Last Updated: January 1, 2026
From the Kanata Wave Pool’s surf-style swells to the historic Plant Recreation Centre’s heated lanes, Ottawa’s 33 indoor pools and seasonal outdoor facilities offer something for every swimmer across the city.
The City of Ottawa operates an extensive network of aquatic facilities, accessible through a unified pass system that grants entry to indoor pools, outdoor pools, and wave pools. Whether you’re training for competition, teaching your children to swim, or simply seeking a refreshing escape from summer heat, this guide covers everything you need to know about public swimming in Ottawa.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Register Ottawa is the central booking portal for all city pools. One pass works at 33+ facilities. Drop-in swims cost approximately $6-8, while multi-visit passes offer better value. Popular pools include Nepean Sportsplex, Minto Recreation Complex (Barrhaven), and Splash Wave Pool (Kanata). Book swim times in advance during peak periods.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏊 Total Indoor Pools | 33 city facilities |
| 🌊 Wave Pools | Kanata, Nepean Sportsplex |
| 💰 Drop-In Cost | ~$6-8 per visit |
| 🎫 Multi-Visit Passes | 10, 25, or 50 swims available |
| ⏰ Lane Swim Hours | Typically early morning & evening |
| 📱 Booking Portal | Register Ottawa (ottawa.ca) |
How Ottawa Swimming Works
One pass grants access to all city pools across Ottawa
The Unified System
The City of Ottawa operates a centralized system for all public swimming:
- One pass works everywhere - Purchase a single membership or pass that grants access to all 33+ city facilities
- Register Ottawa - The official booking portal for reservations, passes, and swimming lesson registration
- Tiered pricing - Options include drop-in swims, multi-visit passes, and all-inclusive memberships
Booking Your Swim
- Visit ottawa.ca/recreation and create a Register Ottawa account
- Browse pool schedules for your preferred location
- Book swim times in advance (especially for lane swimming)
- Purchase passes or pay drop-in fees through the portal
Pro Tip: Create your account and add programs to your “Wish List” before registration day. When booking opens for popular swimming lessons, you can move items directly to your cart for faster checkout.
Best Indoor Pools in Ottawa
Nepean Sportsplex
Nepean Sportsplex offers lane swimming, public swim, and aquafit programs
Address: 1701 Woodroffe Avenue, Nepean Website: ottawa.ca - Nepean Sportsplex
The Nepean Sportsplex stands as one of Ottawa’s premier aquatic destinations, featuring multiple pools within a comprehensive recreation facility.
Facilities:
- 25-metre competition pool with multiple lanes
- Separate leisure pool for families
- Wave pool (scheduled sessions)
- Hot tub and sauna
- Diving boards
Who It’s Best For: Lane swimmers seeking quality facilities, families wanting variety, and anyone looking for comprehensive aquatic programming.
Insider Tip: Check the weekly schedule for designated lane swim times versus family swim times. The wave pool operates on specific schedules and often requires separate booking.
Minto Recreation Complex (Barrhaven)
The Minto Complex features a modern aquatic centre alongside multiple sports facilities
Address: 3500 Cambrian Road, Barrhaven
The Minto Recreation Complex represents Ottawa’s newer generation of multi-sport facilities. The modern pool sits within a sprawling complex that includes two hockey rinks, a gymnasium, and an elevated walking track.
Facilities:
- Large indoor pool with lane swimming
- Family swim areas
- Accessible changing rooms with elevators and ramps
- Clean, bright facility with natural lighting
Who It’s Best For: Barrhaven families, those seeking modern facilities, and swimmers who appreciate clean, well-maintained amenities.
For more family activities in Barrhaven, see our Barrhaven neighbourhood guide.
Carleton University Pool
Carleton’s 50-metre pool offers one of Ottawa’s largest swimming facilities
Address: 1125 Colonel By Drive (Carleton University Campus) Website: athletics.carleton.ca
Carleton University’s 50-metre L-shaped indoor pool is one of the largest in the region, offering facilities that satisfy both casual swimmers and serious athletes.
Facilities:
- 50-metre competition pool
- Diving platforms (1m to 7.5m)
- Deep-end bubbler for water running
- Wading pool for children
- Zip-line during recreational swims
Access: Community memberships available; drop-in rates for non-students. Accessible via O-Train Line 2 (Carleton Station).
Who It’s Best For: Serious lap swimmers, divers, university students, and families during recreational swim times.
Plant Recreation Centre
The Plant Recreation Centre combines historic charm with modern facilities
Address: 930 Somerset Street West Phone: 613-232-3000
Dating to 1924, the Plant Recreation Centre offers a unique swimming experience that blends historic character with modern amenities. Located in a peaceful downtown park setting, it provides an escape from urban bustle.
Facilities:
- Large heated swimming pool
- Wading pool for young children
- Hot tub
- Fitness centre
- Clean, spacious changing rooms
Pricing: Senior lane swims available for just $3.75. Family memberships start at $30 for three months (income-qualified).
Who It’s Best For: Budget-conscious swimmers, seniors, downtown residents, and those who appreciate historic architecture.
Wave Pools
Kanata Wave Pool (Kanata Leisure Centre)
The Kanata Wave Pool creates ocean-style swells in a controlled environment
Address: 70 Aird Place, Kanata
The Kanata Wave Pool transforms ordinary swimming into a beach-style experience, generating rhythmic waves that appeal to children and adults alike.
Wave Sessions:
- Scheduled wave times throughout the day
- Calm water periods for regular swimming
- Family swim times
- Lane swimming available during off-wave periods
What to Expect: The waves create a simulated ocean experience without currents. Children love riding the swells, while adults can bodysurf the larger waves. Life jackets available for younger swimmers.
Pro Tip: Wave sessions are popular—book in advance through Register Ottawa, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
Splash Wave Pool (Walter Baker)
Address: 100 Malvern Drive, Kanata (Walter Baker Sports Centre)
The Walter Baker Sports Centre houses Splash Wave Pool, another wave pool option in the Kanata area. Similar wave pool experience with scheduled wave sessions and regular swimming periods.
Outdoor Summer Pools
Outdoor pools operate seasonally from late June through August
Ottawa’s outdoor pools typically operate from late June through late August, offering affordable summer swimming options across the city.
Brewer Pool
Address: 151 Brewer Way (near TD Place) Season: Summer months (closed November 2025 - February 2026)
A 25-metre, six-lane outdoor pool located near Lansdowne, Brewer Pool combines swimming with the vibrant atmosphere of the Glebe neighbourhood.
Amenities:
- 25-metre, 6-lane pool
- Sauna
- Lounge area (available for rental)
Other Outdoor Options
The City of Ottawa operates numerous outdoor pools, splash pads, and wading pools throughout neighbourhoods. Check the city’s website for locations near you:
- Outdoor pools (full-size)
- Splash pads (interactive water features)
- Wading pools (shallow pools for young children)
Recreation Centres with Pools
Richcraft Recreation Complex (Kanata)
Richcraft offers a full recreation experience beyond just swimming
Address: 4101 Innovation Drive, Kanata
Beyond swimming, Richcraft delivers a complete recreation experience with fitness centres, gymnasiums, and community rooms. The outdoor areas include artificial turf fields, beach volleyball courts, a skatepark, and splash pad.
Swimming Features:
- Indoor pool with lanes
- Family swim sessions
- Swimming lessons
- Aquafit programs
François Dupuis Recreation Centre (Orleans)
Address: 2263 Portobello Boulevard, Orleans
Orleans’ premier aquatic destination features pools designed for all ages, from babies to competitive swimmers.
Pool Setup:
- Warm wading pool for infants and toddlers
- Lap pool with designated lanes
- Private and group swimming lessons
- Large viewing area for parents
Who It’s Best For: Orleans families, parents with young children, and swimmers seeking lessons from qualified instructors.
Jack Purcell Community Centre
Address: 320 Jack Purcell Lane (off Elgin Street)
A downtown gem with an 18-metre warm pool that’s rarely crowded. Popular for:
- Women-only swim times
- Physiotherapy sessions
- Family swimming with toys and flotation devices
- Small slide for toddlers
Swimming Lessons
Swimming lessons follow the national Red Cross or Swim Canada curriculum
City of Ottawa Programs
The City offers structured swimming lessons for all ages through Register Ottawa:
- Preschool: Parent-and-tot classes for infants through age 5
- Children: Progressive skill levels following national curriculum
- Adult: Beginner through advanced stroke improvement
- Private lessons: One-on-one instruction at higher cost
Registration Tips
Swimming lessons are among the most competitive registrations in the city. To secure spots:
- Create your account early - Don’t wait until registration day
- Use the Wish List - Add programs before registration opens
- Log in early - The portal experiences slowdowns during peak registration
- Have backup choices - Popular times fill within minutes
- Check wait lists - Openings occur as families adjust schedules
Alternative Providers
Beyond city programs, several private swim schools operate in Ottawa:
- Hippo in the Bathtub - Private lessons in various locations
- Goldfish Swim School - Facility in the west end
- YMCA-YWCA - Lessons at Y facilities
Fees and Passes
Multi-visit passes offer savings for regular swimmers
City of Ottawa Pricing
| Option | Approximate Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single Drop-In | $6-8 | Occasional swimmers |
| 10-Visit Pass | $55-70 | Monthly swimmers |
| 25-Visit Pass | $125-150 | Weekly swimmers |
| 50-Visit Pass | $200-250 | Regular lap swimmers |
| Membership | $40-60/month | Daily swimmers |
Prices vary by age category (child, adult, senior) and swim type (regular vs. wave pool)
Membership Tiers
Standard memberships cover most pool access, but note:
- Wave pool access often requires upgraded membership
- Aquafit classes may require fitness membership tier
- Swimming lessons are separate program fees
Financial Assistance
The City offers fee assistance programs for residents in need. Contact the city directly or inquire at recreation centres about reduced rates.
Tips for Pool Visits
What to Bring
- Swimsuit (racing suits required in some lanes)
- Towel
- Goggles (recommended for lane swimming)
- Lock for lockers (or rent at facility)
- Swim cap (required at some pools)
- Flip-flops for deck areas
Arriving Prepared
- Book in advance during busy periods
- Check schedules before leaving—times change seasonally
- Arrive early for lane swimming to secure preferred lanes
- Shower before entering pool (required)
- Review rules for specific pools (some have lane etiquette guidelines)
Lane Swimming Etiquette
| Speed | Description |
|---|---|
| Slow | Beginners, leisurely pace |
| Medium | Consistent swimmers, moderate speed |
| Fast | Competitive, workout-focused |
Circle swim (counterclockwise) when sharing lanes. Yield at the wall if being overtaken.
FAQ
How do I book a swim time in Ottawa?
Use Register Ottawa (ottawa.ca/recreation) to create an account and book swim times at any city pool. Drop-in swims may be available without booking during off-peak hours, but reservations are recommended.
How much does public swimming cost in Ottawa?
Drop-in swims cost approximately $6-8 per visit. Multi-visit passes (10, 25, or 50 swims) offer discounts. Monthly memberships range from $40-60 depending on access tier.
Which Ottawa pools have wave machines?
Kanata Wave Pool (Kanata Leisure Centre) and Splash Wave Pool (Walter Baker Sports Centre) both offer wave pool experiences with scheduled wave sessions throughout the day.
What are the best pools for lane swimming in Ottawa?
Nepean Sportsplex and Carleton University offer the best facilities for serious lane swimmers. Carleton’s 50-metre pool is particularly suited to long-distance training.
Are there outdoor pools in Ottawa?
Yes, the City operates seasonal outdoor pools from late June through late August. Brewer Pool near Lansdowne is popular, plus numerous splash pads and wading pools across neighbourhoods.
How do I register for swimming lessons in Ottawa?
Register through Register Ottawa (ottawa.ca/recreation) when registration opens. Create your account early, use the Wish List feature, and log in before registration time to secure popular slots.
Can non-residents use Ottawa pools?
Yes, non-residents can access city pools with a small surcharge added to fees. Register Ottawa allows non-resident account creation.
What pools have facilities for young children?
François Dupuis (Orleans), Jack Purcell (downtown), and Plant Recreation Centre all feature warm wading pools and family-friendly amenities for young swimmers.
Are there women-only swim times in Ottawa?
Yes, several pools including Jack Purcell Community Centre offer designated women-only swim times. Check individual pool schedules for specific times.
Which pool is closest to downtown Ottawa?
Jack Purcell Community Centre (off Elgin Street) and Plant Recreation Centre (Somerset Street West) are the most central downtown options.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s public swimming network offers impressive variety—from competition-ready 50-metre pools at Carleton to historic charm at the Plant Recreation Centre, from wave pools that simulate ocean swells to quiet neighbourhood facilities perfect for families. The unified pass system means one membership unlocks access to over 33 facilities across the city.
The key to navigating Ottawa swimming is using Register Ottawa effectively. Create your account, explore facility schedules, and book swim times before arriving. For swimming lessons, prepare for competitive registration by building your Wish List early.
Whether you’re training for triathlons, teaching toddlers water safety, or simply seeking summer refreshment, Ottawa’s pools deliver.
Sources: City of Ottawa Recreation, Register Ottawa, NCR Now, individual facility websites.
