I don’t know about you, but when it turns summer in Second Life, I get one thing on my mind: getting wet. (Yes, I went there. You’re welcome.)

Whether you’re a high-maintenance glam goddess with a 4096m² estate or just looking to plop down something vaguely aquatic next to your chicken coop, there’s a pool for every kind of Second Life resident. And I’ve been busy testing them all, purely for journalistic reasons, of course. I totally didn’t just spend a whole weekend floating around with a cold beer and a flamingo ring floatie. Nope.

Let’s dive in! (That pun stays.)

1. The Fancy-Pants Luxury Pool

AKA: “I Have a Pool Boy, and Yes, He’s Single”

This pool is a whole lifestyle. It’s huge. It’s gorgeous. It has animations for every situation: lounging solo, cuddling with your crush, or swimming with your besties, because why not.

It needs a proper garden or estate to fit,  you don’t just drop this baby behind your Linden Home unless you really want to make your neighbours jealous (which, honestly, is a vibe I respect).

Pros:
✔️ Gorgeous animations, including some rather steamy ones in the adult version… ahem.
✔️ Decor goals, this is influencer-level backyard chic.
✔️ Makes you look like you know what you’re doing in Second Life..

Cons:
❌ You may start judging everyone else’s pool choices. (“Oh… that’s your pool? Cute.”)
❌ Once you’ve experienced swimming and sunbathing in luxury, there’s no going back.
❌ Guests might refuse to leave. Ever. Hope you like being a full-time host.

2. The Inflatable Backyard Bonanza

AKA: “The Redneck Riviera Special”

This is for those of us who enjoy a little kitsch with our chlorine. Think: a giant inflatable pool with mismatched towels thrown over plastic chairs, a few scattered beer cans (optional decor), and probably a radio playing country from a rusty pickup truck nearby.

Perfect for trailer parks, farms, roadside clubs, or just anyone with a sense of humour. It’s not trying to be elegant, and that’s the charm.

Pros:
✔️ Fits the vibe if you’re going for “SL BBQ Season.”
✔️ Great conversation starter.
✔️ Easy to set up and doesn’t take itself seriously.

Cons:
❌ May cause an identity crisis if you also own a yacht.
❌ Less sexy, more silly.
❌ You will be tempted to add a gnome and a cooler full of beer.

3. The Inflatable Kiddie Pool

AKA: “I Have Exactly 2 LI to Spare and No Shame”

Small, colourful and adorable. But hey, it works! This tiny paddle pool fits in any garden, rooftop, or balcony and is perfect for just dipping your toes or pretending you’re escaping the heat.

Animations? Yes, you can sit and float. But honestly, just slap a towel next to it and sit with a watermelon cocktail. It’s the minimalist summer dream.

Pros:
✔️ Low land impact, perfect for Linden homes or skyboxes.
✔️ So cute it hurts.
✔️ Great for taking selfies that scream, “I’m not broke, I’m minimalist.”

Cons:
❌ One splash and you’re out of water.
❌ Not ideal for groups
❌ May attract curious neighbour kids or tiny avatars with water guns.

Whether you’re living large or paddling in a glorified bucket, there’s no wrong way to enjoy summer in Second Life. Just remember: always wear sunscreen. Even if it’s virtual. (Okay, maybe not, but still,  it’s the thought that counts.)

Links to each of these aquatic masterpieces at the end of the post!

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go rehydrate with a piña colada and a new pool float.