Big Splash is still closed and it’s almost 30 degrees this weekend: here’s where else to swim
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Uh, did we just skip spring?
While it feels like it’s still far too early to have packed away our winter coats, the weekend radar has other ideas, with a balmy 28-degree forecast (yes, you read that right).
Yet just as the temperature heats up, Canberrans have been dealt the frustrating news that Big Splash will remain closed for a third consecutive year.
With our biggest water park out of action, where are the coolest spots to beat the heat?
Don’t sweat it! From cross-border gems to floating obstacle courses, we’ve rounded up the best alternatives to keep your cool when the mercury rises a little earlier than usual.
Stromlo Leisure Centre
With a state-of-the-art splash pad, tunnel slide and lap pools, this indoor centre is a cool option that will keep kids and adults alike happy for hours, minus the sunburn. Added bonus? During the school holidays, they roll out a giant inflatable obstacle course, where kids can climb, slide and burn off all that energy!
Corner of Uriarra Road and Dave McInnes Road, Stromlo | stromloleisurecentre.com.au
Canberra Olympic Pool
With a massive 50-metre indoor pool and 25-metre outdoor pool that features high-diving platforms and spring diving boards, this iconic spot is right in the middle of the city centre, making it an easy stroll to Floriade if you want to browse the blooms after a dip.
36 Constitution Avenue, City | canberraolympicpool.com.au
Queanbeyan Aquatic Centre
Boasting indoor and outdoor pools along with a splash pad and slide, this gem is worth crossing the border for. The outdoor wet play area is equipped with 26 water features to keep kids entertained during the warmer months, while parents can take advantage of the shaded grass spectator bank, refurbished family change rooms, electric barbecues and on-site kiosk.
Corner of Crawford and Antill Street, Queanbeyan | qprcaquatics.com.au
Lakeside Leisure Centre
If you’re looking to get your laps in down south, Lakeside Leisure Centre in Greenway features a 50-metre indoor heated Olympic pool (which is often divided into two 25-metre zones to accommodate both gentle swimmers and serious trainers), alongside a warmer, shallow leisure pool and splash park perfect for the kids.
Corner Athllon and Anketell Street, Greenway | lakesideleisure.com.au
Erindale Leisure Centre
Just up the road in Wanniassa, the Erindale Leisure Centre (formerly the Active Leisure Centre) is built around an eight-lane, heated indoor pool designed for year-round recreation, lap swimming and aqua aerobics. Families love it for its dedicated toddler pool, while adults can take advantage of the steam room.
115 McBryde Cres, Wanniassa | erindaleleisurecentre.com.au
CISAC Aquatics
Operated alongside Club Lime, this popular Belconnen indoor leisure centre features a massive 50-metre indoor heated lap pool as well as a smaller 25-metre pool, complete with water fountains, jets and a waterslide for kids. The venue also offers an on-site steam room, spa and hydrotherapy pool.
100 Eastern Valley Way, Bruce | clublime.com.au/ourclubs
Opening from October: Keep an eye out next month for the opening of two of Canberra’s iconic outdoor pools, Dickson and Manuka Pool!
Feature image: Stromlo Leisure Centre. Credit: Facebook.
