Swimming in San Francisco

Though San Francisco is right on the ocean, swimming in the rough Pacific waters is unsafe due to strong currents and frigid temperatures—it's c-c-cold. Some locals, including kids, do swim in the slightly warmer (but still often only around 50°F) and much calmer waters of the lagoon at Aquatic Park, between the Marina (next to Fort Mason) and Fisherman's Wharf.

San Francisco Recreation & Parks Swimming Pools. The city maintains eight very fine heated indoor pools, some of which are near tourist areas or easily accessible by public transit. San Francisco, CA. 415/831-2747. sfrecpark.org. $5, single swims; $47, 10-swim pass.

Charlie Sava Swimming Pool (19th Ave. & Wawona St., 94116. 415/661-6327.).

North Beach Swimming Pool (651 Lombard St., between Mason and Powell Sts., 94133. 415/391-0407.).

Rossi Swimming Pool (600 Arguello Blvd., at Anza St., 94118. 415/666-7014.).