Phoenix is famous for its sunshine, but with all that sun comes plenty of heat—especially during the summer. For visitors, snowbirds, and families, one of the best ways to balance desert adventures is by planning time near the water.
Whether you prefer a resort pool, a hidden desert lake, or something more adventurous like kayaking, there are plenty of ways to cool off while you’re here. This guide explores the top pools, lakes, and water activities in and around Phoenix so you can enjoy the city without overheating.
Resort Pools and Hotel Day Passes
Even if you’re not staying at one of Phoenix’s luxury resorts, many hotels now offer day passes for their pools. This gives visitors a chance to enjoy sprawling pool decks, lazy rivers, and shaded cabanas without booking a room.
Resorts in Scottsdale and Central Phoenix are especially popular for their poolside amenities. Expect swim-up bars, palm trees, and pools designed for relaxation. For snowbirds, it’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon with friends, pairing sunshine with a touch of luxury. Families will appreciate water slides, splash zones, and shallow pools for kids.
If you’re here during the hottest months, arriving early gives you the best spot, and shaded cabanas are worth the splurge for longer stays.
Contact Us Today to book your Fun in the Sun Getaway
Community Pools and Water Parks
Phoenix also has an excellent selection of community pools and water parks, making it easy to enjoy the water on a budget.
- Kiwanis Recreation Center in Tempe offers a wave pool and indoor options.
- Big Surf Waterpark in Tempe is known for its massive wave pool, perfect for families and groups.
- Hurricane Harbor in north Phoenix combines water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones for a full day of fun.
For travelers who don’t want to venture far from San Tan Valley, community pools in Queen Creek and Mesa provide affordable options that are close to home.
Lakes Near Phoenix
When you want something beyond a pool, the desert lakes surrounding Phoenix offer refreshing escapes with stunning views. Just a short drive can transport you to a completely different environment, where water sparkles against rugged desert cliffs.
Canyon Lake is one of the closest options, about an hour from San Tan Valley. Known for its emerald-green waters and scenic backdrop, it’s perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can rent kayaks, take a boat cruise, or simply enjoy a lakeside picnic.
Saguaro Lake, another favorite, is surrounded by towering cliffs and often dotted with kayakers and paddleboarders. It’s also a great spot for spotting desert wildlife, with bald eagles frequently soaring above.
For a quieter experience, try Bartlett Lake or Lake Pleasant, both offering boating, fishing, and camping opportunities. These lakes are especially popular with snowbirds who enjoy spending full days outdoors.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
If you’d rather be on the water than beside it, kayaking and paddleboarding are excellent options. The Salt River, just east of Phoenix, provides both adventure and beauty. Paddle through calm stretches of river where wild horses sometimes graze along the banks. Early mornings are peaceful, while summer weekends buzz with activity.
Rentals and guided tours make it easy for beginners to try these activities safely. Paddleboarding, in particular, is beginner-friendly and provides a good mix of exercise and relaxation.
Tubing on the Salt River
For a classic Phoenix summer activity, tubing down the Salt River is a must. Float along the gentle current in an inner tube, often tied together with friends or family. It’s a social, laid-back way to cool off, with plenty of chances to dip into the water along the way.
Tubing is especially popular with younger crowds, but it can be enjoyed by all ages if you plan it right. Sunscreen, plenty of water, and water shoes are essentials. For snowbirds or families, consider going early in the season or on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Fishing and Boating
Fishing is another relaxing way to enjoy Phoenix’s lakes and rivers. Canyon Lake, Saguaro Lake, and Lake Pleasant are all stocked with fish, and boat rentals make it easy to spend hours on the water. Many snowbirds bring fishing gear during their winter stays, using it as both a hobby and a way to enjoy Arizona’s natural beauty.
Boat tours are also available on many lakes, providing narrated rides that combine sightseeing with comfort. These cruises are a wonderful way to explore without worrying about navigating or renting equipment.
Family-Friendly Water Activities
Families will find no shortage of ways to keep cool in Phoenix. Beyond water parks, splash pads are scattered throughout community parks. These free or low-cost areas are perfect for kids to run through fountains and sprinklers while parents relax nearby.
Lakeside beaches at spots like Lake Pleasant and Canyon Lake also provide shallow areas for kids to play. Combining a picnic, a swim, and some shade creates a full day of fun without breaking the budget.
Seasonal Considerations
Timing matters when planning water activities in Phoenix.
- Spring and fall are ideal for lake outings, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Summer is peak pool and water park season, but mornings and evenings are the best times to avoid extreme heat.
- Winter may be too cool for swimming, but lakes remain beautiful for kayaking, boating, and fishing.
Snowbirds often find winter lake visits perfect for sightseeing and photography, while summer months call for shaded pools and tubing adventures.
Safety Tips for Water Activities
Desert conditions bring unique challenges. Here are a few tips to make your water outings safe and enjoyable:
- Stay hydrated by bringing more water than you think you’ll need.
- Wear sunscreen and reapply often.
- Pack hats, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing for sun protection.
- Always check local conditions, including water levels and weather.
With preparation, you can enjoy the water comfortably and safely, no matter the season.
Vacation Rentals Near Lakes and Pools
If water activities are high on your list, booking a rental close to Phoenix’s lakes or with access to a pool makes a huge difference. Many vacation rentals in San Tan Valley and nearby areas offer private pools, shaded patios, and quick access to community water spots.
For snowbirds planning longer stays, these features add comfort and convenience, turning your Arizona getaway into a true desert retreat. Rentals near San Tan Mountain Park or along major highways also make it easy to reach lakes like Canyon or Saguaro for day trips.
Conclusion
Phoenix may be in the heart of the desert, but it offers countless ways to beat the heat. From resort pools and community splash pads to kayaking on desert lakes and tubing the Salt River, water activities here are as diverse as the landscape itself. Visitors of all ages, especially snowbirds and families, can find options that balance relaxation with adventure.
Contact Us Today to book your Fun in the Sun Getaway