Relaxation at its finest: The best pool floats for all ages

We are deep in the heat of summer and finally have our sunscreen routine squared away and found a swimsuit that fits comfortably because it is a full-time job just trying to beat this heat. If you're lucky enough to find yourself floating around your backyard pool for extended periods of time, we recommend investing in some pool floats. It will instantly transform your backyard into a personal oasis of relaxation. Lounge comfortably on a float as you soak up the sun, read a book and unwind.

Whether you have kids, friends, or family visiting, pool floats add an extra entertainment element; from inflatable games to a chaise recliner or a classic color-blocked inner tube, you can turn your pool into a playground for all ages.

So, why wait? Time's running out to elevate your pool experience with the addition of fun and functional pool floats. Your backyard oasis awaits!

Big Joe's Lazy Lounger — made with a headrest, footrest and cup holder — is another convenient, non-inflatable float that commands a presence wherever it goes. A double-sided mesh and quick-draining fabric add to its breathability, and the buoyant, bean-filled fabric is about as plush as it gets. There is also a handle for easy carrying.

"Worth the cost!," according to this reviewer. "Purchased this to replace the inflatable ones that we were constantly replacing. It is extremely comfortable and is holding up very well! We are very pleased with this purchase."

Look on the bright side with these neon chair floats from Intex, which are small enough for the average home or hotel pool and allow for a flexible, leisurely soak. The wavy pockets along the seat fill with water for staying cool, while a cup holder and handles offer added convenience and control. The compact size and accessible price point make them especially great for group trips and unexpected guests.

“This is my favorite pool lounger,” affirmed one reviewer. “I use it all the time. Recommend this to everyone.”

Defy gravity in this top-rated Zero Gravity Chair Float from Aqua, featuring a mesh insert and 3D AirMesh Fabric Cover for added breathability and quick-drying appeal. The backrest and seat can also be adjusted with the ease of a click for customizable comfort.

One reviewer was so impressed they bought two: “The price was very reasonable and we’re just what we’ve been looking for. We have a small pool and not much space for storage. We keep them neatly against the house on their side edge. They have clips to string together for river floating. Love these!”

Aqua’s Campania lounger — which has over 8,000 perfect reviews — offers a full-length, adjustable backrest for adequate support whether you’re looking to take in the views or recline and unwind. Use the built-in cup holder for quick sips, or sync up the attachable caddy to create your own private mini bar.

“Easy to inflate!” confirmed one a happy shopper. "Quick to blow up and use immediately! Very comfortable and durable. Definitely a quality float. The side piece attaches to the float for easy removal. Have not tried holding a cup in it yet, but will update when I do ... Back piece folds down to use in reverse! LOVE IT!"

This No. 1 bestselling, vacation-friendly water hammock from Aqua has over 42,000 perfect ratings for its classic design (in seven cabana-stripe shades), relaxed style (also recommended for seniors and expectant mothers) and versatility (read: endless relaxation opportunities). Rely on it as a hammock, lounger, drifter and exercise saddle in one — it deflates quickly and comes with a small pouch for easy packing or stashing when you’re done!

“Very impressed with the quality and thickness of this float material,” said one verified customer. “So comfortable to lay back in and relax. The built-in pillow wraps around your head and is sooo comfy ... If it's a really hot humid day and I want a float that keeps me in the water and cool, this is my go-to. Awesome product. Every pool should have a couple of these. Five stars.”

Say goodbye to flimsy foam noodles and say hello to this bestselling Noodle Sling from Big Joe. It’s become a grownup pool staple for its buoyant bean filling, padded design and quick setup — no inflation required! An attached seat with a built-in cup holder offers additional support, while a quick-drying mesh fabric makes storage a breeze. Available in a range of patterns.

“I love this float,” affirmed one satisfied shopper. “I can sit in it or lay on top of it. It’s very functional and comfortable. Light weight, easy to haul around if need be.”

Ground yourself in serenity with this top-rated lounger from SwimWays, designed with a soft mesh interior for keeping your body just below the water’s surface — and cool for hours at a time. A patented innerspring is sewn into the outer rim for added stability, while a custom Hyper-Flate Valve allows you to inflate and deflate quickly. Carrying bag included.

According to this proud owner, the Papasan float manages to stay put, even in windy environments: “.... These rings are comfortable and do not blow out of the pool. They are also great to sit small children in to give them a break from swimming around in their life jackets. They can easily climb on and off of them without flipping over.”

For full-body immersion, consider SwimWays’ Original Pool Lounge Chair, offering the same features we love in the Papasan, with room to elongate your legs when you need to stretch. It still folds up easily despite its longer, 69-inch frame, making it ideal for traveling.

“Perfect for our new pool!” exclaimed one enthusiast. “I like that you can fold them up and put them away when not using. I love that your bottom is still in the water while you float on a hot day.”

SwimWays' recliner has all the bells and whistles featured in the brand's floats, above, with the added benefit and comfort of a head-, back- and footrest (it’s essentially like a water-friendly ottoman). A built-in cup holder helps keep cold drinks close.

A real steal, according to this verified customer: “I had purchased an identical float two years ago from a pool supplier. Paid more than double the price. These floats are amazing and the price is perfect. I plan on buying more for future use … I used my electric pump and the float was inflated in three seconds. Love it!”

Add a pop of pattern with Qakshy’s playful tube assortment. The swim ring is made of durable materials, while the double airbag design helps safeguard against tipping and flipping. You can choose between adult and teen sizes for the perfect fit, and each comes in a set of two. (With coordinating prints and a $12.50 price tag, it’s basically a mix-and-matcher’s paradise.)

For added support, consider this roomy, top-rated tube from Opau. The durable, ergonomic design boasts a built-in backrest for sitting upright and the durable fabric — available in four color combos — is fade-resistant for lasting style. Size recommended for adults and teens.

“Love the backrest and the vented seat,” wrote one reviewer. “This inflatable seat was easy to fill with air. Used an electric pump. I love that the seat is mesh to allow for water flow. The backrest is very comfortable ….”

For a real lap of luxury, consider this inflatable from Intex, beloved by Yahoo editors and over 11,000 Amazon reviewers who can’t get enough of its durable vinyl construction and ultra-supportive recliner design. Heavy-duty handles make for easy maneuvering, while dual cup holders mean double the hydration.

One shopper accurately described it as a "La-Z-Boy for the pool!," while another wrote "This thing is awesome. Not only is it comfortable and relaxing to use, it’s very durable. It easily supports 250 pounds, and it was thoroughly abused by multiple children ... If this thing ever breaks, I’ll happily buy a new one."

Intex’s Canopy Island – another Yahoo editor favorite – allows you to create your own restful (or party) retreat. A detachable fabric sun shade provides extra privacy and a veil of protection during sunny peaks, while two cup holders keep libations within reach. There's never been a better time to indulge.

"I love this float so much!" gushed one reviewer. "It feels like being on a tropical vacation. It is so relaxing. I use it for reading, relaxing, etc. I stay dry on it, even when others are swimming around me."

"Wow!" exclaimed another. "This pool lounger is an absolute dream! .... It is comfortable and easy to put together. Would definitely recommend."