Swimply, an app often likened to the “Airbnb for pools,” has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity amid the pandemic, allowing individuals to rent private pools by the hour. Founded in 2018, the platform has witnessed an astounding 4,000% growth over the past year, facilitating over 120,000 bookings as public pools faced closures due to COVID-19.

Pool Rental Boom

With approximately 13,000 pool owners listed on the platform spanning from Los Angeles to New York City, Swimply offers hourly rentals priced between $35 to $50, depending on the location. Pool owners have seized the opportunity, with one luxury pool owner expecting to rake in over $110,000 this year alone. On average, hosts generate $5,000 to $10,000 per month, while Swimply retains a 15% commission from hosts and imposes a 10% fee on guests.

How to Dive In

To access Swimply’s services, users can sign up via the app or website using email, Facebook, or email logins, with a minimum age requirement of 21 for pool rental. Once registered, users can browse available pools using the map or list view, similar to Airbnb listings. Each pool listing showcases property photos, amenities such as barbecue grills or sound systems, and hosts’ rules.

Safety Measures and Additional Services

Many hosts opt to remain present during rentals to mitigate risks or property damage, particularly for larger events like pool parties. Swimply provides host liability insurance covering up to $1 million and a property-damage-protection policy for added security. Some locations offer supplementary amenities like alcohol and snacks, and pools can be rented for various durations based on availability.

Industry Trends and Challenges

Swimply’s success reflects a growing trend in pool rental services, with companies like Peerspace also offering pool spaces alongside film-production and event venues. Outdoor locations with pools have seen increased demand, aligning with customers’ preferences for open-air activities. However, challenges such as rising costs for pool chemicals, including chlorine, have surfaced, driven by supply chain disruptions.

While Swimply’s rapid ascent underscores the evolving landscape of leisure and hospitality services, other platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo also provide pool rental options, catering to diverse customer preferences.

As Swimply continues to make waves in the market, its innovative approach to leisure experiences reflects the changing dynamics of the sharing economy, offering individuals unique opportunities to enjoy private pool experiences while fostering community engagement and entrepreneurship.