Guide to Philadelphia Beaches, Pools, Splash Pads, and Lakes

Find the best places to go swimming or play in the water near Philly: our favorite lists of beaches, lakes, and pools include everything from the Jersey Shore to wading pools, lazy rivers, water castles, water slides, splash pads, water holes, and lakes!

Here's how to get wet and keep cool this summer in Philadelphia.

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Great Local Beaches and More
10 Things To Do with Toddlers at the Jersey Shore
Go fishing at the the Virginia Beach Pier.
Virginia Beach with Kids: 35 Best Things To Do in Virginia Beach, VA
Stone Harbor Beach with Kids: What you Need to Know Before you Go
Island Waterpark's retractable awning keeps the summer weather in while keeping the rain out. Photo courtesy of Island Waterpark
40 Fun Indoor Activities for a Rainy Day on the Jersey Shore 2025
Long Branch Beach, NJ. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala
Best Jersey Shore Beaches for Families: Sandy Hook to Cape May
Enjoy a trip through scenic Chester County. Photo courtesy of Northbrook Canoe Company.
Best Philadelphia Boat Rides and Cruises for Families

Latest Beaches & Lakes News

Creek play is a great way for kids to cool off and explore nature. Photo by author Catie Misleh
Best Places for Creek Play Near Washington, DC
Sometimes all you need is a good old creek to beat the heat and have fun on a hot day.
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Look for birds along the Marsh Trail in Chincoteague. Photo by Lisa Warden
The Best Things to Do in Chincoteague, VA with Kids: A Family Travel Guide
See the famous wild ponies and more on this gorgeous Virginia Island.
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Rent an easy-to-drive electric boat for a scenic and cool family outing. Photo courtesy of SeaDC at dceboats.com
Best Places for Boating in DC: Paddleboarding, Electric Boats, Kayaking, and More
Escape the DC heat with a day on the water.
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A pile of buckets goes a long way with young kids at the beach.
Your Essential Beach List: Best Baby Beach Gear, Umbrellas, Wagons, and Tips for a Fun Beach Day
Here's the stuff that's actually worth hauling to the beach with kids.
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No ocean? No problem. The Chesapeake Bay is calling! Photo courtesy of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources
12 Swimming Lakes Near DC You Need to Discover
Kids can get their feet wet and more at these nearby swimming lakes.
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Sun's out, guns out in Ocean City. Photo courtesy of Ocean City MD Tourism
Best Family-Friendly Beaches Near DC
Here's where you can hit the shores for some summertime fun not too far from DC.
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