Nothing says summer fun like a classic beach ball. These colorful, bouncy spheres are a staple of sunny days, bringing laughter and activity to the sand, pool, or backyard. For kids, they’re more than just a toy; they’re a tool for developing coordination, encouraging active play, and sparking imaginative games. With so many options available, from tiny party favors to giant inflatables, choosing the right one can elevate any summer adventure.
This roundup features nine fantastic beach balls designed for kids of all ages. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, looking for a durable toy for daily use, or seeking an educational twist, there’s a perfect ball here. We’ve considered factors like durability, unique features, and play value to help you find the best beach ball for your family’s needs and create unforgettable summer memories.
Our Top Picks for Kids’ Beach Balls
- Icnice LED Beach Balls Glow in Dark Party Supplies
- Top Race 25 Pack Mini Beach Balls Bulk Pack
- NINOSTAR Large Play Balls Set of 3
- Fun Express Giant Inflatable Globe Beach Ball 40 Inch
- Melissa & Doug Bulk Froggy Kickball Deflated
- Tanlade 2 Pcs 5 Feet Giant Beach Ball Rainbow Color
- Mini Inflatable 5″ Paw Patrol Character Vinyl Beach Balls
- Intex Giant Inflatable 48 Inch Beach Ball
- Wilton Sports 24 Inch Rainbow Stripe Beach Ball (Pack of 6)
Icnice LED Beach Balls Glow in Dark Party Supplies
Extend the fun well past sunset with these innovative light-up beach balls. The set includes two balls, each equipped with two bright LED lights that can shine for over 72 hours. With a remote control, you can cycle through 16 colors and 4 lighting modes, creating a dazzling display for any evening pool party or nighttime beach game.
Built for durability, these balls are made from high-quality PVC and feature IP67 waterproof lights, making them completely safe for use in the water. The package includes spare batteries and replacement lights, so the party doesn’t have to stop if a light runs out. They hold air well and provide the same bouncy, playful experience as a standard beach ball, just with an extra magical glow.
Top Race 25 Pack Mini Beach Balls Bulk Pack
Perfect for party planners, this bulk pack of 25 mini beach balls is an economical and festive choice. Each 6-inch ball features a cheerful rainbow pattern, ideal for creating a vibrant atmosphere. Their small size makes them excellent as party favors, table centerpieces, or additions to gift bags for a beach-themed birthday.
Beyond decoration, these balls are durable and ready for play. The secure valve helps prevent air leaks, ensuring they stay inflated throughout your event. Kids love having their own personal ball to toss around, and with 25 in the pack, there are plenty to go around for games at the pool, lake, or in the backyard without any arguments over sharing.
NINOSTAR Large Play Balls Set of 3
This set offers great value with three large 14-inch beach balls, each featuring a unique and eye-catching design. The size is perfect for kids, being easy to handle, catch, and kick both indoors and outdoors. Having three balls means multiple children can play together, or you can have spares on hand.
The vibrant designs are not only fun for play but also make for cheerful party decorations. You can float them in a pool, use them as backyard decor for a barbecue, or simply let kids enjoy a game of catch. They are versatile toys that promote active play at the park, beach, or in your own living room on a rainy day.
Fun Express Giant Inflatable Globe Beach Ball 40 Inch
Combine playtime with geography lessons using this impressive 40-inch inflatable globe. The ball features clear, detailed graphics of continents, countries, and oceans, making it an engaging educational tool. It’s perfect for classroom activities, homeschool lessons, or Earth Day events, helping children learn about the world in an interactive way.
Made from durable vinyl, this giant ball can withstand active play during recess or pool parties. Its large size makes it a focal point for group games, encouraging teamwork and physical activity. It’s a fantastic resource for making learning dynamic and memorable, showing kids that education can be as fun as a day at the beach.
Melissa & Doug Bulk Froggy Kickball
This isn’t your average beach ball. The Melissa & Doug Froggy Kickball is made from durable rubber, giving it a different feel and bounce compared to standard vinyl balls. The friendly frog face design is appealing to young children, inviting them to play. It’s sold deflated, which makes for easy storage until you’re ready to pump it up.
Its construction makes it suitable for more than just water play. Kids can use it for kicking games on the grass, catching practice in the backyard, or bouncing activities on the playground. The rubber material can handle rougher surfaces, making it a versatile, all-purpose ball for various outdoor games and activities beyond the beach.
Tanlade 2 Pcs 5 Feet Giant Beach Ball Rainbow Color
Make a huge splash with these massive 5-foot beach balls. The set of two ensures you have a spare and allows for epic team games. When inflated, these balls are larger than many young children, creating a sense of wonder and excitement that is perfect for photo opportunities and unforgettable pool party moments.
The classic rainbow design is universally loved. While they require an air pump for inflation, the effort is worth it for the dramatic effect. These balls are ideal for family reunions, community pool parties, or any event where you want to encourage active, collaborative play among kids and even adults.
Mini Inflatable 5″ Paw Patrol Character Vinyl Beach Balls
For fans of the popular Paw Patrol series, this 12-pack of mini balls is a surefire hit. Featuring beloved characters like Chase, Skye, and Marshall, these balls instantly connect with children’s interests. They are the perfect size for small hands and make excellent party favors for a Paw Patrol-themed birthday.
Made from vinyl, these balls are durable enough for both indoor and outdoor play. Their easy-inflate design means you can quickly prepare the whole set before a party. They add a themed decorative touch to party tables and give each little guest a fun toy to take home, extending the celebration’s joy.
Intex Giant Inflatable 48 Inch Beach Ball
A trusted name in inflatable fun, Intex offers a giant 48-inch beach ball that promises hours of entertainment. This sizable ball is perfect for group play at the pool, beach, or park. Its large, lightweight design makes it easy for kids to hit and volley, promoting active games that get everyone moving.
Known for durability, Intex products are designed to withstand enthusiastic play. The bright, classic colors are visually appealing and easy to spot. This ball is a fantastic choice for families, camps, or anyone looking for a reliable, oversized toy that will be the centerpiece of outdoor water fun all summer long.
Wilton Sports 24 Inch Rainbow Stripe Beach Ball (Pack of 6)
This pack of six 24-inch beach balls is ideal for families with multiple children or for stocking a community play area. The generous size is excellent for throwing and catching, while the pack of six ensures there are plenty to go around for games or to replace any that get damaged.
The timeless rainbow stripe design is bright and cheerful. Having a multi-pack means you can keep several inflated for immediate fun and store the others as backups. It’s a practical and cost-effective solution for providing durable, classic beach ball fun for playdates, vacations, or everyday summer enjoyment in the backyard pool.
What to Look For in the Best Beach Balls for Kids
As a parent, I’ve bought my fair share of beach balls that popped on the first day or were impossible to blow up. Finding the right one isn’t just about picking the brightest color. You want something that will last more than one trip to the shore or afternoon in the pool. When I’m looking for the best beach balls for kids, I focus on a few key things to make sure we get the most fun for our money.
First, and maybe most obvious, is durability. Kids aren’t gentle. They’ll sit on them, kick them into sharp patio furniture, and drag them across concrete. I always check the material thickness, often listed as “gauge.” A lower gauge number means thicker vinyl. For little kids, I look for balls around 10-12 gauge. They’re tougher and more resistant to punctures. Some brands even make “pop-proof” or “burst-resistant” balls with a special honeycomb interior structure, which is a fantastic feature for peace of mind.
Next, consider the size and inflation. A giant three-foot ball is super fun, but it can be hard to store and transport if you don’t have a big car. I think about where we’ll use it most. For the beach, bigger is often better as it’s easier to see and less likely to get lost. But for the backyard, a standard 12-16 inch ball is perfect. Also, think about the valve. A good quality, self-sealing valve makes blowing it up with a pump (which I highly recommend over lung power!) much easier and prevents slow leaks.
Finally, I look at the design and features. Bright, contrasting colors are not just cheerful—they’re easier for kids to track visually. Some balls have fun patterns, like animal faces or world maps, which can spark imaginative play. For younger children, I love balls with textured surfaces or handles, which are easier for little hands to grab and throw. And if you have a pool, a ball that floats well and moves predictably on water is a must.
By keeping these points in mind—durability, practical size, and kid-friendly features—you can find a ball that provides hours of active, outdoor play. It’s a simple toy, but choosing the right one makes all the difference for a successful day of fun in the sun.
FAQ
What is the best way to inflate a beach ball for kids?
I always, always use a small hand pump or an electric pump with a needle adapter. Blowing it up by mouth is tiring, introduces moisture inside the ball (which can lead to mold), and can weaken the seams. A pump is faster, gets the ball to the proper firmness without over-inflating, and is just way easier. Many of the best beach balls for kids even come with a mini pump, which is a sign of a thoughtful product.
How can I prevent my kid’s beach ball from popping so easily?
Prevention starts with where you play. Clear the area of sharp sticks, rough concrete, and pointy furniture corners as best you can. Teach kids to play with it on grass or sand when possible. When storing it, deflate it partially if it’s in a hot car, as heat can increase air pressure and stress the seams. Most importantly, invest in a thicker-gauge vinyl ball or one specifically advertised as burst-resistant from the start.
Are there beach balls safe for very young toddlers?
Yes! Look for balls made from thicker, food-grade PVC or vinyl that is free from harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates. For this age group, smaller sizes (around 10 inches) are easier for them to handle. Balls with textured surfaces, nubs, or soft handles are excellent as they improve grip. Always supervise play, as even safe balls can be a suffocation hazard if deflated.
Can I use a regular beach ball in the pool?
You absolutely can, and we do it all the time. Most standard vinyl beach balls are designed for both sand and water. They float very well. Just be aware that chlorine and saltwater can degrade the material over a long period. I make a habit of rinsing our pool and beach balls with fresh water after use and letting them dry completely before storing them away.
How do I repair a small puncture in a beach ball?
For a tiny leak, a vinyl repair patch kit (often sold for inflatable pools or air mattresses) can work. Clean and dry the area around the puncture, apply the adhesive from the kit, and place the patch over it, pressing firmly. For a quick, temporary fix near the valve, a piece of strong packing tape can sometimes slow the leak enough to finish the day’s play. For large tears, it’s usually time for a replacement.