Summer arrives with a splash

Nothing says summer in Johannesburg quite like a dip in a public pool. With the city already heating up, the municipality has officially opened 28 swimming pools across the metro, giving residents a much-needed escape from the rising temperatures.

A further 19 pools will reopen later in the season, but unfortunately, nine pools will remain closed due to ongoing maintenance and repairs.

Safety first, fun second

MMC for Community Development, Kabelo Gwamanda, toured the city’s pools before the Spring Day opening, promising residents that safety and maintenance are top priorities.

“The safety of our residents is a top priority. Through these oversight visits, we aim to expedite the opening of pools while ensuring they are in excellent condition,” he said.

The pools will remain open until 31 March 2026, with Mondays reserved for cleaning and maintenance.

• Tuesdays to Fridays: 10am – 6pm

• Saturdays and Sundays: 9am – 5pm

Entry is affordable, with tickets starting at R6 for children and R20 for adults, though some facilities may charge more. Alcohol, drugs, and glass items are strictly banned, a reminder that these pools are family spaces.

Where you can swim right now

Johannesburg’s 28 open pools are spread across regions B, D, E, F, and G. Popular spots like Roosevelt Park, Ellis Park, Rhodes Park, Paterson Park, and Lenasia South are all on the list, alongside community favourites in Dobsonville, Meadowlands, and Eldorado Park.

[Full list of pools already open on 1 September included here.]

Pools opening later this summer

If your local pool isn’t open yet, don’t panic. The city says 19 more pools will open during the course of the season, including well-loved venues like Zoo Lake, Florida Lake, Diepkloof, Klipspruit, East Bank, and Yeoville.

[Full list of pools scheduled to open later included here.]

Pools that will stay shut

Sadly, nine pools, among them Brixton, Jabulani, Turffontein, Windsor West, and Ivory Park won’t reopen this summer. Officials say repairs and upgrades are under way, though no completion dates were given.

[Full list of closed pools included here.]

More than just a swim

Public pools are more than a place to cool down. In many neighbourhoods, they’re hubs for youth sports, family picnics, and community gatherings. For some kids, they’re also the only chance to learn to swim, a life-saving skill in a country where drowning remains a serious risk.

Johannesburg’s pool network has faced criticism in recent years for inconsistent maintenance, vandalism, and long closures. Residents often vent frustrations on social media when favourite facilities are locked up during peak summer. The city’s commitment to re-opening more pools this season may help rebuild trust.

With 28 pools already open and 19 more to follow, Joburg residents have plenty of places to beat the heat this summer. Pack your towel, leave the cooler box behind, and enjoy one of the city’s most affordable outdoor activities.

After all, in a city where many don’t have access to private gardens or home pools, these municipal facilities are not just a luxury, they’re a lifeline.