With the festive season in full swing, Cape Town residents are looking forward to cooling off in the City’s public swimming pools.

Laughter, splashes, and the smell of sunscreen are set to fill the air as families and friends make the most of the season.

This year, 36 of the City’s 37 pools are open, providing safe, well-maintained spaces for everyone to relax, play, and create lasting memories.

The City has invested heavily in upgrades, including at Newlands, Wynberg, Kensington, Goodwood, Bellville South, and Manenberg, ensuring the pools are ready for heavy summer use.

The Vulindlela pool in Gugulethu is also undergoing a major upgrade, with reopening dates to be announced.

During the festive season, pools are open daily from 10:00AM to 18:00PM, with the last ticket sold at 17:30PM.

The City says after the school holidays, hours will revert to weekends only. Children under seven must always be accompanied by an adult, ensuring the little ones enjoy the water safely.

Following a visit to several pools this week, Councillor Francine Higham said that while the pools are a place for fun, safety must remain a priority.

“Please be considerate of one another and follow the instructions of lifeguards and staff. Let’s work together to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable swimming time this summer.”

To keep the pools and beaches safe, the City has deployed over 490 senior and seasonal lifeguards, with an additional 67 added in December. These measures are part of the City’s summer readiness plan, designed to prevent accidents, ensure proactive safety, and provide a welcoming environment for all visitors.