Photo: Las Palmas Pool
Photo: David R
Photo: John Kay
Las Palmas Pool
★4.4(218 reviews)$Sports
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours👶 Best for ages 2-14. Toddlers and preschoolers can enjoy shallow areas during family swim times, while school-aged kids benefit from swimming lessons and aquatic programs. The pool's public swim format works well for families with multiple children at different skill levels.🧡 Saved by 80+ families
About
Las Palmas Pool is a welcoming public outdoor swimming facility that offers National City families a refreshing escape during warm San Diego days. With a solid 4.4-star rating from over 200 reviews, this community pool provides structured aquatic programs alongside open swim times, making it ideal for both recreational splashing and helping kids build water confidence through organized activities.
Highlights
- ✓Affordable public swimming for National City families
- ✓Structured aquatic programs and swimming lessons for skill-building
- ✓Family-friendly open swim sessions throughout the week
- ✓Outdoor setting perfect for sunny Southern California days
- ✓Community atmosphere where kids can meet local friends
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on Saturday mornings (right at 10 AM) to snag shaded seating areas and avoid the peak afternoon crowds
- 2.Tuesday and Thursday mornings offer early bird lap swim (6:00-8:30 AM) if you have older kids who are strong swimmers and want a less crowded experience
- 3.Bring your own snacks and drinks in a cooler, as on-site food options are limited at this public facility
- 4.Pack extra towels and a change of clothes,kids always end up wetter than expected, and the afternoon sessions can run into cooler evening temperatures
- 5.Check with the front desk about their summer aquatic programs and swimming lessons, which often fill up quickly and offer great value for residents
Best Time to Visit
Weekday late afternoons (Monday 4:30-7 PM) offer the best balance of longer swim windows without weekend crowds. Summer months (June-August) are peak season when the pool is most reliably open and warm. Avoid Saturday afternoons when families pack the facility.
What to Know
Las Palmas Pool primarily serves National City residents with affordable community rates. Street parking is available along E 22nd Street. This is an outdoor facility, so check weather and pool status before heading out, especially during cooler months or off-season.
Seasonal Notes
Peak season runs from late spring through early fall (May-September) with the most consistent hours and warmest water temperatures. Hours may be reduced during the school year, and the pool may have limited or no availability during winter months. Summer recreation programs are the highlight and typically require advance registration.
Nearby Eats
El Pollo Grill (about 0.5 miles away) serves family-friendly Mexican food with generous portions perfect for hungry swimmers. For quick post-swim fuel, In-N-Out Burger on Plaza Bonita Road is just a few minutes' drive and always a kid-pleaser.
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