10 Retro Pool Party Supplies and Apparel for Your Backyard Bash

Summer is the perfect time to turn back the clock and transform a standard backyard pool into a vibrant, mid-century oasis. Pulling off a successful retro pool party requires more than just a playlist of oldies; it demands the right mix of durable, water-safe gear and vintage aesthetics. Here is the ultimate guide to the best retro-inspired supplies, apparel, and safety essentials to elevate your next backyard bash.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

How to Plan a Safe and Styled Retro Pool Party

Planning a successful backyard pool party starts with establishing a cohesive visual theme while maintaining strict safety zones. A retro theme—whether it is 1960s Palm Springs chic or neon 1980s surf culture—gives guests a clear dress code and simplifies your decor choices. However, a crowded pool deck can quickly become hazardous if foot traffic is not managed properly.

To keep the party flowing smoothly, set up designated dry areas for dining and lounging well away from the splash zone. This prevents wet footprints from making high-traffic concrete walkways slick and dangerous. Additionally, always prepare the pool chemistry at least 24 hours in advance to ensure the water is crystal clear, sanitized, and balanced before guests arrive.

Retro Pool Float – FUNBOY Retro Convertible Float

A high-quality pool float does double duty as a comfortable lounger and a striking visual centerpiece for the backyard. The FUNBOY Retro Convertible Float perfectly captures the classic 1960s roadside aesthetic while offering a massive, stable platform for relaxing on the water. Built with heavy-duty materials, it holds up to active pool use far better than cheaper novelty floats.

• Material: Thick, puncture-resistant vinyl
• Dimensions: Over 9 feet long
• Key Features: Dual cup holders, massive cooler bench, front daybed lounging area
• Best For: Calm pool lounging, themed photo backdrops, and multi-person relaxation

Because of its sheer size, this float requires an electric air pump to inflate efficiently, which must be purchased separately. It is ideal for larger backyard pools where it has room to drift without blocking the steps or shallow-end access. Avoid using it in small, crowded plunge pools, and always store it out of direct sunlight when the party ends to prevent the vinyl from weakening.

Inflatable Cooler – PoolCandy Buffet Bar Cooler

Keeping drinks cold and close at hand is essential for keeping guests hydrated without requiring them to constantly drip-dry and walk inside the house. The PoolCandy Buffet Bar Cooler floats directly in the water, offering a convenient, accessible station for sodas, seltzers, and ice. This prevents constant foot traffic across slick pool decks and keeps the energy focused in the pool.

• Capacity: Holds up to 24 cans plus ice
• Material: Heavy-duty PVC
• Dimensions: 47 x 24 inches
• Best For: Floating drink service, keeping appetizers chilled on the water, and pool-margin placement

To get the most out of this floating cooler, distribute the weight of the cans and ice evenly to prevent it from listing or tipping when guests grab a drink. This product is perfect for calm pool environments but is not designed to handle rough splashing or active pool games. Always inflate the outer ring chambers fully to ensure maximum buoyancy and structural rigidity.

Vintage Swim Trunks – Kanu Surf Barracuda Boardshorts

Retro style starts with the right swimwear, and classic stripes offer an instant throwback look that remains highly functional for in-water activities. The Kanu Surf Barracuda Boardshorts feature vintage horizontal banding paired with modern, quick-drying fabric technology. They allow the host to transition seamlessly from grilling on the hot deck to jumping in the pool to assist a guest.

• Fabric: 100% Polyester with quick-dry technology
• Sun Protection: UPF 50+ rating
• Pockets: Cargo pocket with hook-and-loop closure
• Best For: Swimming, beach volleyball, and active backyard hosting

These shorts feature triple-needle stitching for excellent durability along the seams, meaning they will not rip during active pool games. However, they do not include an inner mesh lining, which some swimmers prefer for extra support. They are ideal for those who prefer the freedom of movement offered by a traditional boardshort cut but want a distinct vintage aesthetic.

Polarized Sunglasses – Goodr The OG Sunglasses

Sun glare off the water’s surface is not just annoying; it causes significant eye fatigue over a long afternoon of hosting. Goodr The OG Sunglasses combine a timeless mid-century frame shape with modern polarized lens technology. They offer a stylish retro look while protecting your eyes so you can keep a clear view of the pool.

• Lens Type: Polarized with UV400 protection
• Frame Coating: Special grip coating to prevent slipping
• Weight: Ultra-lightweight construction
• Best For: Poolside supervising, lawn games, and active water sports

The frame features a no-slip, no-bounce grip that keeps the glasses secured to your face even when sweating or splashing. Because they are highly affordable, you do not have to worry about ruining an expensive pair of designer frames if they accidentally sink to the bottom of the deep end. They are a must-have accessory for anyone tasked with supervising the water.

Cabana Beach Towel – Kaufman Stripe Beach Towels

A pool party requires plenty of dry towels, and nothing says classic resort style like bold, vertical cabana stripes. Kaufman Stripe Beach Towels provide the plush, heavy-duty feel of a luxury hotel towel while standing up to repeated pool use and washing cycles. Having a neat stack of these towels ready encourages guests to dry off thoroughly before walking on slick surfaces.

• Material: 100% Combed ring-spun cotton
• Fabric Weight: Heavyweight loop construction
• Dimensions: 30 x 60 inches
• Best For: Drying off, lining lounge chairs, and matching mid-century decor

These towels are highly absorbent and soft, but because they are so thick, they take up substantial space in your washing machine and dryer. Wash them once before the party to shed any excess manufacturing lint and unlock their maximum absorbency. They are perfect for hosts who want to elevate the overall feel of their backyard deck with cohesive, high-quality linens.

Waterproof Speaker – JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker

Music sets the tone for any gathering, but a pool deck is a hostile environment for standard electronics. The JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker features a rugged, retro-inspired fabric wrap and delivers punchy sound in a highly durable, waterproof package. It allows you to play vintage tunes right at the water’s edge without worrying about splashes or accidental drops.

• Waterproof Rating: IP67 dustproof and waterproof
• Battery Life: Up to 5 hours of playtime
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1
• Best For: Poolside music, small patio setups, and travel

While this speaker can survive complete submersion in the shallow end, it does not float, so it is best to secure it to a lounge chair or umbrella hook using its integrated loop strap. It delivers impressive volume for its compact size, but it will not fill a massive yard. It is ideal for small, intimate pool decks where you want clear, crisp sound without overwhelming guest conversation.

Retro Swimsuit – CUPSHE Vintage Lace Up One Piece

For a classic, sophisticated poolside look, a vintage-cut one-piece swimsuit offers timeless appeal and secure comfort. The CUPSHE Vintage Lace Up One Piece features a flattering mid-century silhouette combined with modern fabric stretch and support. It allows the wearer to swim, lounge, and socialize with complete confidence and ease of movement.

• Material: 80% Chinlon, 20% Spandex
• Design: Ruched tummy-control panel with lace-up front
• Support: Removable padded cups
• Best For: Sunbathing, casual swimming, and hosting backyard events

The ruched detailing provides a classic pin-up aesthetic while offering excellent structural support. However, the delicate lace-up ties can snag on rough pool surfaces or slides, so it is best reserved for wading, lounging, and light swimming. This is the perfect option for a host who wants to look stylish and coordinated while managing party logistics.

Retro Pool Game – Swimline Inflatable Tic Tac Toe

Keeping guests entertained in the water requires low-stakes, interactive games that appeal to all age groups. The Swimline Inflatable Tic Tac Toe board brings a classic tabletop game into the pool, encouraging friendly competition. It floats easily in the shallow end, giving kids and adults a fun activity that does not involve wild splashing or diving.

• Material: Heavy-duty vinyl
• Includes: Reversible floating board and game pieces
• Dimensions: 4 x 4 feet
• Best For: Shallow-end pool games, family-friendly entertainment, and casual play

Because the game pieces are lightweight, strong winds can occasionally blow them off the board or out of the pool. To keep the pieces organized, store them in a mesh gear bag when the game is not in use so they do not drift into the skimmer basket. It is an excellent, low-maintenance addition to any backyard pool party setup.

Acrylic Drinkware – US Acrylic Newport Tumblers

Glassware should never, under any circumstances, be allowed near a pool deck because broken glass in a pool is nearly invisible and requires draining the entire pool to clean. US Acrylic Newport Tumblers offer the elegant, textured look of vintage glassware but are constructed from completely shatterproof plastic. They allow you to serve retro cocktails safely without sacrificing your aesthetic.

• Material: Shatterproof, BPA-free acrylic plastic
• Capacity: 20-ounce capacity
• Design: Fluted retro texture in jewel tones
• Best For: Poolside cocktails, iced tea, and safe outdoor dining

These tumblers are highly durable, but to prevent the acrylic from clouding or scratching over time, wash them on the top rack of the dishwasher only or wash them by hand. They are ideal for hosts who want the weight and feel of real glass without the extreme safety risks of bringing glass near the water.

Patio Umbrella – Safavieh Athens Fringe Umbrella

Providing shaded retreat areas is crucial for helping guests escape the midday sun and preventing heat exhaustion. The Safavieh Athens Fringe Umbrella features beautiful, retro-inspired fringe detailing that instantly evokes a 1960s beach club vibe. It provides a wide canopy of shade, making your outdoor seating area significantly more comfortable.

• Canopy Material: Polyester fabric
• Frame: Sturdy steel pole with tilt mechanism
• Diameter: 9-foot canopy
• Best For: Shading lounge chairs, dining tables, and pool margins

This umbrella features a convenient crank-and-tilt system that allows you to adjust the shade as the sun moves throughout the afternoon. Always pair this umbrella with a heavy, stable base (sold separately) to prevent it from catching the wind and tipping over onto guests or into the pool. Close the canopy immediately if high winds or storms begin to pick up.

Essential Safety Rules for Backyard Pool Parties

No matter how beautiful your retro decor is, safety must always remain the top priority during any backyard water event. The most critical safety measure you can implement is a designated water watcher rotation. Drowning is silent and can happen in seconds, so assign responsible adults to 20-minute shifts where their sole job is to watch the water without distractions like phones or drinks.

Keep a dedicated safety station visible and easily accessible right next to the pool edge. This station should include a U.S. Coast Guard-approved ring buoy, a fiberglass reach pole, and a fully stocked first aid kit. Finally, make sure your pool area is secured with self-closing, self-latching gates to ensure no unsupervised children can wander near the water once the party winds down.

By combining classic retro aesthetics with durable, modern materials, you can host a backyard pool party that is both visually stunning and highly functional. Prioritizing shatterproof drinkware, proper sun shade, and active water supervision ensures your guests stay comfortable and secure. Set up your gear, inflate your floats, and enjoy a safe, stylish summer afternoon on the water.