Best Public Pools For Kids In Tampa

There are dozens of public swimming pools located in the Tampa are, some are free and others are not -- here's a list of the best of them.

Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA

Various locations, see website
(813) 224-9622
www.tampaymca.org

The Tampa YMCA is apparently the go-to facility for swim lessons with instruction available for babies and adults. This YMCA also provides private lessons, swim teams, swim clubs, and more. If you or your child aren't interested in lessons, many YMCA locations have open swim times at their heated outdoor swimming pools, which are maintained at 84 degrees all year round. A monthly membership allows for unlimited access to all swimming pools in Tampa area YMCAs. See website for details.

Bobby Hicks Pool

4120 West Mango Avenue
Tampa, FL 33616
(813) 832-1216
www.tampagov.net

Of all the city-run public pools around Tampa, the Bobby Hicks Pool comes highly recommended. But, for a fee, you can get access to more than a dozen public pools run by the City of Tampa for all ages and levels, including lessons and swim team competitions. Single-visit fees range from $2 - $4. The fee is waived during the summer months for children who need financial assistance. See the parks and recreation website for details on the program.

North Shore Aquatic Complex

901 N. Shore Dr. NE
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 893-7727
www.stpete.org

Not too far away in St. Petersburg are several public pools accessible for a fee (a monthly pass costs $12.50 for non-residents), some of which are open year round. Classes are also offered. The North Shore Aquatic Complex, located on the St. Petersburg waterfront and open all year, has a 50-meter swimming pool, diving board, a training pool, a play area, and a slide.

Clearwater Beach Family Aquatic Center

51 Bay Esplanade
Clearwater, FL 33767
(727) 462-6020
www.myclearwater.com/gov

The Clearwater Beach Family Aquatic Center is definitely a big hit, as it's only a short drive from Tampa if you're really looking to get away for a little while during one of those blazing summer days. Fees range from free to about $6, depending on various factors. The Family Aquatic Center's swimming facility features six 25-yard lap swimming lanes and a children's play area.