Ways to Beat the South Texas Heat in and Around San Antonio

Let’s be real — the South Texas heat is no joke. Once May hits, San Antonio transforms into a sweltering sauna where even your flip-flops feel betrayed. But don’t sweat it — literally. Whether you're looking to keep the kids cool, plan a luxe staycation, or just get a break from the humidity, this guide has you covered.

Here are 16 refreshing ways to chill out this summer in and around San Antonio, including free city pools, splash pads, and nature-filled escapes worth the drive.

🌊 Free City Pools in San Antonio

Thanks to the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Aquatics Division, you can take a dip without dipping into your wallet. The city manages 25 public pools, and access is completely free.

• Opening: Six pre-season pools open Saturday, May 24
• Hours: Weekends from 1 to 7 p.m.
• Bonus: Swimming lessons for all ages are available

Pro tip: These pools are perfect for families or anyone trying to stay cool without spending a dime.

💦 Splash Pads for the Kiddos (and Kid-at-Heart Adults)

Free, fun, and full of splashes, these San Antonio splash pads are ideal for a family day out.

• Benavides Park (500 Saltillo St.): Shaded splash pad + playground + picnic areas
• Gustav’s Geysers at The Historic Pearl: Pair your splash with ice cream and boutique shopping
• Union Pacific Railroad Splash Pad at Hemisfair: Private changing booths and comfy chairs for parents
• Pearsall Park (5102 Old Pearsall Rd.): Splash pads plus San Antonio’s largest skate park

🏖️ Luxury Pool Daycations Near San Antonio

Ready to upgrade your summer? These resorts offer day passes for pool access without booking an overnight stay.

• The Bevy Hotel Boerne – $35+: Cabanas, loungers, and Hill Country views
• Eilan Hotel & Spa – $40+: Boutique vibes near La Cantera
• JW Marriott Hill Country Resort – $75+: 9-acre water park + lazy river
• La Cantera Resort & Spa – $125+: Five pools, arcade, tennis, and more
• Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa – $50+: Garden oasis with bar, spa, and eats

🌿 Natural Swimming & River Spots Worth the Drive

If you’re up for a short road trip, these Hill Country gems are perfect for a full day (or weekend) of nature and water fun.

• Blanco State Park (Blanco, TX): Canoeing, kayaking, fishing — just an hour from SA
• Blue Hole Regional Park (Wimberley, TX): Crystal-clear spring lake, $8 half-day passes
• Canyon Lake: 80 miles of shoreline and plenty of boating, swimming, and relaxing
• Comal River (New Braunfels, TX): Float from Landa Falls for max time on the river
• Guadalupe River State Park (Spring Branch, TX): $7 entry, tubing, and trails
• Pedernales Falls State Park: Adventurers welcome! Hike to swim areas — but no swimming at the falls themselves

☀️ Final Thoughts: Stay Cool, San Antonio

Whether you’re staying in the city or venturing out to the Hill Country, there’s no shortage of places to cool off this summer in San Antonio. Bookmark this list, share it with your crew, and make a plan to soak up the sun — without melting in it.

And hey — if all these amazing spots have you dreaming of buying a home with your own backyard pool, I can help with that too. 🏡💦