Regardless of your backyard situation (or lack thereof), you’re going to want one of the best inflatable pools on hand when the temperatures start to rise this summer. While there’s still a few more months of chillier weather left, we figure now’s the best time to get on the search and start creating the at-home resort of your dreams without having to settle for a toddler-size inflatable kiddie pool because, let’s face it—a sprinkler or hose just doesn’t replace a pool party.
Luckily, we found lots of different inflatable swimming pool options when it comes to creating your own backyard oasis, even for those who are short on space. Want to soak in the sun on your own or with a little one? Look for an inflatable bathtub design that can double as a baby pool. (And make sure to do your research and read plenty of reviews if you are going to bring a young swimmer into the picture—safety always comes first.) Want to start a trend of weekly pool get-togethers? Make sure you opt for something big, sturdy, equipped with a good filter, and maybe even a design with a built-in bench or backrests. With so many options on the market, there’s never been a better time to find the right pool for your summertime situation. Some are so nice it’ll feel just like you’re average in-ground pool, thanks to electric air pumps and drain plugs. (Plus, you won’t have to deal with the hassle of cleaning a permanent pool—a simple repair patch can tackle any small rips.) Whether you’re looking for something to sit in solo or an option with enough room to accommodate your entire family, just follow these pro tips: Choose a flat surface to set up the pool (you want the water levels to be as consistent throughout the pool as possible) and invest in pool toys or pool floats with coasters—you know, to keep kids occupied and your drinks close. Or, you can get a small cocktail-height table to ensure a refreshing drink is always within reach. And don’t forget the sunscreen.
Forget about walking into Home Depot or Lowe’s and picking up the only design on sale—a little bit of research can go a long way when it comes to finding the perfect family lounge pool. We scoured the internet for all kinds of blow-up pool designs, including special above-ground pools with built-in cupholders and another that features a playful scalloped shape. Ahead, you’ll find our top picks for the best inflatable pools that bring vacation life to you with the help of a garden hose.
Shop our top picks
- Best for Blocking the Sun: Intex Sun Shade, $31 from Amazon
- Most Fun: Bestway Fast Set Paradise Palms Inflatable Pool, $143 on Amazon
- Cutest Looking Pool: Heart Shaped Inflatable Pool, $63 from Ban.do
- Best Shape: Pewter Translucent Arch Pool, $179 from Pottery Barn
- Easiest to Set Up: Bestway Fast Ground Pool Set, $146 from Amazon
You’re going to be thanking your past self for choosing this BPA-free design with an ultra-comfy bench, backrests, and cup holder built into it. It’s made of a tough PVC material, has two air chambers, and can hold 156 gallons of water. On top of all that, it’s easy to deflate (an underestimated task when it comes to having an inflatable pool). Looks-wise, it’s minimal and super unassuming—meaning you can have all your fun and not have to worry about leaving it out all afternoon.
Ok, yes, this is technically for kids. But if you’re worried about sun exposure, a little bit of shade can go a long way. Those looking for an inflatable option that would work well for young swimmers will love the scene printed on the side of the walls. (Just make sure to always keep an eye on toddlers when in use.)
Puncture-resistant puppy pools can be tough to come by. This one is technically not an inflatable pool—it folds up for easy storage and doesn’t require any kind of air to set up. When you’re ready to use it, just place a running garden hose into the pool, make sure the attached drain is closed, and wait. And even though this was designed for dogs, we fully endorse hopping in for a little cooldown.
This inflatable heart-shaped pool is made of heavyweight vinyl that easily fits up to three adults. It’s also two-feet deep (deeper than several pools on this list), making it much more comfortable for those who prefer to recline. “I bought this pool for myself on a whim. The description said it could fit two adults but I was a bit skeptical. But they’re right!” one five-star reviewer (of many) writes. “It really can seat two adults and comfortably. I’m looking forward to spending a lot of time in my pool this summer!” In case your pool develops any holes or tears, it also comes with a handy patch repair kit.
This translucent model from Pottery Barn that you can also find on Pottery Barn proves that a decent-size kiddie pool doesn’t have to be an eyesore. All of the brand’s minimalist kiddie pools have a space-saving half-moon shape and are made with extra-thick PVC that can be patched with the included repair kit.
The fast setup is a real draw for this one—you can go from empty space to a backyard pool full of water in an hour. For the quickest results, purchase an air pump. The construction is durable and tear-resistant, plus the filter pump will keep it squeaky clean.
If a pool party is your dream, you might as well make it festive. This inflatable pool has a secret water feature…okay, we’ll spoil it. The palm tree sprays water—all the more entertaining when you’ve got a group of people looking for some fun. Plus it’s pretty spacious, making it ideal for any summertime gathering.
Marry two iconic summertime activities with this option from Intex: chilling in the pool and shooting some hoops. Not only is it a great option if you have little ones with lots of energy, but it also offers a fun challenge for pool party goers who want to stay in the pool and also have some fun.
Billed as The Original Adult Kiddie Pool, Minnidip makes an easy-to-inflate (you can use a hair dryer!), chicly scalloped wading pool for the fashion set. With its 125-gallon water capacity, it’s better suited for cooling off than swimming laps, but it’ll definitely bring the temperature down while looking great.
Available in four different colorways, this totally portable inflatable (not that it looks like it) pool comes with a built-in pump and snap-on, snap-off pool cover. Note that this is designed to be a hot tub—complete with bubbles!
This rectangular pool—which has a simple twist-off drain cap and easily folds up—is roomy enough for a human and a dog. Choose a blue or gray high-grade industrial-strength exterior, sturdy enough for a rough-and-tumble pup.
