Is there anything better than a shimmering pool on a sweltering summer day? Peter Piper thinks not! And guess what? The pool isn't just for swimming laps or basking in the sun. It's a vibrant stage for fantastic fun and games, especially when you're armed with the knowledge of the best pool games to play in 2023.

Pool Memories

Peter Piper recalls the time he spent at the local swimming pool as a kid. It was a true highlight of summer vacations. Each afternoon, the pool would come alive with the laughter and shouts of little kids, teens, and adults as they splashed and played their favorite pool games.

Under the summer sun, the pool would transform into a cool, refreshing playground (even the shallow end where the younger kids would dip their toes). Floaties, rafts, diving for change from the pool bottom, Marco Polo, and even the occasional underwater tea party(who came up with that idea?).

And challenges! Big kids would try to swim from one end of the pool to the other in a single breath! And, don't forget, working up the nerve to leap from the high diving board!

Throw in the ever-present beach ball and you have the perfect summer day.

Ask yourself... Movie? Picnic? Park? Nope! The pool wins every time!

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How Peter Piper Picks the Perfect Products

When selecting the best pool games, we consider a variety of factors, including the fun factor, age range, and safety. After all, we want everyone to have a blast while staying safe in the swimming pool. We've selected games that cater to different swimming abilities and age groups, ensuring that everyone can join in the excitement.

Water Basketball: What a Fun Game!

Get ready to shoot some hoops while cooling off in the pool with water basketball fun! This exciting sport for two teams is played in the water and is suitable for kids and adults alike. With simple rules and easy-to-find equipment, water basketball is perfect for adding a competitive edge to your pool time and improving your hand-eye coordination.

Best Floating Basketball Hoop

GoSports Splash 360 Floating Basketball Game

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Why Peter Piper Picked It

When it comes to swimming pool games, who said it has to be all about floating and soaking?

The Splash Hoop 360 takes the competitive spirit of basketball and throws it right into the pool. Just imagine the excitement as you and your friends try to sink those water basketballs into the hoop, the splashes going high as everyone jumps and dives.

What Peter Piper Wants You To Know

This floating basketball hoop is thoughtfully designed, durable, and a fun-filled addition to your swimming pool games repertoire.

The Splash Hoop 360 stands out with its easy, instant assembly that requires no tools. It's sturdy, and engineered to withstand all the splashing and energetic play that comes with water basketball. The hoop comes with 2 water basketballs, which are designed with an anti-slip grip.

The set includes a convenient hand pump with an inflation needle, ensuring your play never deflates. It weighs less than 5 lbs, making it super portable and easy to set up in any pool.

Best Poolside Water Basketball Hoop

GoSports Splash Swimming Pool Basketball Game

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Why Peter Piper Picked It

If you have a pool with a deck and want to use a fixed hoop (instead of a floating one), then check out this option from GoSports. You can place the hoop on the side of the pool where a water-filled base keeps it in place.

What Peter Piper Wants You To Know

This basketball hoop features a sturdy construction and a modern design that can withstand the rigors of pool play. The fast setup and weighted base (when filled with water) ensure secure stability for hours of fun.

The GoSports Splash Hoop Pro set includes 1 hoop, 2 inflatable water basketballs, and a ball pump, giving you all you need for the ultimate party game. The 34-inch x 25-inch backboard and 14-inch rim have been specially engineered to withstand intense pool play.

Whether it's a summer pool gathering or a casual day of fun, the GoSports Splash Hoop Pro brings the exciting action of basketball right to your pool. If you're looking for a new way to upgrade your pool parties and beat the summer heat, this product is a top-notch choice.

Floating Ping Pong

Take your ping pong skills to the next level with a Floating Ping Pong Tournament! This exciting competition is perfect for adults and older kids, as it combines the skill and strategy of traditional ping pong with the added challenge of playing on a floating table.

Best Floating Ping Pong Game

Poolmaster Floating Table Tennis Game

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Why Peter Piper Picked It

Tired of the same old swimming pool games? Let's switch it up a notch, or rather, serve it up a notch! Peter Piper has found floating fun that takes the excitement of ping pong and adds a splash of sunshine and water. Meet Poolmaster Floating Table Tennis.

You see, the pool isn't just for belly flops and Marco Polo anymore. Amidst the cool waters of your pool, players engage in friendly ping pong volleys while laughing and enjoying the day.

What Peter Piper Wants You To Know

Here's a bit more about what makes the Poolmaster Floating Table Tennis Game a top pick.

Measuring approximately 54" x 27", it's a game that can comfortably fit into most pools. The game includes a net with game posts, two oversized paddles, and three regulation-sized ping pong balls, everything you need to get started right away. The table has molded compartments built into the underside, making it super convenient to store your game components.

Made by Poolmaster, a trusted name in pool games, this item weighs around 10 pounds. Also, you can use it outside of the pool. Set it on any hard surface (such as a table) for out-of-the-water fun.

With easy setup, storage convenience, and versatility, Poolmaster's offering is perfect for family merriment anytime. So, are you ready to serve up some fun?

Water Volleyball

Get ready for an action-packed water volleyball showdown! This fun and exciting game is perfect for players of all ages, as it combines the skill and strategy of traditional volleyball with the added challenge of playing in the water.

Two teams face off in an attempt to score points by hitting a ball over a net and into the opposing team's side of the pool. The rules are similar to those of regular volleyball, with a few adjustments for playing in the water (for example, out of the pool is out of bounds).

The first team to score a predetermined number of points, usually 11, 15, or 25, wins the game.

There are sets for using both fixed nets and inflatable ones. With a fixed net, "posts" are placed on either side of the pool on the deck. With a floating set, the entire net floats on the water.

Bet Pool Volleyball Net for Inground Pools

GoSports Splash Net Pro Pool Volleyball Net

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Why Peter Piper Picked It

What's summer without a bit of competitive fun in the pool? The GoSports Splash Net PRO pool volleyball set is an absolute summer essential, offering an excellent mix of sport and fun.

What Peter Piper Wants You To Know

This pool volleyball net offers a premium experience, designed with sturdy bases and netting to ensure maximum fun in the pool. This net provides a safe and enjoyable environment as the water-weighted bases keep it upright, preventing any chance of tipping over.

It's a flexible solution, compatible with virtually any inground pool, be it lap pools, rounded pools, or rectangular pools. The net straps can be adjusted to accommodate any sized pool, up to a maximum width of 25 feet.

The set includes an adjustable volleyball net with posts, two water volleyballs, and a pump, providing you with all the necessary components for an ultimate pool volleyball game.

Whether you're planning a pool party or just a regular day of backyard fun, the GoSports Splash Net PRO pool volleyball set is the summer essential you can't do without.

Best Inflatable Pool Volleyball Game

GoSports Splash Net Air Inflatable Pool Volleyball Game

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Why Peter Piper Picked It

Sometimes you need a game that's easily portable to use on the go. That's where the GoSports Splash Net Air, an inflatable pool volleyball game, comes in. It's an easy and fun way to bring the competitive spirit of volleyball into your pool, with the added convenience of easy storage and transportation.

What Peter Piper Wants You To Know

The Splash Net Air is specifically built for pool play, boasting a huge 9.5 ft wide net constructed to withstand pool splashing fun and resist tipping over. It's designed to float in the pool, and the sturdy base adds extra stability, ensuring your volleyball game doesn't come to a premature end.

One nice feature is the inclusion of a rapid valve inflation system that allows for fast and stress-free inflation. It's a much better option compared to more traditional products. You can have it set up in just 2 minutes, saving you precious time on a sunny day.

The Splash Net Air set includes one standard-size volleyball and one large volleyball, making it suitable for players of all skill levels. Whether you're new to volleyball or a seasoned pro, this inflatable pool game has you covered.

So why not dive into the summer fun with the GoSports Splash Net Air? You'll upgrade your pool day experience with epic spikes and rallies, making every pool day one to remember.

Water Polo

Playing water polo at home is a great way to have fun, enjoy the sun, and get a little exercise. Regardless of skill level, anyone can participate, making it an excellent activity for family get-togethers, community events, or friends just looking for a lively afternoon.

Best Pool Water Polo Game

GoSports Water Polo Game Set

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Why Peter Piper Picked It

Who said swimming pool games are all about the splash? Why not enjoy a vibrant session of water polo with the GoSports Floating Water Polo set? This is not just another pool game, it's an exciting team sport that will bring unforgettable fun to your summer days!

What Peter Piper Wants You To Know

Let's dive into what makes the GoSports offering a great choice for the best swimming pool games. It's a thoughtfully designed, durable, and high-performance product that adds a new dimension to your typical swimming pool games.

It's a simplified setup that takes less than two minutes. Made from PVC and netting, the goal is approximately 2 ft. high and 4 ft. wide which should be great for any backyard pool. It comes with three inflatable 6-inch water polo balls and a ball pump, ensuring that your fun never deflates.

This is a fun and easy addition to your pool that guarantees excitement for swimmers of all ages. You can enjoy playing with your friends or take some time to practice on your own. It's all about the joy of playing, the thrill of scoring, and the satisfaction of a well-played game.

Diving Deeper: Frequently Asked Questions about 2023's Best Pool Games

Which is the best swimming pool game for enhancing hand-eye coordination?

Any of the games we have presented here will assist. Try to get some variety and most importantly play what you love!

What game can involve the whole family, including younger children?

The GoSports Splash Net Air, an inflatable pool volleyball game, is perfect for players of all skill levels and age groups, making it an ideal game for the whole family. That said, any of these games are ideal for family fun.

How can we add extra fun to our next pool party?

Organizing a belly flop contest is a surefire way to add extra fun. Just make sure the water is deep enough for safe belly flops, and remember, the highest score wins (perhaps judged by how red that belly is!).

What is the best pool game for improving swimming underwater skills?

Playing treasure hunt using diving sticks can help improve your ability to swim underwater. The game begins when someone throws the diving sticks into the pool, and players dive to retrieve them from the bottom of the pool.

What game can we play with a pool noodle?

Chicken is a classic pool game where two players basically engage in a jousting match, each riding on another swimmer's shoulders and wielding a pool noodle. The aim is to knock the opponent into the water.

How can we make pool time more fun for our swim team?

Playing team-based games like water polo or water volleyball can make pool time more exciting for swim teams. These games encourage teamwork and are great for building endurance and strength.

Are there any pool games that can be enjoyed without knowing how to swim?

All of these games (like pool basketball and pool volleyball) can be played in the shallow end of the pool where you can comfortably touch the bottom. Always remember, safety comes first, and flotation devices should be used for non-swimmers.

What are some safety tips to remember while playing pool games?

Always supervise children, don't run near the pool, avoid diving into shallow water, keep the pool area free of hazards, and make sure everyone knows how to swim. Also, always have a first aid kit nearby.

Can pool games be educational?

Yes, pool games can also be educational. For example, you can play a game of underwater alphabet where plastic letters are thrown into the pool and kids have to dive in to retrieve them and form words. This helps them to learn while having fun in the pool.

What sports can you play in a swimming pool?

Get ready to have some fun in the pool! With water sports like basketball, volleyball, water polo, or even a game of catch, you can make a fantastic summer splash. Some have even purchased a specific "water ball" and have played underwater ball, passing and bouncing to each other off the pool floor.

Summary

In conclusion, the Summer of 2023 can offer endless fun and excitement for kids and adults alike. Playing games like basketball, volleyball, ping pong (who'd have thought?), and water polo will keep your family busy and happy for months on end.

Be sure to click the links under the recommended products to see their pricing and availability, then dive into these amazing games and make a splash at your next pool party.

Oh, and don't forget the sunscreen!