11 Best Above Ground Pools for Adults to Keep You Cool This Summer
Shop our favorite portable, pop-up, and inflatable pools!
Summer is in full swing, and along with fun in the sun — hello, beach days and barbecues — there are also plenty of days when you feel like you’d do almost anything for a little relief from the heat and humidity. That’s when having one of the best above ground pools for adults is a lifesaver! Imagine lowering yourself into the nice cool water of a portable pool right now and splashing around in the comfort of your own backyard. What could be better than jumping into a pop-up, non-permanent swimming pool on a stifling summer afternoon?
You might be thinking, “I like the idea of having a pool, but I don’t want to deal with the maintenance.” We hear you! The good news is, taking care of a temporary pop-up pool isn’t as difficult as you think. What’s more, many of the best above ground pools are non-permanent, which means they can be swiftly assembled for summer swims, and taken down just as easily come the colder months. Not only are inflatable pools and portable above ground pools a blast to splash around in, they also provide a valuable form of low-impact exercise! In fact, the CDC says that swimming has a slew of health benefits — just two and a half hours a week of aerobic exercise can help prevent chronic illness.
If you’re ready to take the plunge (so to speak), shop our picks for pop-up pools now, or keep reading to learn more about the best above ground pools for adults!
What are the best above ground pools for adults?
- Best above ground pool for adults from Walmart : Intex 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set + Pump
- Best above ground pool for adults on Amazon : Bestway 18′ x 9′ x 4′ Power Steel Frame Above Ground Rectangular Swimming Pool Set
- Best rectangular above ground pool for adults : Intex 32ft X 16ft X 52in Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool Set
- Best Intex above ground pool for adults : Intex 26325EH 16Ft x 48In Ultra XTR Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set
- Best Coleman above ground pool for adults : Coleman Power Steel 18’ x 48” Round Above Ground Pool Set
- Best round above ground pool for adults : Intex 26731EH 18ft X 48in Prism Frame Pool Set
- Best oval above ground pool for adults : Intex 20 Foot Prism Frame Oval Pool Set
- Best above ground pool for adults under $1000 : Bestway Power Steel 13′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Pool Set with Canopy
- Best Bestway above ground pool for adults : Bestway 56463 Steel Pro MAX Swimming Pool Set 18′ x 48″
- Best rated above ground pool for adults : Intex 26175EH 18ft X 48in Easy Pool Set
- Best above ground pool for adults under $500 : Summer Waves 15ft x 36in Quick Set Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool
What is the best above ground pool brand?
When it comes to the best above ground pools for adults, there are two top brands that people think of. The first is Intex, which makes portable pools of all shapes and sizes, so you can rest assured you’ll find one to fit your outdoor space. We like this brand for its Hydro Aeration Technology, which offers next-level filtration to offer you the most pristine water possible. Intex pools are also known for their longevity, as they’re solidly constructed to last you many summers. The Intex Ultra XTR Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool ($1,139.99) is one of our top picks for non-permanent pools, thanks to its Krystal Clear sand filter pump (and eight person capacity!).
We also like Bestway for their aesthetically pleasing temporary pools that look just as professional as many permanent pools. Like Intex, their pools are incredibly durable — we love the Bestway Steel Pro MAX Swimming Pool ($614.87) for its steel frame construction and heavy-duty Duraplus material.
Honorable mention goes to Coleman, which makes a lovely pool with rattan-printed lining ($954), as well as Summer Waves for their budget-friendly pools (their Quick Set Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool costs less than 500 dollars!).
You really can’t go wrong with any of these brands of above ground swimming pools for adults. Just make sure to choose one that will comfortably fit your outdoor space — you’ll want the ground underneath your swimming pool to be entirely level, to ensure stability.
The best above ground pools for adults from all of these brands can be purchased at major retailers — including Walmart and Amazon — but they tend to sell out fast, so act quickly!
Which above ground pools last the longest?
The best above ground pools for adults can run upwards of $1,000, so it’s wise to make sure your investment will last you as long as possible. Look for a pool made with durable material and as much extra reinforcement as possible, to protect from punctures and keep the sides from drooping. We like the Intex Prism Frame Pool ($949.99), which is made with a strong three-ply lining to avoid tears and leaks, as well as the Bestway Power Steel Frame Above Ground Rectangular Swimming Pool ($1,129.95), which boasts an impressive seal and lock system to keep things grounded.
You’ll also want to think about the size and shape of your pool. Some above ground pools for adults come are up to 32 feet long, which makes them great for swimming laps (as long as your yard is big enough to accommodate them!). You should also consider if rectangular, round, or ovular shaped pools would suit your space best. No matter which pool you opt for, it’ll last longest with proper upkeep, so for easy cleaning, be sure to choose one of the best vacuums for above ground pools to keep that water sparkling!
Looking for some fun and fabulous swimwear to flaunt in your new pool? Check out our picks for the best swimsuits for women over 50. (And don’t forget to slather on the best anti-aging sunscreen while you’re having fun in the sun!)
Keep scrolling to shop our picks for the best above ground pools for adults in 2021!
The Best Above Ground Pools for Adults in 2021
Intex 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set + Pump
Best above ground pool for adults from Walmart
Why we like it:
- Includes ladder, ground cloth, sand filter, salt water system, pool cover, deluxe pool maintenance kit, and volleyball set
- Durable frame made of galvanized steel
- Long enough for doing laps
If you’re looking for the ultimate above ground pool experience (without complicated assembly!), it’s hard to beat this 24-foot-long behemoth from Intex. Not only is it large enough for getting some great exercise in with laps, it also comes with a ladder, ground cloth, sand filter, salt water system, cover, maintenance kit, and even a volleyball set! With all the bells and whistles, this pool is sure to make your yard the “it” place to be this summer,
Reviewers rave about the longevity of this massive pool, which is made with durable galvanized steel. Some even say it looks and functions like new even after five summers of use! With a lifespan like that, it’s more than worth its steep price tag.
Bestway 18′ x 9′ x 4′ Power Steel Frame Above Ground Rectangular Swimming Pool Set
Best above ground pool for adults on Amazon
Why we like it:
- Seal and lock system helps avoid bends and leaks
- Made of durable tri-tech material
- Antimicrobial filter cartridges prevent bacterial growth
Just one look at the steel frames on this rectangular Bestway pool lets you know it was built to withstand many swims! The seal and lock construction is resistant to bends and leaks, while the sturdy tri-tech material reinforces the pool’s strength, making it durable enough to last for years on end. On an aesthetic level, we love the light gray and white exterior of this temporary pool, which adds a luxe feel, as well as the light blue lining, which helps enhance the crystal clear water. A ladder is included for easy in and out of the pool, so grab your bathing suit and jump on in!
While some reviews mention that the assembly is a little more involved with this one, they say it’s well worth the effort, and that the water quality is second to none.
Intex 32ft X 16ft X 52in Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool Set
Best rectangular above ground pool for adults
Why we like it:
- 32-feet-long!
- Hydro Aeration Technology improves water quality
- Includes a 2-year warranty
At a whopping 32-feet-long, this Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool Set is as close to a permanent pool as they come. Equipped with a ladder, pool cover, ground cloth, and sand filter pump, this pool comes with everything you’ll need for a summer of splashing in the sun. The Hydro Aeration Technology helps improve water quality, so you’ll enjoy basking in immaculate water all season long, and the blue tile print liner gives this pool a gorgeous aesthetic — you’ll forget it only took at little as 90 minutes to assemble!
With over 2,000 five-star ratings, this pool is a fan favorite on Amazon, thanks to its huge size, which many happy customers have said is ideal for swimming laps.
Intex 26325EH 16Ft x 48In Ultra XTR Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set
Best Intex above ground pool for adults
Buy from Amazon, $873.99 (originally $1,299.99)
Why we like it:
- 8-person capacity
- Krystal Clear sand filter pump
- Lovely blue tile print lining
At 16 feet in diameter, this round Intex pool is the perfect mid-range size for those looking to enjoy some cooling refreshment at home. The Krystal Clear sand filter pump and Hydro Aeration technology work in tandem to keep your water as clean as can be, and the lush, blue tile print lining will make you feel like you’re swimming in a hotel pool rather than in your backyard! This pool can accommodate up to eight people, so whether you’re looking to play Marco Polo with the kids or lounge with friends, you’ll be able to do it all.
Reviews talk up this pool’s excellent quality and simple set-up, and one satisfied customer even said they would buy another one in a second!
Coleman Power Steel 18’ x 48” Round Above Ground Pool Set
Best Coleman above ground pool for adults
Why we like it:
- Corrosion-resistant steel frame
- Attractive rattan print on outer liner
- 3-layer puncture-resistant inner liner
While a rattan-printed outer lining on this Coleman pool makes it aesthetically pleasing, it doesn’t sacrifice function for form. It’s also incredibly durable, thanks to a corrosion-resistant steel frame and a triple layer of puncture-resistant lining. Add to that a fortified wall band for extra support, and you’re all set for a summer of splishing and splashing to your heart’s content. Best of all, its 18-foot size comfortably fits eight people — did someone say “pool party”?
Reviews for this pool say that, while it requires multiple people, assembly is fairly easy, and that it’s the perfect size for both kids and adults to enjoy.
Intex 26731EH 18ft X 48in Prism Frame Pool Set
Best round above ground pool for adults
Why we like it:
- Rust-resistant metal frames
- Hydro Aeration Technology improves water circulation and filtration
- Over 3,000 5-star Amazon ratings
Enjoy crystal clear water with this highly-rated round pool from Intex. Its Hydro Aeration Technology improves water circulation and filtration, so you’ll feel like you’re swimming at a resort (that just happens to be in your backyard!). Not only that, this family-friendly pool is made with durable 3-ply material to prevent tears and leaks, and with no-tools-required assembly, it’s a cinch to set-up.
Over 3,000 Amazon reviewers gave this pool a five-star rating, with many of them doting on its “perfect size” and user-friendly set-up and maintenance.
Intex 20 Foot Prism Frame Oval Pool Set
Best oval above ground pool for adults
Why we like it:
- Elegant oval shape
- 3-ply liner avoids tears and leaks
- Advanced filtration system
There’s something that feels so luxurious about an oval-shaped pool, which is why we love this elegant model from Intex. Aesthetics aside, it’s got a durable, 3-ply liner and powder-coated steel frames, so you know it’s built to last many summers of use. The oblong shape makes it ideal for swimming laps, and the advanced water filtration system ensures clean, sparkling water that you’ll want to lounge in all day.
Reviews say it might take some time to set up if you’re new to pools, but that it’s well worth the time, as it’s a “great pool” with a “lovely shape.”
Bestway Power Steel 13′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Pool Set with Canopy
Best above ground pool for adults under $1000
Why we like it:
- Under $1,000
- Includes a canopy
- Smaller size is ideal for limited outdoor space
Looking to cool off and beat the sun this summer? This clever Bestway pool comes with a canopy (!), so you’ll have a bit of added protection from the sun’s rays. At 13-feet-large, it’s a bit smaller than many of the other temporary pools on this list, but that makes it great for people with limited outdoor space. Considering its reasonable price point (less than $1,000), it’s a great option that includes a ladder and pool cover, and the canopy is such a cool feature that you’ll want to live in this pool all summer.
Reviews for this pool praise its beauty and price point, and say it’s not complicated to put together, so mix up a cocktail and enjoy lounging in the shade!
Bestway 56463 Steel Pro MAX Swimming Pool Set 18′ x 48″
Best Bestway above ground pool for adults
Buy from Amazon, $752.87 (originally $899.99)
Why we like it:
- Ultra-strong Duraplus material
- Easy to drain
- Steel frame construction
If you’re looking for an all-around fantastic portable pool to enjoy with your family and friends, the Bestway Steel Pro MAX is a great bet. It’s easy to fill up, and is designed to last a long time, thanks to its super-strength Duraplus material and sturdy steel frame construction. The prismatic stone design on the inner lining adds an elevated aesthetic, so you won’t even feel like you’re swimming in a portable pool!
With over 1,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, this pool earns high marks when it comes to durability, cleanliness, and easy assembly.
Intex 26175EH 18ft X 48in Easy Pool Set
Best rated above ground pool for adults
Why we like it:
- Over 4,500 5-star Amazon ratings
- Durable laminated PVC sidewalls
- Water-ready in 30 minutes
The reviews speak for themselves when it comes to this 18-foot Intex pool. With over 4,500 five-star ratings on Amazon, it’s a bonafide hit — and one that’s sure to turn your backyard into a cooling oasis. It inflates in no time, so you can start adding water in just half an hour, and a handy ground cloth is included (as well as a pool cover!). With a large capacity for eight or more people, don’t be surprised if your friends and family start inviting themselves over for pool parties this summer!
Fans of this pool say it’s super easy to deflate and store away during the colder months, though they reiterate (as does the manufacturer) that you should make sure the ground is completely level before setting it up to ensure stability.
Summer Waves 15ft x 36in Quick Set Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool
Best above ground pool for adults under $500
Why we like it:
- Under $500
- Ready for water in 10 minutes with filter pump
- Made of durable, triple-layer material
You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a temporary backyard pool of your own — in fact, this Summer Waves inflatable pool costs just over $200! Because it’s so low-maintenance, it’s ready for water in as little as 10 minutes, making it a great user-friendly option for pool newbies. And don’t be fooled by the low price tag — this pool is made with durable, triple-layer material to ensure the water stays in the pool, rather than leaking out, and the filter pump will maintain your water’s clarity for sparkling waves.
Among its many favorable features, people who bought this portable pop-up pool raved about its size, especially given the affordable price point, and said it was super easy to assemble.
