bar cart that’ll keep delicious summertime beverages within arm’s reach for you and your guests.Shop Outdoor Bar Carts

Outdoor Soft Goods

If you know your party is going to continue well into the cooler night hours, add a few throws and accent pillows to your poolside space to help keep your guests comfortable and warm. Look for resilient fabrics that are sun-resistant and can withstand getting wet without a problem.Shop Outdoor Cushions & Throw Pillows

Poolside Illumination

Lighting is another important addition for nighttime pool parties. Outdoor string lights are great for lending a touch of old-fashioned charm while illuminated accents that float on the pool make it even more fun to enjoy a nighttime swim.