

Summer is here, and that means it’s time to make a splash! With the sun shining bright and the heat rising, there’s no better way for kids to have fun than with exciting water games. Whether you have a pool in your backyard or you’re just looking to enjoy some water fun at the park, these activities will keep kids entertained and cool all summer long.
From classic water balloon tosses to creative sprinkler relays, this list has something for every kid. So gather your friends, fill up those water guns, and get ready for some unforgettable summer memories. Let’s dive into these 18 splash-tastic water games that will make your summer epic!
1. Water Balloon Toss

The classic water balloon toss is a summertime staple that never gets old! This simple game encourages teamwork and is sure to spark tons of laughter. Start by dividing the kids into pairs, each pair standing a few feet apart. They take turns tossing a water balloon back and forth, gradually increasing the distance with each successful toss.
If one of them drops the balloon, they get splashed! To make it even more fun, you can add a twist and have them use only one hand or toss from behind their backs. Not only does this game promote coordination, but it also creates a playful atmosphere that everyone will enjoy.
For a successful water balloon toss, consider using biodegradable water balloons. These 200 multicolour latex bombs are not only fun but also environmentally friendly, making it easy to enjoy the game while being kind to nature.
To enhance the fun factor, you might want to try out a water balloon launcher. This handy tool allows you to launch balloons up to 300 yards, making the toss even more exciting. Imagine the squeals of delight as kids try to keep the balloon intact while dodging splashes from their partners!
Here are a few tips to maximize your fun:
– Conduct the game on grass to minimize cleanup.
– Set a timer for extra excitement!
Kids will be squealing in delight as they engage in this classic game with thrilling twists and the best supplies at hand!
Product Recommendations:
• biodegradable water balloons
• water balloon launcher
• inflatable pool floaties
2. Pool Noodle Jousting

Who knew pool noodles could be turned into jousting sticks? This game brings a medieval twist to your pool activities and guarantees tons of splashes and giggles! Kids sit on inflatable rafts or pool floats while holding a pool noodle. The goal is to knock your opponent off their float without falling off yourself.
To get started, consider using Hillington set of 2 flexible swimming pool noodles, which are perfect for jousting. Their lightweight, flexible design makes them safe and easy to wield during your epic battles.
Set a designated area in the pool to keep the jousting safe, and allow kids to take turns being the jouster and the referee. As they battle it out, you’ll see strategy and teamwork unfold, making it an excellent activity for all ages. To add an extra layer of fun and comfort, try using Intex challenger inflatable boat set with oars + inflator as rafts. These inflatable boats provide a sturdy and fun platform for kids to joust from, ensuring a more exciting experience.
– Encourage kids to wear life jackets if they’re not strong swimmers.
– Establish simple rules to keep the game fair and fun.
– Reward the champions with fun poolside prizes!
This interactive game is not just about splashes; it builds confidence and coordination while keeping everyone cool.
Product Recommendations:
• Hillington set of 2 flexible swimming pool noodles
• Intex challenger inflatable boat set with oars + inflator
• SwimWays Spring Float Pool Lounger
3. DIY Water Slide

Transform your backyard into a mini water park with a DIY water slide! All you need is a large plastic tarp, some water, and a little creativity. Lay a large plastic tarp on a gentle slope, and spray it down with water to create a slick surface. Kids can take turns sliding down and landing in a waiting pool or a splash zone.
To add extra fun, you can include dish soap for a super slippery experience, or set up a sprinkler for kids at the top of the slide. This outdoor activity not only guarantees laughter but also keeps kids active.
– Ensure the slide area is free of rocks or debris to prevent injuries.
– Keep a close watch on the kids as they race down!
– Use colorful pool floats to create a fun landing area.
They’ll be racing back up for just one more slide!
Product Recommendations:
• sprinkler for kids
• colorful pool floats
4. Sprinkler Run

A good old-fashioned sprinkler run is a timeless way to cool off! Set up a sprinkler in your yard, and let the kids take turns running through the spraying water. It’s simple, exhilarating, and a fantastic way to enjoy a hot summer day.
To enhance this classic activity, consider using an adjustable sprinkler. This splash pad not only adds an extra layer of fun but also ensures the kids can enjoy the water without slipping, as it comes with anti-slip tapes. You can also make it more exciting by timing the kids as they dash through the water or creating fun challenges like hopping on one foot or racing in teams.
For younger ones, adding some foam pool toys or colorful beach balls around the sprinkler can make the experience even more playful and engaging. These toys are perfect for diving and playing in the water, encouraging kids to be active while having fun.
If you’re hosting a sprinkler run in the evening, don’t forget to set up some colorful LED string lights to create a magical atmosphere. These waterproof lights will not only brighten up your yard but also add a festive touch to the nighttime festivities.
Just make sure the ground is not too slippery to avoid falls, and don’t forget sunscreen! This activity is a great way to get some exercise while having a blast under the sun!
Product Recommendations:
• adjustable sprinkler
5. Duck, Duck, Splash!

Take the classic game of Duck, Duck, Goose to the next level with a splash! Instead of tapping heads, the person who is ‘it’ gently splashes water on the others as they walk around the circle. When they say ‘splash’, the chosen one must chase after them to tag them, but watch out – both get splashed!
To enhance the fun and keep everyone cool, consider using sponge balls. These soft sponge soccer balls are perfect for gentle splashing, ensuring that the game remains fun without the risk of injury. They’re durable, lightweight, and safe for players of all ages.
Another great addition is the inflatable splash pad. This can serve as a fantastic backdrop for your game, providing a fun and safe environment filled with water. Kids can enjoy a refreshing spray while playing, making the experience even more exciting.
Remember to choose a shallow area for safety and remind kids to be gentle when splashing, especially with smaller children. You can also set a timer for rounds to keep the game moving!
It’s a joyful game that combines laughter with splashes, making it a hit among young ones!
Product Recommendations:
• inflatable splash pad
6. Water Gun Tag

Water gun tag is the ultimate way to beat the heat while getting the adrenaline pumping! Divide kids into teams and set boundaries for safe play. Each team tries to tag opponents with their water guns while dodging splashes.
To make it even more exciting, consider using eco-friendly water guns that come in a set of four, perfect for every player. These foam water pistols are not only fun but also help keep the environment in mind.
You can also add obstacles for cover or set up a ‘safe zone’ where players can refill water. For a splash-tastic experience, don’t forget to stock up on water balloons. This multicolour pack of 200 biodegradable latex bombs adds an extra layer of excitement to the game, allowing for thrilling water fights that everyone will enjoy.
Additionally, you might want to create a water play area with a water play area sprinkler. This fun accessory is great for keeping kids cool between rounds of water gun tag and is perfect for outdoor play.
This game promotes physical activity, teamwork, and strategic thinking while ensuring everyone stays cool. Remember to ensure everyone has enough water in their guns before the game starts and encourage creativity in team names or themes.
Get ready for some serious water fun that will have kids laughing and bonding all summer long!
Product Recommendations:
• biodegradable water balloons
• water play area sprinkler
7. Water Relay Race

A water relay race adds a competitive element to your water fun! Organize kids into teams and assign each a bucket filled with water and a sponge. The goal is to transport water from one bucket to another using the sponge, passing it off to the next teammate once it’s soaked up.
To make your relay race even more exciting, consider using colorful buckets set for each team. This will not only help differentiate the teams but also add a vibrant touch to the game. The team with the most water in their bucket at the end wins a fun prize! This activity is not only thrilling but also promotes teamwork and coordination. To ramp up the challenge, you can set up obstacles or require kids to hop or balance while carrying their sponge.
Don’t forget to have extra large beach towels on hand for after the race. These quick-drying towels are perfect for drying off after all the splashing. For the sponges, you might want to use water-soaked sponge balls, which are great for absorbing water and will keep the game fun and engaging.
– Choose a safe area for running and splashing.
– Keep extra towels on hand for after the race.
– Consider using colorful sponges for added flair!
This spirited competition will keep everyone engaged and excited throughout the summer!
Product Recommendations:
• colorful buckets set
• extra large beach towels
• water-soaked sponge balls
8. Ice Cube Treasure Hunt

Turn your backyard into a treasure hunt paradise with ice cubes! Freeze small toys or colorful gems in ice cubes and scatter them around a kiddie pool or a large bucket filled with water. The Bestway Sea Creature Paddling Pool is a perfect option for this activity, providing a spacious and fun environment for kids to dive in and find their hidden treasures. The excitement of breaking the ice adds an extra thrill!
Using colorful plastic gems makes the hunt even more engaging, as these bright and shiny items are sure to capture the kids’ interest. This game is ideal for younger children and can be adjusted based on their preferences. You can even incorporate themes based on their favorite characters or colors. Who doesn’t love a good treasure hunt, especially when it involves water?
– Use small, safe toys that can withstand freezing.
– Have towels ready for drying off once the hunt is over!
– Consider timed rounds to keep the excitement high!
This activity is a refreshing twist on a classic game, guaranteed to keep kids entertained for hours!
Product Recommendations:
• small waterproof toys
9. Belly Flop Contest

What’s a summer day without a little competitive fun? A belly flop contest adds a splash of excitement to your pool day! Have kids take turns performing their best belly flops off the side of the pool or diving board. The splashes can be judged by creativity, size, and, of course, the hilarious reactions!
This activity not only brings laughs but also encourages confidence in the water. To make your contest even more memorable, consider using silly trophies or medals as prizes for the best splashes. These fun awards can motivate kids to really show off their belly flop techniques.
You can also set up a scorecard to keep track of points or invite judges for a fun twist. Just make sure every participant understands safety and is comfortable with jumping in! Ensure the area is safe and free of obstacles, and don’t forget to capture the excitement with a waterproof camera. This way, you can take pictures of those epic moments and hilarious reactions for memories that will last a lifetime!
For added comfort, consider using an inflatable pool float for lounging between splashes. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy the summer sun, making the contest even more enjoyable.
It’s a light-hearted challenge that can lead to unforgettable summer stories!
Product Recommendations:
• silly trophies or medals
• waterproof camera
• inflatable pool float
10. Water Painting

Combine art with water fun through water painting! Set up an outdoor area where kids can use water-filled brushes to paint on pavement or sidewalk. As they create their masterpieces, the water evaporates, leaving behind an ephemeral art piece that’s so much fun to make.
Let their creativity flow as they explore colors and shapes with water brushes for painting. These brushes are perfect for little hands, allowing for easier handling and more fun as they create their art. You can even incorporate challenges like painting a summer scene or their favorite animal.
For a more structured approach, consider using large outdoor painting canvas. This provides a great surface for their artwork and helps them feel like real artists as they express their ideas. You might also add a twist with water-soluble chalk to create outlines or fun shapes before painting, enhancing their experience.
Create a theme for each painting session, like ocean life or summer adventures, and let them showcase their art before it evaporates! It’s a unique blend of creativity and cooling off, making it a fantastic summer activity!
Product Recommendations:
• Water Brushes for Painting
• Large Outdoor Painting Canvas
11. Water Balloon Dodgeball

Kick dodgeball up a notch with some water balloon action! This game is perfect for larger groups and combines strategy with fun. Set up a field and create two teams. Instead of a traditional ball, players aim to hit their opponents with water balloons while dodging incoming throws.
If a player gets hit, they’re out, but they can rejoin if they catch a balloon thrown at them. This game encourages teamwork and provides an exhilarating experience filled with splashes and laughter! To ensure you’re fully equipped, consider stocking up on water balloons from Original Bunch O Balloons. With over 265 rapid-filling self-sealing balloons, you’ll have plenty for all your games, keeping the fun going without constant refills.
Also, to spice things up, a water balloon launcher can be a fantastic addition. This catapult can send balloons flying up to 300 yards, making for some intense and exciting throws that will have everyone laughing and dodging!
Make sure to have a designated refill area to keep the action going, and don’t forget to establish boundaries to keep the game organized. Expect squeals of delight as kids bounce around while trying to dodge those flying balloons!
Product Recommendations:
• water balloon launcher
• water balloon filling station
• inflatable pool for water games
12. Splash Dance Party

Combine music and water for the ultimate splash dance party! Set up a playlist of fun summer hits, and let the kids dance around while sprinklers spray water. To make the most of this lively atmosphere, consider using a sprinkler for kids, which will keep the splashes refreshing and exciting.
This activity combines movement with refreshing splashes, creating a lively atmosphere that keeps everyone smiling. You can even introduce fun dance challenges or freeze dance competitions in and out of the water. A dance mat is a fantastic addition, offering engaging game modes that will encourage the kids to express themselves while enjoying some water fun!
To ensure the music keeps playing without worry, use waterproof speakers, and set up a dance-off for the end of the party! Encourage creative dance moves to keep the fun flowing. The combination of music, dancing, and splashes guarantees a memorable summer day!
Product Recommendations:
• dance mat
13. Water Balloon Piñata

Take the fun of a piñata and mix it with water balloons for a spectacular summer activity! Hang a filled water balloon piñata from a tree branch and let the kids take turns trying to burst it with a stick or bat. As the balloon breaks, everyone gets soaked, and the splashes create loads of laughter!
This creative twist on a traditional piñata is perfect for summer gatherings or birthday parties. You can even fill the piñata with little toys instead of just water for an added surprise. For efficient and eco-friendly balloon filling, consider using biodegradable water balloons that rapidly fill and self-seal, ensuring you have plenty of balloons for the fun without harming the environment.
Make sure to choose a safe space for the activity, away from sharp objects. Equip the kids with a reliable kids’ bat for piñata to ensure they can safely enjoy the game while trying to break the balloon.
Don’t forget to provide towels for drying off after the fun! The Dreamscene beach towel is soft and quick-dry, making it perfect for kids to wrap up in after they’ve had a splashing good time.
This activity is sure to keep the excitement high and leave kids cheering!
Product Recommendations:
• biodegradable water balloons
• kids’ bat for piñata
14. Splash Tag
Splash tag takes the classic game of tag and adds refreshing water fun! The ‘it’ player is armed with a water bucket or a hose while trying to tag others with a splash. If someone gets splashed, they become ‘it’!
This game is ideal for large groups and creates an exciting chase around the yard or park. Kids will have a blast dodging and running while trying to stay dry. To make the game even more enjoyable, consider adding Nerf Super Soaker Twin Tide Water Blaster into the mix. These pump-action outdoor water toys allow players to shoot water at each other from a distance, enhancing the fun and strategy involved in the game!
Be sure to help define the boundaries and ensure everyone plays fairly. Create a safe play area away from obstacles, and if you’re planning on a lot of splashing, you’ll definitely want to stock up on water balloons. With over 265 rapid-filling self-sealing water balloons, you can keep the action going without the hassle of filling them one by one.
Using a timer for rounds can keep the game moving, and adding music for an energetic twist will get everyone hyped up! Get ready for non-stop fun and laughter as the kids run around trying to avoid those splashes!
Product Recommendations:
• Nerf Super Soaker Twin Tide Water Blaster
• water balloons
• Intex Swim Center Family Lounge Pool
15. Water Tornado
Create a swirling water tornado right in your backyard! Using a plastic water bottle, some water, and a little creativity, kids can watch the magic of vortex physics. Fill a plastic bottle with water, and once it’s almost full, quickly turn it upside down over a bowl. As they twist the bottle, they’ll see a mini water tornado forming!
The kids can take turns creating their tornadoes, encouraging curiosity and exploration while they enjoy cooling off. This is a great activity for mixed age groups, as everyone can get involved!
– Use different-sized bottles for varied tornado sizes.
– You can add small glitter for crafts to create a magical effect in the swirling water.
– Keep extra beach towels handy for drying off!
It’s a fascinating experience that combines education with summer fun!
Product Recommendations:
• Plastic water bottle
• glitter for crafts
• beach towels
16. Water Freeze Dance Game

Combine music and water for a freeze dance game that will keep kids on their toes! While the music plays, let the kids dance around with water in their hands, like filled cups or squirt guns. For a fun addition, you can use water squirt guns that add an extra splash of excitement. When the music stops, everyone must freeze, and if someone moves, they get splashed!
This engaging twist on freeze dance encourages movement, balance, and just a bit of chaos! To amplify the fun, you can play tunes through an portable Bluetooth speaker, ensuring the music is loud and clear, even outdoors. You can change the music style for different vibes and also allow kids to pick their favorite songs.
– Opt for fun summer tunes to keep the energy high.
– Encourage creative dance moves to spice things up.
– Offer silly prizes for participants to boost excitement! You might even incorporate some water balloons as prizes or bonuses during the game for added fun!
This fun-filled game is not only about splashes but about expression and laughter as well!
17. Water Balloon Musical Chairs
Put a splashy twist on the traditional musical chairs game with water balloons! Set up chairs in a circle, and as the music plays, kids walk around. When the music stops, they have to find a chair to sit in, but instead of sitting quietly, they toss a water balloon to each other! To keep the fun going, consider using biodegradable water balloons that are perfect for summer garden fight games. These eco-friendly balloons make cleanup a breeze while ensuring everyone can enjoy the game guilt-free.
Whoever is left without a chair gets drenched! The last child standing is the winner, and you can reward them with fun prizes. This game encourages laughter and is a unique way to blend music and water fun. Don’t forget to have extra towels for kids on hand for drying off; they’ll appreciate a soft, warm towel after all the splashing around!
Additionally, if you want to take your water balloon activities to the next level, consider using a water balloon launcher to add even more excitement to the game. With the ability to launch balloons up to 300 yards, it’s sure to enhance the fun and make for some unforgettable summer memories.
It’s a delightful combination that will keep everyone laughing and active throughout the summer!
18. DIY Water Sprayer
Create a DIY water sprayer for endless summer fun! Using a simple spray bottle like the Elliott plastic 1 litre spray bottle, kids can create their very own water sprayer. These bottles feature adjustable trigger action for misting and full spray modes, making them perfect for crafting a personalized water sprayer. Kids can decorate their bottles to add their unique touch!
Once they’re done, have them take turns spraying each other while playing fun games or just running around. This activity not only promotes creativity but also helps keep everyone cool in the summer heat. For an extra splash of fun, consider pairing the water sprayer with some water balloons. The Original Bunch O Balloons are rapid-filling and self-sealing, perfect for a friendly water balloon fight.
If you prefer a more traditional approach, a garden hose can also be transformed into a fun water sprayer using a garden hose sprayer attachment. This high-pressure nozzle comes with 10 adjustable patterns, allowing for versatile spraying options that can enhance your summer water games.
– Use non-toxic materials for safety.
– Incorporate themes for sprayers, like superheroes or animals.
– Always supervise younger kids during play!
This activity will be the highlight of the summer, bringing laughter and creativity together in one watery adventure!
Conclusion
These 18 splash-tastic water games are sure to keep your summer filled with laughter and fun! Not only do they provide an escape from the heat, but they also create lasting memories as kids bond and play together. Whether it’s through friendly competitions, creative arts, or just splashing about, these activities are bound to become the highlights of your summer.
So, gather your friends and get ready to make a splash – after all, summer is all about fun in the sun!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy water games for kids?
Easy water games include Water Balloon Toss and Sprinkler Run. Both are simple to set up and guarantee lots of fun!
How can I create a DIY water slide?
You can make a DIY water slide using a large plastic tarp and water. Lay it on a slope for an exciting backyard water activity!
What supplies do I need for water balloon games?
You’ll need water balloons, buckets, and towels for cleanup. These supplies make for a splashy and enjoyable experience!
Are these water games safe for younger kids?
Yes, most water games can be adapted for younger kids. Just ensure adult supervision and modify rules for safety.
How can I organize a water relay race?
Divide kids into teams and provide buckets and sponges. Set clear boundaries, and let them race to transfer water for competitive fun!