We track 3 splash pads in Santa Monica. Every one of them is free.
When to go
Peak summer highs in Santa Monica average only 70°F, so pick a genuinely hot day and bring a towel and something warm for afterwards.
Month
Average high
June
67°F
July
70°F
August
70°F
The typical Santa Monica pad runs about 30 weeks a year. Municipal pads often close early for maintenance, so the last few weeks of the season are the least reliable.
What to expect
The things that decide a trip with small children — a toilet, some shade, somewhere to sit — are exactly what listings usually leave out. Across the 3 pads in Santa Monica:
Gentle water jets rise from spongy safety turf on Discovery Hill, a short walk from the Santa Monica Pier. The soft surface and mild sprays make this one of the best splash spots for babies and new walkers on the Westside.
On site: toilets on site, drinking water, playground alongside, parking
A free splash pad with ocean views on the sand at Santa Monica's public beach club, once the site of a Hearst-era estate. Splash pad access costs nothing, though the beach house charges for parking and pool entry.
On site: toilets on site, drinking water, playground alongside, parking
Water cannons and rainbow-arc spouts anchor this free Santa Monica splash pad, with shaded seating for grown-ups nearby. On Saturdays the adjacent farmers market makes it easy to combine errands with water play.
On site: toilets on site, drinking water, playground alongside, parking