Keeping Your Cool---Splash Park vs. Pool

It's probably no secret that when the full summer heat is on in South Florida, the natives go indoors. Trips to the library, discount summer movies, the mall, bookstore etc become the routine. Going out into the sun requires a lot more work: dragging along extra fluids, sunblock, hats, sunglasses, etc.  A backyard pool is ideal for staying cool and keeping the kids occupied but they are expensive.  If you have an avid, confident swimmer or may like to try diving, then be sure to visit a municipal pool like one of these.  For those of us without a pool in the backyard and who don't have competent young swimmers, staying cool in the pool is not really an option. The solution: SPLASH PARKS!  Kids (and adults) of any age can indulge in some outdoor activity and cool off without worrying as much about water safety with the young ones.

For more water fun in all of South Florida check out Hottest Spots for Cooling Down--Water Parks and Splash Pads!

splash pad

There are several FREE splash parks available in the area as well as some that are part of larger attractions. If you're looking to spend the money, you can always go to the water area at Lion Country Safari, the Palm Beach Zoo or kiddie areas at local water parks (Rapids  or county run Calypso Bay or Coconut Cove).

The free parks are much smaller but usually also have playground areas nearby. I encourage you to dry your children off before allowing them to play on the equipment as it becomes a safety issue for your child as well as others when it gets slippery.

Check out some of our picks for great PALM BEACH COUNTY Cool Off spots:

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The Palm Beach Zoo

The Palm Beach is located in the northern half of Palm Beach County.  You must pay full admission for entry into the park, so it may be a good idea to make a full day event of it.  There are restrooms and cabanas for changing near the splash area which makes it convenient to transition from wet activities to dry.  In addition to the splash area, the Palm Beach Zoo also has other crowd pleasers like Food Truck Safari and Boo at the Zoo.  

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John Prince Park

John Prince Park is located in Lake Worth just west of I-95.  There are several entrances to the park but the splash pad entrance is on Lake Worth Rd.  Adjoining the splash pad are two playgrounds one of which is barrier free for families with members using wheelchairs.  The entire area is fenced with views of the lake.  Come early in the summer and on weekends because this is a popular spot for locals.  Click here for more information on John Prince Park.

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Lion Country Safari

Lion Country Safari is located in western Palm Beach County.  Take the Southern Blvd exit from the Turnpike or I-95 west until you see signs for this attraction.  You will have to pay full admission to enter the park, even if you are just going for the splash pad.  Lion Country Safari is a huge attraction which you can easily spend all day at.  From viewing the animals to enjoying the amusement area, you'll find enough to do to fill your hot summer day.  View more about Lion County Safari.

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The Rest

Here are some other spash pads that may fit your location and needs.

See our parks area to find out more about each one!

I have also heard reports of a new splash Pad and splash area at the already tricked out Palm Beach Gardens Aquatic Center.

For those of you with confident and competent (they don't always go hand in hand) swimmers, a lot of the city pools and county water parks (mentioned above) offer affordable fun and have many of the neat slides and attractions you would find at a private water park. A benefit of going to, say, The Denson Pool in Boynton Beach is that the kids get some slides and squirters with out the crowds and high prices!