15 Best Gifts For Pool Owners Every Family Craves

Maybe you have a friend or family member who won’t stop bragging, suddenly every conversation circles back to bragging about their new pool. It might be starting to get on your nerves, but the truth is they’ve tapped into something special, and finding the perfect gift for them just got a whole lot easier.

Over 10.7 million households in the US own swimming pools, and swim spas (a pool alternative) are exploding in popularity as the ultimate space-saving alternative. These aren’t just backyard accessories anymore. They’re lifestyle investments where families actually spend time together, where morning workouts happen before coffee, and where summer memories get made.

The most important thing to remember this season? Pool and swim spa owners need stuff that actually makes their experience better, not another inflatable swan that’ll deflate by July.

This guide walks you through 15 gifts that solve real problems:

• Smart maintenance tools that save hours of weekly scrubbing and testing
• Entertainment upgrades that turn quiet afternoons into family tournaments
• Comfort accessories that make every soak feel like a spa retreat

Whether you’re shopping for someone with a massive inground pool or a compact Wellis Beach Club swim spa, every gift here works for both. Let’s get into what actually makes pool owners light up when they unwrap something.

Quick Gift Budget Guide

Budget Range	Perfect Pick	Why It Works
Under $50	Smart Floating Thermometer	Tech-forward solution without the premium price tag
$50 to $150	Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker	Transforms atmosphere for workouts, parties, or quiet evenings
$150 to $300	Robotic Pool Skimmer	Genuine time-saver that pays for itself in convenience

1. Smart Floating Pool & Swim Spa Thermometer for Effortless Maintenance

Let’s start with something most pool owners don’t even realize they need until they have it: A smart thermometer. 

These can sync to their phone, send alerts when temperatures drift, and track patterns over time. Modern smart control systems like these represent the future of pool management, joining other innovations like pHin water monitors and the Pool Doctor app that put complete water chemistry control in homeowners’ hands.

For traditional pools, benefits include:

• Prevents energy waste by knowing exactly when to fire up the heater
• Potential savings of 15 to 20% on heating costs from better temperature management
• Eliminates the “stick your toe in to test” situation
• Integrates with broader smart pool technology ecosystems

 For swim spa owners, they can enjoy:

• Therapeutic use requires precision (too cold loses effectiveness, too hot creates safety concerns above 104°F)
• Daily tracking helps maintain optimal hydrotherapy temperatures
• Remote monitoring from inside the house

Most quality smart thermometers run $35 to 60. Look for solar-powered models that never need battery swaps, and make sure they offer Bluetooth connectivity within at least 100 feet. Some even integrate with home automation systems, automatically adjusting heating schedules.

2. All-In-One Pool & Spa Valet Caddy to Organize the Backyard Oasis

Pool clutter is all-too real. Wet towels draped over patio furniture, sunscreen bottles rolling under chairs, somebody’s phone teetering dangerously close to the water. An all-in-one valet caddy fixes this chaos in one shot.

Look for a pool organizer that includes:

• Towel bar that keeps fabric off the ground
• Cup holders preventing condensation rings on wood furniture
• Waterproof pockets for phones and tablets
• Hooks for pool noodles or floats
• Small bins for pool supplies and chemicals or testing supplies

For swim spa owners, this becomes essential. Space around spas tends to be more compact than traditional pool decks, so having designated spots for everything prevents that crowded feeling. Many people use them to keep spa robes within arm’s reach, which transforms the post-soak experience from “dripping across the deck” to “wrapped in warmth immediately.”

Beyond valet caddies, complete pool organizers can include wall-mounted storage racks for larger pool toys, dedicated bins for pool floaties and inflatables, and weatherproof cabinets for expensive equipment. When choosing the best type of inground pool, smart homeowners can benefit from smart storage solutions from day one.

Prices hover between $45 to 80 for quality units. Weather-resistant materials matter here since they’ll live outside year-round. Look for powder-coated steel or marine-grade plastics that won’t fade or crack.

3. Robotic Skimmer and Cleaner To Automate Daily Pool Chores

If your budget is a little bigger, consider a robotic pool cleaner. These have gotten seriously impressive in the last few years, and they can transform a pool or swim spa owners lives. 

Traditional pool maintenance means manually skimming leaves, scrubbing walls, and vacuuming floors. Most pool owners spend 3 to 5 hours weekly on this. A robotic cleaner? Set it, forget it, come back to a clean pool. You’re giving them back hours of their life weekly. Fiberglass pools already require less maintenance than concrete alternatives, but automation takes it even further. 

Modern robotic cleaners offer:

• Solar power options that eliminate charging hassles
• Smart sensors for efficient navigation
• Automatic return to charging stations
• Independence from pool’s filtration system (saves wear on pump equipment)

For full-size pools, you’re looking at units in the $150 to 600 range depending on features. The mid-tier options (around $200 to 300) hit the sweet spot for most buyers. They handle surface debris, work on both floors and walls, and run independently.

Other Maintenance Gifts

If the robot cleaner is too big of an investment, consider one of these smaller, but very useful, gifts. 

• Manual pool skimmers for quick daily touch-ups between robotic cycles
• Pool cover pumps for removing standing water after rain
• Water monitors that track chemistry levels automatically

4. Poolside Basketball Hoop That Turns Any Pool Into a Game Zone

A pool with a basketball hoop isn’t just a place to cool off, it becomes a gathering spot where kids challenge parents, neighborhood tournaments spring up, and “just five more minutes” somehow turns into an hour of real exercise without anyone noticing. 

For full-size pools, regulation-style hoops are a popular option, especially models with adjustable heights that can grow with the family. These typically range from about $80 to $200 and often feature professional-style backboards paired with sturdy, weighted bases. Adjustable height is key, allowing younger kids to join in while still keeping the game challenging for teens and adults.

Swim spas benefit from more compact hoop designs made specifically for narrower 7 to 8 foot widths. These models generally fall in the $60 to $120 range and fit perfectly on the play-zone side of a swim spa when it’s in relaxation mode. Many Wellis Beach Club owners, for example, use them as an easy way to turn family visits into active, water-based fun for grandkids.

No matter the setup, materials matter. Chlorine and saltwater can destroy cheap metals in a single season, so rust-resistant construction is a must. Stainless steel or specially coated aluminum will last for years, and some higher-end models even include built-in ball returns to save everyone from constantly climbing out of the water to retrieve missed shots.

Best of all, this is the kind of gift that creates lasting memories. Years from now, they won’t remember the price tag, but they’ll remember the summer everyone became obsessed with water basketball.

5. Inflatable Volleyball Net for Instant Backyard Pool Parties

Speaking of games, volleyball nets bring the party in a way few accessories can match. Something about that net transforms a casual swim into legitimate competition. People who normally sit on the sidelines suddenly want in.

Standard pool widths (12 to 20 feet) work with most adjustable volleyball systems. These inflate in minutes, anchor to opposite pool sides with adjustable straps, and typically come with a waterproof ball. Quality sets run $35 to 70.

Swim spa applications get interesting. Since most swim spas measure 7 to 8 feet wide, you need nets specifically designed for narrower spaces. The upside? Games get faster and more intense in smaller areas, which actually makes them more fun for mixed-age groups.

Storage for these matters more than people realize, so take that into account for gifting. The best systems pack down into bags smaller than a beach towel. Some families leave them set up all summer, others only break them out for pool parties. Either way, setup takes under 5 minutes.

Other Pool Games

There are plenty of games available to gift pool and swim spa owners who want to take game days to the next level. 

• Pool tic-tac-toe sets for all-ages entertainment
• Floating cornhole games that adapt the backyard classic to water
• Poolside golf games for the sport enthusiast

6. Floating Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker for Pool and Swim Spa Soundscapes

Music changes the atmosphere completely. A quiet pool becomes a party. A morning swim spa workout gets that gym-class energy. Evening soaks feel like actual vacations.

Quality waterproof speakers offer:

• 8 to 12 hour battery life
• Genuine bass response and 360-degree sound
• Full waterproof ratings (look for IPX7 minimum)
• LED lighting that syncs to music
• Solar charging capability (the absolute must-have feature)
• Hands-free calling

These can run anywhere from $45 to $150, so be sure to research the best buy for your budget.

Pool owners typically want larger speakers with powerful projection since outdoor acoustics demand more power. These float around the pool, providing soundtrack for everything from lap swimming to party hosting. The waterproof speakers category has exploded with options that pair seamlessly with pool lighting systems for complete ambiance control.

Swim spa users often prefer slightly more compact models that sit on the spa deck rather than float. Since swim spas are usually closer to houses, noise considerations matter. Look for models with adjustable volume limits that won’t disturb neighbors during evening relaxation sessions.

Pro tip for swimmers: Many fitness-focused pool owners use waterproof speakers to time interval training, playing workout playlists that signal when to switch strokes or intensities.

This gift works because it’s personal. The pool owner might not have considered upgrading their music situation, but once they have quality sound out there, they’ll wonder how they ever managed without it.

7. Versatile 4-in-1 Hammock Float for Relaxation in Any Size Water

Float technology sounds silly until you’ve tried a genuinely good one. Those cheap pool rafts that flip you into the water unexpectedly? Frustrating. A well-designed 4-in-1 hammock float? Actually relaxing.

These offer four different positions for every mood:

• Traditional lounge for reading or napping
• Drifter (semi-submerged) for cooling off
• Hammock (mesh center) for that weightless feeling
• Exercise saddle for water workouts

Traditional pools give these floats plenty of room to drift and fully extend. The lounge position works perfectly for reading, napping, or just staring at clouds. Most quality models run just $25 to 50.

Reinforced stitching is essential with these, as cheaper mesh materials can tear within weeks of regular use. Quick-inflation valves save time and frustration when setting up or packing away, while built-in cup holders add a practical touch by keeping drinks close at hand for easy hydration. Try to find UV-resistant materials to help prevent fading and breakdown from constant sun exposure.

Swim spa compatibility comes down to dimensions. When swim spas are in relaxation mode (jets off), these floats fit perfectly in the main basin. Some swim spa owners actually prefer them over larger rafts since they’re easier to store.

8. Ergonomic Inflatable Lounge Chair with Cup Holder for Resort-Style Comfort

While we’re on the subject of floaties, let’s talk about the most luxurious one of all: Premium inflatable loungers that incorporate actual ergonomic design.

These chairs feature reinforced backrests that provide genuine support, armrests that make getting on and off easier, and stable bases that prevent constant tipping. The difference feels immediately obvious.

Pool use is straightforward: these provide floating furniture for extended lounging periods. Many pool owners keep 2 to 4 on hand for guests. The dual cup holders eliminate constant getting in and out for refreshments.

Swim spa applications work best during non-exercise periods. When jets are off and the spa’s in social mode, these loungers transform the space into a floating living room.

Price points range $35 to 80, with the difference primarily in materials. Look for multi-chamber designs (if one section deflates, the chair stays usable) and puncture-resistant vinyl. Rapid deflation valves are great too, since they make storage easy.

9. Double Chaise Lounge Float for Shared Pool and Spa Downtime

Togetherness matters. A double lounger creates a completely different dynamic than two separate floats. Couples float and talk. Parents and kids share space. Friends catch up without shouting across the pool.

These connected loungers typically feature two separate seating areas linked by a central platform or cooler section. The stability of being connected prevents the drift-apart problem that happens with individual floats.

These feature:

• Built-in coolers between seats
• Cup holders for both sides
• Mesh sections for partial submersion
• Connected stability prevents constant repositioning

Full-size pools give these loungers plenty of room to drift freely. Swim spas work with compact tandem designs measuring around 6 to 7 feet total length. These fit perfectly across swim spa widths when jets are off. 

10. Insulated Tumbler That Keeps Poolside and Spa Drinks Perfectly Chilled

Cold drinks that get warm drinks under summer sun can make the perfect afternoon just a little less perfect. Keep the vibe up with an insulated tumbler: They not only keep drinks ice cold, they prevent condensation rings on wood furniture, and the risk of broken glass in pool areas. It’s a win-win(-win).

Complete the poolside experience with:

• Beverage carts for easy drink service during pool parties
• Patio coolers that keep multiple drinks chilled within arm’s reach
• Floating coolers for in-pool refreshment access

Swim spa users especially value these during post-workout hydration or evening soaks. The ability to bring coffee (stays hot for hours) during morning spa sessions or keep ice water perfectly chilled during afternoon relaxation sessions matters when you’re using the spa year-round.

Prices typically fall between $20 to 40 for quality brands. Customization options (engraving names or funny pool-related phrases) add personal touches. Look for dishwasher-safe models with wide mouths that fit ice cubes easily.

11. Towel Warmer for Cozy Post-Swim and Spa Wrap-Ups

The exit experience of a pool or swim spa matters way more than people realize. That shock of cold air when stepping out of warm water? It can ruin the relaxation you just achieved. A towel warmer transforms exits from jarring to luxurious.

Pool applications work best near changing areas or outdoor showers. Having warm towels waiting after a swim extends that comfortable feeling rather than shocking systems with cold fabric.

Swim spa owners consider these essential, especially for year-round use. Stepping out of a 102°F spa into 40°F night air feels brutal. A warm towel waiting makes the transition comfortable rather than miserable. This single accessory can determine whether someone uses their spa in winter or abandons it until spring.

Safety features to look for:

• Automatic shut-off prevents fire hazards
• Temperature controls ensure towels warm without overheating
• Energy-efficient operation (comparable to a light bulb)

The gift psychology here is memorable. Most people would never buy this for themselves, considering it an unnecessary luxury. But once they experience it? They’ll tell everyone it’s a game-changer.

12. LED Floating Lights That Turn Pools and Swim Spas into Nighttime Retreats

Evening swims hit differently with proper lighting. During the day, pools are recreational. At night with the right lights? They’re magical.

Solar-powered LED orbs are the current gold standard. They charge during the day, automatically illuminate at dusk, and float freely around the pool providing ambient glow. Quality multi-packs (4 to 6 lights) run $30 to 80.

Large pools are especially stunning with multiple lights creating that starlight effect across the entire surface. Spacing them out provides even illumination without harsh bright spots. Complete pool lighting systems can incorporate both floating LEDs and permanent underwater pool lights for professional-grade ambiance.

Swim spas need fewer lights (2 to 4 typically) given the smaller water volume. The contained space actually works in your favor since lights reflect off walls, amplifying the effect. Many Wellis swim spa owners use color-changing lights to distinguish between workout mode (energizing colors) and relaxation mode (calming blues).

The Instagram factor here is real. Evening pool and spa photos with these lights look professionally designed. But beyond social media appeal, they genuinely extend usability. Many families swim or soak more often once they can do it after dark without harsh overhead lighting.

13. Spa Water Enhancers with Sensory Salts for Therapeutic Softness

Water quality affects the experience more than most people realize. Basic treated water works fine, but enhanced water feels noticeably different on skin and provides actual therapeutic benefits, including: 

• Softer water that soothes rather than dries skin
• Eucalyptus crystals for clearing sinuses and reducing stress
• Lavender aromatherapy for promoting better sleep
• Magnesium salts for easing muscle soreness after workouts

Pool applications are limited since large water volumes require massive quantities of treatments, and chemicals can affect water balance. Some pool owners use these in hot tub attachments or spa features.

Swim spa users get the most benefit here. The smaller water volume means treatments work effectively without requiring pounds of product. Post-workout soaks with magnesium salts actually aid muscle recovery. Evening relaxation sessions with lavender aromatherapy genuinely improve sleep quality.

This aligns perfectly with the therapeutic benefits swim spas provide. Quality gift sets run $20 to 50 and typically include variety packs with 4 to 6 different scents.

Critical buying criteria:

• Formulas specifically labeled safe for spa jets
• Compatible with filtration systems
• Oil-free products (oils damage equipment)
• pH-neutral formulas

You can also throw in some hot tub accessories that complement water enhancers, like aromatherapy diffusers, scent-infused spa pillows for multi-sensory relaxation, and water-soluble crystals.

14. High-End Pool/Spa Cover Reel for Easy Year-Round Protection

Nobody talks about how much pool covers weigh. A quality safety cover for a standard pool can hit 60 to 80 pounds when waterlogged. Removing it solo? Exhausting. Putting it back on? You’re procrastinating because you know it’ll take 15 minutes of wrestling.

Cover reels solve this with mechanical advantage. Manual models ($200 to 400) use leverage and rollers to make one-person operation possible. Motorized versions ($400 to 800) reduce the work to pushing a button.

Why pool owners benefit:

• Faster access (30 seconds vs 15 minutes)
• Spontaneous swims become possible
• Proper storage extends cover lifespan
• Covers last years longer when rolled vs dragged
• Better heat retention reduces pool heater runtime

Why swim spa owners need this:

• Smaller covers but heavier per square foot
• Daily use requires effortless removal
• Morning workouts happen more consistently
• Evening soaks feel spontaneous
• Critical for maintaining heating system efficiency

Understanding pool cost considerations means recognizing that proper equipment maintenance (like cover care) prevents expensive repairs down the line. Pool heating systems work more efficiently when covers are used consistently, and cover reels make consistent use effortless.

This gift directly extends equipment lifespan. Covers that get properly rolled and stored last years longer than covers dragged around and folded haphazardly. Given that replacement covers cost $400 to 800, this investment pays for itself.

15. Swim Spa Jet Enhancer Kit for Hydrotherapy Power Boost

This one’s specifically for swim spa owners, and it hits differently depending on how they use their spa. Fitness enthusiasts want stronger resistance. Therapy users want targeted pressure. Jet enhancer kits deliver both.

Most aftermarket systems enhance the existing setup by improving how water is delivered and used. Specialized nozzles help focus water flow more precisely, creating stronger currents for swimming or more targeted massage zones. Many kits also include resistance bands that anchor to the exterior of the spa, adding another layer of intensity for workouts, along with adjustable flow patterns that allow users to vary their routines and avoid plateaus.

Installation is typically straightforward and doesn’t require professional help. In many cases, it’s as simple as swapping out nozzles, a process that usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. Pricing generally falls between $100 and $300, depending on whether the kit focuses on jet upgrades, resistance equipment, or a combination of both.

Even swim spas with strong factory setups can benefit from enhancements. The Wellis Beach Club Premium, for example, already includes three powerful counter-current jets, but enhancement kits can still add value by increasing resistance for advanced training, introducing different flow patterns for more dynamic workouts, and offering targeted hydrotherapy for specific muscle groups.

From a therapy perspective, precision is where these kits truly shine. Standard jets provide general massage, but enhanced jets with adjustable nozzles allow pressure to be directed exactly where tension tends to build. For people managing chronic pain, stiffness, or recovering from injuries, that level of control can make a noticeable difference in comfort and recovery.

Transform Your Pool or Swim Spa Experience with These Crave-Worthy Gifts

Look, you could wrap up another towel set and call it done. They’d smile politely and add it to the pile of 47 other towels they already own. Or you could give something that actually changes how they use their pool or swim spa.

These 15 gifts span every category that matters:

• Maintenance tools that save time and eliminate hassle
• Pool games that create competition and family memories
• Comfort accessories that elevate every moment
• Luxury upgrades that make everything feel more intentional

Some cost under $50. Others push $800. But every single one solves a real problem or creates a genuine moment. Customer reviews consistently highlight how these gifts transform the poolside experience from ordinary to exceptional.

Beyond these 15, consider complementary additions:

• Pool toys for younger family members who need age-appropriate entertainment
• Swimming pool accessories that match their specific pool type
• Gifts for pool owners that reflect their personal style and usage patterns

The versatility matters too. Whether your recipient just installed their first above-ground pool or owns a premium Wellis Beach Club swim spa with all the bells and whistles, these gifts work. Size doesn’t limit options. Budget shouldn’t either.

Pool and swim spa owners share something in common: they’ve invested in their backyard lifestyle. They’re not just cooling off. They’re creating space for family time, prioritizing fitness, or building their personal retreat. Your gift can honor that intention by making their space work even better.

Ready to actually impress the pool owner in your life?

Explore Epic Swimming Pools’ collection for more ideas on elevating backyard experiences, or request personalized recommendations if you’re considering a pool or swim spa investment yourself.

Because here’s the truth: the best gifts don’t just sit on shelves looking pretty. They get used, create memories, and remind people you actually paid attention to what matters to them. These 15 do exactly that.

Gift Selection by Budget & Purpose

Your Budget	Best For Maintenance	Best For Entertainment	Best For Luxury
Under $50	Smart Thermometer ($35 to 60)	Volleyball Net ($35 to 70)	LED Floating Lights ($30 to 80)
$50 to $150	Pool Valet Caddy ($45 to 80)	Bluetooth Speaker ($45 to 150)	Insulated Tumbler Set ($60 to 120)
$150 to $300	Robotic Skimmer ($150 to 300)	Basketball Hoop ($80 to 200)	Towel Warmer ($100 to 150)
$300+	Cover Reel ($250 to 800)	N/A	Jet Enhancement Kit ($100 to 300)

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best gift for someone who just got their first pool?

Start with the essentials they might not think about: a smart thermometer for energy-efficient heating and a valet caddy for organization. New pool owners underestimate how much “stuff” accumulates poolside, and these two gifts solve immediate practical problems while feeling thoughtful rather than boring. Add a set of pool floats or pool toys if they have kids, since family entertainment becomes a priority once the swimming pool is operational.

Are these gifts really compatible with both pools and swim spas?

Absolutely. The key is understanding scale: larger swimming pools need more lights or bigger waterproof speakers, while swim spas work perfectly with compact versions. Every gift listed adapts to either environment. Swim spa-specific items (like jet enhancers) are clearly marked, but everything else works universally. Whether they’re hosting pool parties in a full-size inground pool or doing morning workouts in a Wellis swim spa, these gifts enhance the experience.

What if I don’t know their pool size or type?

Focus on accessories that don’t depend on dimensions: thermometers, Bluetooth speakers, insulated tumblers, towel warmers, and water enhancers work regardless of pool size. Pool games like basketball hoops and volleyball nets have adjustable options. When in doubt, gift receipts are your friend, but most items here are genuinely universal across different swimming pool types.

Which gifts work for year-round swim spa users versus summer-only pool owners?

Towel warmers and cover reels matter exponentially more for year-round use. LED pool lights extend evening usage in any season. Water enhancers with aromatherapy and jet upgrades specifically benefit swim spa owners who use their spas daily. Summer-only pool owners appreciate pool games, inflatable pool floats, and pool party accessories more since their usage focuses on recreation rather than therapy.

How do I avoid giving something they already have?

Ask casual questions beforehand: “How do you usually handle pool cleaning?” or “What’s your current float situation?” Most people will happily complain about what they’re currently using, which gives you intel. Premium upgrades of basics they already own (like replacing cheap pool rafts with ergonomic floating loungers) often make the best gifts anyway. Check customer reviews online to see what other pool owners wish they’d received as gifts.