30 Pool Party Ideas

Dive into these recipes, DIYs, décor and more! ☀️

Pool parties are pretty darn fabulous by their very nature—it's hard to beat the combo of warm sun, cool water, great friends and treasured family. But it's always possible to make even the best times a little bit better, which is why we've put together the following list of perfect pool party ideas. Ahead, you'll find everything from great grilling recipes and other suggestions for poolside fare to fun pool games (both in and out of the water); and even themes to tie the whole gathering together. (A glam pool party? Who knew?) And maybe best of all? These helpful hacks and hints won't cost and arm and a leg to recreate.

Whether you have an in-ground pool, a stock tank, or even just an inflatable pool, the following ideas will help you take your pool party to the next level, while still keeping the planning and execution totally stress-free. Then, just cue up some sweet summer tunes, pull on your favorite swimsuit and join in the fun. Oh, and if you're like the Drummonds and have a pooch or two that loves the water, don't forget to set up a dog pool so they beat the summer heat, too!

Inflatables like balloons, pool floats, or (even better!) both are a fast, inexpensive way to up the fun factor at any pool party.

See more at Studio DIY.

SHOP BALLOONS

So easy to make from fresh fruit, these super-healthy popsicles are as pretty as they are yummy.

See more at One Little Project.

If you're looking to make a splash by elevating your bash, glam it up. Gold accents, plush pillows, a luxe flower arrangement or two and you've set a scene straight out of Beverly Hills.

See more at Sugar & Cloth.

Donut cake pans, along with lots of frosting, are the keys to whipping up these delightful desserts that look just like pool floats! They're sure to be the hit of your next pool party.

See more at Aww Sam.

Getting ready for a waterside blowout and need more seating pronto? Don't despair, just pull together a couple of these clever recliners made from pool noodles and parachute cord.

See more at The House That Lars Built.

SHOP POOL NOODLES

DIY a fire pit your guests will flock to once the sun goes down and the s'mores ingredients come out. It's easier to do than you might think, thanks to this tutorial. Or you can always buy one of these affordable fire pits.

See more at A Beautiful Mess.

Sangria is one of summer's most festive, flavorful drinks. Made with crisp white wine and fresh fruit, this make-ahead cocktail is a hostesses secret weapon.

Get the White Wine Sangria recipe.

If your pool party has a tropical flavor, these adorable garlands shaped like jungle flowers and fern leaves will add on-theme visual pizzazz to your gathering.

See more at Dream a Little Bigger.

Easy to serve and eat, grilled and skewered shrimp are light enough that guests might not have to wait 30 minutes after chowing down before they get back into the pool. They make a great app or even a side for a summer cookout.

Get the Grilled Shrimp Skewers recipe.

These pretty paper pineapple lanterns will bring a glittering glow to your party. We recomend using them with battery-operated tea lights for safety's sake.

See more at Lia Griffith.

SHOP FLAMELESS TEA LIGHTS

If pink's one of your favorite hues, you might want to go with a flamingo-themed party that includes these super-cute disposable silverware pockets.

See more at Polka Dot Chair.

Backyard games like this funky DIY cornhole set will keep the action going when everyone's skin is too pruney to even think about hitting the water again.

See more at Lovely Indeed.

This fun twist on a classic tropical drink has all the flavors of a piña colada (including pineapple and coconut) in cake form! Serve up each slice with a mini paper umbrella for even more poolside fun.

Get the Piña Colada Cake recipe.

If you are tossing a mermaid-themed event for the gals in your group, these sweet little sugar scrub cubes will make for a festive party favor. Pair them with mermaid bath bombs if you want to go the extra mile.

See more at Ruffles and Rain Boots.

No swimming hole at home? No worries—grab the gang and head to a public pool. (Hint: many hotels sell non-guests day passes to their pools.) And don't forget to bring the floats!

See more at PMQ for Two.

SHOP POOL FLOATS

Bring your pizza party outdoors by learning how to make pizza on the grill! Then finish the pies with summery pizza toppings, like fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

Get the Grilled Pizza recipe.

Supercharge your party by setting up and outdoor movie and screening your favorite summer flick. Might we suggest one of Ree's favorites, Jaws?

Photo backdrops remain an incredibly popular addition to parties and why not—who doesn't like to vogue? With its brilliant hibiscus flowers and rich green foliage, this one is a must for events with a Hawaiian or tropical theme.

See more at The House That Lars Built.

Don't forget to welcome guests into your poolhouse if they need to change into their suits or otherwise use the facilities. It can be a great place to add extra seating for larger get-togethers, too.

When everybody is out of the pool, this DIY holder will keep your floats corralled nice and neat.

See more at The Merrythought.

SHOP WOOD GLUE

Jill Gleeson is a travel journalist and memoirist based in the Appalachian Mountains of western Pennsylvania who has written for websites and publications including Good Housekeeping, Woman's Day, Country Living, Washingtonian, Gothamist, Canadian Traveller, and EDGE Media Network. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots.com.

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