Types of public swims
- Lane swim: lengths in roped lanes marked slow, medium and fast. For fitness swimmers.
- Leisure or public swim: open water for play, often with slides, a wave pool or toys. For all ages.
- Family swim: for parents and young children together. Children under a set age must have an adult in the water within reach.
- Older adult and therapy swims: quieter swims, sometimes in a warmer pool.
What to bring
- A swimsuit, a towel and a lock for the change room locker.
- Goggles for lane swimming.
- A swim cap if you have long hair. Some pools ask for one.
What it costs
A single public swim usually costs a few dollars. Passes and memberships cost less per swim, and many cities charge less for children, youth and older adults. Some cities run free swims on holidays.
Rules for children
Every public pool has a rule for children and adults: young children must have a parent or guardian in the water, within arm's reach. The age and the number of children per adult differ between cities. Check the pool's rules before you go.
Tips for your first visit
- Shower before you swim; most public pools ask everyone to.
- Weekday afternoon and evening swims are often busier than morning swims.
- Swim times change on holidays and during school breaks.