The El Cerrito Swim Center includes a large lap pool; smaller warmed recreation pool with zero entry; water spray features; two diving boards and a water slide (the water slide is TBD for 2025). Families can find swim lessons, recreational swim time, community parties, and a fully separate splash park outside.
We recently visited El Cerrito Swim Center Splash Park and Tot Splash program at the El Cerrito Swim Center. Tot Splash starts at the shallow end of a large, warm pool cordoned off by a divider. The water does not go deeper than 3 feet, which allows for older toddlers to walk and “swim.”
Swimming pool restrictions prohibit flotation devices. Due to the low water level in the shallow end, swimming vests are not allowed. An adult must be in the water with the child at all times. Past the divider, parents are welcome to hold their child and swim together – swim vests are allowed. No water toys are provided, but you are welcome to bring some from home. A lifeguard is on duty and overseeing the children. A family bathroom is equipped with a changing table.
My girls, age one and three, loved this outing — it was a great water play activity on a warm day for infants/toddlers and an easy place for me to supervise them without worry. Lunch at one of the shaded patio tables or on the grass is a perfect afternoon spent before a long relaxing nap (hopefully!) with your littles.
The Splash Park had several low spraying sprinklers (good for introducing little ones to water) as well as larger sprinklers spraying from all angles with buckets of water pouring down. The area is enclosed with plenty of grassy areas to picnic and small enough for children to be within view at all times. Read more about the seasonal splash park in El Cerrito.
Plan your visit to El Cerrito Swim Center
- 7 & Under Swim Hours Beginning April 14, 2025:
Mon/Wed 4:45 pm-6:45 pm Ages 7 years old and under with Parent/Guardian there is shared space in the Activity Pool to swim, float, and have fun! - Pricing: Adult, Youth 2 years & older $5; 1 year and under FREE
- Family Swim Hours Beginning April 26, 2025: Saturday & Sunday 12:30 pm-4:30 pm
- Pricing: Drop-In, Adult 18+ years old $8; Youth 2-17 years old $5; 1 year and under FREE; Non-Swimmer/Shower $5
- 30-Day Passes and 15-punch Passes also available.
- Free parking is available in the front.
- rECswim takes place in the Activity Pool and Splash Park.
- Due to staffing issues, times are limited. Check hours and schedules on the website >>
- Returning For Summer 2025: Family Rec Night, rEC Swim After Dark, Pool Parties/Rentals
What to bring:
- Swimsuit for you and your children. Tot splash requires adults to be in the water with the child
- Sunblock
- Towels to dry off
- Extra bag for wet clothes
- Water toys
- Water shoes — the splash park is on concrete
- Blanket
- Lunch
- Planning to swim with your child in the lap pool? Bring a swim vest
Related links:
El Cerrito Splash Park;Â 5 Tot-Friendly Splash Parks in the East Bay;Â Guide to El Cerrito with Kids
