Vancouver Outdoor Pools: Summer with Kids

We have had a hot, sunny summer so far in Vancouver. When it comes to staying cool in the great outdoors, there are three great and affordable options to enjoy with your kids: spray parks, the beach and outdoor pools. Today we’re covering the last of those.

Tips for Visiting Vancouver Outdoor Pools

Before we list Vancouver outdoor pools you may want to visit, we’d like to share a few tips before you go. Here’s what you need to know:

Be Sun Safe – Little kids burn quickly in the hot sun. Sunscreen is important, but a good full-coverage bathing suit is your first line of defense. If they’re just splashing in the shallow water, a hat is also a good idea. And don’t forget the sun safety for yourself!

Choose the Right Swim Diaper – This one pretty much goes without saying, but more than one mama has arrived at the pool only to discover the swim diapers were left at home. Double check! before you leave.

Food and Water – Just because you’re in the water doesn’t mean you’re hydrating. And little kids get hungry when they’re splashing in Vancouver outdoor pools. Make sure you pack a water bottle and high-energy snacks in your pool bag, and take breaks to refuel.

Consider a Pass – If you’re making a lot of visits to Vancouver outdoor pools, consider buying a pass so that you’re not constantly having to pay. Kids under three years old are free but adults are $5.76 per visit at most pools. A 10-visit pass is $46.10, though, which saves you money and makes your life easier.

Stay in Arm’s Reach – Kids under eight years old must be in arm’s reach of a responsible adult at Vancouver outdoor pools, and one adult can supervise up to five kids. Follow the rules so that everyone can have fun and stay safe.

Vancouver Outdoor Pools

There are five public Vancouver outdoor pools to visit with your kids. Why not add them all to your list this summer, and see what the city has to offer?

Hillcrest

The outdoor pool at Hillcrest is open mid-May to late September. The facility features family change rooms and sprays and bubble jets.

4575 Clancy Loranger Way, Vancouver
vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/hillcrest-aquatic-centre.aspx

Kitsilano

Vancouver’s only saltwater pool, this massive facility is located right on Kits beach. There are three slides and beach entry perfect for little ones.

2305 Cornwall Street, Vancouver
vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/kitsilano-pool.aspx

Maple Grove

This is one of the best Vancouver outdoor pools for kids, with a maximum depth of just three and a half feet. The heated wading pool also features a mini island and water basketball hoop, and admission is just $2.50 for adults.

6875 Yew Street, Vancouver
vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/maple-grove-pool.aspx

New Brighton

This is a quieter choice for East Van mamas, on the waterfront near New Brighton Park. It features beach entry, a slide and a cafe if you’re feeling peckish.

North Windermere Street near New Brighton Park, Vancouver
vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/new-brighton-pool.aspx

Second Beach

This beach-entry pool has a great kids’ area. There’s also a slide and a cafe. Plus, the views are outstanding and you’re close to all the other fun in Stanley Park.

Stanley Park Drive, Vancouver
vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/second-beach-pool.aspx