There are a few weeks left to enjoy Vancouver's outdoor public pools, but in early August, swimmers will have some improved options for access.
On Thursday, July 31, the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation announced operational changes affecting outdoor pools.
Let's break down the changes.
Is the reservation system going away?
No.
"The current reservation system will remain in place, with 80 per cent of spots allocated for reservations and 20 per cent initially allocated for drop-ins," says the park board.
Capacity is determined "based on real-time attendance, allowing for increased drop-in availability, when possible, while maintaining safe swimmer-to-lifeguard ratios."
Discounts for end-of-day drop-ins
The park board is introducing a new 50 per cent discount for drop-in admissions for the final 45 minutes of outdoor pool swim sessions.
The discount is for the following pools only: Kitsilano Pool, Second Beach Pool, New Brighton Pool, and Maple Grove Pool.
This discount does not apply to reservations or length swim sessions offered between 7 and 8:30 a.m.
Will anything change at Kitsilano Pool?
Kits Pool's reservation system has faced public scrutiny this summer.
In addition to the discounted drop-in rate for the last 45 minutes of public swim sessions daily, the parks board is making the late afternoon to evening hours one big session. They will combine the current 3 to 5:30 p.m. and 6 to 8:30 p.m. session into a single session: 3 to 8:30 p.m.
"This adjustment offers flexibility for drop-in users to arrive at varying times while still enjoying a sufficient length swim session," says the park board.
When do these changes take effect?
Starting Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
What about Hillcrest's outdoor pool?
There are no changes to operations at the outdoor pool at the Hillcrest Aquatic Centre this summer.
How do you make reservations for an outdoor pool in Vancouver?
To reserve swim sessions, use the Showpass website's Vancouver Outdoor Pools portal.
The recommendation is to book three days in advance. However, users must note that "online tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable, valid only for the original pool, date, and time they were purchased for."
