Best Games to Play in a Swim Spa 

As the temperature climbs and the days stretch out, diving into your Wellis® swim spa, the best swim spa on the market, is the perfect escape! But beyond just cooling off, discovering games to play in a swim spa opens up a world of aquatic enjoyment and entertainment.

Let’s explore some of the best games to play in a swim spa that will make a splash at your next party, entertaining players and spectators alike. The extra size and volume of a swim spa vs hot tub means you have more room for fun. In case you have a hot tub, visit our list of Games to Play in a Hot Tub.

Marco Polo

Let’s kick it off with one of the classic games to play in a swim spa: Marco Polo. This time-honored game has been a go-to for generations. 

Just in case you haven’t played in a while, here’s a quick refresher: Start a game of Marco Polo by choosing one player to be 'It.' Have this player close their eyes or wear a blindfold, as the rest of the players scatter themselves throughout the pool. When the blindfolded player calls out "Marco,” the game begins. The other participants then respond with the familiar chant, "Polo." This goes on until the blindfolded player manages to locate and tag someone using those sound cues alone; that player then becomes ‘it.’

Marco Polo is perfect for participants of all ages and swimming abilities. Whether played in a shallow kiddie pool or swim spa, modifications can be made to accommodate various skill levels. 

Water Basketball

The simple addition of a hoop and a basketball can make for one of the most fun games to play in a swim spa: Water basketball. Floating hoops are specially designed to be buoyant and easily adjustable, so they can be set to any height for players of all ages and skill levels. Most hoops will come with a water basketball so all you have to do is unpack the hoop, set it up, and start to play.

Make sure the court area is free of obstructions, allowing for an unobstructed game. Stick to the rules of traditional basketball, or make up your own—feel free to get creative! 

For those seeking an extra challenge, why not practice your slam dunks? The water allows for gravity-defying jumps and unexpected moves. Whether you're aiming for the perfect three-pointer or showcasing your dunking prowess, water basketball is perfect for enthusiasts of all levels.

Pool Noodle Jousting

The best games to play in a swim spa are never complete without a noodle or two: These colorful and affordable pool accessories are perfect for dozens of games. Our favorite? Noodle jousting. Just like its medieval predecessor, noodle jousting just requires the two players to face off with their lances and duel to victory. The objective is simple: knock opponents off their perch using the pool noodle as the weapon of choice.

Begin the game by selecting a fleet of vibrant pool noodles. You can even cut them in half to create the perfect jousting sticks.

Designate a jousting arena within your pool where your players can balance on inflatable rafts or stand on the pool floor. Adding floating or stationary platforms adds an element of strategy, requiring jousters to maintain stability.

Treasure Hunt

Unleash the adventurer within by transforming your swim spa into a treasure trove. Scatter water-safe toys, coins, or brightly colored rings across the floor of the spa. The more random the items, the more fun the hunt becomes. Ensure that the items are safe for underwater use and can be easily spotted, making the search both challenging and enjoyable.

Give all participants swim goggles or masks and have them dive to uncover the hidden treasures. For younger treasure hunters or beginners, consider providing snorkels or nose clips for a safer and easier dive.

Kick off the underwater treasure hunt by announcing the start of the quest. Participants can either work individually or form teams.. Set a time limit for a little extra challenge, and you have one of the best games to play in a swim spa and hours of entertainment. 

Float Races

To take your swim spa fun to the next level with a little friendly competition, add a float race to your list of games to play in a swim spa. This activity is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that not only adds excitement to your swim spa gatherings but also encourages participants to show off their swimming skills.

Set the stage by gathering an assortment of inflatable devices such as animal floats, pool noodles, or rafts. Ensure that the pool area is clear and safe for participants to navigate through without any obstacles. If your swim spa is spacious enough, you can have multiple lanes for a more professional take on the game.

Allow participants to choose their preferred floating devices, adding a personal touch to the race. From majestic unicorn inflatables to classic pool noodles, the variety of floats adds a whimsical and entertaining element to the event.

Volleyball

When it comes to games to play in a swim spa, no poolside experience is complete without the excitement of  volleyball. Make your pool into a makeshift volleyball court by installing a floating net or using a portable one designed for water play. 

Gather friends and family for thrilling matches, and make a splash with each perfectly timed spike. Adjust the difficulty level by incorporating variations such as sitting on floaties or playing with oversized beach balls, ensuring that players of all skill levels can participate and have a blast. Whether you're setting, spiking, or diving for that winning shot, volleyball adds a dynamic and competitive edge to any party. 

Swim spa volleyball is a fantastic way to enhance teamwork, coordination, and agility while enjoying the refreshing water.

Freeze Tag

Taking freeze tag into the water offers a fun twist on classic childhood favorites by turning it into one of the best games to play in a swim spa. Much like in Marco Polo, one player is designated as 'it,' and their goal will be to tag and temporarily freeze their fellow swimmers. Anyone who’s tagged has to freeze in place until unfrozen by a teammate. 

The extra challenge of moving through water makes the game a bit trickier, and a lot more fun. 

Final Word: Games to Play in a Swim Spa

Make your swim spa the go-to destination for family and friends by stocking it up with plenty of pool-game supplies. Whether you're hosting a pool party, enjoying family time, or simply looking to spice up your swimming routine, the best games to play in a swim spa are sure to make a splash. For those with hot tubs, be sure to read our blog on games to play in a hot tub, linked at the beginning of this post.

If you're ready to see our swim spas for sale, reach out to our team of experts at Wellis® Spas today. Give us a call at 844-4-WELLIS, or head to your local swim spa dealer!