Image: MomJunction Design Team
If you and the children are headed to the lake or beach for a fun and relaxing day out, do not forget to take the best lake toys with you for company. Lake toys offer unlimited fun and can keep young ones busy and make them fall in love with the water.
Our list of best-selling lake toys has everything from boats and balls to inflatable floats and platforms, so pick your favorite one and test it out. While these toys are fun, ensure you supervise your children’s playtime to ensure their safety..
Top Picks
17 Best Lake Toys
1. Best Phthalate-Free: Jasonwell Giant Inflatable Unicorn Pool Float
The Jasonwell giant inflatable unicorn pool float measures 114x55x47 inches when inflated. It is shaped like a unicorn and can hold two adults weighing 400 pounds. It is phthalate-free and has a matte finish and two fast valves for quick inflation and deflation. You can inflate the water float with an electric or hand air pump or hairdryer. This video review will help you understand more about this float that doubles as a floating chair.
Pros
- Spacious pool
- Stays inflated for days
- Premium raft grade material
- Sturdy and long-lasting
- Comfortable for laying down
Cons
- Might flip when bouncing around
- Color may fade with constant sun exposure
"This inflatable unicorn helps jazz up my pool parties, and everyone seems to enjoy it regardless of age. It is sturdy and has an impressive size, so multiple people can lounge together. Plus, it is easy to inflate with my air pump."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 8,961 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
2. Best With Connectors:Intex Giant Inflatable Floating Mat
The trusted and time-tested Intex giant inflatable floating mat is a durable and spacious water accessory, measuring 114×84 inches, making it suitable for accommodating at least two people. It is designed for maximum comfort on the water surface, with a weight capacity of up to 660 lb. The mat also features “connect ‘n’ float” connectors that make it easy to securely attach multiple floats, convenient for group outings on the lake. The connectors have a simple design, making them easy to use. Crafted from thick, puncture-resistant PVC, this floating mat can also be used on the lakeside or beach, adding more flexibility to your outdoor activities.
Pros
- Easy-to-store, foldable design
- Sturdy and long-lasting
- includes repair patch for convenience
- Features two air chambers for additional safety
Cons
- Maybe a bit heavy
- May not be suitable for children
"This swim mat has been a nice choice for its sturdiness, handling my energetic dogs easily. It is pretty big, which works nicely for lake or pool days. Inflating and deflating can be a chore, but it has lasted multiple summers, making it worth it."
3. Best Double Hatch Body: Force1 Velocity H102 RC Boat
The Force1 Velocity boat is a remote-controlled toy boat great for having fun in the pool or lake. It has a rechargeable battery with a top speed of 20 miles per hour and a four-channel 2.4GHZ remote with an LCD. This high-speed blue boat that races across the waters is popular with children and adults. The boat has a 14-inch double hatch body for wave control and a capsize recovery mode. It also includes a nose guard, a dry-dock stand, and an extra propeller, making it a durable water sports equipment. Check out this honest review detailing a tester’s experience with this lake accessory.
Pros
- Anti-collision nose guard
- Switch lock hatch
- Water-cooling engine technology
- Out-of-range alarm
- In-water only operation
- 120-meter signal range
- Emergency stop function
Cons
- Some may find it less durable
- May require frequent recharge
4. Best High-Quality Raft Material: Joyin Inflatable Pool Float Set
Joyin’s inflatable pool set includes a volleyball net and basketball hoops. It is an excellent water-day set up for adults and children. The volleyball court measures 105x28x35 inches, while the basketball court measures 27x23x27 inches. As per reviews, it makes a great lake accessory as the float includes two weight bags to hold it in place and maintain balance. This child-safe floatie is made of non-toxic, high-quality raft material.
Pros
- Made of durable PVC material
- Ideal for ages nine and up
- Safety-tested
- Easy to inflate and set up
- Easy to carry on vacations
Cons
- Some may find it small
- Some may not like the balls
"I find this inflatable net remarkable for special occasions and pool parties. I like using our own balls instead of those provided in the set, as I'm not happy with their quality. Still, the net structure is durable and hasn't shown any signs of chlorine damage."
Quick factWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 5,986 positive reviews on Amazon.
5. Best Sure-Grip: Wave Runner Grip It Waterproof Football
The best-selling waterproof Wave Runner Grip It football is designed with sure-grip technology. It has a diameter of 9.25 inches and is designed with excellent aerodynamics. The beach ball’s heavy-duty bladder and durable material make it long-lasting. In addition, the double lacing allows incredible spiral throws and can make a game of football more exciting.
Pros
- Special grip pattern
- Floats all day
- Safe and easy to throw
- Kid-friendly
Cons
- Does not offer the option to choose color
- Some may find it smaller than expected
"I like this football's superior grip and visibility, even when we use it in the water. I can vouch for its quality and construction. Although it is a little smaller than anticipated, it's been a lot of fun to play with at home, on the beach, and even by the pool."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 3,997 positive customer reviews on Amazon are a testament to its quality and reliability.
6. Best Non-Toxic: Seckton Toys Amphibious RC Car For Kids
Seckton Toys offers an amphibious remote control boat-car that can drive in water. The monster truck comes with a 2.4GHz remote control and a powerful engine. It is suitable for all water terrains and has a top speed of 12kmph. This car’s rechargeable battery and adjustable speed make it unstoppable. The body is made of non-toxic, long-lasting ABS for increased durability, and is ideal for children aged five to ten years.
Pros
- Double-sided movements
- Flexible to perform 360° flips
- 200 feet signal range
- Automatic shut-down feature
- Anti-interference and anti-lost design
- Shockproof body
Cons
- May require frequent charging
- Controls may be a little sensitive
"I picked up this remote control car for my kids, and they love it. It easily tackles various terrains, from the backyard to the pool, and the controls are simple enough for my kids to operate. I wish the charging lasted longer, yet it has been a fun purchase."
7. Best Large-Size:Swimline Giant Shootball
Swimline’s large inflatable shootball toy can make water games more fun. This inflatable set includes a durable ball, allowing you to show off your basketball skills by shooting the ball through the middle hoop or side compartments. Made of durable UV-resistant vinyl with radio frequency welded seams, this parent-recommended inflatable toy is ideal for pools, lakes, and backyard parties.
Pros
- Includes a patch kit
- Features a shaded lounge area
- Has an elevated center sphere
- Stem valve makes inflation easy
Cons
- Might not be highly durable
- Might require frequent re-inflations
"The basketball hoop's robust construction withstands rough play well. I prefer to inflate it once for the season as it holds the air for long. It is bigger than we had expected, which is a bonus, and we've had some memorable pool basketball games with it."
8. Best Multifunctional:Aqua Leisure 4-In-1 Monterey Hammock
Bring home the patented and multifunctional Monterey hammock that serves as a drifter, lounge chair, exercise saddle, and hammock. It features two buoyant pillows with stripes to support your head and legs. Its pillows provide the right balance, while the mesh-based center keeps you cool and comfortable on a hot day. This tried-and-tested hammock by Aqua Leisure is suitable for people of all ages and can help you relax and de-stress.
Pros
- Features two capped air valves
- Foldable and portable
- Easy to board
- Available in multiple colors and sizes
Cons
- Might be difficult to inflate
- Might not be great for taller adults
"These floats fit snugly in my beach bag for pool outings and vacations. The design allows me to lounge in different positions, and the fabric-covered pillows offer ample comfort. Also, I'm impressed with their durability, as they've weathered rough use."
Do remember9. Best Double-Laced Design:Sunlite Sports Waterproof Football
Have fun at the park, beach, backyard, or lake with this football by Sunlite Sports. It features a double-laced design that provides an enhanced grip when throwing and catching the ball. Made of neoprene material with heavy-duty stitching, this ball can provide hours of fun. Moreover, the quirky water-splashing design on the ball can make play time with friends and family more fun.
Pros
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Suitable for all ages
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Valve might be a bit flimsy
- May not stay inflated for long
"I tossed this ball around with my family on our latest beach trip, and despite its smaller size, it didn't disappoint. It stays afloat, retains its shape, and is a softer, safer alternative to traditional footballs. I'm also pleased with its durability, withstanding wear and tear even after repeated use."
10. Best Eco-Friendly: FindUWill Two Pack Inflatable Pool Floats
FindUWill offers a set of two inflatable pool floats shaped like a flamingo and a unicorn. The water tube rings, which appeal to children, keep the child safe in the water and prevent drowning. The beach and lake floats have a diameter of 42 inches and can be used as lounge rafts. The tubes are made of eco-friendly, non-toxic, and durable PVC materials, which are thick and soft. These floating loungers provide excellent buoyancy and look attractive in the water.
Pros
- High-quality material
- Suitable for adult use
- Easy to fold and carry
- Spacious floats
- Ideal for pool photoshoots
- Stays inflated for days
Cons
- May not withstand heat
- May fade with constant sun exposure
"Despite enthusiastic use, these floats seem durable and have held up well. Though inflating them was tiring without a pump, they hold air remarkably, and I've only had to top them up once throughout the season."
11. Best Easy To Control:Cusocue 2-in-1 RC Boat
Develop your child’s hand-eye coordination and focus with this two-in-one RC boat by Cusocue. This crocodile head-shaped RC toy boat is equipped with a double propeller, a 2.4 GHz system, and a guiding rudder. The bumpy texture of the crocodile and its detailed features provide a realistic look and feel to the toy. Additionally, the battery is easily rechargeable with a USB charger, and the remote control has a range of up to 50 meters. This is a must-have gear for your next lakehouse trip and adventure.
Pros
- Waterproof design
- Easy to control
- Easily accessible battery compartment
- Made of quality ABS plastic material
Cons
- Might be smaller than expected
- May not come with a charger
"This remote control boat has lasting battery life and a decent speed. It is also pretty sturdy, and the added alarm to signal a low battery is a nice touch. My little ones find it exciting; they always carry it to the pool to experience a water adventure."
12. Best Water-Resistant:Activ Life Kid’s Flying Rings
Specially engineered to be 80% lighter than standard flying discs, this frisbee offers a comfortable grip and easy catch. This entertaining flying ring is versatile, as it can float on water, making it suitable for use at the lake, beach, or pool. Additionally, it can fly up to 80 feet in calm winds and travel in a straight direction. The smooth texture design of this swimming toy ensures a comfortable grip and effortless catch every time.
Pros
- Pain-free design
- Suitable for all ages
- Easy to throw
- Soft plastic with burr-free edges
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs or pets
- Hollow center may make the frisbee delicate
"These lightweight flying rings are a blast on our family lake days. They're easy to handle and don't hurt my kids' hands on impact. They've held up pretty well so far."
13. Best Wheather-Resistant:Goplus Inflatable Water Trampoline
Gear up for the summer season with this trusted Goplus inflatable water trampoline that doubles as a swimming platform. It has a frame-supported and 120-inch wide jumping surface, making it sturdy enough to accommodate two children or one adult. The trampoline can withstand up to 330lb of weight and includes a 500W electric inflator, three mooring ropes, and an anchor to enhance the trampoline’s stability. Moreover, it also comes equipped with an anti-slip rope-based ladder.
Pros
- Made of durable nylon cloth and elastic bands
- Puncture-proof and weather-resistant material
- Reinforced handles for easy boarding
- Available in multiple colors and sizes
Cons
- May not hold air for long hours
- May not include repair patches
"I'm impressed by the solid construction of this water trampoline. The setup was simple, and it inflated easily with the included pump. However, I did feel the ladder could be a bit sturdier. Still, it's always fun when we set it up for our family lake vacations."
14. Best Stylish Design:HaiBoxing X03 High-Speed RC Boat
The Haiboxing X03 RC boat boasts a double hatch design that ensures it remains dry after sailing. The hull bottom design enhances the boat’s speed, allowing it to sail at 20 MPH without being dragged down. Additionally, the modular version of the classic lake toy offers excellent control with a four-channel 2.4GHz LCD transmitter that has a range of 120 meters, and the built-in gyroscope ensures stability. It also features over-current protection and over-heat cut-off, making it the ideal boat for lakes.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Self-righting feature
- Equipped with a water-cooling motor
- Features low-battery alarm and out-of-range alarm
- Available in two color options
Cons
- Boat may not be compatible with seawater
- May not have a power button
"This RC boat is fast and stable as its gyro keeps it steady on the water. I appreciate the included tip protector when we use it in the pool. Although it did have a minor leak after extended use, it's a minor inconvenience. Plus, the self-righting feature is great for uninterrupted play."
15. Gizmovine Remote Control Boats
Gizmovine has a remote control waterproof boat for added fun in the pool or at the lake. This three-in-one set includes a boat and two animal head-shaped covers and has a top speed of more than 20 miles per hour and a four-channel 2.4GHz remote. The functions include speed control, capsize recovery, and a control range of 164 feet. Playing with this boat in the water is made even more exciting by the presence of one crocodile head and one snakehead. Two high-speed lithium batteries run for 20 minutes but can be fully recharged in an hour.
Pros
- Battery lasts for 20 minutes
- Waterproof rubber plug
- Turns on quickly after detecting water
- Four-way driving
- Drop-resistant
- Anti-interference design
Cons
- Remote may not be rust proof
16. Best Delighful:Intex Giant Gator Ride-On Inflatable Pool Float
Experience a fun and unique sunbathing experience with the Intex Giant Gator Ride-On. This ride-on features a smooth surface that provides comfortable seating for your child. This inflatable lake toy comes equipped with four heavy-duty handles that make it easy to grip and stay on the ride. Measuring 80×45 inches, the rider surface is large enough for two to three children to sit comfortably. However, note that the alligator can support only up to 176lb of weight.
Pros
- Includes repair patch kit
- Made with durable 12-gauge UV-resistant vinyl
- Features two air chambers
- Suitable for children of all ages
Cons
- Might leak
- Edges may be a bit rough
"I got this gator float for my son, and it's impressive at handling his energetic play without showing any signs of deflation or wear. It has also been helpful as a raft that deters ducks from going into our pool."
17. Best Durable:Activ Life The Ultimate Skip Ball
Beat the summer heat and stay energized with Activ Life’s skip ball. This trusted ball is specially designed to skip, float, and glide on the water’s surface, providing endless hours of entertainment. Made of silicone material, the ball has a superior bounce, enabling you to throw and catch the ball easily. The ball comes packaged in a colorful gift box, making it an ideal gift option.
Pros
- Compact and portable
- Includes a frisbee
- Includes a waterproof travel bag
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Might be slightly smaller than expected
- Ball’s outer layer may not withstand rough use
"While these balls are a lot of fun during water games, they can feel a bit too big in small pools. Still, I'm happy with the quality and the vibrant colors, keeping my family engaged during vacation. Also, the disc offers an additional fun element."
How To Choose The Right Lake Toy?
Before you make your final decision, consider the following tips for selecting the best lake toy.
- Safety: Safety is of utmost importance on water. Choose a toy that is made of solid and robust materials and meets all safety parameters. It should float adequately on water. Also, ensure that your children play with these toys only under adult supervision.
- Material: The toys should be made of sturdy and high-quality materials, such as PVC, which last long.
- Easy to carry: Inflatable toys are typically compact and lightweight. You should be able to deflate, fold, and effortlessly carry them.
- Valves and anchors: Well-designed valves allow for faster inflating and deflating of the toys. You will also require a sound anchoring system if you do not want the toy to float away in the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Would lake toys work on snow?
Being moisture-wicking, it may seem like lake toys can work on snow, but it may not always be the case. Water and snow have different properties and densities, making it necessary to have separate toys for each.
2. Can lake toys accommodate an adult and a small dog?
Depending on the style and size of the lake toy you select, certain toys can accommodate an adult and, at times, even two adults. It may not be advisable to use them for dogs because their behavior can be unpredictable and some toys may not be able to withstand their clawing and chewing.
3. Are lake toys washable?
Most lake toys are made of durable waterproof materials. They can be wipe-cleaned with a damp cloth, but it’s always advisable to go through the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Priti Bose covers children’s toys, games, and gifts and undertakes in-depth research to produce comprehensive and informative product reviews. In this article, she has listed the best lake toys to help you choose the right one. The list includes various options and ensures durability and quality. Priti has also included a detailed buying guide to help ease your purchasing experience.
Whether it is a visit to the beach or lake with your child, taking some toys along may help by adding volumes to the fun they have during playtime. They may undergo a lot of rough play, so the yardstick to buying the best lake toy is to check if it is durable enough to withstand wear and tear in the long run. Choosing one that is age-specific, compact, and portable may help too. But when you invest in inflatable toys, don’t forget to check if they can be inflated and deflated easily.
Infographic: What Are The Various Kinds Of Lake Toys?
Lake toys are the perfect companions for endless summer fun by the lake. From inflatable rafts to water sports equipment, they provide entertainment and relaxation for all ages. Explore the infographic below to discover the various categories of lake toys and their features that can make your lake picnics more adventurous and memorable.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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