Feeling the Heat? Here Are Cheap Places to Swim

Canada just came through its first major heatwave of 2024, subjecting residents of Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic provinces to “dangerously hot and humid conditions” according to Environment Canada.

During a heatwave, keeping your body temperature from climbing too high is paramount to avoid heat stress, which can be serious. One of the easiest, most fun ways to keep cool is swimming.

If you’re lucky enough to have a backyard pool, relief is waiting right outside your door. If you’re not so lucky, here are some places to take a nice refreshing dip, at little to no out-of-pocket cost.

1. Head down to your local public pool

There are thousands of publicly-owned pools and splash pads across the country, according to Statistics Canada. Some of these include state-of-the-art facilities that offer free and paid swim activities for all ages. Public pools typically have rules and guidelines you must follow, including age requirements and demonstration of swimming ability.

To find a pool near you, try searching on the city or provincial government website where you live. You can also browse Swimmers Guide, a worldwide directory of “publicly-accessible, full-size, year-round swimming pools,” or simply enter “public swimming pool near me” into your favorite search engine.

Nerdy Tip: If you’re headed to the pool with family, make sure everyone is well-versed in swimming safety. Swimming lessons at your local YMCA are a great idea. Kids can learn an invaluable life skill while staying cool and having fun.

2. Visit one of Canada’s many beaches and lakes

Unlike public pools, which may be located just a few minutes from your doorstep, Canada’s beaches and freshwater lakes often require a day trip. If you have the time and transportation, however, the swimming experiences are superb.

The Parks Canada website is a great place to start the search for National Parks with swimmable bodies of water.

While daily admission fees are charged at most national parks and historic sites, fees are waived for youth ages 17 and under, support persons, active members and veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces and their immediate families, and newcomers and new Canadian citizens who are in their first year of residence.

3. Venture to a secret swimming hole

If you prefer an off the beaten path adventure, why not plan a trip to one of Canada’s many natural swimming holes? Carved out by ancient glacier activity in some cases, and human rock mining activities in others, these pools provide an excellent escape from the summer heat.

These listicles of swimming holes in Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia can jumpstart your trip inspo, but plugging “natural swimming hole near me” into your favorite search engine will likely turn up more localized results.

Be aware that some swimming holes may be located in national parks or forest reserves; day permits may be required.

Bonus tip: Have a pool you rarely use? Rent it out for cash

If you have a pool in your backyard and you’re looking for a summer side hustle, check out Swimply.com. This Airbnb-esque service lets property owners rent out their pools by the hour to sweaty Canadians desperate to take a dip. The service offers hosts up to $2 million in coverage for general liability claims and $10,000 of property protection, but it’s still smart to get the OK from your home insurance company before letting strangers pay to use your pool.