8 Pool Games You Have to Try This Summer
Whether you’re planning a backyard party, keeping the kids entertained, or just looking to add some fun to a lazy afternoon, pool games are the ultimate way to make a splash. From competitive challenges to silly group activities, here are eight pool games you absolutely have to try.
1. Sharks and Minnows
If there’s one pool game that never goes out of style, it’s Sharks and Minnows. This game is high-energy, super fun, and perfect for both kids and adults who aren’t afraid to get a little competitive.
How to Play:
Start by choosing one player to be the shark. The shark positions themselves in the middle of the pool. The rest of the players—the minnows—line up along one side of the pool, either in the shallow end or wherever works best based on everyone’s swimming ability.
When the shark yells “GO!”, the minnows must swim to the other side of the pool. The shark’s job? To tag as many minnows as possible before they reach safety on the opposite wall. Any minnow who gets tagged becomes a shark in the next round. The game continues until only one minnow remains—that lucky swimmer is crowned the winner and gets to be the shark for the next game.
Why It’s So Fun:
Fast-Paced Action: The chase creates an exciting sense of urgency.
Builds Swim Skills: Great for practicing quick swimming and evasive moves.
Scales with Group Size: You can play with as few as 3 players or a huge group of 20+.
Unlimited Rounds: It never gets old, especially when players get creative with swim tactics.
Pro Tips for Maximum Fun:
Set Boundaries: If your pool has a deep end, set rules about where the shark can or can’t go to keep it safe for younger swimmers.
Add Challenges: Make it tougher by requiring minnows to swim underwater or do a trick mid-swim.
Use Swim Fins or Floaties: Add floaties for little kids to level the playing field or use fins for a turbocharged challenge.
Glow Stick Version: Play at night with glow sticks! Sharks wear red, and minnows wear green. (Just be sure the pool is well-lit and supervised.)
Best For:
Ages 6+
Pool parties
Family gatherings
Summer camp vibes
2. Pool Volleyball
Looking to bring out your competitive side while staying cool in the water? Pool volleyball is the go-to game for group fun, laughter, and a whole lot of splashing. Whether you’re playing with friends, family, or neighbors, this classic water sport brings high energy and good vibes every time.
How to Play:
Set up a volleyball net across the middle of your pool (you can use a floating net or a deck-mounted one depending on your setup). Divide into two teams—usually 2 to 6 players per side works best. Use a beach ball or waterproof volleyball for easier handling in the water.
The rules are simple:
Serve the ball over the net to the other team.
Each team can hit the ball up to three times before sending it back over the net.
If the ball touches the water on your side, the other team gets a point.
First team to 11, 15, or 21 (you decide) wins the match!
Why It’s So Fun:
Inclusive and Easy to Learn: Anyone can play, even if they’ve never played regular volleyball.
Great Workout: You’ll be jumping, diving, and treading water without even realizing it.
Perfect for Team Bonding: Ideal for families, friends, or even team-building events.
Tons of Variations: You can play casually or turn up the intensity with mini-tournaments.
Creative Variations to Try:
Float-Only Volleyball: Players can only use floaties while playing—expect hilarious chaos!
One-Hand Challenge: Everyone has to play with just one hand.
Glow-in-the-Dark Version: Use a glow ball or LED net for nighttime showdowns.
Pro Tips for Pool Volleyball Success:
Use a lightweight beach ball for younger kids or a regulation water volleyball for serious games.
Keep the net tight and centered to avoid arguments about height and fairness.
Designate a referee for bigger games or tournaments to keep things fair and fun.
Create team names, keep score, and even hand out mini prizes for a party atmosphere.
Best For:
Ages 8+
Backyard pool parties
BBQs and summer gatherings
Teen and adult game nights
3. Chicken Fight
Ready for the ultimate test of balance, strength, and teamwork? Chicken Fight is a hilarious and slightly chaotic pool game that’s been a party favorite for decades. Whether you’re a fierce competitor or just in it for the laughs, this game is guaranteed to turn heads and create epic memories.
How to Play:
Players form teams of two. One person acts as the “base” and stays in the water, while the other player—the “rider”—climbs onto their teammate’s shoulders. Once all teams are ready and facing off, the battle begins!
The goal? Riders try to knock each other off by pushing, pulling, or off-balancing their opponents—all while staying mounted on their base. The last team standing (with their rider still up top) wins the round.
Why It’s So Fun:
Unpredictable Action: No two matches are ever the same. Expect a mix of intense strategy and silly flailing.
Great for Groups: Perfect for 4 or more players, and even more fun with a cheering crowd on the sidelines.
Test of Teamwork: Success depends on how well the base and rider coordinate their balance and movements.
Game Variations to Try:
Tournament Mode: Set up a bracket and crown the ultimate chicken fight champions.
Obstacle Course Chicken Fight: Add floaties or floating noodles as barriers to fight around for a fun twist.
Tag Team Style: Let players swap positions mid-game or between rounds to keep things fair and fresh.
Safety Tips (Play Smart!):
Only play in pools deep enough for the base to stand safely—avoid shallow ends to prevent injuries.
No headlocks, choking, or overly aggressive moves—this game should be fun, not a wrestling match.
If playing with kids or mixed ages, separate games by size/age for fairer and safer competition.
Avoid slippery pool surfaces around the edges—this is strictly an in-pool game!
Pro Tips for Winning:
Riders should keep a low center of gravity and use short, controlled pushes instead of wild swings.
Bases need strong footing—spread your legs slightly and brace for movement.
Communication is key. Yelling out when to shift, duck, or lean can give your team the edge.
Best For:
Ages 10+ (teens and adults especially love it!)
Pool parties and backyard barbecues
Competitive families or friends with a playful streak
4. Marco Polo
No list of pool games would be complete without the timeless classic: Marco Polo. This game has been making waves for generations and continues to be one of the easiest—and funniest—ways to turn an ordinary swim into a sneaky, splashy adventure.
How to Play:
One player is chosen to be “it” and must close their eyes while staying in the pool. With their eyes shut, they begin calling out “Marco!” to locate the other players, who are allowed to swim around to avoid being tagged but must reply with a loud “Polo!” each time they hear the call.
Using only the sound of voices and splashes, the player who is “it” tries to tag another player. Once they successfully do, the tagged person becomes the new “it,” and the game continues.
Why It’s So Fun:
Super Simple Rules: No gear, no setup—just players and a pool.
Perfect for All Ages: From kids to grandparents, anyone can play and enjoy it.
Surprising Strategy: Players get creative with silent swimming, sneak attacks, and echo tricks.
Unlimited Rounds: Quick turnover keeps the energy high and the game going.
Fun Variations:
Landlubber Rule: If someone tries to sneak out of the pool to avoid being tagged, the “it” player can yell “Landlubber!” If they’re right, the player is automatically “it.”
Silent Polo: For older players or teens, try a version where “Polo” responses have to be whispered. It adds stealth and makes things harder!
Reverse Marco Polo: The “it” player can open their eyes, while everyone else keeps theirs closed and calls out “Marco” to find them. It’s weird, but fun!
Timed Rounds: Add a 60-second timer. If the “it” player doesn’t tag anyone in time, a new player takes over.
Tips for a Great Game:
Play in a mid-sized pool so players have room to move, but not too much space to completely escape.
Remind players to respond loudly and keep their heads above water (no underwater “Polos”!).
Consider limiting dives or fast swimming for smaller kids to keep things safe and inclusive.
Rotate players often to keep everyone engaged and laughing.
Pro Move: Want to really win at Marco Polo? Practice your “poker face” Polo voice—one that sounds like you’re far away when you’re really close. It’s the ultimate stealth move.
Best For:
Ages 6+
Family pool time
Birthday parties and casual hangouts
Anyone who loves a good mix of tag, strategy, and silliness
5. Underwater Treasure Hunt
If you’re looking to combine fun, focus, and a little bit of friendly competition, the Underwater Treasure Hunt is a must-try pool game. This one turns your backyard pool into a thrilling underwater adventure that kids and adults alike can enjoy. It’s easy to set up, endlessly customizable, and perfect for parties, playdates, or just a fun afternoon.
How to Play:
Before the game starts, gather a collection of pool-safe “treasures.” These can include dive rings, coins, waterproof toys, plastic gems, or even custom-labeled items with point values written on them.
While the players are out of the pool or have their eyes closed, one person (the game master or a designated “pirate”) tosses or hides the treasures throughout the pool. Some can be dropped in the deep end for strong swimmers, while others stay in the shallow end for younger participants.
Once the treasures are scattered, give the go-ahead and let the players dive in to hunt! The goal is to collect as many items as possible within a time limit or until everything has been found.
Why It’s So Fun:
Promotes Exploration: Encourages kids to practice swimming and diving while having a blast.
Adaptable for All Ages: You can create an easy version for little swimmers or a complex challenge for teens and adults.
Endless Replay Value: Switch up the treasure types, rules, and challenges to keep the game fresh.
Encourages Group Play: Great for team games or solo scavenger-style competitions.
Fun Game Variations:
Point Value Hunt: Assign different point values to items based on difficulty. The player or team with the most points wins.
Timed Treasure Dash: Set a timer (e.g., 2 minutes) and see who can collect the most before time runs out.
Color Coded: Assign teams different colors and only allow them to collect their color items.
Puzzle Hunt: Hide pieces of a floating puzzle or word tiles that players must assemble after collecting.
Pro Tips for Maximum Fun:
Use weighted plastic items that sink slowly and are easy to spot.
Add some harder-to-see “rare” treasures for older players or bonus points.