Top Swim Spots In the Olympia Region
Our locals have a saying, 'It's the water.' After an afternoon in one of the region's iconic swimming spots, you'll be saying it too!
Take off your shoes and dive headfirst into one of our region’s lakes, beaches or indoor water parks. After you check out one, you'll keep coming back for more! Please travel responsibly.
Tenino Quarry Pool
The Tenino Quarry Pool is a unique swimming destination located in Tenino. Originally a sandstone quarry in the late 1800s, it's now a popular family-friendly recreation spot with both deep and shallow areas. The pool has a fascinating history, with rumors of abandoned equipment and lost items lying at the bottom, adding to its allure. The Quarry Pool was originally a working Sandstone Quarry in the late 1800s. It was run by The Hercules Sandstone Company. Its products were used to construct many of Tenino’s buildings after a substantial fire in the early 20th century as well as notable buildings along the West Coast.
Millersylvania State Park
All it takes is a Discover Pass and a short, eight-ish-minute drive off I-5 before you've arrived in paradise. Beat the heat in Deep Lake at Millersylvania State Park. With two swimming beaches and miles of hiking and biking trails, it's easy to invest a whole afternoon (or more) unwinding. If boating is more your style, you can launch your own non-motorized watercraft from their boat launch or rent from their supply of kayaks, paddleboards or pedal boats. If you're looking to make your trip even more relaxed, check-in for a rental or pick up some lunch at Lakeside Taphouse (open daily during the summer).
Tolmie State Park
If saltwater is your jam, then Tolmie State Park (open from 8 a.m. to dusk in the summer) is the perfect spot to dip your toes in the Puget Sound. The waters are calm (perfect for adventurers of all ages), and there's marine wildlife aplenty. Make sure you check the local tide tables (high tide for more water, low tide for more beach) and bring along your Discover Pass. Once you've finished wading and playing around in the sand, consider a small trek through the Lacey Producer's District for a tasting or two.
Great Wolf Lodge
If you’re looking for watery fun no matter the weather, Great Wolf Lodge’s’s indoor water park is the perfect family destination. When it’s time to dry off, the Lodge offers a whole host of other amenities including kids activities, restaurants, day-spa, shopping and more.
Long Lake Park
Did you know that in the mid-1920s, Lacey, WA was a resort community famous for its plentiful lakes? Spend a few hours soaking up the rays at Long Lake Park, and you'll be a convert! Pack up the kids or get a gaggle of friends together for an afternoon picnic, a couple of rounds of BYOB (bring your own ball) sand volleyball or a much-needed swim. If you're not in the mood to pack up a picnic, you can always grab takeout from nearby MiSo or another Lacey eatery. The park is open from 7 a.m. to dark and is a short, ten-minute drive from I-5 exit 109. Parking is free!
Briggs Community YMCA
Swimming lessons and exercise classes are a couple of the engaging highlights at Briggs Community YMCA. Beginners and advanced swimmers will enjoy heart-pumping fun at this spacious aquatic center.
Tanglewilde Recreation Center
Tanglewilde Recreation Center offers the perfect way to cool down from the summer heat with its community pool. From public courses for all ages to private party rental offerings, this pool has something for everyone. Don't miss unwinding on the waters of the pool with a backdrop of towering trees.
Extra Aquatic Fun: Heritage Park Fountain
While Heritage Park Fountain isn't technically a pool, it still offers summer excitement with an interactive splash pad. If you're looking for something to do with the little ones on a hot day, make your way to these downtown fountains and watch the kids run through refreshing fun.
Throughout the summer, and beyond, our team will concoct monthly daycation itineraries. Let us take away the indecision and pressure of making plans and give you an easy option to enjoy ALL our region has to offer.
Spend the weekend and find dining, lodging, events, festivals and entertainment ideas at www.experienceolympia.com. Make sure to share your best shots with us by tagging social posts #ExperienceOlympia and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram (@ExperienceOly).
More to Explore
Related Content:
Millersylvania State Park
12245 Tilley Rd S Olympia, Washington 98501 (360) 753-1519
Lakeside Taphouse
699 4th Ave Tenino, Washington 98589 (360) 338-8303
Tolmie State Park
7730 61st Ave. N.E. Olympia, Washington 98506 (360) 456-6464
Great Wolf Lodge
20500 Old Hwy 99 SW Grand Mound, Washington 98531 (360) 273-7718
Long Lake Park
2790 Carpenter Road Lacey, Washington 98503 (360) 491-0857
Heritage Park Fountain
330 5th Avenue SW Olympia, Washington 98501 (360) 753-8380
MiSo
2539 Marvin Road, Ste. A Lacey, Washington 98516 (360) 338-0162
Tenino Quarry Pool
149 Hodgden St. SE Tenino, Washington 98589 (360) 264-2368