Free, Fun Ways to Beat the Heat in San Diego

You don’t have to go to the beach to get a break from the summer heat. Water playgrounds are becoming more popular and more numerous throughout San Diego County. There are even some new ones to check out! They offer a safe and convenient place to take the kids for a quick cool-down.

Here’s a list of our favorite FREE splash pads, “spraygrounds” and fountains:

• The City of San Diego’s new 12-acre Waterfront Park features an extensive interactive fountain space, as well as playground and picnic areas.
• The recently expanded Del Mar Highlands Town Center has a pop-jet fountain where kids can play, conveniently located next to Swirls frozen yogurt.
• Westfield UTC’s dolphin-themed pools and fountain is a newer hot spot for cooling off amid the lavish one-million-square-foot, three-level outdoor shopping center.
• The City of Carlsbad’s Alga Norte Community Park features a splash pad for children.
• In South Bay, you’ll find the Sweetwater Regional Park‘s aquatic playground for kids. (Parking is $3.)
• Check out the Viejas Interactive Fountains in addition to other fun activities at the outlet center in Alpine.
• Buelow Park in San Marcos features a splash pad next to their playground.
• Cottonwood Creek Park in Encinitas has a small water play area and a creek.
• San Marcos’ community parks – Lakeview Park, Mulberry Park and Elijo Park offer a splash fountain, “sprayground” and splash pad respectively, as well as parks and picnic areas.
• Mountain Hawk Park in Chula Vista has a splash pad, park and picnic area.