Splash pads, waterslides, beaches, and pools: where to make waves in Prague

The season for fun in the sun has started in Prague. With temps expected to soar in the coming weeks, here’s a near-comprehensive list of (open-air) swimming and splashing spots in the Czech capital, from a newly opened natural swimming pool to a coming-soon giant water slide attraction:

Possibly the quietest, most scenic outdoor pool in Prague, Koupaliště Divoká Šárka, nestled in the picturesque green valley of the same name, has two pools to choose from; the standard pool or the invigorating icy-cold and stream-fed pool, Džbán, which is under new ownership this season. The addition of a new trampoline should please families this weekend.

The Motol swimming pool is a natural water reservoir with an area of ​​4,100 m2. It boasts a children’s corner, trampoline, slide, swing, and sandpit. Sun umbrellas, loungers, and sports equipment may be rented on site.

A large swimming complex in Barrandov with a 25-meter indoor pool and water slides, plus an outdoor pool and play area complete with sunbathing meadow, paddling pool and mini-golf, beach volleyball, skittles, petanque rental, and refreshments.

This massive aquapark complex on the outskirts of Prague in the Průhonice-Čestlice commercial zone is pricey and packed but still a large draw for not only local but tourists (it ranks on Trip Advisor as one of Prague’s top amusements). The main attraction is its Outdoor Wild Water River.

Inviting sun chairs, a grassy beach, playgrounds, trampolines, and beach volleyball make this outdoor pool and camping ground in the Klánovice neighborhood of Prague 9 a great place to spend an afternoon.

This newly renovated swimming pool complex was re-opened in 2014 after a number of years. It is heated by solar panels and visitors will also find two pétanque courts, a large restaurant, and sunbathing lawns on the grounds.

A spacious grassy beach, good quality clean water, and a 50-meter heated pool are the calling cards of the Petynka facilities in Střešovice. The pool also boasts a children’s wading pool and a thrilling toboggan slide for the brave of heart.

The outdoor pool area is one of the most popular parts of the Žižkov sports complex Pražačka in the summer—pool is open until 21:45 for those in need of a refreshing post-work swim.

Another throwback to a bygone area is this Vršovice indoor swimming complex which has an outdoor pool that opens during the warmer months; enjoy a 50-meter pool as well as the children’s pools that are situated outdoors.

Located in Kobylisy, Stírka is one of the oldest outdoor swimming pools in Prague, giving bathers the opportunity to take the plunge for over sixty years. For those who rely on public transport, it is just a few hundred meters from the Kobylisy metro station.

This urban beach resort on the banks of the Vltava River offers grassy and sandy beaches, several beach volleyball courts, restaurants, and cultural events. A large splash and kiddie pool area is popular with local parents. New this year: rental of OneWheel, an eFoil electric surfboard.

This waterfront bar serves provides space for beach volleyball matches, beach soccer, tennis, fitness, yoga or pétanque. The court is lit at night. The bar section offers light refreshment and also the possibility of renting kayaks or paddleboards.

The water pumps, dykes, mill wheels, and cascades are typically the biggest hit with kids at this park which recently underwent extensive renovation. People also come to run, skate, or just picnic and relax. The park is a paradise for kids.

A fairly new park in Prague commemorating the support shown to Czech dissidents by the late Dutch politician Max van der Stoel, the central focus of the park is a long, linear water feature. Children can also enjoy balance blocks, a rope pyramid or a barefoot trail.