Cool off at one of L.A.’s top water-side destinations

Los Angeles procrastinates on summer. June and July technically count; school is out; heat waves come and go. But anyone who’s lived here long enough knows that summer doesn’t officially begin until the later months. August and September are scorching hot. It’s enough to make even the most dedicated homebodies get out and seek refuge from one of the city’s cool water-based recreation areas.

Actually, if you have any plumbing repairs you’ve been putting off, it’s a good time to call the best plumber Los Angeles has to offer, and get out of the house while we fix your leaky pipes or clogged drains.

Here are some popular choices when it comes to maritime fun.

Santa Monica Swim Center

When it comes to public pools in town, this is the place to go. The Santa Monica Swim Center hosts a couple pools for every skill level. Beginners and young kids can partake in the Splash Pool while adults and more advanced swimmers should enjoy the much larger lap pool. Anyone looking to get a good workout can schedule time for the latter, and everyone can enjoy the refreshment of water on a hot day.

Hansen Dam Aquatic Center

While it may be a little bit of a drive for many Los Angeles county residents, the Hansen Dam Aquatic center is worth the time. Located deep in the San Fernando Valley, the water rec center is a 40-acre facility featuring a large lake for boating and fishing, and a smaller lake for swimming. Western Southern California isn’t known for its lakes, but Hansen gives you the full experience.

The South Bay

Residents of the South Bay are loyal to their neighborhoods, and for good reason. This area of southwest L.A. includes Torrance, Redondo and Manhattan Beach, all of which top people’s lists of best beaches in town. From the scenic Strand boardwalk to the famous Manhattan Beach Pier, there are miles of scenic coastal beauty for people to take in, while also enjoying a cool splash in the Pacific.

Echo Park Lake

You can’t swim in the water, but even on hot days the newly renovated lake provides a bit of relief from the heat. Enjoy a nice stroll around the water, admiring the protected lotuses and other exotic plant life, or maybe plan a picnic on the copious amount of surrounding grass. And if you really want to get near the water, you can always rent a pedal boat.

Malibu

Sure, Malibu is an obvious choice, but everyone praises it for good reason. Driving up the PCH on a sunny, clear day is one of the best, affordable ways to spend an afternoon. You have the Santa Monica Mountains to the east, and gorgeous, sparkling blue ocean to the west. Stop off at Zuma for a refreshing day at the beach, or if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, drive further north and go to El Matador, a secret, rugged, ocean-side getaway.