Splish splash—it’s summer at last! The sunshine and heat have arrived. Stay cool at one of three San Diego County Parks that have water features.
Waterfront Park on the San Diego Bayfront has a massive reflecting pool with interactive water jets to keep both young and old cool. And Sweetwater Summit Regional Park in Bonita and Hilton Head County Park in Rancho San Diego both have fun splash pads.
Don’t forget your swimsuit, towels and sunblock! Also, be sure to bring an adult—there are no lifeguards on duty.
Waterfront Park
Address: 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego
Hours for fountain jets: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Park hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
A spectacular 830-foot-long fountain runs nearly the length of Waterfront Park and its jets shoot water into the air. The fountain’s basins create a one-inch-deep splash area, which is perfect for frolicking.
In addition to the fountain, Waterfront Park has a playground and a large civic green for picnics and play. Find out more about Waterfront Park, including tips on taking public transportation to the park, online.
Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
Address: 3218 Summit Meadow Road, Bonita
Splash Park Hours: 9:30 a.m. to sunset
Park Hours: 9:30 a.m. to sunset
Come to cool off at the splash pad and stay for the camping and fishing at Sweetwater Reservoir. The park has 15 miles of trails for hikers, cyclists and equestrians.
Hilton Head County Park
Address: Hilton Head Road, El Cajon
Splash Park Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Park Hours: sunrise to sunset
Arrrrre you ready to beat the heat, matey? Head to the splash park at Hilton Head County Park, which has an adjacent pirate-themed playground. The 10-acre neighborhood park also has a multi-use sports field, basketball court, exercise stations, and shaded picnic and barbecue areas.
Sweetwater Summit and Hilton Head splash playgrounds are open May 1 through Oct. 31. Day-use passes are $3 per child. There is a day-use parking fee of $3 per vehicle at Sweetwater Summit. Season passes are also available for $30 per individual.
See a complete list of rules for splash pad use at Sweetwater Summit and Hilton Head online.