Seven free outdoor public pools are in Staten Island, and they open for the season on June 27th. Pool hours are from 11 am to 7 pm daily, with a break for pool cleaning between 3 and 4 p.m.
But before you pack your swim towels, apply sunscreen, and head to the pool for an afternoon of family fun this summer, there are a few things you need to know.
What To Know Before Swimming In A Public Pool On Staten Island
NYC Parks has some requirements and suggestions for families who want to swim at one of the public pools on Staten Island:
- All visitors must wear swimsuits to enter the pool area.
- If you want to cover up to protect your skin from the sun, you’ll need to bring a plain white shirt or hat. Shirts with colors on them aren’t allowed on pool decks.
- Forget or run out of your sunscreen? No worries! All public pools provide free sunscreen.
- Bring a sturdy lock (they’re required to enter) to keep your valuables safe in lockers.
- Don’t bring food, glass bottles, electronic devices, or newspapers to the pool, and leave valuables (like jewelry and credit cards) at home.
- Leave the pool floats at home.
- Babies and toddlers can use swim diapers in the pools.
- While you may find a spot to park your stroller, it’s at your own risk, so you’ll have to keep an eye on it.
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These Are The Free Pools in Staten Island For Families
1. Faber Pool
Faber Pool and Park, Faber Street, and Richmond Terrace
718-816-5259
Pools On-Site: Intermediate Pool
Wheelchair Accessible
Located by the Staten Island waterfront, this outdoor pool includes a park with playgrounds, basketball courts, and a skate park.
2. General Douglas Pool
General Douglas MacArthur Park, Jefferson St., and Seaver Ave.
718-987-9800
Pools On-Site: Mini Pool
Named after General Douglas MacArthur, the park was developed as part of the General Charles W. Berry Houses public housing project. In addition to the mini pool, the park has baseball fields, basketball courts, and handball courts. Want to cool off without going swimming? The park also has spray showers for kids to run through.
3. Lyons Pool
Pier 6 and Victory Blvd.
718-816-9571
Pools On-Site: Olympic Pool
Wheelchair Accessible
This aquatic facility is a swimmer’s delight, whether you’re a trained athlete, recreational swimmer or just want to relax in the water.
4. Maggie Howard Pool
Rev. Dr. Maggie Howard Playground, Tompkins Ave., between Hill and Broad Streets
718-448-5969
Pools On-Site: Mini Pool
This pool is named after Stapleton community activist and senior pastor of Stapleton UAME, the oldest African-American church on Staten Island. In addition to the pool, the park has playgrounds, baseball fields, basketball and handball courts, and spray showers on-site.
5. PS 46 Playground Pool
Old Town Playground, Parkinson Avenue, and Kramer Street
718-448-8694
Pools On-Site: Mini Pool
This mini pool is located at the Old Town Playground. When not splashing around in the pool, visitors can use baseball fields, basketball and handball courts, and spray showers.
6. Tottenville Pool
Hylan Blvd. and Joline Ave.
718-356-8242
Pools On-Site: Intermediate Pool, Wading Pool
Wheelchair Accessible
There are two pools at this site. One is 60 feet wide, 75 feet long, and 3 1/2 feet deep. The smaller “kiddie pool” is a 24-foot square that’s 1 1/2 feet deep.
7. West Brighton Pool
CPL. Thompson Park, Henderson Avenue, between Broadway and Chappel Street
718-816-5019
Pools On-Site: Intermediate Pool, Wading Pool
Wheelchair Accessible
There are two pools at this site. Plus, the park has baseball, soccer, and football fields, a playground, and running tracks.
