The Best Pool Toys of 2026

On the more expensive side, the Splash Hoop from GoSports is a sturdy hoop made of thick plastic with a weighted base. The 34-by-25-inch backboard and 14-inch rim are specially engineered to withstand pool play, and it can withstand a little roughhousing. Assembly is required, but it takes about five minutes to complete, making the hoop ready for use the same day. It includes two balls and a pump, and comes in either red or blue. The only complaint that we found is that the paint might flake off, but this doesn’t affect performance and seems like more of an aesthetic issue than anything else.

The Dive ’n’ Spell letters from Game are recommended for ages six and up. Including 61 colorful, weighted letters that sink to the bottom of the pool for retrieval, with the goal of completing the various word cards. The included word cards include 38 preselected words on sturdy but flexible waterproof cards. This game can be played solo or with multiple people. Parents like the choice of words included, but often mention that more letters would be helpful. The Dive ’n’ Spell letters and cards come in a reusable bucket for easy storage, and some have drilled drainage holes in the bottom so that any residual water won’t pool. We like this game because it can be used in and out of the pool, and it creates confidence in your child’s spelling as well as their swimming.

These numbered boats are a great way to help children with their counting, imagination and motor skills and are perfect for playing in the pool or bath. Colorful and well-balanced in the buoyancy department, these little boats are small enough for tiny hands and offer hours of pretend play. The included magnets are said to be strong enough to keep boats connected but not too strong where kids have trouble playing with them individually. Parents are pleased with the quality and price point of this boat set and their kids are instantly obsessed.

Perfect for all ages, these water bouncing balls from Waboba are great for either the pool or at the beach. With the ability to bounce across the water, these balls come in a two-pack and are made up of a patented three-layer design that easily skips across the water at long distances. And they’re pretty small, making them easy to transport to your destination and store when you aren’t using them.

The set includes four diving rings, five octopuses, five numbered torpedo bandits, 5 diving toy balls, and 5 diving fish. Made of durable yet soft plastic, these toys have a rough edge design that makes for easy gripping.

Offering a great variety at an inexpensive price, this 24-piece diving toy set is great for all ages. Reviews mention that their children love playing with them and they like that they’re soft enough so they won’t cause any damage if anyone accidentally gets bonked in the head. The quality is said to be so-so but as far as diving toys at this price, we wouldn’t pass by them.

Strengthen your kids’ swimming skills by tossing treasure into your pool and letting them return it to its rightful place in the Splash Bombs Treasure Chest. This pool toy’s great for ages six and up, and even adults can have a good time with it. Included is the treasure chest itself, along with thirty-nine coins to toss and retrieve. The only real complaint we see with this pool toy is that the chest is a bit smaller than expected. For a smaller toy, though, it’s said to be built well and holds up to being tossed around.

Made for players eight and up, the Goliath Hydro Zoom Ball is meant for two players at a time. Load up the Goliath Hydro Zoom Ball and send it back and forth with your opponent to see who gets the eventual splash. You never know when the balloons will pop, soaking one of you with water, so it makes for a fun game of odds. The makeup of this pool toy is sturdy, but may be hard for some kids to do; it’s said to be a real workout. You may want to purchase extra water balloons, as this toy only comes with about 10 or 15. The chamber itself is supposed to come apart somewhat easily, causing balloons to fall out.