San Francisco summer isn't exactly known for its beautiful weather. If you've spent at least one year living here, you know that, in actuality, it's best to plan weekend getaways if you really want to enjoy some sun and warmth this season.
But if you don't have a car or simply can't fathom fighting the traffic there and back, there are a handful of pools in San Francisco where you can make a splash on a random hot day. You never know when we'll get the next heat wave.
Bakar Fitness & Recreation Center at UCSF Mission Bay
(Courtesy of Bakar Fitness & Recreation Center/Yelp)
This rooftop pool comes with an incredible view, so the 80-degree water won't be the only reason to visit. A $25 day pass will get you access to the 25-yard lap pool, though be sure to check the schedule as certain hours are reserved for swim classes. Don't expect lounge chairs to get your suntan on, but there are a few sets of tables and chairs surrounding the pool.
// Open 5:30am to 9:30pm weekdays, 7:30am to 7:30pm weekends; 1675 Owens St (Mission Bay) campuslifeservices.ucsf.edu/fitnessrecreation.
Crunch Gym at Yerba Buena
(Courtesy of Crunch Fitness)
The sunny outdoor pool at Crunch is reason enough to join the gym, at least for the warm months. If you don't want to swing for the membership, simply sign up for a three-day guest pass to use the pool. Once you've used the guest pass, if you still don't want to commit, just use Classpass to book some "gym time" and use the pool during your allotted time. Lounge chairs are limited, so get there early for a spot.
// Open weekdays from 5am to 10pm, weekends 8am to 6pm; Crunch, 350 3rd St. (SoMa), crunch.com/locations/yerba-buena.
Mission Community Pool
The 4,565-square-foot Mission Pool is the only city-run outdoor swimming spot, so it's no surprise it can get packed. There is a $6 entry fee for adults and you must bring exact change in cash. It's also one of the few pools that has recreational swim hours and not just lap swim, but always check the schedule as certain times are reserved for swim lessons. You won't find any lounge chairs (or chairs at all, really) but feel free to lay out your towel on the concrete to dry off and catch some sun.
// Open every day except Mondays, hours vary based on schedule; 101 Linda St (Mission), sfrecpark.org.
Bay Club at the Gateway
(Courtesy of Bay Clubs)
Not only does the Bay Club have an outdoor pool at its Drumm Street location, it have two outdoor pools! These pools are part of the Bay Club chain of fitness clubs, so you'll need to befriend a member (guest passes are $30) or pony up a hefty membership fee to be able to use their outdoor pool. But if you're a serious swimmer or pro suntanner, this might be the most luxurious option in the city.
// Open weekdays from 5:30am to 10pm, weekends 7am to 8pm; 370 Drumm St. (Embarcadero), bayclubs.com/gateway
Nob Hill Spa
(Courtesy of Nob Hill Spa)
Ok so technically it's not an outdoor pool, but with an infinity edge looking out onto the large outdoor deck with city views, you can easily pretend. You'll also have to book a spa service to gain access to this pool at the spa inside the Huntington Hotel, but it's definitely the most relaxing of the options. You can also order drinks poolside, and since it specifically doesn't allow lap swimming, this is one of our favorite options. // Open daily, 7:30am to 9pm; Huntington Hotel, 1075 California St, (Nob Hill), nobhillspa.com.
