Boston Beaches, Lakes, Pools, and Water Playgrounds Guide

Beaches, lakes, water parks, swimming pools, and spraygrounds—there are lots of ways to cool off in and near Boston.

So when the temperatures rise, don't let it go to your head. Stay calm and consult our Beaches and Water Fun Guide for the best ways to stay cool with Boston kids.

 

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

More Water and Beach Fun Near Boston
Search for seashells along Cape Cod's many gorgeous beaches.
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6 Natural Tide Pools Where Kids Can Explore Crabs, Sea Stars, and Marine Life Around Boston
10 Seafood Spots for Dinner after a North Shore Beach Day
50 Things to Do on a Martha’s Vineyard Summer Family Vacation
New England Family Beach Vacation: Visiting York Beach, Maine
Head to the shore this summer 2025 for the top Connecticut beaches that are great for families. Photo courtesy of Mommy Poppins
19 Connecticut Area Beaches That Are Great for Families
Water Parks and Pools
Experience the Hyperlight Slide at Water Country, one of the fun new attractions at this beloved New England water park. Photo courtesy of the Park.
Visiting Water Country with Kids: Secrets to Visiting NH's Best Water Park
If you're looking for more of a swim than a splash pad will allow, consider paying for a day pass or a seasonal membership at a Boston pool.
Swimming Pools with Day Passes and Memberships for Families Around Boston
Don't sweat the weather, because the best indoor water parks in New England are waiting for year-round fun! Photo courtesy of Jay Peak Resort
Best Indoor Water Parks in New England for Easy Family Getaways
Dive into summer fun at free Boston swimming pools. Mirabella Pool photo courtesy of Boston Centers for Youth & Families
Free Swimming Pools in Boston for Families
All sibs in the pool! Small group sessions are available now at Goldfish. Photo courtesy of Goldfish Swim School
Swimming Lessons for Boston Kids, Babies, and Toddlers (Where Parents Don't Need to Get in the Pool!)
Connecticut's Great Wolf Lodge at Mashantucket will be open for fun on May 9! Rendering courtesy of the Great Wolf Lodge at Foxwoods
Great Wolf Lodge at Foxwoods Opens May 9, 2025

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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