Pool Party Paradise

Remember those summer-lovin’ days when you could just lie back on the beach with your eyes closed and dream the world away?

Nope. Didn’t think so. Now that we’re parents, it feels like there’s no closing your eyes for more than a second when we’re on a family outing. Whether it’s worrying about kids slipping into the water, getting lost in the crowd, or running into traffic, hyper-vigilance is the (very un-relaxing) name of the game.

So we thought we’d ferret out a warm-weather destination that doesn’t leave Mom needing a holiday by the time the day is over. Our July savvy pick is Second Beach in Stanley Park, a gem that blends into the landscape so well it’s easy to miss if you’re just doing a drive-by.

We love Second Beach for a bunch of reasons—first off, we just can’t get over the luxury of having a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool that boasts such incredible views over Burrard Inlet. And we actually get to enjoy those vistas because of the pool’s family-friendly features that make it a little easier for us Moms to relax.

The pool has a gradual entry that makes splish-splashing fun and safe for toddlers (as with other municipal pools, children under eight must be within arm’s reach of an adult). And adjacent is a fenced-off grassy picnic area that allows you to enjoy an al fresco meal without worrying about kids wandering into trouble. While poolside chairs are provided, we suggest bringing your own lawn chairs and umbrella to set up a comfortable base camp on the grass.

And since there’s nothing worse than getting settled only to hear “I’m bored” half an hour later, rest assured that there is plenty here to keep all ages amused. Since you can pop in and out of the pool area with a hand stamp, you’ll be able to go build sandcastles on the beach that’s just steps away, visit its huge playground, or feed the ducks at nearby Lost Lagoon. You can even hop the free trolley car that shuttles visitors around Stanley Park, hitting popular destination points such as the miniature railway and aquarium.

Other Second Beach amenities include change rooms, a hamburger and fish ‘n’ chips concession, and ample parking (all day for $7). All this for only $2.50 per family member? We say pass the sunscreen and let the pool party commence.

Second Beach in Stanley Park
www.city.vancouver.bc.ca
(604) 257-8371
North Lagoon Drive and Stanley Park Drive

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