The 8 Best Pool Floats of 2023

Best Overall

Aqua Campania Ultimate Two-in-One Recliner and Tanner Pool Lounger

4.4

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If you’re looking for a pool float with maximum versatility, the Aqua Compania Ultimate Two-in-One Recliner and Tanner Pool Lounger is it. The adult-sized inflatable chair has it all, including an attached drink caddy, so you can sip on your beverage of choice while you bask in the sun. (There’s even room for your sunscreen). To use the chair as a recliner, flip the backrest into the upright position, or nestle it down into the hole in the floatie to use the chair as a lounger for resting or tanning. 

This isn’t your typical plastic float, either. The super buoyant float (it’s 20 percent thicker than your average inflatable), is made of a soft cool weave fabric—a high-quality mesh that helps create a supportive and cooling seat. Though rather large, the float is relatively portable, too, thanks to convenient carry handles.

We love how easy it is to get in and out of this float and the multiple seating positions possible. One thing to note: inflating may be a bit difficult at first because it has a double valve, but once this is mastered, inflating and deflating is a breeze.

Price at time of publish: $60

_{Dimensions: 3.25 x 16.5 x 13.85 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Recommended Age: 15 years and up}

Best Budget

Intex 30-Inch Transparent Tubes

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If you don’t need anything fancy—just something you can perch in or prop yourself up on—this three-pack of inflatable tubes will do just the trick. At 30 inches in diameter, the trio of tubes is suitable for both children and adults. 

Because of their size, the tubes are easy to inflate and deflate, too, making them ideal for a day trip to the town pool or even the lake or the beach. Still, they’re sturdy enough to accommodate those well over 100 pounds. Smooth inner seams mean no scratching, either—just a super comfortable place to float.

Price at time of publish: $14

_{Dimensions: 11.1 x 7.4 x 1.8 inches | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Recommended Age: 8 years and up}

Best for Adults

Aqua 4-in-1 Monterey Hammock Inflatable Pool Float

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Though it doesn’t look like much and weighs just shy of a pound, this pool float is extremely versatile. Adults up to about 6 feet tall (there’s also an extra-large version for larger, taller people) will love all that the simple vinyl and mesh raft can do. You can use it as a hammock, a chair, a drifter, or even an exercise saddle. Despite the breathable mesh fabric, the head- and footrests are super buoyant to suspend you in the water and contour comfortably to keep you afloat, no matter how you choose to use it.  

There are plenty of convenient features, too, including a removable pillow insert and a foldable design that fits in an included tote bag. Perhaps best of all, the float is machine washable, so you can keep it in like-new condition for as long as possible.

Price at time of publish: $13

_{Dimensions: 12 x 10.5 x 3 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Recommended Age: 4 years and up}

Best Pool Chair

Frontgate Floating Mesh Pool Chair

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If comfort and support are a priority, try this floating mesh pool chair by Frontgate. It’s a lot like your favorite armchair—just suspended in water. The durable mesh chair has oversized armrests, a well-cushioned back for comfort, and an attached ottoman. Because it’s filled with ultra-buoyant polystyrene beads, even larger adults will stay comfortably afloat. 

When it comes time to call it a day, the mesh fabric ensures the chair dries quickly. A handle at the top of the chair allows for easier transport and storage, too.

Price at time of publish: $149

_{Dimensions: 40 x 38 x 15.5 inches | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Recommended Age: Not listed}

Best for Kids

Swimline UFO Squirter Pool Inflatable Lounge Float

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This one-person raft provides plenty of opportunities for fun. While it’s perfectly suitable for simply sitting and enjoying the water, it’s also built to provide plenty of interactivity, thanks to the built-in ray-gun squirt gun that has a constant stream of water. If you have more than one child, make sure to get one for each. There’s no doubt the ensuing water fights will keep them occupied for hours. 

Because kids can be a bit rough on their toys—especially during outdoor or backyard play—the inflatable lounger is made from a durable 12-gauge PVC material to keep it in tip-top shape for longer. Still, it takes less than 10 minutes to inflate—even faster if you opt to use an air pump.

Price at time of publish: $30

_{Dimensions: 12 x 10.5 x 3 inches | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Recommended Age: 4 years and up}

Best Pool Mat

Frontgate Resort Pool Float

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If you’re satisfied with one of the most classic options out there, the Frontgate Resort Pool Float is your best bet. The 2-inch thick mat is crafted from the highest-quality marine-grade closed-cell foam for superior buoyancy and durability (it won’t sink even if punctured). What’s more, the float is triple-dipped in a vinyl coating that resists cracking, fading, and peeling in both chlorinated pools and saltwater pools. As an added bonus, the mat is extremely quick-drying and easy to wipe clean, too.

Price at time of publish: $169+

_{Dimensions: ‎74 x 26 x 2 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Recommended Age: Not listed}

Best Large

Bestway Hydro ForceTropical Breeze Floating Island Raft

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For pool parties, nothing beats a floating island—especially one that’s this functional. Though you’ll need a relatively large pool to accommodate the 54-pound float, the investment is well worth it. 

Once inflated (use a pump for this one), the pool float can comfortably fit up to six adults (it’s suitable for kids, too) in an array of different seating positions. Sit in the loungers on the exposed side, or pick a seated spot under the retractable, detachable sunshade. With extra-wide pillow backrests and built-in cup holders for each person, one thing is for sure: This is one extremely comfortable way to party in the pool.

Price at time of publish: $200

_{Dimensions: ‎153 x 108 x 29 inches | Weight Capacity: 1190 pounds | Recommended Age: Not listed}