Summer Swimming: Outdoor Pools and Water Parks Around Seattle, Tacoma and Beyond

Photo:

Colman Pool. Credit: TIA International Photography for Seattle Parks and Recreation

Seattle outdoor pools

Colman Pool, West Seattle

Open: Regular season June 19–Sept. 6, 2021

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 corkscrew tube slide. Pool toys like water noodles and mats are available, too. 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 facility requires admission for anyone entering the facility, even if not swimming. Deep water swim test required for all those under 18. Modified swim test 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 by calling 206-648-7494.

View of swimmers at Seattle Pop Mounger outdoor pool in Magnolia neighborhood open seasonally summer — Pop Mounger Pool. Credit: TIA International Photography for Seattle Parks and Rec

Mounger Pool, Magnolia

Open: June 19–Sept. 6, 2021

Water temp: 85 degrees (big pool), 93 degrees (small pool)

Overview: Popular "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 11 a.m.–noon) that takes place in the small, warm-water pool only, and is for children 5 years and younger. An adult, 18 years 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.

Next up: Eastside outdoor swimming pools

About the Author

By Kali Sakai

Kali Sakai is a Seattle-based freelance writer and blogger. She ascended the media and high-tech industries and then transformed into a "domestic project manager" to raise her family. As a native Washingtonian and multi-ethnic, shark-loving tech geek, you can find more of her stories and observations on evidentlyblog.com.

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