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Beat the heat at San Diego's fantastic splash pads and water parks

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Posted at 4:13 PM, Jun 11, 2019
and last updated 2019-06-11 19:16:34-04

SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - Families looking for relief from San Diego’s scorching heat can find it at one of the region’s splash pads or water parks.

10News has compiled a list for parents who need to get the kiddos outside for a good soak. All that’s left is to pack your sunscreen and towels.

Many of the parks are free, while others charge admission fees. Be sure to follow the links below to see available summer passes for additional savings.

CENTRAL SAN DIEGO

Waterfront Park
1600 Pacific Hwy., Embarcadero
Admission: FREE
The crowning jewel of San Diego public water parks, this space features an interactive splash fountain extending to a large civic green. If the kids want to dry off, a playground is adjacent to the fountain jets.
More info

Civita Park
7960 Civita Blvd., Mission Valley
Admission: FREE
This splash pad has nearly 50 jets and lights up with different colors at each spout.
More info

Tierrasanta Pool and Play Area
11238 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Tierrasanta
Admission: $4
In addition to the main pool, the park has a Children’s Pool has a slide with water features and shaded benches for parents.
More info

City of San Diego pools with slides, spray grounds, or water playgrounds (Fee required):

Carmel Valley Pool, 3777 Townsgate Drive
Memorial Pool, 2902 Marcy Avenue
Ned Baumer Aquatic Center, 10440 Black Mountain Road
City Heights Swim Center, 4380 Landis Street (currently closed for maintenance)

SOUTH BAY

Aquatica San Diego
2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista
Admission: Splash passes are $49.99 for the season or upgrade to a premium pass with free parking and no blackout dates for $89.99.
Enjoy Big Surf Shores for 5’ waves and Walkabout Waters, an aquatic playground.
More info

Sweetwater Summit Regional Park
3218 Summit Meadow Road, Bonita
Admission: $3, with a $3 per vehicle parking fee.
Visitors can cool off at the splash pad after a day of hiking and fishing at Sweetwater Reservoir.
More info

Mountain Hawk Park
1475 Lake Crest Drive, Chula Vista
Admission: FREE
Take a break from the South Bay sunshine at this community park.
More info

NORTH COUNTY

The Wave Park
101 Wave Dr., Vista
Admission: Over 42”, $20.95. Under 42”, $16.95. Military and senior admission, $13.95
Grab a raft and drift your way to a cooler day in the North County.
More info

Alga Norte Aquatic Center
6565 Alicante Rd., Carlsbad
Admission: Adults, $5, Children under 17, $3.
This large pool complex has a spray ground for the youngsters. Don’t miss the inflatable area that puts you above the water in a bubble.
More info

LEGOLAND Water Park
1 Legoland Dr., Carlsbad
Admission: $120.99, 2-day resort hopper for LEGOLAND and Water Park. Discounts are available online.
Build a LEGO raft and float down a not-so-lazy river, or race down one of six slides. There’s more to see and do at this North County water park.
More info

Las Posas Pool
1387 W. Borden Road, San Marcos
Admission: $4 per day
The admission fee includes access to a 25 yard recreational lap pool and picnic area.
More info

Poway Community Swim Center
13094 Civic Center Dr, Poway
Admission: $3 for children, $4 adult for Poway residents.
This year-round pool complex also has a lap pool and swim classes.
More info

City of San Marcos splash pads:

Sunset Park, 909 Pruesta del Sol
Buelow Park, 300 Autumn Drive
Discovery/Lakeview Park, 650 Foxhall Drive
Mulberry Park, 751 Mulberry Drive
San Elijo Park, 1105 Elfin Forest Road

EAST COUNTY

Hilton Head Park
16005 Hilton Head Rd., El Cajon Admission: $3 per day, $30 per season
Make a splash, matey, at this pirate-themed park! Make sure you bring a tent or a large hat; Google reviewers say there’s not much shade.
More info

Santee Lakes
9310 Fanita Pkwy., Santee
Admission: Parking is $6 per vehicle and sprayground wristbands are $3 on weekends.
Play for the day at one of Santee’s lakes. Some of the picnic pavilions require reservations, so check the website before you go.
More info