Poolside Must-Haves: What Items Do You Need for a Pool?

Owning or managing a pool—whether it’s in your backyard, part of a community center, or a seasonal getaway spot—is a rewarding experience that combines relaxation, recreation, and fun. But to get the most out of any pool space, you need more than just water and sunshine. The right gear and accessories can enhance safety, comfort, and enjoyment for everyone.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need for a functional and stylish pool environment. Plus, we’ll showcase how SUNJOY’s innovative outdoor products can upgrade your setup with elegance and utility.

1. Shade Solutions: Comfort Comes First

Constant exposure to the sun can turn a perfect pool day into an uncomfortable (or even dangerous) experience. Shade isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Recommended Product: SUNJOY 10x10 Floating Pool Gazebo with PVC Floats and Carry Bag
This innovative shade solution floats right on the water, giving swimmers and loungers instant relief from direct sun. It’s portable, easy to inflate, and made for real-world summer conditions.

Additional shade options to consider:

Market umbrellas with adjustable tilts

Pergolas with retractable canopies

Tents or pop-up cabanasSUNJOY 10x10 Floating Pool Gazebo with PVC Floats and Carry Bag

2. Poolside Convenience: Floating Snacks & Drinks

What’s better than relaxing in the pool with refreshments within arm’s reach? A floating tray makes this experience not only possible but easy and stylish.

Recommended Product: SUNJOY 36x24 Inch Outdoor Floating Pool Tray Service Table for Drinks and Snacks
This spacious floating tray is designed to serve food and beverages right on the water. With generous surface area and durable materials, it’s ideal for entertaining or simply treating yourself to poolside snacks.

Other helpful additions:

Unbreakable drinkware

Floating coasters

Snack-safe covers to keep out insectsSUNJOY 36x24 Inch Outdoor Floating Pool Tray Service Table for Drinks and Snacks - Navy

3. Refreshments & Cooling Gear

Hydration and snacks are crucial on hot days. A nearby drink station helps everyone stay refreshed and energized.

Recommended Product: SUNJOY 80 Quart Stainless Steel Cooler Cart with Bottle Opener, Shelf and Lockable Wheels
This mobile cooler cart is perfect for hosting pool parties or relaxing afternoons. It’s large enough to hold drinks for the whole family and rolls easily to wherever it’s needed.

Bonus items to enhance your drink setup:

Reusable tumblers or shatterproof glassware

Ice packs and insulated sleeves

A small side table or tray for serving

4. Compact Privacy & Changing Area

Changing into swimwear or drying off after a dip shouldn't feel like a challenge. A compact shelter provides comfort and privacy.

Recommended Product: SUNJOY 4x4 Pop-Up Canopy Tent with Sidewalls
Easy to deploy and relocate, this pop-up tent is great for use as a changing room or shaded rest stop. Its tool-free assembly and small footprint make it ideal for tight backyard setups.

Other uses for this tent:

First-aid station

Pool toy storage

Lounge area with floor cushionsSUNJOY 4x4 Pop-Up Canopy Tent with Sidewalls

5. Elegant Poolside Lounging

When you're not in the water, you need a place to relax, recharge, and enjoy the view.

Recommended Product: SUNJOY 13x13 Octagon Wood Patio Gazebo with Ceiling Hook
This stylish wooden structure elevates your entire pool area. It provides a luxurious escape from the sun and can be enhanced with string lights, fans, or sheer drapes for a resort-like vibe.

Poolside accessories to add:

Reclining lounge chairs with cushions

Side tables for books and drinks

Outdoor rugs to define the spaceSUNJOY 13x13 Octagon Wood Patio Gazebo with Ceiling Hook

6. Safety Must-Haves

Safety can never be overstated, especially in areas where children and guests are swimming. A well-stocked pool area includes both proactive and emergency gear.

Must-have safety items:

Life rings and flotation aids

First-aid kits

Pool safety signs and rules

Non-slip mats

Also consider installing a gate or lockable cover if young children are around.

7. Lighting for Ambience & Security

Proper lighting extends pool use into the evening and improves visibility for safety. It also contributes to the overall mood.

Great lighting ideas:

Solar-powered stake lights around the deck

Waterproof LED lights in the pool

Hanging lanterns or string lights under gazebos

Motion-sensor security lights for night safety

8. Entertainment & Atmosphere

Make your pool a hub for fun. With the right setup, it can serve as the go-to spot for everything from family games to romantic evenings.

Top entertainment options:

Floating waterproof speakers

Inflatable games and loungers

Mounted TVs (weather-resistant)

Projector screens for movie nights

Create zones for different activities—swimming, lounging, eating, and games—using shade structures and furniture.

Outfitting your pool area is about balancing function, safety, and aesthetics. From floating gazebos and snack trays to elegant patio structures and cooler carts, SUNJOY’s product line makes it easier to design a pool environment that feels like a true retreat.

By investing in the right accessories, you’ll not only enhance your comfort and convenience but also protect your family and impress your guests. So before your next poolside gathering, make sure you have all the essentials in place.

Get your space pool-ready—with SUNJOY.

Backyard ideas