Where to go on a hot summer day in HRM? Check out our list of cool summer playgrounds with splash pads where you can have fun and cool off at the same time!

1. Westmount School Playground and Splash Pad

Westmount Splash Pad, Halifax Nova Scotia photo by Helen Earley

The playground and splash pad at Westmount School has an accessible playground, perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. It also has a nice big field and some tennis courts. Westmount is right across the street from the Halifax Shopping Centre, so easy to access by public transport, or you could combine a trip to the mall with some time on the playground. Not a bad way to spend a summer’s day! Address: 6700 Edward Arab Ave, Halifax

2. Halifax Commons Playground and Splash Pad

Halifax Commons Splash Pad by Helen Earley

The South Commons (bordered by Bell Road and Cogswell Street) has a really great playground with lots of open space for picnics and a game of catch! In the summer, there is a large, simple splash pad to cool down. The pool is currently closed. There are often family events and festivals here, so stay in touch with our calendar to find out when. Address: 5816 Cogswell St, Halifax

3. Isleville Park Playground and Splash Pad

Isleville Playground Splash Pad, photo by Helen Earley

North End Halifax’s Isleville Park has a really cool splash pad and three play structures, each for different age groups. There’s also a covered sandbox and two sets of swings. The vibe is really great at Isleville, with a few picnic tables and park benches and some shaded areas to sit in. People come from all over town to visit this playground.  Address: Sebastian St, Halifax

4. Lake Banook Lion’s Park Beach and Playground

This small sandy beach, opposite Lake Banook Canoe Club, is perfect for a quick family dip. A stone’s throw away (you have to cross a small bridge), you’ll find a small playground and swing set. Address: 10 Nowlan St, Dartmouth

5. MacDonalds Beach Park

MacDonalds Beach Park/Photo: Jeff McBride/Google

Military families, this one’s for you! MacDonalds Beach Park has a pretty decent playground set right on a gorgeous sandy beach It’s owned by DND/12 Wing Shearwater, but we’re told it’s also open to the public. Address: MacDonalds Beach Rd, Shearwater

6. Kearney Lake Playground and Beach

Kearney Lake is one of our favourite summer spots. If you park on Saskatoon Drive (veer right), the playground and swings will be right in front of you, on a gentle slope, sheltered by trees.  When you’re ready to take a dip, head down the hill to the small sandy beach. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer, and swimming lessons are free (register through Rec Connect).  Address: Saskatoon Dr Halifax

7. Bedford Lion’s Club Playground and Pool

Bedford Lion's Club Pool, photo by Helen Earley

Bedford Lion’s Club Pool/Photo: Helen Earley

Head all the way to the end of Shore Drive in Bedford and you’ll find a gem of a playground, with swings, climbing frames, a basketball court – and a really big jumping rock! Right next door, you’ve got the Bedford Lion’s Club swimming pool, which offers lessons through HRM in the summer. There’s also a small wooded area with a brook, perfect for a mini-hike back to the parking lot. Address: 277 Shore Drive, Bedford

8. Sackville Kinsmen Park Playground, Splash Pad and Beach

Sackville Kinsmen Splash Pad and Playground on First Lake, Lower Sackville, photo by Mike Barker

Sackville Kinsmen Splash Pad overlooking First Lake/Photo: Mike Barker

Located at First Lake in Lower Sackville, it’s well worth the short drive. The excellent playground, swings and splash pad is a popular spot for families. Fancy a dip? There’s a sandy beach only a few metres away from the playground. Address: 71 First Lake Drive, Lower Sackville

9. Shirley’s Splash Pad

The newest of the ‘playgrounds with splash pads’ in town is Shirley’s Splash pad at Dartmouth Commons.The new aquatic facility is tucked in near the basketball courts and will operate between the hours of 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Just push a button to activate the water. Address: 60 Windmill Rd.