Summer Swimming: Outdoor Pools and Water Parks in Seattle, Tacoma and Beyond
Photo:
Colman Pool. Credit: TIA International Photography for Seattle Parks and Recreation
Swimming pools in Seattle
Colman Pool, West Seattle
Open: June 24–Sept. 4, 2023 (closed July 6–8 and July 14–15)
Water temp: 85 degrees
Overview: Overlooking the beach in lovely Lincoln Park in West Seattle, this Olympic-size saltwater pool was recently renovated and upgraded. It features a diving board and a corkscrew tube slide. Pool toys like water noodles and mats are available. Important note: There is not a wading area for tots.
Tips: Colman is a popular swim destination that sells out on hot days. Come early to purchase your swim admission. This pool requires everyone entering to admission, even if not swimming. A deep-water swim is test required for everyone younger than age 18. A modified swim test is allowed with a personal flotation device (life jacket). Note: Pool visitors need to make a short stroll through Lincoln Park to reach the pool.
Reservations: Sign up for swim lessons online or book a party rental on the Colman Pool website. If you have questions, call 206-684-4766.
Mounger Pool, Magnolia
Open: June 24–Sept. 4, 2023
Water temp: 85 degrees (big pool), 93 degrees (small pool)
Overview: Popular Lowery C. “Pop” Mounger is actually two pools: a larger, deeper pool, with a 50-foot corkscrew tube slide, and a separate warmer-water, shallow pool for young kids. For tots: Check out Pool Playland, a “gentle” public swim (daily from 10:30–11:30 a.m. See the website schedule for additional times) that takes place in the small, warm-water pool only, and is for children ages 5 and younger. An adult age 18 or older must accompany all children in the water. Water noodles and other toys are available during Pool Playland, Family Swims and Fun Family Friday sessions.
Tips: This pool is also very popular and sells out on hot days, so come early. Family Fun Fridays feature games, activities and a different theme weekly. Look for “Free Slide Day.” Check Mounger’s Facebook page for updates. Mounger Pool recently installed a fixed shade structure.
Reservations: Sign up for swim lessons online or book a party rental by calling 206-648-4708.
Yost Pool, Edmonds
Open: Summer season June 26–Sept. 2, 2023
Water temp: 80–83 degrees
Overview: Set in one of Edmonds’ loveliest, shadiest parks, this popular pool is now run by the Cascade Swim Club. In addition to swim lessons and swim team opportunities, Yost Pool hosts summer open swim Monday–Friday, from 1:15–3:15 p.m. and several sessions on the weekends (see the website for details). Note: There is not a separate shallow area for toddlers.
Tips: Consider the individual or family season passes if you want to spend your days by the pool. Yost Park is also worth exploring, with shady forest trails, a creek, a basketball court and a playground.
Next up: Eastside outdoor swimming pools
