When the heat in the dog days of August in Northern Virginia seems unbearable, park yourself in the pool to keep cool.

Floating Time
Resistant to UV rays, this premium float will bring comfort and multiperson fun to your pool days. $129 at Pottery Barn, several area locations, potterybarn.com

Heads-Up
If you have kids, lounging in the pool isn’t really an option. Your best bet? Add a little fun (and competition) to your day in the water with these kid-approved bouncy balls. $12 at Red Barn Mercantile, 1117 King St., Alexandria, redbarnmercantile.com

Life Saver
An insulated life jacket keeps your drink as safe as you while in the water. This can-size vest doesn’t mind getting wet, but won’t go overboard. $14 at Uncommon Goods, uncommongoods.com

Throwing Shade
It’s not just sunscreen that can protect your skin while you enjoy a sunny day poolside. This generous 10-foot umbrella canopy with beachy cabana stripes will, too. $574 at Crate & Barrel, several area locations, crateandbarrel.com

Toweling Off
After a day spent diving in the deep end, wrap yourself up in this indigo sun towel. $35 at REI, several area locations, rei.com
This story originally ran in our August issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.