7 Ideas for Poolside Entertainment During Absence That Run Themselves
Discover 7 innovative ways to keep your pool area entertaining for family and guests during your absence, from smart water features to automated lighting systems and self-service amenities.
Planning to be away from your pool but want to keep it entertaining for family or guests? Having the right poolside entertainment options can transform your backyard oasis into a fun zone even when you’re not around to supervise directly.
From automated water features to weather-resistant game setups, there are numerous ways to ensure your pool area remains a hub of enjoyment during your absence. These solutions combine safety and fun while requiring minimal oversight—perfect for when you’re traveling or simply busy with other responsibilities.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!
7 Essential Poolside Entertainment Ideas for When You’re Away
- Automated Water Features – Install programmable fountains or waterfalls that operate on timers to create ambient sounds and visual appeal. These features can run during specific hours, providing entertainment for guests while conserving energy when not needed.
- Weather-Resistant Game Station – Set up a dedicated area with durable outdoor games like giant Connect Four, weatherproof playing cards, or floating basketball hoops. Choose items made from marine-grade materials that won’t deteriorate when exposed to sun, chlorine, or rain.
- Floating Bluetooth Speakers – Invest in waterproof floating speakers that guests can control via smartphone. These devices offer impressive sound quality while safely designed for pool environments, allowing music enjoyment without risking expensive non-waterproof alternatives.
- Poolside Movie Setup – Create an outdoor cinema experience with a weather-resistant screen and projector housing. Pre-load family-friendly movies on a simplified interface so guests can easily operate the system without complex instructions.
- Automatic Pool Cleaner – Deploy a robotic pool cleaner programmed to run during low-usage hours. This maintains water clarity and provides fascinating entertainment as children and adults alike enjoy watching it navigate the pool floor.
- Solar-Powered Lighting System – Install color-changing LED lights around the pool area that activate automatically at sunset. These create an enchanting atmosphere while improving safety during evening swims without requiring manual operation.
- Smart Pool Monitoring System – Implement a Wi-Fi enabled monitoring system that tracks water quality and temperature. This practical entertainment allows guests to check conditions via a simple app before swimming while giving you peace of mind while away.
Installing an Automated Music System for Ambient Atmosphere
Weatherproof Speaker Options for Outdoor Settings
Quality poolside audio requires speakers designed to withstand the elements. Look for IP67-rated waterproof speakers that can handle splashes, rain, and humidity without damage. Consider in-ground landscape speakers from brands like Sonos or Bose that blend seamlessly with your garden features. Wall-mounted options work well under covered areas while rock-shaped speakers provide discreet sound distribution throughout your pool area.
Enjoy rich, clear audio anywhere with the Anker Soundcore 2. This portable Bluetooth speaker boasts IPX7 waterproofing and 24-hour playtime, perfect for home, travel, and outdoor adventures.
Smart Scheduling Features for Varied Entertainment
Program your music system to activate at specific times using smart home platforms like Alexa or Google Home. Create custom playlists that transition throughout the day—calming morning tracks, upbeat afternoon tunes, and ambient evening melodies. Set volume limits to maintain neighborhood relations and configure motion sensors to trigger music when guests enter the pool area. Many systems offer weather-responsive features that automatically adjust volume when conditions change.
Setting Up a Floating Media Display for Poolside Movie Nights
Waterproof Projection Systems That Work Unattended
Transform your pool into an outdoor cinema with fully waterproof projection systems designed for unattended operation. Look for IP65-rated projectors like the Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 or the ViewSonic X10-4KE that can be programmed to start at specific times. Set up automated schedules through smart home integration with Google Home or Alexa, allowing your guests to enjoy movie nights without your presence.
Content Libraries That Keep Things Fresh During Your Absence
Pre-load content libraries with family-friendly movies and shows that automatically update while you’re away. Services like Plex allow you to create custom playlists that rotate nightly for varied entertainment options. Connect your system to streaming services with guest profiles, setting up parental controls and content limitations for appropriate viewing. Your visitors will enjoy fresh content selections without needing your input on movie choices.
Creating an Autonomous Pool Volleyball or Basketball Setup
Self-Resetting Game Equipment Designs
Transform your pool into a self-sustaining sports arena with floating volleyball nets that feature automatic tensioning systems. Install basketball hoops with ball return mechanisms that use water pressure to guide balls back to designated collection points. Consider the Dunnrite PoolSport or SwimWays Poolside Basketball systems, which offer adjustable heights and weatherproof construction that withstands extended outdoor exposure. These setups ensure continuous play even in your absence.
Enjoy pool volleyball with the Splash Net Air! Its wide, stable design resists tipping, and the rapid valve allows for quick 2-minute inflation. Set includes two volleyballs for varying skill levels.
Tournament Planning for Visiting Guests
Create a laminated tournament bracket board with dry-erase capabilities that guests can use to organize their own competitions. Include a waterproof container with instructions, scoring cards, and team assignment chips for easy setup. Program your smart home system to announce tournament times through poolside speakers, encouraging structured play throughout the day. This self-directed entertainment system keeps guests engaged without requiring your presence.
Implementing Remote-Controlled Lighting Shows for Evening Ambiance
Create vibrant ambiance with these 100ft RGB LED strip lights. Control colors, brightness, and music sync via Bluetooth app or remote for customized lighting in any room.
Programmable Color Patterns That Change Throughout Your Absence
Transform your pool area into a dynamic light show with programmable LED systems like Philips Hue Outdoor or LIFX. You can pre-schedule stunning color sequences that transition automatically from sunset to midnight. Create themed displays—vibrant party modes, calming blue ripples, or holiday-specific patterns—that run on autopilot for days or weeks while you’re away, keeping your outdoor space visually engaging for guests.
Weather-Responsive Lighting Systems for Safety and Style
Install smart lighting systems that adapt to changing weather conditions automatically. Rachio or Lutron weather-responsive controllers can brighten pathways during storms for safety, dim lights during clear moonlit nights to save energy, or activate dramatic lightning-simulation effects during thunderstorms. These systems enhance both the aesthetic appeal and practical functionality of your pool area, providing appropriate illumination regardless of conditions without requiring your presence.
Arranging Poolside Puzzle and Game Stations for Intellectual Stimulation
Waterproof Game Collections That Withstand Outdoor Conditions
Transform your pool area into an intellectual playground with waterproof gaming options that can handle splashes and sun exposure. Look for UV-resistant card games like “Plastic Coated Playing Cards” or “Waterproof Uno” that remain functional even when wet. Magnetic board games such as chess, checkers, and backgammon with sealed components offer classic entertainment while resisting humidity damage. Consider floating puzzle tables with secured pieces that allow guests to enjoy brainteasers directly in the water.
Rotating Game Setups to Maintain Interest
Keep the entertainment fresh by creating a rotation schedule for different games throughout your absence. Store 3-4 distinct game collections in weather-resistant containers with clear labels and setup instructions for guests to change weekly. Program your smart home system to send notifications about “Game Change Day” to encourage regular rotation. Include strategy games like waterproof Battleship one week, then switch to word games like laminated Scrabble the next, ensuring returning visitors always discover something new to enjoy.
Establishing a Self-Service Refreshment Area with Smart Features
Automated Dispensing Options for Beverages and Snacks
Create a hassle-free refreshment station with smart dispensing systems that work without your supervision. Install a touchless beverage dispenser like the Bevi Smart Water Machine or an automatic snack dispenser with portion control features. Program these systems to operate during specific hours using smart plugs connected to your home automation hub. Consider weatherproof vending machines like SnoBar that accept mobile payments, allowing guests to purchase treats without your presence.
Temperature-Controlled Storage Solutions for Extended Absences
Invest in weather-resistant refrigerators specifically designed for outdoor use, such as the Blaze or Bull Outdoor Products models with smart temperature monitoring. These units can send alerts to your phone if temperatures fluctuate beyond safe levels, ensuring food safety during your absence. Add lockable features that open via smartphone codes you can remotely provide to guests. For longer trips, consider self-defrosting models with power failure protection that automatically adjust cooling cycles based on outdoor temperature changes.
Designing a Digital Entertainment Hub with Wi-Fi Connectivity
These seven poolside entertainment ideas transform your swimming area into an engaging space that runs smoothly even when you’re away. From automated water features to self-service refreshment stations your guests will never feel your absence with these thoughtfully designed amenities.
By implementing smart technologies weather-resistant games and programmable systems you’re creating an environment that’s both entertaining and low-maintenance. Your pool area becomes a destination that practically runs itself.
Remember that the best poolside entertainment combines functionality with fun ensuring everyone stays safe while enjoying themselves. With these innovations in place you can travel with peace of mind knowing your pool area remains a vibrant social hub that friends and family will appreciate whether you’re poolside or miles away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I entertain pool guests when I’m not home?
You can set up automated entertainment options like programmable fountains, waterproof Bluetooth speakers, outdoor movie setups, and weather-resistant game stations. Smart systems allow you to program music, lighting shows, and water features to run on schedules. Automated pool cleaners, self-resetting game equipment, and puzzle stations can also keep guests entertained without your presence.
What are the best weatherproof speakers for a pool area?
Look for IP67-rated waterproof speakers or discreet in-ground landscape speakers from brands like Sonos or Bose. These speakers withstand water exposure and harsh weather conditions while providing excellent sound quality. Consider models that can be integrated with your smart home system for automated scheduling and remote control capabilities.
How can I set up a movie night by the pool that runs automatically?
Install a waterproof projection system using IP65-rated projectors like the Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 or ViewSonic X10-4KE. Connect these to smart home systems for automated scheduling. Pre-load content libraries with family-friendly movies and shows through services like Plex, and create guest profiles with parental controls for appropriate viewing options.
What self-resetting pool games can I install for continuous play?
Consider floating volleyball nets with automatic tensioning systems or basketball hoops with ball return mechanisms like the Dunnrite PoolSport or SwimWays Poolside Basketball systems. These are designed for continuous play without requiring setup between games. Include a laminated tournament bracket board and waterproof instruction cards to encourage organized play.
How can I create automated lighting effects for evening pool use?
Install programmable LED systems like Philips Hue Outdoor or LIFX to create dynamic light displays that run on schedules. Consider weather-responsive lighting systems such as Rachio or Lutron controllers that automatically adjust based on conditions. These systems can transition through color patterns and brightness levels throughout the evening without your intervention.
What options exist for poolside refreshments when owners are away?
Set up a self-service refreshment area with touchless beverage dispensers and weatherproof vending machines that accept mobile payments. Install weather-resistant refrigerators with smart temperature monitoring capabilities and lockable features that you can control remotely. This ensures guests have access to refreshments while maintaining food safety standards.
How can I ensure pool maintenance continues during my absence?
Deploy an automatic pool cleaner that operates on a schedule to maintain water cleanliness. Install a smart pool monitoring system that allows guests to check water quality and temperature via an app. These automated systems handle routine maintenance tasks and alert both you and your guests about any issues that require attention.
What weatherproof games are best for poolside entertainment?
Choose UV-resistant card games, magnetic board games, and durable outdoor games specifically designed for pool environments. Store them in weather-resistant containers and create a rotation schedule to maintain interest. Consider games that don’t require complex setup or many small pieces that could be lost in the pool area.
