Must Have Summer Products People Can’t Get Enough Of In 2024
The summer months are upon us: Pools are open, the beach is packed, and people everywhere are doing what they can to make the most of the warm weather.
If you're lacking summertime inspiration, a little bit of retail therapy can go a long way. From the pool deck to the barbecue, there's no shortage of products that will help make your summer more memorable. Here are some of the best products we've found so far this summer.
Remote Control Shark
Even in the age of high-tech drones, there's something to be said for the appeal of classic remote control toys. These run the gamut from helicopters to land vehicles to boats — and now, to sharks.
This R/C shark is fantastic fun for anyone who's looking to liven up their beachside or poolside experience. Just make sure to let everyone know that it isn't a real shark lurking in the depths.
Inflatable Basketball Set
There's nothing like a game of one-on-one (or three-on-three, for that matter) basketball in the pool. Anyone who likes throwing down some dunks in the pool needs something like this: A classic pool basketball set that floats on the water.
This set has everything you need for basketball, including an air pump and two balls. As an added bonus, it also includes a fully-featured ring toss game, including six rings and three targets.
Outdoor Games Combo Set
Similar to the set above, but for dry land, this is a great option for landlubbers who prefer to stick to the lawn and patio. This whole set fits neatly into the included bag, so it can easily be lugged into the park or a friend's house.
This brightly-colored assortment includes a couple of potential games, including rings and cones for ring toss, along with plenty of bean bags for any bean bag tossing games.
Waterproof Football
Back to the pool now, we present this waterproof football for your consideration. The squishy ball comes in a variety of bright hues that'll make it easy to see in the sunshine, and it won't get waterlogged like a conventional football might.
Even if football in the pool isn't your thing, it's still good to have a few basic toys like this for your guests. As a bonus, it can be used as a floatie.
Enchanted Flames
This simple product is an old campfire favorite and an entertaining way to liven up any fires you're having this summer. Just throw a packet of the powder into the fire and watch it burn in any number of mind-bending colors.
The best way to utilize this is not to tell anybody that you have it or that you're about to do it. Then, try to sneak it into the fire and watch everyone's eyes light up in amazement.
Pool Diving Toys
Some folks like to just float in the pool, while others are more adventurous — diving off of the diving board and exploring the depths of the deep end.
If you know anybody in the latter category, a package of pool diving toys is bound to keep them entertained. These weighted, colorful targets will be highly visible in any swimming pool, and will present a challenge to any intrepid divers who seek them out.
Archery Set
Shooting projectiles at targets is a satisfying activity, and this backyard archery set makes things fun, accessible, and safe for people of all ages. This is more than just two bows with arrows — the set also includes a target and LED flashing lights.
It might not be a true substitute for actual bows and arrows, but it serves as a great way to teach your kids the basics while keeping them safe.
Water Blaster Set
If you have a pool, chances are you have a few pool noodles kicking around. These ingenious toys look a lot like short, stubby pool noodles — but they have an incredible party trick.
These soft foam blasters can be filled with water, and then used like a squirt gun. This pack includes six of them, which should be more than enough for a full-fledged water battle. Just don't mix them up with your pool noodles.
Swim-Through Game
If your kids have used all the floaties and collected all the diving toys and still have energy, this set of underwater rings might just be enough to tire them out.
These hoops are designed to float just under the water's surface, suspending them just a couple of inches underwater. The set comes with a bunch of ring segments and connectors, so you can make the rings as big or small as you need to.
Toss Across
Bean bag toss games come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and all you really need to start is some bean bags and something to serve as a target. But if you want to step things up to the next level, you might want to check out Toss Across.
This lawn game combines bean bag tossing with tic-tac-toe. The rules almost write themselves: By tossing bean bags onto the grid, compete to be the first one to complete a full line.
Amphibious Remote Control Vehicle
For those who might be in the market for a remote-controlled toy but can't decide between a car and a boat, this innovative toy splits the difference. It's truly amphibious, meaning it can be driven on the lawn, beach, or even in the water.
Even for those mostly interested in dry land RC vehicles, this is a great option as its waterproof nature will protect it from the rain. Just charge it up and it'll provide up to an hour of fun.
Twister Splash
Twister is a classic party game that comes in the form of a large mat, and slip-and-slides are a classic lawn activity that also comes in the form of a large mat. It's a no-brainer that these two would be combined eventually.
This game from Hasbro doesn't reinvent the wheel, as normal Twister rules still apply. This version just brings things outside and incorporates a hose into the mix for some added thrills.
Inflatable Pool Volleyball Set
This inflatable combo set comes in a few colors and includes everything you need for some competitive team sports in the pool in one box. The main attraction here is the big inflatable volleyball net, but it also comes with a classic basketball net as well.
Whether you choose volleyball or basketball, this set includes floating balls for either sport. It's an easy way to add some teamwork and competitive energy to any pool party.
Bump N' Bounce
This toy really doesn't need much explanation. It's essentially a pair of kid-sized inflatable body suits designed with the sole purpose of allowing kids to run into each other without getting hurt.
This is kind of a pint-sized version of those big sumo suits you can wrestle in. It might be a good option for particularly accident-prone kids at play, as it's essentially the same as bundling them up in bubble wrap.
Watermelon Ball
If you have a pool, odds are good that you already have a few assorted footballs and other balls kicking around. This ball is more than just a watermelon-themed floating ball, though, and is a must-have for any pool.
The genius of this nine-inch ball is that its unique characteristics allow it to be suspended just under the water's surface. This means it doesn't quite float and doesn't quite sink so that you can pass, dribble, and shoot it underwater.
Dinosaur Rocket Launcher
Until today, you probably didn't realize that a compressed air rocket launcher with dinosaur-themed rockets was even a thing — but here's living proof. This is a fun spin on the classic air-powered rocket launchers, where a firm stomp on a pad will send foam darts high into the air.
These toys are fun for any kid, and the four unique dinosaur rockets are sure to delight as well. Add some bonus points for the dino-themed launch base.
LED Flashlight Gloves
Thanks to smartphones, most of us are never far away from a flashlight. But if you're the type of person who wants flashlights really close at hand, try these LED gloves on for size.
Because the lights are on the gloves themselves, this means the hands are freed up from holding a flashlight. From building a fire late at night to rummaging around in a dark and dusty pool shed, these gloves could have tons of summertime uses.
Inflatable Pool Roller Wheel
Floatie pool toys come in all shapes and sizes, and this is one of the best ones we've seen yet. While it floats like any other floatie toy, its main feature is that it stands up on the pool and functions almost like a hamster wheel.
This might sound a little odd, but just picture how fun it would be to move around in this wheel, supported entirely by the water's surface tension.
Wood Tower Game
This game isn't officially called Jenga, but we all know that this is just a jumbo-sized outdoor version of the classic tabletop game. Regular Jenga is fun, so it stands to reason that gigantic Jenga is gigantic fun.
This set is around two feet tall when fully compacted and can be used to build a tower that's more than four feet tall. If you want to supersize things even further, it can easily be combined with a second set.
Floating Game Table
Most pool floaties are designed with kids in mind, but what options are available for the grown-ups after the kids have gone to bed? This floating game table might be the perfect late-night pool accessory.
The table features a stable playing surface for any board or card games you might want to play (just make sure to get waterproof cards!) and also includes holders for snacks and drinks to be held securely.
Waterproof Playing Cards
Whether you have a floating table to play cards in your pool or just want to be able to play a game of poker without being worried about splashes, this deck of waterproof playing cards is for you.
These cards aren't just waterproof. They also come in a durable hard plastic clamshell case and each feature a fun, semi-transparent design that makes full use of their waterproof construction. They stay flexible even if they're wet.
Inflatable Palm Tree Cooler
This fun accessory serves as both a decoration and a cooler. The sturdy base of this inflatable palm tree cooler is big enough for a couple of bags of ice and a bunch of drinks, while the palm tree topper adds a fun ambiance to any outdoor gathering.
At 60 inches tall, the palm tree that tops this cooler is almost big enough to cast the same shade as a real palm tree.
UNO Splash Card Game
For those whose card-playing preferences lean more towards UNO than conventional cards, fear not — Mattel has made a deck of waterproof UNO cards to play this classic game in any condition.
These cards aren't just waterproof; they're also surprisingly rugged. Each one has a small hole that the included clip can be threaded through, making it easy to snap them onto a beach bag or backpack for UNO on the go.
Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker
This JBL Clip 3 speaker is a great option for those who want to keep the tunes bumping wherever they may go this summer. The small speaker is easily pocketable and packs a surprising amount of bass and sound fidelity into its diminutive frame.
Some of its best features have adventurers in mind. It's fully waterproof, so it can withstand splashes or even dunks in the water, and the integrated carabiner makes it easy to clip onto practically anything.
Waterproof Bags
While there are plenty of waterproof products intended for use by the pool or at the beach, there are also plenty of things that aren't waterproof. Some of these items, like your phone, are expensive.
These simple waterproof bags are inexpensive and portable and give peace of mind to anyone who wants to keep their phone or other valuables safe. They're also an effective way to keep sand and grit out of your phone's various ports.
Handheld Mini Fan
When the summer heat gets to be too much, and air conditioning isn't an option, a fan is the best way to stay cool. This tiny, rechargeable fan folds up to be smaller than a typical phone but packs a lot of cooling power into its small frame.
The soft blades of this fan make it safe for little ones, while its cute design comes in a variety of colors. Best of all? It's whisper-quiet.
Cowboy Hat Straw Covers
If you don't see the value in a device that covers up the straw on your drink, then you're probably one of the lucky ones who's never had a bee or fly crawl inside the straw they were sipping from.
These straw toppers not only keep your straw safe from any critters who might want to invade your beverage, but they're also super cute. One pack includes four of them — enough for the whole family.
Surfer Beach Bracelet
These beach bracelets from Hang Loose Bands channel the summertime spirit into a simple elastic bracelet that comes in dozens of awesome colors and designs. It's durable, reversible, and serves as a fantastic accessory for any missions to the beach.
These bracelets are more than just a fashion accessory, too. It's also easy to clip keys or other valuables to them if you're running short on pocket space.
Snackle Box Charcuterie Container
The nice weather, bright sun, and long days all lend themselves well to eating outside. But to do so effectively, you'll want to make sure your picnic supplies are on point — and this resealable, divided charcuterie container is a great place to start.
It's a great way to keep food items separate without lugging around a bunch of different Tupperware containers. There's no need to restrict this to charcuterie either, as it would make a great burger and hot dog topping station.
Water Table Pump
Parents of young kids know just how much fun a water table can be, which makes it worth lugging the conveyance around despite its bulky size.
If your kids really love their water table and you want to take things to the next level, consider this water table pump, which does exactly what it says. Rather than using a table with still, stagnant water, this pump circulates the water, creating a more immersive experience.
Inflatable Pool Float Toy With Bull
There are a lot of inflatable pool toys out there, but not many of them will make users feel like they're at the rodeo! Although this eight-foot device doesn't buck like an angry bull, the buoyancy and its slippery wetness can nonetheless make it a challenge to stay on.
Made of durable vinyl, this inflatable pool toy has protected connectors and five grab handles for more convenient use. It can also support up to 220 pounds and is much easier to set up than similar toys on the market.
Chicken Fight Inflatable Pool Float Game Set
There are a wide variety of pool floats on the market, but not all of them make such a game out of their existence. However, this "Chicken fight" inflatable pool set is made for battle, as the angry faces of the chickens were clearly made to face each other.
Intended for ages seven and up, the object of this pool game is to stay on your chicken while flipping your opponent into the water.
Rapid-Filling Self-Sealing Instant Water Balloons
As fun as water balloon fights are, they can be tricky to set up because of how finicky the appropriate balloons tend to be. However, it can be a snap thanks to the Bunch O Balloons line of rapid-filling self-sealing products.
This way, it's as simple as attaching the balloons' stems to a hose like so and then shaking them up once they're big enough. Thanks to their patented O-ring technology, these balloons — made from recycled plastic — don't require any tying and 100 of them can be filled in just 60 seconds.
Inflatable Peacock Pool Float
Although so many pool floats out there are adorable, not all of them are quite as colorful nor feel quite as luxurious as this adorable peacock. With its regal expression and dazzling plumage, it's the perfect way to stand out at the pool party.
The inflatable peacock pool float is intended to hold two people and measures 66 inches by 62 inches by 48 inches. It is made of thick raft material and is tear-resistant and UV fade-resistant. Unlike other floats on the market, this one can hold up to 400 pounds.
Dogs Splash Pad Pool
Although this is a pretty heavy-duty solution for summer fun, it's hard to think of a product that kids and dogs alike will enjoy more when it's hot out. In addition to being a relaxing pool, it also comes with a sprinkler system that surrounds everyone inside.
In addition to high-quality plastic and plywood that doesn't warp even when submerged for extended periods of time, the dogs' splash pad pool also features a non-slip surface for excited little feet. It also has double drainage ports and an intermediate connector, which makes draining and cleaning it easier.
Water Gun Party Favors
There's nothing quite like a summertime water fight, but not everybody has their own Super Soaker. For that reason, it can be advantageous to get a lot of little water guns together when planning a huge outdoor gathering.
That's where this handy 24-pack of water gun party favors comes in handy. Each pistol is designed to fit in small hands and fires streams that reach up to 15 feet. They're also made of durable, safe material in case the kids want to play rough.
Big Lagoon Inflatable Family Pool
This inflatable pool measures 103 inches by 62 inches by 18 inches, and features i-beam construction with extra wide side walls. That allows the whole to stay standing and remain durable when rambunctious kids climb over the edges.
It's considered easy both to set up and to tear down and is capable of holding about 144 gallons of water. Although its dimensions are far more likely to accommodate kids than adults, the big lagoon inflatable family pool is intended for ages three and up.
Inflatable Pool Toss Game Combo Set
As this photo makes clear, this inflatable pool combo set features everything a customer needs for two different tossing games. In addition to the classic ring toss game that the little girl is using, the set also includes the Midwestern favorite, Corn Hole.
Yet, while that game is usually played with bean bags, these plastic sacks are a little more waterproof. All items are made from heavy-duty PVC materials, and the structures are easy to inflate and deflate with the included air pump.
Baby Pool Float With Canopy
Intended for children between six and 36 months of age, this baby pool float is intended as a fun away to help them learn to swim. It's also designed with its own canopy to ensure they're protected from the harshness of the Sun's rays.
The pool float stays upright thanks to dual air chambers, and its adjustable mesh sides can keep babies safe while still allowing for interaction with parents. The baby pool float with canopy also features little squeezable, noise-making toys like the red octopus in the center, the dolphins on either side of it, and the seaweed bells beyond them.
Giant Inflatable Floating Water Mat
Although no specific weight limit is listed, this water mat measures 114 inches by 84 inches and weighs 19 pounds. In more general terms, the mat is intended for adults and is supposed to carry up to three of them. Your mileage may vary.
Nonetheless, this giant inflatable floating water mat features two air chambers, which allow for quick, easy inflation and deflation. It's also made of 2--gauge vinyl and is designed to stay durable when fully grown bodies horse around on it.
Jumbo Foldable Dog Pool
Since this pool is designed for the wear and tear it may experience from dogs, its durable PVC material and hard plastic shell ensure dogs won't scratch or collapse it. It also has an anti-slip bottom intended to keep both dogs and kids safe as they step in and out of it.
its drain valves are lower than usual, which makes the jumbo foldable dog pool easy to drain and clean. Although it's easily collapsible when desired and does not require an extra air pump, it also shouldn't be left in the Sun for extended periods. A dog's paws should also be trimmed and sanded before use.
Pool Noodle Holder
Although many households have their pool noodles and other assorted aquatic toys stored in a shed, there's a neat way to store them that keeps working after they're by the pool. With this pool noodle holder, kids can get their desired toys out without tripping over the ones they don't.
The holder is made of high-quality PVC and features mesh sections that are both tear-resistant and weather-resistant. They also feature side pockets for smaller items, and the wheels are lockable on one side to ensure the holder rolls and stops as desired. It comes in blue, brown, and white and can be assembled without additional tools.
Backyard Fountain Play Mat
This backyard splash pad comes in seven different sizes, which range from 59 inches in diameter to 117 inches. It also has a couple of color options, as this simple blue-on-blue scheme can be swapped out for a red, yellow, green, and blue design.
As for more practical considerations, this backyard fountain play mat is made of BPA-free plastic and features a non-slip surface intended to kids and dogs. Although dogs should have their paws trimmed before use, this splash pad is thicker and more durable than those by competitors and features a sprinkler system that can be adjusted like a water faucet.
Floating Serving Tray Table & Bar
While those who lounge in the pool can certainly see the value of resting their snacks and drinks on a floatie, most of them aren't really built for this purpose. However, this Balinese water float was specifically designed to keep those goodies safe and dry.
That's because the recycled plastic rattan was hand-woven in Bali using viro synthetic fiber, which is known to be resistant to the Sun's rays. The floating serving tray is also non-toxic and supported by aluminum and high-density foam for easier, more balanced floating.
Crab Splash Pool With Canopy
At first glance, this baby pool's crab design makes it adorable and likely irresistible to cooing little ones. While that's certainly true, this crab splash pool provides even more value with its fun sprinkler system!
Its PVC material is non-toxic and features no sharp edges. However, it does include a fade-resistant canopy that protects kids' skin from the Sun. It's also foldable and easy to set up, which means the children's enjoyment comes without any parental headaches. The product is intended for kids ages three and up.
LED Pool Lights
These LED strip lights are designed to cover the rims of above ground pools and feature up to 16 dazzling light patterns. They can be set to four different modes and the lights shine in 16 different colors.
Although the maximum length of the strip is 15 feet long, the lights work by a remote control with a range of up to 16 feet. The LED pool lights are shielded by protective tubing and the battery unit is sealed away. Although it requires three C batteries to run, the strip is waterproof, weather resistant and durable.
Ships Ahoy Play Center
Although this splash pool and aquatic play center has six different themes that include superstar accessories, cute animals from the Arctic, inflatable rocket ships, and adorable woodland creatures, the pirate-themed Ships Ahoy play center is particularly popular.
Whatever theme parents choose, however, they'll be interested to know that the splash pool features an easy-to-use drain valve and holds a total of 22 gallons. In addition to the octopus friend, it also comes with a removable ship wheel, four star rings to throw onto the octopus tentacles, and a repair patch.
Outdoor Towel Rack Holder
While most bathrooms have a towel rack installed, this handy rack is intended for outdoor pools and other locations where such an amenity isn't expected. It's made of 5150 solid aluminum, which makes the rack sturdy enough to hold at least ten towels.
Its matte black powder coating looks good and will stay that way because it's also rust-proof. The outdoor towel rack holder also comes with hanging screws to make installation easier, and while it's made for the outdoors, it works indoors as well.
Spikeball Spikebuoy On Water
This is for Spikeball fans who already have a set of the game, as it's required to use this product. Although the game is typically played on land, the Spikeball Spikebuoy allows players to take their matches to both shallow and deep water.
The spikebuoy consists of five leg floats and an anchor bag. After the floats are attached to the game's legs, the anchor bag is weighted with something heavy of the customer's choosing and left in the water to sink like so. The bag does not come with its own weight.
Inflatable Pool Foot Bath Basin
Although there is no shortage of inflatable products intended for the pool, this one stands apart from the rest because it's not actually supposed to go inside. Instead, this inflatable, light-up foot basin allows users to clean off dirt and pebbles before they step into the pool.
Since it includes solar-powered LED lights to make it work at night, it also doubles as a pool light when it's not in direct use. The inflatable pool foot bath basin is made of soft, durable PVC, and its lights work for six hours after charging.
