It’s summer again, and the turquoise waters of the world’s biggest swimming pools are a-calling! You might have picked out your sundress, bikini, and even your parasol, but there’s one thing still left – swimming pool lounge floats! The novelty float industry ups the ante with its quirky, whimsical, and fun creations every year. Consequently, the art of inflatables has only gone from strength to strength in the last few years. Today, you have many Instagrammable choices for swimming pool floats to inflate and enjoy – think animals, food, and what-not. In fact, the actual challenge is to find one that is one-of-a-kind and fits your personality, because there are so many.
This year, the best and coolest floats range from recliner-esque lazy ones to pizzas to even unicorns! So, there’s something for each one of you out there that are sure to make your sun-kissed pool days more memorable. To that end, here are the 13 best swimming pool lounge floats for this summer.
How To Choose The Best Swimming Pool Lounge Floats?
If you’re planning for amazing pool fun, then you need to have all elements for poolside fun ready. Pool floats promise to be the most fun of them all. So, you’ve decided on the design of the float and you’ve even done your research on how to inflate pool floats. But, what next? What to look for while buying a swimming pool float? Read on.
Are you also looking to photograph your summer of poolside fun? Here are the best waterproof cameras for less than $200.
Material
If you want it to be durable, then you need to choose the right material for the pool float. If you have dogs or children, you might want something sturdier. Generally, there are two kinds of floats, inflatable and foam ones. You’ll need to inflate inflatable floats regularly, and with air compressors today, the job is much easier. Moreover, inflatable ones are easier to store, have a larger variety, and are relatively inexpensive. Foam ones, on the other hand, are more durable and places you closer to water.
Types of floats
There are many types of floats that you can choose from. The most traditional one is the classic pool float that allows you to lie flat and relax. It usually has a mesh material that allows water to flow through the float. Side-by-side ones are usually meant for a couple to spend time together in the pool. Family and Fun pool floats allow many people to lounge together on a single piece of float. Fun pool floats are also available in a variety of shapes and colors.
Float styles
Typically, there are two main styles of floats. The most simple one if a raft with a pillow section that lies flat on the water. It’s intended for you to simply lie down on your stomach or back. Pool floats allow you to prop up in the sitting position. They allow you to sip on drinks, read a book, and even listen to music while you’re out on the pool. Some even allow you to dangle your legs into the water, while others are embedded with drink holders.
Swimline Inflatable Pizza Slice Pool Float
13
If you see a line of pizza slices running down to the pool or beach this summer, don’t be flummoxed. For, they’ve just discovered the amazing Inflatable Pizza Slice Pool Float from Swimline! If all you want to do is sip on a cocktail while floating around, then this delectable-looking pool float is the best.
What makes the pizza float so great is its practical shape. It’s made from vinyl, is long-lasting, and can easily hold any weight. The crust part acts as the pillow, tapering down to your legs. Plus, it has two well-laced cupholders on the side to hold your drinks. If you’re with your friends, then you can easily stack up side-by-side to face each other and enjoy lounging in the pool together. What’s more, if you’re eight people, you can form an entire pizza! Now, what could be better than that?
Overall, the float is an excellent choice for poolside fun. What’s more, it makes for a great gift too!
Pros:
- Well-made.
- Vinyl construction.
- Two cup holders.
Cons:
- Durability is a bit dicey.
Buy on:
Kelsyus Chaise Lounger Pool Float
12
Do you feel like just dragging your comfy recliner chair into the water sometimes? Well, that’s what the Kelsyus Chaise Lounger Pool Float feels like. The best part? You can literally drag it all around the world to any destination you want. Whether it’s Europe or the Maldives, this fun float makes or a faithful laidback pool companion.
The highlight of this float is its comfort level. It features a fabric-covered outer flotation ring for security. In the center is a comfy, soft mesh bed that allows you to float just beneath the water surface, staying cool and not getting wet at the same time. What’s even better is that this float is a step-up from a regular raft, where your back and neck begin to ache if you try to read a book. This one eliminates that problem due to its innovative design and build.
Moreover, the float is lightweight, weighing just 7 pounds (3 kg) when inflated. The icing on the cake is that it even holds heavier and taller adults too. Plus, there’s room to share, so your beloved furry friend can join you too.
Pros:
- Lightweight.
- Holds heavier weights too.
- The mesh helps you stay cool without getting wet.
Cons:
- The cup holder is a bit small.
- The pipe to blow air in is a bit small.
Buy on:
Aqua Monterey XL Hammock
11
If you’re looking for a travel-worthy, compact, and packable float, then this Aqua Monterey XL Hammock would be it. It’s one of the most comfortable pool floats you’ll ever lay down on. So much so, that you might just not get out of the pool and end up with a sunburn!
This is one of the easiest pool floats to inflate and pack up and carry in your luggage. It’s also one of the easiest pool floats to get on and off. Since the seat comfortably rests in water, there’s no flopping, no ladders, and no jumping required. The four-in-one float is also extremely versatile as it transforms into a drifter, chair, hammock, or even an exercise saddle. This is thanks to the two buoyant ends that are joint using a supportive mesh lining. In fact, you can even use it to do water aerobics! Although, we doubt you’d get any activity done once you’re floating on this in the pool. Finally, its size is extra-large, which is around 30% wider and longer than the standard floats from the same brand.
Overall, the wonderful float is perfect for a day at the pool or even when you go away on a holiday.
Pros:
- Available in lots of colors.
- One of the easiest pool floats to inflate.
- Lightweight.
Cons:
- Durability is a bit dicey.
Buy on:
Jasonwell Giant Inflatable Unicorn Pool Float
10
Every pool season, there’s at least one of the all-time classic, Instagrammable pool float – the unicorn! While there are tons of options unicorn floats, the Giant Inflatable Unicorn Pool Float from Jasonwell is the most impressive one of them all. If you can’t get a real unicorn to chill in the pool for you, this pool float that’s easy to inflate brings you a step closer to the fantasy.
Perhaps the most impressive feature of the float is its size and durability. It stays well-inflated and super sturdy even when you have kids jumping on it all the time. Clearly then, it’s an excellent choice for adults. What’s more, it can hold two adults at a time, so you and your partner can sit on it without it crashing into the water. This is thanks to the durable, soft, and thick premium raft-grade material that it’s made of. Further, the pool float features a matte finish with fast valves that allow them to inflate and deflate five times faster. If that wasn’t enough, you can inflate it using everything from a toy air pump to a hairdryer.
Plus, when you’re astride a magical, mythical steed in the middle of the pool, you’re sure to turn heads.
Pros:
- Super cute.
- Large in size.
- Easy to inflate and deflate.
Cons:
- None, really.
Buy on:
Intex Angel Wings Pool Lounger Float
9
There’s a new angel in town, and you can float your way into summer on it. Spread your wings and take flight with the heavenly Angel Wings Pool Lounger Float from Intex. This perfectly-designed angel wings float makes for an Instagram-worthy photo op against the cyan-blue waters of the pool.
The design of the float belies just how comfortable it is. It features cloud-like wings and a headrest that gently rises out of the water and envelops your body. The middle lounge area giant pool float is white, while the wings are a heady blend of teal, light blue, dark blue, purple, and pink. Aside from the fact that it’s made from vinyl, the float even has two handles and has a repair patch included.
If you’re trying to remember where you’ve seen these wings before, it’s part of the famous Los Angeles’ Global Angel Wings Project. You must have come across one of the many hundred Instagram pictures of people standing in front of similar street art.
Pros:
- Beautiful design.
- Well-constructed pool float.
- Includes a repair patch.
Cons:
- Virtually none.
Buy on:
GoPong Pool Lounge Beer Pong Inflatable
8
Gone are the days when you could only play beer pong on terra firma. With the nifty GoPong Pool Lounge Beer Pong Inflatable, you can even play it in the pool. All you need to do is inflate the pool float whenever you’re in the pool, and simply deflate it for easy storage and packing after you’re done.
There’s a lot to love about this six-feet-long beer pong float. For one, it has eight sideline cup holders, six ping pong balls, as well as four tethering grommets. With a full 10-cup beer pong set up on both sides, this classic drinking game can turn your pool fun into an exciting soiree. Apart from being a beer pong table, it’s also a social floating lounge and basically the life of the party. The fairly long and wide dimensions offer not only good support but also a comfortable playing surface. Moreover, the integrated cooler than ensures your beer remains cold.
Finally, the pool float inflates quickly via the mouth and a pump both.
Pros:
- Soft finish and industrial-grade build.
- Included cooler for keeping drinks cold
Cons:
- Some users say that patching it is a bit of a difficulty.
Buy on:
Sun Pleasure Party Bird Island Giant Flamingo Float (CU)
7
If you’re a group of friends looking for the perfect party pool float to enjoy together, then the Sun Pleasure Party Bird Island Giant Flamingo Float is perfect. Be the envy of the pool as you and your friends lounge on this impressive float.
There’s a lot to like about this fabulous and flamboyant pool float. For one, it features a beautifully-design flamingo painted a vivid pink. It stays true to real life and even comes with wings and a cutesy tail. However, what stands out is the size of this humongous float. It’s more than 10 feet tall and 10 feet long and is roomy enough to accommodate up to 6 people. Moreover, the backrest and seats are wide enough to make everyone sitting on it feel comfortable. Further, the mesh floor allows water to fill at the bottom, keeping you cool as you relax. water so you can keep cool while you relax. It even has an in-built cooler and cupholder to keel your drink cool and refreshed for a while.
If that wasn’t enough, it even comes with a carry mesh bag and a pump so you can simply pack it all along and take it on your next trip, no matter where you go!
Pros:
- In-built cooler and cupholder.
- Pump and mesh bag is included.
- Fun to enjoy with friends.
Cons:
- Expensive.
Intex Inflatable King Kool Pool Lounge
6
For a throwaway price of $8, this Inflatable King Kool Pool Lounge from Intex is the cheapest pool float ever, and not just on this list! Whether your dog jumps on this or you take this into whitewater rivers, this float is as tough as nails.
One of the most striking features of this inexpensive float is the presence of a cupholder. So, you can save yourself the hassle of having to paddle back to the patio for a refill. The fun rainbow design looks all the better in the sturdy yet comfy I-beam construction. Plus, it even has armrests and a backrest that make it one of the most comfortable ways to spend an afternoon in the pool. Moreover, the float is easy to scramble onto and stays stable even when you move around on it. Finally, there’s even a hole at the end where you can dip your feet into the water while keeping yourself dry.
Pros:
- Cut-out hole to dip feet into the water.
- In-built cupholder.
- Fantastic rainbow design.
- Inexpensive.
Cons:
- None!
Buy on:
SwimWays Spring Float Recliner
5
if you’re looking for maximum relaxation, convenience, and comfort in your pool float, then the Swimways Spring Float Recliner is tailormade for you. It comes with an included armrest, backrest, and even an ottoman to rest your feet! The fact that it also has an in-built cupholder seals the deal.
There’s a lot to like about this pool float. The lounger’s seat keeps your body just beneath the water level, so you’re kept cool on hot and humid days. Meanwhile, the cut-out hole at the base is easy for dipping just your feet in, while keeping the rest of your body dry. The float is even easy to deflate and store and folds up into a mesh carry bag that comes with it. So, you can read your books or listen to music comfortably sans worrying about getting wet. You can even go to sleep in it! At the end, the large size gives your head and back plenty of space, relieving you of fatigue.
Pros:
- Portable and comes with an included mesh bag.
- Durable.
- Ergonomically comfortable.
Cons:
- Expensive.
Buy on:
Intex Floating Recliner Inflatable Lounge
4
The Intex Floating Recliner Inflatable Lounge is like the BarcaLounger for swimming pools! If you like listening to music or reading a book on the water, then this pool float is your best friend. The float might be shaped simply like a standard lounge chair, but it’s so much more than that. It also features supportive armrests and a plush backrest. Since it’s constructed from 18-grade vinyl, it doesn’t feel uncomfortable at any point in time. In addition, it has two air chambers, two heavy-duty handles, and two cup holders to keep your drink cool as you sip it.
If there is a weight limit on the float, it doesn’t show it. Aside from being easy to get on and off, it can withstand the heaviest of loads, and even has enough space for your pet to join in if you want. If you’re still on the fence about it, the float has a 4.1 rating from over 5,500 Amazon reviewers who say that it is unbelievably comfortable for doing literally anything.
Pros:
- Good quality.
- Comfortable back and armrests.
- Includes cupholders.
Cons:
- Keeps you high out of the water. So, you cannot dip your feet in or stay semi-wet like other floats.
Buy on:
Funboy Rainbow Cloud Daybed Pool Float
3
Pool floats from Funboy have made their way into the homes and hearts of celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Taylor Swift. In the last few years, Funboy strayed from fan favorites like unicorns and swans and introduced its now-popular design, the rainbow cloud. Stay sun-kissed and cool on this fluffy Rainbow Cloud Daybed Pool Float from Funboy. Unsurprisingly, those who’ve used it love it, and so will you.
Its biggest selling point is its appearance. The Rainbow Cloud is more than just a float; it actually looks like a cloud in the sky. The pool float is nothing less than a huge, personal lounging paradise. In can be inflated in less than five minutes with an electric pump or a cold hairdryer. What’s more, it even features PVC repair patches in case the need arises.
All said and done, this float might not be the most practical one out there. However, we doubt that you’re looking for practicality in a poofy rainbow cloud. All-in-all, if you’re a light user and looking for cute Insta photos, then this float is an absolute dream.
Pros:
- Highly Instagrammable.
Cons:
- No cupholders.
Buy on:
Inflat-A-Bull Bull Float (CU)
2
Bring wild, hedonistic fun to your pool by turning it into a rodeo with the Inflat-A-Bull Bull Float. It’s a far cry, and a rather refreshing one, from Instagram’s usual (read: tamer) pool floats. Take the bull-riding challenge in the pool with this inflatable bull float and enjoy what will be one of the most entertaining pool games for summer! It’ll be a real challenge if you last more than on it.
The best part about this bull riding challenge is that even if you fall, you’ll enjoy splashing into the water. It has five heavy-duty handles to hold on to, so you can be assured of a real challenge. An outer ring ensures both safety and balance. A plastic construction guarantees that it doesn’t simply fall apart. Both ensure an unending adrenaline rush for your pool adventure. What’s more, it can be inflated both manually as well as using an electric pump.
A big part of the bull’s appeal is photos, of course. However, if you do want to capture moments, we’d highly recommend shooting a bommerang instead!
Pros:
- Entertaining and fun.
- Durable.
Cons:
- Requires lots of pool space
FUNBOY Yacht Inflatable Pool Float
1
If you cannot afford a private yacht, then you might just end up loving this inflatable one. The designer Yacht Inflatable Pool Float from Funboy is one luxurious daybed that’ll definitely satiate your high-end fantasies.
There’s so much to like about this “yacht” that you’ll forget that it’s not a real one! To begin with, this bougie boat is spacious enough for not one, two people. So, you and your companion can lie down side by side. What’s more, there are even two cupholders as well as an “ice-bucket” or cooler compartment in the front. In addition, the”windshield” acts as the perfect place to rest your head. Overall, it’s something of an original design, and isn’t found in large quantities or commonly. Finally, the brand’s speed valves allow inflating and deflating it quickly via an electric pump or a hairdryer.
So, if you’ve ever wished to hang out with your buddy on a yacht sipping champagne, then this pool float makes for the perfect space to do so.
Pros:
- Innovative, creative design.
- Space for two people.
- Cupholders and ice bucket compartment.
Cons:
- Durability.
Buy on:
