During warm weather, there is nothing quite like a day at the lake. My family and I spend a lot of our time during the summer weekends on the lake. We have a small jet boat that we take out and will spend hours just riding around, tubing, or putting the anchor down to fish or just swim.
One of the best things about spending time at the lake, however, is relaxing on the water with friends. This list of the best giant lake floats takes an ordinary day at the lake with loved ones and turns it into your own island of fun! For the best floating island for lake or pool use, keep reading!
Some Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Lake Float
Before buying a giant lake float, it is important to do some research and keep the following things in mind.
- Your budget. Giant lake floats range in price from under $100 to several thousand, depending on the size of complexity of design. Determine your budget beforehand to find out which floats are in your desired price range.
- The lake rules. Some lakes have ordinances and laws against large lake floats. Research the laws of the lake where you plan on using floats!
- Consider safety. Water safety should be top of mind when buying and using a giant lake float. Life jackets should be worn by minors and all water safety rules should be followed during use.
- Think about where you will be using the float. When deciding which float to purchase, think about other places you would use the float besides the lake. Multi-person floats can be used on lakes, rivers, swimming pools, and some oceans.
- Purchase accessories as needed. A good quality electric pump will be needed to inflate your float. It is also smart to invest in a good repair kit for any holes.
- How will you transport the float? If you have a boat, ensure the float can fit on your vessel or be stored inside. If you will be operating the boat with the giant float already inflated, ensure you have proper rope to secure it and keep it from flying off. Some floats can be rolled up for easy transport. Research how large the floats are when deflated to determine your storage needs.
25 Unforgettable Floating Islands and Lake Floats
| Model | Features |
|---|---|
CoolerZ Tropical Breeze II Read Review | |
Bestway Tropical Breeze Read Review | |
Bestway Tropical Breeze III Read Review | |
Body Glove Catalina Island Read Review | |
WOW Watersports Floating Island Read Review | |
WOW Watersports Inflatable Read Review | |
Sportsstuff Cabana Island Read Review | |
WOW Parthenon Spa Island Read Review | |
SportsStuff Fiesta Island Read Review | |
Tropical Tahiti Floating Island Read Review | |
Intex Flamingo Floating Island Read Review | |
Intex Unicorn Party Island Read Review | |
Coolerz Rapid Rider Read Review | |
Intex 5 Seat Float Read Review | |
WOW Slide N Smile Read Review | |
SOWKT Floating Water Pad Read Review | |
Goplus Floating Mat Read Review | |
Solstice Inflatable Dock Read Review | |
Bote Inflatable Dock Hangout Read Review | |
Driftsun Mesa Inflatable Dock Read Review | |
Island Hopper Water Trampoline Read Review | |
RAVE Sports Aqua Jump Eclipse Read Review |
Large Inflatable Lake and Pool Floats
Celebrating with friends and family at the lake or pool is a great way to create lasting memories. In this category, the fun floats for the lake have the capacity of holding 6 or more adults. These lake floats for adults and kids will provide hours of fun!
1. CoolerZ Tropical Breeze II Floating Island
The Tropical Breeze II Island lounge is built for lying back and relaxing with friends. This float fits six adults and comes with six cup holders. The raft has a boarding platform with grab handles and a unique deck attachment for those wanting to lay out for some sun!
The middle of the float is open so you can stay cool while lounging. There is also a cooler built into the armrests to keep drinks nice and cold and easy to reach!
An included anchor bag for easy mooring and a repair kit make this a great purchase for the lake!
2. Bestway Tropical Breeze Floating Island
The Bestway Tropical Breeze Floating Island is perfect for 6 adults to comfortably lounge on the lake. With a detachable shade canopy, users can sit back while submerging their legs in the mesh bottom. An included inset cooler keeps beverages and snacks nice and cold on ice as the world floats around them.
Float users can climb onto the raft using an inflated sideboard with grab handles. Six cup holders ensure drinks stay secure and prevent spilling. A pair of extra-wide inflatable pillows attached to backrests add to the comfort of this float. Three interconnecting nozzles make inflation easy and faster than traditional styles as well. With a combined weight capacity of 1,190 pounds, the Bestway CoolerZ floating island is sure to be a hit on the lake!
3. Bestway CoolerZ Tropical Breeze III
The Tropical Breeze III inflatable island offers an impressive 11 feet of floating fun for up to 8 adults! With an easy inflation and deflation valve, this floating raft is perfect for a day at the lake. There is plenty of room to relax under the canopy. Two additional lounge areas are perfect for lounging in the sun.
Six cup holders offer storage for drinks, and attached ropes make for easy anchoring or towing to the perfect spot on the lake.
4. WOW 10-person Floating Island
The World of Watersports giant inflatable tube is a durable option for a day on the lake or tubing down the river! This float has a diameter of twelve feet and can fit up to ten adults. Eight recessed seats, four with mesh and four without, ensure that everyone has a spot on this float. There is a central mesh reinforced area as well for feet or lake goers to lounge on.
Made of heavy duty PVC construction, this float is ready for the lake, river, or even ocean. An included anchor bag and tie rope make this perfect for mooring down to enjoy gentle waves. There are also eight recessed cup holders and a built-in cooler to keep drinks secure and refreshed! This giant tube is perfect for your next party on the water.
5. WOW Stadium Floating Island
This World of Watersports Stadium float is massive! It holds up to twelve adults and is an impressive twelve feet in diameter. Twelve mesh lined seats offer premium comfort for guests to lounge in. An open middle offers plenty of room to splash feet and get on and off the float.
Reinforced grommets allow users to tie the float to a boat or dock. There is also an included anchor bag to be filled with sand or other items, allowing for mooring on lake beds and other surfaces. The party can keep going in this giant inflatable float!
6. SportsStuff Fiesta Island
With fun aquatic colors, the SportsStuff Fiesta Island is great for a relaxing day at the lake. It holds up to 8 adults (1320 lbs.) and allows for lounging. It comes with a detachable 16-quart cooler and 8 cup holders to make the experience even more enjoyable. The contoured back and arm rests make this float especially comfortable.
Mesh netting on the bottom is great for cooling off your feet and legs.
This unit has a speed safety valve, which means it inflates and deflates quickly. Molded handles makes it easy to move the Fiesta to and from the water. Durable PVC means this large lake floats for adults will stay afloat for many memorable lake adventures!
7. Body Glove Catalina Island
One of the most unique features is a built-in Bluetooth speaker system! Relax on the lake while enjoying your favorite music!
Fitting up to 6 people, sun deck style seating with a reinforced mesh center will become the hit of your day at the lake. Built-in cup holders keep drinks and handy and two built-in coolers keep snacks cool.
This float also features seven independent air chambers which makes inflation and deflation an easier task!
8. SportsStuff Inflatable Cabana
This Sports Stuff Cabana Islander has thought of everything for a relaxing day at the lake! With space for up to 6 adults, this lounger features a large detachable sun canopy that is also wind resistant. An open porthole in the middle of the floating bed is the perfect spot to dip your legs in the water when it is time to cool off. A boarding platform makes room for more and offers a spot to get on and off the floating cabana.
An included cooler offers an inflatable lid that zips shut and has cup holders. This float has an anchor bag system for mooring the float down, or it can be tied off with included grommets. You could also use this float as a beach bed as it offers premium shade, just like sitting in a cabana by the pool!
9. WOW Parthenon Spa Island
If you want to impress your friends (and everyone else at the lake), get the WOW Parthenon Spa Island. This floating island can fit 6-8 adults comfortably. Measuring 11 feet x 11 feet, it makes quite a statement. Made of high quality PVC, it is durable as well as cool looking. Use an electric pump (sold separately) to inflate and deflate the Parthenon quickly.
The backrests make lounging easy and the mesh canopy provides shade. A hole in the center of the floor allows users to dip their feet in the cool water.
This fully shaded Greek spa comes with 8 cup holders. It also has an anchor bag to anchor in place as well as tie offs to attach it to a pier or boat.
10. Tropical Tahiti Floating Island
This floating island can fit 6 adults comfortably. Four regular seats with backrests and 2 loungers make this great for relaxing on the lake. The 2 built-in coolers and 6 cup holders mean you can go out for hours with all the refreshment you need. A mesh bottom keeps feet cool in the water.
Made of high quality, heavy duty PVC, the Tropical Tahiti Floating Island is a good choice. The quick release safety valve makes it quick and easy to inflate and deflate.
However, this product tends to lose air more quickly than most of those listed above. You’ll want to be sure to have an electric pump nearby in case you need to add some more air.
Medium Lake and Pool Floats
For a smaller group, check out these inflatable pool floats and lake floats for 5 adults or less. These floating loungers for lakes and pools let you put your feet up and relax.
11. Bestway Rapid Rider Quad
The CoolerZ Rapid Rider Quad is great for four adults (or kids) who want to raft along the river or lake. Four mesh-lined seats are the perfect size for users of all ages. Inflated backrests make for perfect lounging, while an open middle allows for feet and legs to submerge in cool water.
Four cup holders keep drinks secure while an included cooler and storage compartment offer places to store additional drinks, snacks, and other items. Extra sunscreen, a repair kit, a Bluetooth speaker, or your phone are all able to be brought on board thanks to the dry storage cubby. Made of puncture-resistant material, this hardy raft is great for the lake or even tubing down the river or bay.
12. Airhead Suede Floating Island
Not sure about spending a day on a float and having your skin stick to it? Check out the Airhead Suede Floating Island. This unique huge lake float is soft and so comfortable to lie on. It can fit up to 5 adults comfortably and allows for lying on the deck for sunbathing or in the recessed mesh panel if you want to cool off in the water. Six cup holders allow you to enjoy the sun while staying hydrated.
The attached boarding dock has grip handles, making it easy to get on and off the Airhead Suede Floating Island. This is a very well made inflatable lake platform, and you can be sure it will last.
13. Intex River Run Double Tube
For a fun and less expensive option, check out the River Run double tube. This river tube float is great for lounging on the lake as well. The safety air valve makes inflation easy. You can enjoy being in the sun while feeling the cool water through the mesh bottom. Back rests make the ride even more comfortable. The grab rope makes getting in the tube easy.
A built-in cooler and cup holders allow you to relax out on the water without having to come in to rehydrate. The included repair patch will help you if any snags occur.
14. Intex 5 Seat Float
Intex is known for making great products, and this one is no exception! Holding up to 5 adults, this is a perfect choice for your next day at the lake. It has 4 cup holders and a built-in cooler so you can enjoy cold drinks while you’re relaxing. The mesh bottom allows you to cool your feet.
Four grab handles make it easy to get on and off the float. Large backrests make the seats even more comfortable. This is a moderately priced float and will be one you’ll enjoy.
15. American Flag Float
For a patriotic twist on a giant float, consider this giant American flag lake float! This float is best for two adults as it has enough room to comfortably sprawl out while floating on the water.
Sturdy handles assist with getting on and off the float, and for hanging on during rougher waves. Four cup holders will keep drinks within arms’ reach and secure while on the water.
Show your American pride for those busy 4th of July days on the lake or in the pool with this 81 inch float!
16. Rainbow Cloud Island Float
Have some fun on this exciting floating rainbow island. This cute float fits 3 adults or up to 5 kids.
Included speed valves make inflating a breeze. Using an electric pump (not included) and you can be out on the water in a matter of minutes. It’s just as easy to deflate when your day at the lake is over. The included repair patch can be used if needed.
Your group is sure to have a great time on the lake with this unique float. Don’t forget to snap some photos!
17. Three Person Open Bottom Float
This Bestway 3-Person floating water lounge is a great size for three adults. Inflatable back rests and an opening for feet create an ideal environment for relaxing on the water. Two air chambers and 18 gauge vinyl construction make this a sturdy and quick to inflate float.
Sturdy handles make sure that adults can stay afloat when the wake comes in. A repair patch is included as well to make sure any accidents can be plugged quickly. You’ll stay cool and relaxed in this three-person raft!
Themed Lake and Pool Floats
A day at the lake or pool with friends is always fun, but having a fun themed float that everyone else is talking about is even more fun. Here are some great options for themed party floats for lakes.
18. Intex Unicorn Party Island
If you are looking to impress your friends with an exciting lake float, look no further! The Intex Unicorn Party Island is perfect for a party at the lake. Holding up to 4 or 5 adults, this large inflatable mystical creature makes for a day of fun and excitement. Measuring over 14 feet long and over 9 feet wide, you are sure to be noticed.
A boarding platform makes it easy to get on and off this unicorn. It also has 4 cup holders to help your friends keep cool and refreshed.
Made of quality PVC material, this is one large inflatable lake toy that will last. And don’t be fooled by its giant size–it’s actually easy to inflate and deflate. With an electric pump, this toy inflates quickly, and the quick release valves make deflation a breeze.
19. Intex Giant Flamingo Float
This eye-catching flamingo float is built for fun! Fitting up to four adults, this float is made of durable 20-gauge vinyl. It has four cup holders and a built-in cooler for continued drinks and snacks while in use. A mesh center is perfect for keeping feet cool, while the inflated seats and back rest offer ultimate comfort.
Durable handles and a detachable boarding platform make getting on and off this giant flamingo a breeze. This float comes with an anchor you can fill with sand, rocks, or other items to keep it moored in place. It also comes equipped with a repair kit. If you are looking for fun and comfort, this giant flamingo party float is a must!
Inflatable Lake Docks and Water Platforms
Whether you are boating at the lake or just playing in the water, an inflatable dock or platform can make your experience more enjoyable. These platforms allow you to lounge in the sun while floating on the water. Floating docks for lakes can be attached to a boat or anchored. Enjoy just relaxing or lake float fishing from the platform.
20. Solstice Inflatable Floating Dock
The Solstice Inflatable Floating Dock is great to use either with a boat or on its own. It is much more rigid than most inflatable lake toys and holds up very well. Sturdy enough for adults to stand on, you can dock your boat to the Solstice when loading and unloading passengers. Six stainless steel d-rings make it easy to connect to your boat.
Inflation and deflation are quick and easy with an H3 high pressure valve. Use an electric pump and you’ll be ready to use the dock in just minutes. When not in use, it can be rolled up and stored in the included zippered storage bag.
This floating platform for lake use comes in 4 different sizes, accommodating from 3 to 10 people depending on which size you choose.
Be aware that this platform can become quite slippery when it’s wet.
21. Bote Inflatable Dock Hangout
Made of stiched-up PVC, the Bote Inflatable Dock Hangout is a party in a small container. This dock inflated can hold up to 1200 pounds in the water, but it only weighs 40 pounds. It’s small enough that one person can carry it with its own carrying sling as long as you aren’t carrying it very long. Packed it is only 40″ X 33″ X 19″.
The hangout includes a dual action hand pump which makes it pretty easy to inflate, but I would still prefer to use an automatic inflation device if space permits.
The dock hangout has been designed with function in mind. It includes 4 different MAGNEPOD surfaces that allow you to attach special BOTE brand magnetic drinkware. Inflated the dock is a huge 10′ W × 8′3″ D × 18″ H.
The pontoon back can be removed to give greater greater space if sitting is not a priority.
22. Driftsun Mesa Inflatable Dock
The Driftsun Mesa Inflatable Dock is the ultimate addition to any boat. At 8 feet long, this patio dock inflates and attaches to boats to offer an additional deck for guests to lounge or play on! A durable foam surface is perfect for 3-6 adults (depending on which size you get) to set up lounge chairs, lay out to tan, or use as a loading dock for wake boarding, water skiing, and other water sports.
After use, the Driftsun Mesa can be hoisted up and remain on the boat, then simply lowered back into the water once the boat is stopped. For long term storage, it rolls up. An included hand pump takes 10 minutes to inflate the dock. If you use an electric pump, it will be even faster.
This dock does have a higher price tag than regular floats, but it is worth the cost as it adds square footage to usable space on your boat. It is worth the investment for extended fun on the lake!
Floating Lake Trampolines and Bouncers
What do you get when you combine the fun of the lake with the excitement of a trampoline? An awesome water trampoline or bouncer. These platforms are great for staying refreshed and having a great time at the lake. Adults and kids can enjoy playing and hanging out on these huge lake toys.
23. Island Hopper Water Trampoline
If you are looking for an epic water adventure, look no further! This 20-foot water trampoline is made of reinforced PVC material and a coating that is UV resistant. It is great for a family reunion, party, or just because.
The Island Hopper is like a regular trampoline as far as the bounciness goes, but with it being over the water, it is even more fun. Young kids, teens, and adults can all get in on the fun of this giant water toy. It’s perfect to use in conjunction with a boating trip, especially if you have a large group. Some people can enjoy being on the boat while those waiting their turn can have fun on the trampoline.
Safety on any trampoline is important and even more so when it’s near water, so be sure to supervise children. There are safety mats as well as a safety ladder to assist in getting onto the trampoline.
Inflating the trampoline is easier than you might think. There are 3 air chambers with 3 separate valves. You will need an electric pump to inflate this toy, as it does not include one.
The quality of this lake floating trampoline is excellent, and it comes with a 5-year limited warranty. If you want a really amazing lake party, be sure to consider the Island Hopper water trampoline! In case you want to add even more excitement, you can purchase accessories that attach to the water trampoline (including slides) separately.
24. RAVE Sports Aqua Jump Eclipse
Another fun option is the Rave Sports Aqua Jump Eclipse. With a diameter of 15′, this water trampoline for lake can hold up to 700 pounds.
The heavy duty ladder (with 3 steps) makes this great for both kids and adults. It’s recommended for up to 3 adults or 5 kids at a time.
Although this is a fairly large inflatable trampoline, it can be inflated and deflated within about 30 minutes with the included automatic pump! That means your kids can be bouncing by the time they get their sunscreen applied!
This product has great bounce, especially compared with less expensive options. It also comes with a good guarantee, and I love that Rave Sports has so many instructional videos to show you exactly how to use this product to achieve the best results.
Floating Water Slide
What’s more fun than a water slide at the lake? Great for kids and adults, a floating water slide is sure to be a favorite!
25. WOW Slide N Smile
Although this option isn’t a trampoline, your family will do plenty of bouncing off this two lane floating water slide into the lake. This giant, durable slide brings lots of fun to lake outings where you can attach it to a dock, water mat, or other walkway. Inflatable side rails have grommets with 10′ ropes which can be attached to a dock. It is also conveniently equipped with a zippered connection system compatible with all WOW Water World pieces so you can create a custom floating playground. You can even let it float freely as long as it’s not a windy day.
This slide is well-built to withstand rambunctious play. Made with heavy duty PVC construction, it is sturdy enough to hold 400 lbs. When inflated it is huge – over 9 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 4 feet tall! The bright colors make it highly visible which is important on a lake with boats.
Note that it doesn’t come with an inflating pump. However, there are several other ways to inflate large lake toys like this one. Simply reverse the hose on your vacuum cleaner or use a leaf blower.
Foam Lake Floats and Pool Floats
If you want the option of a huge lake float without worrying about having to pump it up, consider a foam lake mat float. These floating pads for lakes and pools are huge and accommodate a large crowd. They roll up for easy storage.
27. SOWKT Floating Water Pad
If you want an enormous lake float that can fit your entire party, check out the SOWKT Pad. This lily pad lake float measures 18′ x 6′ and can hold up to 8 adults or 20 kids.
Made of 3 layers of high quality XPE foam measuring 1.3 inches thick, this floating mat for lake use is sturdy and easy to use. Simply unroll it, place it in the water, and it’s ready to go. What could be easier?
The SOWKT Pad includes a heavy duty carabiner, a 12 foot bungee tether cord, and fastener straps so you can keep the mat from floating away. It also has a 1-year warranty.
28. Goplus Floating Mat
The Goplus Floating Mat is a great option for a water pad lake float. There are two available sizes, one for 4-6 people and another that fits 8-10 people. It is made of 3 layers of high quality, safe XPE foam.
This lake mat float is fun for lounging and playing in the water. It doesn’t get slippery even when wet, and it is easy to clean. After use, allow the water pad lake float to dry and then simply roll it up to store.
Included with the Goplus mat is a 12′ bungee cord to tether the mat and keep it from floating away.
Our Recommended Lake Floats
A day at the lake is fun just by itself, but these floating islands, loungers, cabanas, and mats add another element of entertainment that makes the day memorable. With so many options to choose from, I hope this list has helped narrow down your search of what you would like to add to your water fun arsenal!
Here are our top picks from each category.
Large Floats: Tropical Breeze III Float
Medium Floats: Intex 5 Seat Float
Themed Floats: Intex Giant Flamingo Float
Inflatable Docks: Solstice Inflatable Floating Dock
Floating Trampolines: Island Hopper Water Trampoline
Foam Floats: SOWKT Floating Water Pad
No matter which giant lake float you choose, remember to always practice water and sun safety and have fun!
Lake and Pool Safety
Playing in and near the water can be such fun, but it can also be dangerous. Be sure to practice safety around water, especially if you have young children with you. Make sure there is always a responsible adult carefully watching children.
It is always wise to wear life jackets at the lake. When using a flotation device, always read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow them carefully.
FAQs
What safety precautions should be taken when using a lake float?
Life jackets should always be worn when playing at the lake, especially for young children who aren’t strong swimmers. Adults should supervise children when using a lake float. Sunscreen should be worn while in the sun. It is also a smart idea to pack plenty of fluids to stay hydrated when spending all day in the sun.
What makes a good lake float?
There are several features to look for when shopping for a good lake float. First, find one that is portable and can be stored in a small spaced when deflated. Second, make sure it sturdy and made of durable materials that won’t rip. Finally, you’ll want a lake float that comes with a pump to make inflation quick and easy. Or you can purchase a pump separately.
How many people can fit on a lake float?
The size and strength of a lake float determines how many people it can hold. While some are large enough for 12 adults to comfortably lounge, other models are only intended for a few people. Carefully review suggestions from the manufacturer in order to find a lake float that fits your needs.
