We independently select and share the products we love—and may receive a commission if you choose to buy.

Summer is finally here and we could not be more excited. We’re ready for beach days, hours of playtime in the backyard and all the splashing and swimming we can get. And while schelpping to the community pool is a charming pastime, it can be a lot of work with kids in tow. One of the best ways to beat the heat when you’ve got little ones? Inflatable pools.

Whether the intention is to keep the kids busy for hours or to give yourself a mini vacation during nap time (a mom can dream!) these awesome inflatable pools, toys and sprinklers are the perfect outdoor toys to up your summertime fun. So throw on that bathing suit, pour yourself a cold drink and let the fun begin!

Related: 13 great places to buy matching swimsuits for the entire family

Here are some fun inflatable pools and toys we’re snagging this summer:

Best inflatable pools

Intex Sunset Glow Baby pool

$12.99

Unlike big kids, babies don’t need much when it comes to a pool during the summer. Slides and water canons and climbing walls would be lost on them (not to mention unsafe). They’re going to be thrilled just to be inside a tiny pool made just for their size! My favorite is this super simple, super cheap rainbow version from Intex. With over 25k 5-star ratings and thousands of reviews on Amazon, the pool is a favorite among parents with babies for one resounding reason: It’s soft! The flooring is also inflatable, providing extra padding for baby crashes. Also, the price can’t be beat. At $12.99, it might be the cheapest fun money can buy. (There’s also a slightly larger version if you need room for two.)

H2OGO! Sweet Strawberry Round Above-Ground Inflatable Play Pool

$21.44

The H2OGO! inflatable pools are impressively sturdy given the inexpensive price point. (And what says summer more than a strawberry motif?) At five feet across, it’s large enough for multiple kids but doesn’t take up an obscene amount of space. The only drawback is that there’s no drainage hole, so you’ll have to push down the side to drain.

Intex 90 Swim Center Color Pinwheel

$38.98 $49.99

A little larger and a little deeper than the pick above, we also like this puffy Intex style. With added details like a cushioned bottom and drain plug at the bottom, it’s also comfy and convenient.

inflatable pools toys summer 8 - Motherly

$99

If you’re looking for something that’s a fun to look at as it is to use, the fun heart shaped pool by FUNBOY will have you falling in love with your backyard all over again. The oversized design comfortably fits two adults or multiple kiddos. It’s also ideal for year-round, fill with water in the summer and then move inside in the winter and use as a ball pit.

Minnidip PASSPORT VENEZIA - Motherly

$50

Since they launched in 2017, Minnidip has created some of the most aesthetically pleasing inflatable pools we’ve ever plopped in our backyards. The tufted style is just right for lounging whether your pint-sized or parent-sized.

Intex Easy Set Pool

$56.99

If you really want to take the plunge (har, har!) and go big, you could opt for the highly-rated Intex Easy Set Pool. It’s made from super durable 3-layer PVC and though it doesn’t come with a pump, it’s recommended to use one. At 10 feet across and 30 inches deep, be warned that it is the stepping stone to full on pool ownership.

Intex Swim Center Family Lounge Pool

$48 $53.99

With a bench to relax on and plenty of open space for splashing, this two-zone style is ideal for both parents and kids. (Plopping on the floor is fine, but if you don’t have to…) There’s room enough for two on the bench and there’s even two cup holders to keep icy cold drinks close at hand. Overall it’s a great size that’s easy to set up without becoming a giant pain to maintain.

P.S. It’s also the perfect design for pregnant moms!

Best sprinklers, splash pads and water parks

Minnidip The Blush Twist Garland Arch Sprinkler

$50

Sometimes we buy things for our kids, sometimes we use our kids as an excuse to buy things we want for ourselves. For example, this chic Minnidip Garland Arch Sprinkler which provides both fun afternoons running under it and the perfect backdrop for a summer party photo booth. How versatile!

Pottery Barn Kids Inflatable Cactus Sprinkler

$94.99 $119

Speaking of backyard summer parties, this 6 foot fella is sure to impress. It’s as fun as it is photogenic.

Sunnylife Into The Wild Inflatable Sprinkler

$30

A sprinkler fit for adventure! The snake shaped design is fun for both toddlers and older kids alike, and can withstand a fair amount of roughhousing.

SUNNY & FUN Ultra Climber Inflatable Water Slide Park

$479

Want to have the coolest house on the block? Need something to keep the kids busy between summer camps? This bad boy will do it. With hundreds of 5-star reviews, the splashing, climbing, sliding inflatable brings the water park to your backyard. Not only is it tons of fun, it also inflates in minutes with the included pump and is made from puncture and UV-resistant materials and coated with PVC for durability.

PicassoTiles KC108 Water Slide Park

$230.99

Similarly, this highly-rated option will be the talk of the neighborhood. It’s got a climbing wall, slide, water cannon and splash pool to keep them happy and cool for hours at a time. With the included blower, it inflates in just minutes and can be tucked away into the carrying bag when the fun times are over.

inflatable pools toys summer 7 - Motherly

$19.99

It’s a splash pad, a sprinkler and a wading pool all in one! That’s right, this Amazon top-seller is a place kids of various ages can all play at once. Peacefully? Well, that’s debatable.

Step2 Water Bug Splash Pad

$59.99

For a sturdier option that will definitely last through multiple seasons and kids, check out the Water Bug Splash Pad from Step2. It’s made from the same durable double-walled plastic as their water and sand tables which won’t fade or crack and easily wipes clean when they’re done!

inflatable pools toys summer 11 - Motherly

$31.99

Another Minnidip must-have we’re beyond stoked about! Not only are we totally here for this plant motif, but the hours of fun it provides for babies, toddlers, and even adults make it a no-brainer.

Wow Sports Splash Pad

$79.99

For multiple kids, check out the WOW Sports Splash Pad. The giant 10′ diameter pad with a built in sprinkler system is great for older kiddos, but fun for little ones as well. Best of all, it’s far easier to set up and take down than an actual pool!

A version of this story was published June 4, 2021. It has been updated.