Milton is far more well known for its hiking trails and gorgeous Escarpment views than its beaches. However, that doesn’t mean you don’t have an abundance of options to cool off as the temperatures begin to climb. We have everything from beautiful conservation areas and outdoor quarries to swimming ponds and indoor recreational centres.

Whether you want to escape the heat for an hour or enjoy all day in the water, you won’t have to go very far. Here are a few of our top recommendations to keep cool even on sizzling summer afternoons:

Kelso’s Conservation Area

Though more famous as a ski hill, the Glen Eden and Kelso Conservation area also has a beautiful quarry for swimming. It’s surrounded by the beautiful greenery and hiking trails of the Niagara Escarpment. The quarry was originally built for industrial purposes, but the conservation authority took it over in 2006. Now, it’s one of the most popular spots in the area for swimming and boating and is only minutes away from Milton. Lifeguards are on duty all summer, making this the perfect spot for little ones to run, splash and play!

Looking for fun ideas in Milton without getting wet? Here are some more ideas for you:

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Emerald Lake

Located just 30 minutes away from Milton, Emerald Lake will provide hours of refreshing, splashy fun for visitors of all ages. The lake hosts an epic waterpark with giant floating toys, including trampolines, a rock-climbing wall and an obstacle course. Lifejackets are available to rent so you and your family can enjoy an afternoon of worry-free fun. Little ones will enjoy access to a 2-foot kiddie pool and a 3400 square-foot splash pad. 

Scream with joy as you bounce off the high diving board and plunge into the pristine, spring-fed quarry water, which reaches up to 40 feet in some places. If you’re not up for a long free fall, you can always start off with the low board. 

Alternatively, thrillseekers can glide down the 200-foot waterslide that empties into its own pool.

Looking forward to a more relaxing day? Emerald Lake offers a restful sandy beach area with lifeguard supervision. Once everyone dries off, you can enjoy a picnic at one of the pavilions and watch children play on the giant playground.

Lake Nettie

If you’re looking for something a little more peaceful and out of the way, Lake Nettie is worth a visit. It’s a little-known swimming area surrounded by nature located at 25 Side Rd in Milton. It’s a grass beach with no sand. However, there is a swimming dock for jumping. 

It’s the perfect place to practice your cannonballs!

Bronte Beach Park

Bronte Beach Park is in Oakville but is less than half an hour away by car. It’s a happening place to be on hot summer days! You can lounge in the sun, build a sandcastle or take a dip in the cool, refreshing water of Lake Ontario. If you prefer to stay dry, the fabulous trail by the beach still makes Bronte Beach Park well worth the drive. You’ll find plenty of cafes and unique shops to visit along Lakeshore Rd. Free parking and picnic tables are available if you want to pack a lunch. Depending on the time of year, you may see beautiful swans as they gracefully float along the water.

Rotary Outdoor Pool

Beaches and swimming ponds aren’t your only options for cooling off on a hot day in Milton. Why not try the Rotary Outdoor Pool? The fun kicked off on June 25. A beach-style entry awaits you, and you’ll have a blast with the interactive water spray feature. 

Want to learn to swim or brush up on your skills? The facility offers classes for people of all levels, including adults. Private lessons are also available for those who need a little more attention.

If you feel like getting a workout in, there is a larger pool for swimming laps. Rotary Park offers drop-in leisure swims and aquafit classes.

 A splash pad allows smaller children a safe space to cool off as they run through the water streams. With two tennis courts, three baseball diamonds, and a playground, Rotary Outdoor Pool offers your whole family a great place to spend a fun afternoon.

Want to know more about what it’s like to live in Milton? 

• Your Quick Guide To Living In Milton
• Thinking of Moving To Milton? Check Out Our Area FAQs
• What You Need To Know About Buying A House In Milton

Lions Sports Park Splash Pad

Are you pressed for time but still want the kids to burn off some energy and keep cool? Milton has plenty of great parks with spectacular splash pads. Lions Sports Park Splash Pad at 99 Thompson Rd South is one of our favourites, and the streaming jets are a blast to run through. There is also a swing set and playground once your child has had enough of the water.

Splash parks are a great escape for everyone, even when you have little time.

Milton Leisure Centre

The Milton Leisure Centre is a fantastic indoor getaway for any time of the year, including the hot, humid days of the summer. There is a lap pool and a weight room for fitness enthusiasts. Leisure swimmers love spiralling down the waterslide and splashing into the pool. If you get a little too chilly, you can always warm up and relax in the hot tub. A viewing area is also available for those who don’t want to get their feet wet.

Free parking makes the trip convenient and stress-free any day of the week.

Is Milton the perfect place for your family to call home? Check out some of our featured listings right here.