Float in the water and enjoy the summer with a cocktail in your hand. With a pool mattress, this dream falls through. Bathing islands, on the other hand, offer plenty of space, many designs and practical extras such as cup holders. They are the luxury version of air mattresses.
Which bathing islands are good?
BeyondSurfing presents the most popular products at 2024. In the buying guide, you can find out what really matters when choosing the right floating island.
The best floating islands 2024:
Content
- 1 These are the top 8 bathing islands in 2024
- 1.1 1. inflatable lounge island Canopy Island
- 1.2 2. giant ocean floating island from Bestway
- 1.3 3. floating island party unicorn
- 1.4 4. Bestway floating island double
- 1.5 5. flamingo ring with cup holder
- 1.6 6. intex ghost inflatable pool chair
- 1.7 7. intex mattress plate
- 1.8 8. Bestway double designer lounger inflatable boat
- 2 Bestsellers: The most popular bathing islands
- 3 Buy a floating island: How to make the right decision
- 4 FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about bathing islands
- 5 Conclusion: The most popular floating islands reviewed
In a hurry? Our favorite floating island:
- Removable sun canopy
- XXL size
- Two-air chamber system
- 2 cup holders
- Backrest
- Free repair patches
Floating island Checklist
- Features: Bathing islands are inflatable air beds that float on the water. Expandable bathing islands can be made larger by adding individual elements.
- Design: There are many designs with backrests, cup holders and much more. An attached sun canopy protects you from the intense sunlight on the water. A floating island with an anchor is worthwhile in the sea.
- Safety: Bathing islands are not suitable for strong waves. Non-swimmers must additionally secure themselves in the open water.
Also interesting: The most popular air mattresses 2024.
These are the top 8 bathing islands in 2024
1. inflatable lounge island Canopy Island
Advantages
- Removable sun canopy
- XXL size
- Two-air chamber system
- 2 cup holders
- Backrest
- Free repair patches
Disadvantages
- High price
- Not usable in strong winds
Summary
This inflatable sunbathing island from Intex, designed in an elegant white, bears the name “Canopy Island”. The removable awning has a transparent viewing window.
The floating island is made of durable material. The sun canopy is made of fabric and is washable. Two cup holders provide space for refreshments.
The product can be tied down using the eyelets on the side. This prevents them from drifting away. The backrest is particularly comfortable. Two air chambers and free repair patches ensure safety.
Here is an unboxing video of the product.
Conclusion
This lounge is ideal for anyone looking for an exclusive design and a touch of luxury. With this product, the manufacturer offers a floating island in a class of its own.
If you have children who like to run around wild, you should choose a different product.
Product details
Size: 199.4 x 149.9 x 149.9 cm | Material: Vinyl | Weight: 9.9 kg
Customer ratings
Customers no longer want to do without this great floating island. Inflation is very easy despite the size. The cup holder is practical. You can easily take the product with you on vacation. The lying surface is very comfortable. The sunshade can be used as a small sail. The design is high-quality and visually very appealing. Customer service is fast and reliable. One customer received an immediate replacement for a damaged delivery.
Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 16% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The awning is impractical in strong winds. You are blown around wildly. The surface yellows over time and the smooth texture makes it easy to slip on. The purchase price is high.
FAQ
2. giant ocean floating island from Bestway
Advantages
- Removable cooling compartment
- Removable sun canopy
- 6 cup holders
- Robust material
- Up to 6 adults
- Adjustable backrests
Disadvantages
- Only one color
- High price
Summary
This floating island from Bestway is deservedly described as huge. The design is blue, white with green accents. It has practical extras.
There is a removable cool bag in the middle. There are 6 cup holders all around. Separately inflatable backrests offer a high level of comfort. There is a net under the sun canopy to cool your feet.
The material is hard-wearing and the sun canopy is made of washable fabric. It can be mounted and dismounted as required. Self-adhesive repair patches are supplied for any damage.
Conclusion
A luxury floating island that leaves nothing to be desired. The drinks cooler makes it ideal for a cocktail party on the water.
The product is not very light and a paddle is needed for a trip on the lake.
Product details
Size: 389 x 274 x 73 cm | Material: PVC | Weight: 22.8 kg
FAQ
3. floating island party unicorn
Advantages
- Inflatable seat cushion
- Unicorn design
- Beverage cooler
- Cup holder
- Removable floating table
Disadvantages
- Bulky shape
- No backrest
- No sun canopy
Summary
This impressive unicorn-shaped Intex floating island is a real eye-catcher. A white unicorn with a colorful mane, wings and a golden horn.
The manufacturer offers many extras: Drink floaties, a cooler compartment, inflatable seat cushions and a floating table that attaches to the outside of the rim.
The Unicorn Island offers space for 4 adults to relax and drift away. Children really enjoy the unicorn look.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a playful design but still want plenty of space and comfort, this is the product for you.
The floating island is bulky and not very easy to fold up again. There is no sun protection.
Product details
Size: 503 x 335 x 173 cm | Material: PVC | Weight: 21.7 kg
Customer ratings
The product is large and very stable. The look is appealing and pleases the whole family. The construction is worthwhile. The children are absolutely thrilled.
Around 13% are neutral about the product, while 21% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
FAQ
4. Bestway floating island double
Advantages
- For two people
- Comfortable backrest
- Handles
- Safety valve
- Repair patches
- Robust material
Disadvantages
- Only one color available
- Sharp-edged weld seams
Summary
The double ring from Bestway is suitable for two people. The width of over 1.7 m offers enough space to relax.
If the swim ring is used in the sea, the handles on both sides provide safety in the event of waves. With turquoise and white, the color goes very well with the element of water. In calm waters, the neck rest invites you to read.
The almost 3 mm thick vinyl is robust and resilient. The safety valve prevents the air from escaping quickly and the repair patches supplied provide additional protection against damage during excursions.
Conclusion
This double ring is particularly suitable for couples and friends who want to spend relaxed time together on the water. No one has to paddle after the other anymore.
As the double size increases the pack size, single users are better off choosing a different product.
Product details
Size: 171 x 105 x 48 cm | Material: Vinyl | Weight: 1.5 kg
Customer ratings
The ring is also tight on the pebble beach. It does not fade quickly in the sun. The double ring carries a weight of 200 kg. The pack size is sufficient for a suitcase and takes up no more space than a large bath towel. At last you’re no longer being rinsed apart with partners or friends. Most customers would buy the product again at any time.
Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some customers complain about processing errors. They were supplied with leaking rings. In some cases, the weld seams prove to be sharp-edged and scratchy if you slide or dive through the swim ring, for example. The inclination of the backrest was not comfortable for all customers.
FAQ
5. flamingo ring with cup holder
Advantages
- XXL Design
- Flamingo optics
- Free cup holder
- Manufacturer supports social project
- Extra large opening
Disadvantages
- Bulky pack size
- Only one design available
Summary
This flamingo floating ring in floating island size is made by the TK Group Timo Klingler. The manufacturer supports people with disabilities, involves them in production and pays them fairly.
The floating island really does look like a flamingo and has lots of details, e.g. eyelashes on the eyes. The neck serves either as a backrest or to hold on to when sitting on it.
The wide opening of approx. 1.1 m is also suitable for taller people. The set includes a free cup holder. It has the shape of a donut with a bite. There is space for standard cups or smaller bottles.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a floating ring in floating island size, this is the product for you. In addition to the robustness of the material, social production is an advantage.
The flamingo neck and head make the model somewhat bulkier. If you are looking for something more compact, you should choose a different model.
Product details
Size: 120 x 120 x 110 cm | Material: PVC | Weight: 689 g
Customer ratings
The flamingo floating ring in floating island size is suitable for all ages. Even wild romps can’t harm the material. The fabric is thin yet very robust. This makes the Flamingo floating island a real lightweight. The detailed safety instructions give users a feeling of security. The XXL width of the opening is ideal for taller people.
Around 0% are neutral about the product, while 21% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some customers complain about defective deliveries. The product image is misleading. There are only two cup holders instead of three as shown.
FAQ
6. intex ghost inflatable pool chair
Advantages
- Adjustable backrest
- Robust material
- Light color protects against overheating
- Also suitable for tall people
- Perfect for bookworms
- Spacious cup holder
Disadvantages
- Backrest cannot be adjusted flat
- Only one design available
Summary
This inflatable floating island from the Intex brand is light blue. Visually, it goes very well with the element of water. The seating area is comfortable and the backrest is adjustable. The support is set high or flat by adjusting the air pressure.
The product is made of PVC by an experienced manufacturer. The design is ergonomic and with a height of 188 cm, even taller customers can fit comfortably on it.
A generously designed drinks holder is also built in. Even in light swell, drinks are safe and within easy reach.
Conclusion
The backrests make relaxed reading or enjoying a drink particularly pleasant. Customers who value both quality and comfort choose this product.
As the backrests always have a slight incline, it is not possible to lie completely flat on the chair.
Product details
Size: 188 cm x 99 cm | Material: Vinyl | Weight: 2.8 kg
Customer ratings
The light color ensures that the surface remains cool. Children can run wild on it without the chair capsizing. Anyone who is afraid of water will stay dry on this product. The backrest is equipped with a valve. This means that the hardness and height can be individually adjusted. The pack size is handy and the product is easy to transport.
Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 9% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The product was delivered with defects to several customers. One mat was supplied with holes. One customer’s chair disintegrated during the first use. He had left it lying in the sun.
FAQ
7. intex mattress plate
Advantages
- 2 air chambers for extra stability
- Small pack size
- Special size
- Creatively combinable
- XXL floating island for up to 5 people
Disadvantages
- High dead weight
- No cup holders
- Only one design available
Summary
This XXL air island from the manufacturer Intex bears the product name “Plate”. The 290 x 213 cm vinyl floating island can carry up to 5 people. The turquoise-colored material blends in with the water.
The island offers extra comfort with several air chambers and a double cover. Small stones do not affect the material. The separate air chambers prevent you from sinking if one chamber is damaged.
Straps are firmly welded to the sides. This allows the island to be tied down or converted into an XXL version with other floating island elements. There are then no limits to the size.
Conclusion
A high-quality and spacious floating island that is suitable for larger groups. Even in swell, you won’t sink and the two air chambers offer extra safety.
The large and bulky pack size is not suitable for individuals.
Product details
Size: 290 cm x 213 cm | Material: Vinyl | Weight: 8 kg
Customer ratings
The high weight is offset by the good quality and flexibility. An island can accommodate up to 5 people. Ideal for a whole family. Even waves don’t bother this floating island. The loops make it possible to “anchor” to a buoy. The air goes in relatively easily. The material is soft on the skin and robust.
Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The product weighs almost 10 kg due to its size. You always get a little wet on them. The purchase price is relatively high.
FAQ
8. Bestway double designer lounger inflatable boat
Advantages
- Tanning effect due to silver foil
- Incl. Cooling compartment and cup holder
- Comfortable edge
- Perfect for couples
Disadvantages
- Only with air pump
- Time-consuming deflation
- Large pack size
- Only one design
Summary
This air island from Bestway is equipped with an integrated cooling compartment. There is also a can holder. The floating island can be loaded with up to 160 kg.
Safety valves are installed to prevent air from escaping unintentionally. The valve must be pressed to release air. Two separate air chambers ensure that you don’t sink so easily.
The manufacturer includes free self-adhesive patches for repairs. The material is robust vinyl. The transparent material is reinforced with a silver foil, which provides an extra tanning effect.
Conclusion
Whether in the cool water or on the beach: Bestway offers an ideal companion for couples or friends with this floating island. There is plenty of room for cold drinks.
Product details
Size: 206 x 174 cm | Material: Vinyl | Weight: N/A
Customer ratings
This floating island is perfect for sunbathing. You lie very comfortably. The drinks compartment works great. The rim is high enough to keep water or sand out. The lying surface is comfortable and you don’t sink in. There is room for several children to run around on it. The dimensions are large enough to accommodate two adults.
Around 9% are neutral about the product, while 13% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The floating island quickly loses air pressure. Several customers have torn the seam after a short time. The material does not seem very robust.
FAQ
More articles you might find interesting:
Bestsellers: The most popular bathing islands
(**Last update 2024-09-16)
Buy a floating island:
How to make the right decision
Maximilian Naumann ★★★★★
(Student from Dortmund)
A floating island can turn a day at the lake into a luxury trip. For adults it means relaxation and for children it quickly becomes a wild water toy.
What you need to consider when buying a floating island
When looking for the best floating island, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:
- Valves
- Material
- Floating island size
- Water area
- Accessories
The valves
Bathing islands are usually equipped with safety valves. They prevent air from escaping directly when the valve is opened. The air can only escape when the opening is compressed.
Caution is advised:
Safety valves prevent the unwanted escape of air. However, they make it more difficult to inflate the floating island.
Do not forget:
A floating island is usually much too big to blow up with your mouth. A suitable air pump is therefore required. A model with several attachments is practical.
An air pump in a practical travel size is available here.
Material of bathing islands
The most commonly used materials for bathing islands are vinyl and PVC.
Good to know:
The stronger and thicker the material, the more robust it is against damage.
Some manufacturers also use a fabric cover. This is a good alternative if your skin is sensitive to plastic.
The right floating island size
The dimensions of a floating island are not as decisive as the number of seats available. Depending on how many friends or children are using the floating island, this factor plays a decisive role. Pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the number of people. Smaller children can share an adult seat.
Pro tip: There are XXL bathing islands that can be extended to the desired size with several elements.
Water area: In the sea, in the pool or on the lake?
Before you buy an inflatable island, it makes sense to think about where it will be used.
| In the sea | Here it is worth choosing a model with an anchor. It is essential to avoid drifting away, especially in swell. The design must be stable so that the floating island does not capsize. It is also worth taking a paddle with you. |
| In the pool | This protected area places the fewest demands on a floating island. She can’t drift off, the edge of the pool is close and there are no waves. It is worth having a recess here to be able to put your feet in the water. |
| In the lake | Similar requirements apply here as in the sea. Due to the lack of swell, an anchor is not necessary. The stability of the floating island does not have to be as strong as when used in the sea. |
Practical accessories
There is a whole range of practical additions that manufacturers attach to the inflatable bathing islands. BeyondSurfing gives you an overview at this point and you decide what best suits your needs:
- Cup holder
- Sun protection
- Leaning
- Recess for cool feet
- Anchor
- Beverage cooler
- Handles to hold on to
- Cords for tying or connecting to other bathing islands
- Paddle
- Slide
- Palm tree
Consumer Reports and Öko Test floating island tests
Consumer Reports has not yet carried out a bathing island test.
Öko Test published a test of 13 air mattresses . As these are manufactured in a very similar way to bathing islands, the findings are valid for both product categories:
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were detected in several cases. These substances are proven to be carcinogenic. They can penetrate the organism via skin contact.
Well-known brands and manufacturers
The best-known and most popular floating island manufacturers include:
Intex and Bestway
Both manufacturers have been leading suppliers of inflatable water accessories for many years. The products are designed to high safety standards and the designs are very creative.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about bathing islands
What are bathing islands?
Where can you buy bathing islands?
How expensive are bathing islands?
What is the best floating island?
How long does it take to inflate a floating island?
How do you transport floating islands?
Conclusion: The most popular floating islands reviewed
Floating island designs are endlessly varied. With so much on offer, there is something for every taste and every need.
It gets even better:
The all-rounders are not only suitable for the water. Relaxed sunbathing on land is also becoming more comfortable.
Children can play pirates, for example, and there’s no end to the imagination – so every member of the family can enjoy the next summer at their local lake to the full.
*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.
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