Be the talk of the water this summer with an over-the-top pool float

Tired: Swimming in a pool. Wired: Lounging atop a gorgeous inflatable float for hours on end.

Swimming is hard to beat in the summer activity department. But pool floats remain a tried-and-true trend each year, as people search for fun, fanciful, and (fine) Instagram-worthy ways to spend their summer days. This summer, according to Google Trends, they're projected to be more popular than ever, probably because people with access to a swimming pool or lake don't have much else to do. 

Not that we'd ever pity people with access to swimming pools and lakes. Y'all are lucky as hell.

Novelty pool floats aren't limited to donut-shaped ring floats, either (though those are very cute). What sets the latest pool floats apart are their features: cup holders, cushions, backrests, handles, canopies, and more. Some are even designed for groups: Two of the options on our list can hold at least four people.  Read more...

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IMAGE: Walmart

BEST OVERALL

Swimline Giant Monarch Butterfly Pool Float

This colorful butterfly float balances sturdiness, features, and visual appeal — not to mention a couple of drinks.

• Dimensions: 69 x 72 x 12 inches
• Features: Drink holders, pillow top

$54.94 from Walmart

IMAGE: Amazon

BEST FOR THRILL SEEKERS

Intex Inflat-A-Bull Float

If you want a pool float that doubles as a game, this is for you. Just be sure you have plenty of space.

• Dimensions: 96 x 77 x 32 inches
• Weight limit: 220 pounds
• Features: Pull rope, outer handles, repair patch

$59.99 from Amazon

IMAGE: Amazon

BEST FOR ASPIRING MERMAIDS

Swimline Seashell Island Extra Large Pool Float

Channel your inner mermaid (or merman) on this pearly white seashell float.

• Dimensions: 82 x 83.5 x 13.5 inches
• Features: Built-in cup holders

$44.35 from Amazon

IMAGE: Home Depot

BEST DONUT ALTERNATIVE

BigMouth Jellyfish Pool Float

With this whimsical ring float, you aren't just *on* a jellyfish. You *are* the jellyfish.

• Dimensions: 48 x 49 x 15.5 inches
• Features: Repair patch included

$24.99 from Home Depot

IMAGE: Amazon

BEST PARTY FLOAT

CoolerZ Tropical Breeze II Inflatable Floating Island

Grab five friends (or your whole family) and spend an afternoon on your own inflatable island. Be sure to give it a name.

• Dimensions: 128 x 114 x 26 inches
• Features: Cup holders (6), pillow backrests (2), removable sun shade, cooler bag

$229 from Amazon

IMAGE: Amazon

BEST WALLET-FRIENDLY OPTION

Swimline Giant Inflatable Swan Pool Float

A swan float is a classic pick that won't be out of style next year. Plus, it's much friendlier than a real swan.

• Dimensions: 75 x 66 inches
• Weight limit: 315 pounds
• Features: Wings and tail feather can be used as headrests

$31.25 from Amazon

IMAGE: Amazon

BEST FOR INSTAGRAM

Funboy Rainbow Cloud Daybed

Funboy floats are Instagram classics, and this rainbow cloud float is one of the brand's prettiest options.

• Dimensions: 108 x 72 inches, with a 5 foot (60 inch) tall rainbow
• Features: PVC repair patches

$139 from Amazon

IMAGE: Amazon

BEST DOG POOL FLOAT

SwimWays Paddle Paws Spring Float

Let your dog enjoy their time in the water while retaining control of your own pool float.

• Dimensions: 64.5 x 23.25 x 9 inches
• Features: "Paw and claw friendly" fabric, spring around the perimeter for stability

$56.99 from Amazon

IMAGE: Amazon

BEST FOR READING

Aqua Ultra Comfort Recliner Lounge

This straightforward lounger is great for poolgoers looking for a practical option.

• Dimensions: 64 x 53 inches
• Weight limit: 500 pounds
• Features: Cup holders, cushioning on back, loops for docking

$109.99 from Amazon

IMAGE: Amazon

BEST RIDE-ON

Giant Narwhal Inflatable Pool Float

When you hop aboard this extremely cute (and larger than you'd expect) narwhal float, you'll likely be the only narwhal in the water.

• Dimensions: 78 x 43 x 40 inches
• Features: Handles, repair patch

$59.99 from Amazon

IMAGE: Home Depot

BEST FOR GROUP HANGS

Intex Unicorn Party Island Pool Lounger

This four-person unicorn float is almost comically large — which is exactly what makes it so great.

• Dimensions: 198 x 132 x 68 inches
• Weight limit: 880 pounds
• Features: Cup holders (4), handles, built-in cooler, repair patch

$174.65 from Home Depot

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