
Typically, when people host pool parties, the guest list is filled with children eager to jump in and enjoy the afternoon. But once your backyard pool is set up, chances are you’re ready to share it with your adult friends too. These adult pool party tips will help you host a fun, memorable gathering tailored just for grown-ups.
So what is a pool party for adults? While they’re not as common, adult pool parties are still a fun way to celebrate, whether it’s a birthday, a summer holiday, or just to kick off your new salt system or your pool renovation.
But throwing an adult party is a lot different than hosting a kid’s pool party, especially if it’s in our amazing weather in Florida, cause a Miami pool party needs to be perfect. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you embark on the planning process.
Skip the formal invites

For a fun adult gathering by the pool, there’s no need to get the word out about your party with mailed invitations, which might feel a bit childish. Instead, we recommend you send an email to your friends that specifies the tone of the party, whether it’s casual, themed, or dressy.
Even a group text message can get the word out. Just be sure to remind guests to bring their swimsuits, which stresses the fact that it’s a pool party.
Go easy on the decorations
Unless you’re throwing a themed party, like a luau, you don’t need to go all-out with your decorations. Instead of decking out everything with streamers and balloons, just make sure that your pool area is clean, neat and set up in a way that caters to the needs of your guests.
For example,Taste of Home by Julie Meyers magazine suggests forgoing the buffet table in favor of several food stations, which will ensure that your guests aren’t milling around in the same place, which makes the area difficult to navigate.
- Soft lighting from candles or outdoor lamps creates a flattering glow for guests.
- Portable fire pits can add a fun element to the yard.
Provide the essentials

While guests will be responsible for bringing their own pool supplies, it never hurts to have some spare items on hand for those who forget. A basket of extra towels, a few bottles of sunscreen, some popular magazines and maybe swim essentials like goggles or swim caps would be helpful, notes the Tango Diva Travel Blog.
It might also be helpful to set up a changing tent or an outdoor shower for your guests to use.
- Keep your bathroom well stocked with useful items.
- Include lotions, soaps, and other toiletries.
- This helps guests freshen up after activities like swimming.
Having these essentials available creates a welcoming environment and ensures guests feel comfortable during their visit.
Mix up some great cocktails
You don’t need to have a fully stocked bar to provide your partygoers with cool drinks. Just pick a few select cocktails to feature, like margaritas or sangria, and get enough of the necessary ingredients for everyone to have at least two or three drinks each.
For those who aren’t liquor lovers, you might want to set out a cooler full of a few types of popular beer or wine.
If you’re not sure what everyone likes, you could always tell guests to bring their own!
Keep the food light
You don’t need to rely on the kid’s party staples of hamburgers and hotdogs when you’re throwing an adult-only bash – grown-ups aren’t as picky as kids when it comes to food!
White Kitchen by Sara recommends keeping the food light and healthy, so your guests don’t feel weighed down while they’re swimming in your new pool just renovated.
- Provide a variety of salads and fresh vegetable dishes.
- Include a wide selection of fruits.
- Add lighter protein options like chicken or fish.
- Aim for a balanced meal that meets different dietary preferences and needs.
Playlist for pool party
Having some music playing softly in the background during your party can really help create a nice atmosphere that is both enjoyable and relaxed for everyone. It’s important, however, to ensure that the volume is kept at a level where your guests can comfortably converse with one another without straining to hear.
To prepare for your event, consider curating a fun playlist that fits the summer vibe of Miami, choosing upbeat and lively songs that many people tend to enjoy.
Alternatively, you could tune into a popular radio station or explore online music platforms to find a selection of songs that cater to different tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t forget pool clean-up
Once the party’s over and the last float has drifted to the side, it’s time to show your pool a little love. Between sunscreen residue, food crumbs, spilled drinks, and general foot traffic, your pool water and deck can take a hit after hosting.
Skim the surface for debris, empty skimmer baskets, and brush down any residue along the waterline. For a hassle-free solution, you might even consider booking a local pool maintenance.
FAQs: How to Throw an Adult Pool Party
1. What are some tips for how to throw a pool party for adults?
Keep it casual with digital invites like emails or group texts, remind guests to bring swimsuits, opt for minimal decorations, provide essentials like extra towels and sunscreen, serve light and healthy food, mix a few signature cocktails, and play relaxing background music at a moderate volume.
2. What food is best for backyard pool parties?
Light and healthy options work best, think salads, veggie dishes, fruit, and lean proteins like chicken or fish. Avoid heavy food to keep guests comfortable while swimming.
3. How do I handle cleaning after a pool party?
After your party, remove trash and leftover food promptly, clean pool surfaces and deck areas, and check your pool’s filtration system to keep water clear. It’s helpful to contact a professional for a quick skim of the pool and vacuum any debris that may have accumulated.
4. Can an adult pool party double as a pool renovation celebration?
Absolutely! Hosting an adult pool party is a great way to celebrate your new or renovated pool, like a new salt system or updated features. Make sure to mention the renovation in your invites to build excitement.