Approved life jackets and floaties are allowed. Inflatable toys, noodles and water guns are not permitted during public swims, for safety reasons, but are allowed during private pool rentals. We provide pool noodles and weights for Aquafit only, not for public swims.
Swimming and Aquatics
The City of St. Thomas operates one outdoor public pool - Jaycees Pool.
We offer a wide range of aquatics programming, including public swimming, Aquafit, lane swims, Life Saving Society swim lessons and bronze cross courses.
Looking for an indoor pool?
Check out our partnership with Family YMCA of St. Thomas-Elgin.
Jaycees Pool
Closed until summer 2027
93 Inkerman St., St. Thomas, Ontario N5P 3G5
Jaycees Pool operates seasonally, typically opening in late June and closing at the end of August.
Regular Hours of operation
Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Hours are subject to change based on weather
Programs and lessons
We offer lessons for all ages and skill levels:
- Parent and Tot
- Preschool (ages 1 to 5)
- Swimmer levels 1 to 6
- Swimmer levels 7 to 9 (Rookie, Ranger, Star Patrol)
- Adult Swimmer (16+)
- semi-private and private lessons
- Bronze Star, Bronze Cross and Bronze Medallion
Registration portal
Login or create an account to sign up for City of St. Thomas recreation programs
Drop-in aquatics
We offer daily lane swims, Aquafit classes and public swims outside of lesson times.
- Lane Swim: recommended for teens and adults; at least one lane is available for lap swimming
- Aquafit: an in-water fitness class that builds strength and cardiovascular fitness with less impact on your joints than land-based activities
- Public Swims: offered seven days a week
Cost:
- Single admission (all ages): $5
- Family (up to five people, including one adult: $15
- 10-visit swim pass: $35
We accept credit, debit and cash at the pool.
Free public swims
We periodically offer free public swims sponsored by local community partners.
Age admission policy
| Child age | Parent or guardian age | Ratio | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 and under | 13 or older | 2:1 | The parent or guardian must be in the water and within arm's reach of the child at all times |
| 6 to 9 | 13 or older | 4:1 | The parent or guardian is responsible for supervising the children |
| 10 and older | Not required* | N/A |
Children can swim without a parent or guardian if they pass a swim test to demonstrate their ability. *If a child does not pass a swim test, they must be under parent or guardian supervision. |
All children under 13 must pass a swim test before using the deep end or tank. To pass, a swimmer must complete a full width of the shallow end without stopping or touching the bottom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are flotation devices allowed?
Are there changing rooms and showers?
Yes. We offer changing rooms and outdoor showers, with a limited number of lockers in each change room. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Is the pool wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Jaycees Pool has accessible entrances and an accessible pool lift. Contact us in advance if you need additional accommodations.
What happens in bad weather? How do I know if the pool is closed?
We close the pool for lightning, thunder, heavy rain or unsafe conditions, and follow a 30-minute delay from the last observed lightning or thunder. We post weather closures on our website and social media as quickly as possible, and email lesson participants directly.
How do I withdraw from a course?
Contact the Parks and Recreation office at 519-633-7112.
A $15 withdrawal fee applies.
- submit your cancellation request at least 5 business days before your program starts to be eligible for a refund
- a non-refundable $15 cancellation fee applies to all eligible refunds
- we do not issue refunds for cancellations made within five business days of the start date, or after the program begins
- if you provide a valid medical note for illness or injury, we will issue a full refund, regardless of timing, and waive the cancellation fee
- if you register after a program starts, we will pro-rate your fee for the remaining classes
- we do not offer refunds or make-up classes for missed sessions
What happens if lessons are cancelled due to weather or mechanical issues?
We do our best to hold all classes as scheduled. If we cancel 4 or more classes due to weather or pool mechanical issues, we will issue a pro-rated refund for the missed classes. There are no makeup classes.
Can I rent the pool for a party or event?
Yes. Pool rentals are available on weekends, and work well for birthday parties, team gatherings and other private events.
Learn more: Pool Rentals
What do I do while my swimmer is in class?
You're welcome to sit at our bleachers or picnic tables. Parents of younger children may sit on the deck if needed, though deck seating is limited and must stay clear for safety.
After class, pick up your swimmer on the deck, or wait in the change rooms or outside.
Can I bring food or drinks into the pool area?
No food is allowed on the pool deck. Glass containers and alcohol are not permitted.
Yes. We hold items at the front desk for one week. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items.
What are my options for indoor swimming while Jaycees Pool is closed?
We partner with the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario to offer St. Thomas residents indoor aquatics at the Family YMCA of St. Thomas-Elgin.
Learn more: Indoor Aquatics
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