Ok, so it’s not quite the same as a sunny holiday to a fabulous Southern destination, but we can dream. No, there isn’t a swim-up bar either, but it does get us out of the cold and into a warm pool for some timeless memories with the kids. Here are the best places to swim in HRM – enjoy a splash with your tot, tween, teen, or family.
Some of the schedules will change from time to time or for special events so please check the website before you go. Pre-booking is required for most facilities.
Best Places to Swim in HRM – Halifax
The Canada Games Centre swims are some of the most affordable and interactive. The kids will love the waterslides, and leisure pool with all the sprinklers, and for the littlest swimmers, there is a warmer baby pool.
The Centennial Pool recommends calling the Front Desk at 902-490-4292 before making plans to swim.
The Needham Pool and Recreation Centre hosts parent and tot swims and all-ages open swims. Call 902-490-4633 to inquire about their free swim schedule.
The Captain William Spry Community Centre Pool has a graduated entry area and is the only wave pool in HRM. During wave swims, the kids will get to experience 0.5 to 1.5-meter waves!
Best Places to Swim in HRM – Dartmouth
The Zatzman Sportsplex Aquatics Centre has many new features, including a new waterslide, splash pad, and a Tarzan rope!
Cole Harbour Place The pool is open 7 days a week and offers a variety of programs and swims, including parents and tot and free swims. Check out the calendar on their website before you visit.
Best Places to Swim in HRM – Sackville
The Sackville Sports Stadium has a lane pool and leisure pool with spray features. They do not have a delegated Parent-Tot or Family Swim but they have many open swims throughout the week. Check their website for swim times.
In addition to the fun indoor pools in HRM, you will find the best out-of-town pool, a short jaunt away in East Hants. The East Hants Aquatic Centre is a beautiful new facility that includes two pools, a waterslide, a climbing wall, sprinklers, a lazy river, and a hot tub.
Please note: This Centre is closed due to damages from the July 2023 flooding. Be sure to keep an eye on their website for any news about their reopening.
