Colman Pool (West Seattle, summer only)

Outdoor Pool Rental Policies

Pool Rules

Alcohol, recreational drugs, and smoking are prohibited. Guests who appear intoxicated will not be permitted to swim or supervise children. Food is allowed, but glass containers of any kind are prohibited.  Small sound systems are allowed, but music must not disrupt park use outside of the pool facility. Tables and chairs are available. Children younger than 6 years of age and/or under 48” in height must be accompanied by an adult in the water at all times, within arm’s reach and eye contact.

Cancelation Policy

We will cancel your rental and provide a full refund if dangerous weather conditions occur, (lightning, hail, unhealthy air quality or high winds that present a risk of falling debris). We do not offer refunds for rainy or cool weather.

• Cancelations with 31 or more days’ notice, are eligible for a refund for all but $89.00 ($50 plus $39 booking fee).
• Cancelations with 15- 30 days’ notice, are eligible for a 50% refund of your total minus booking fees ($39.00).
• There are no refunds for cancelations with under 14 days’ notice.

Adult Swim is time set aside for recreational swimming for adults 18 or older. We set aside one part of the pool for lap swimming and leave the rest of the pool available for less structured swimming.

Family Swim is a Recreation Swim with slightly different rules to foster a somewhat quieter mood:

• Children younger than 18 must be accompanied into the pool by a responsible adult.
• Children younger than 6 years of age or under 48" in height must be directly supervised in the water by an adult who is within an arm's length at all times.

Recreation Swim is a full- or half-pool recreation time for swimmers of all ages.

• Children younger than 6 or under 48" in height must be directly supervised in the water by an adult within arm's reach at all times.
• Swimmers younger than 18 years must pass a swim test before using the deep end.
• Deep water attractions may be in use: diving boards, rope swings, and water slides depending on location.
• Personal Flotation Devices are available to borrow.

Lap Swim is a continuous lap swim for swimmers of all ages; we divide the lanes according to speed levels.

Early Morning Lap Swim is a great opportunity for early morning swimmers. It's for lap swimmers of all ages; we set up lanes according to speed levels. You'll need a pre-purchased swim card for entry.

Drop-In Adult Swim Stroke Clinic. Feedback provided by Red Cross Water Safety Instructors. Must have intermediate swimming ability (able to back float and comfortable in deep water).

Additional details:

Age: 16 or older
Fee: Fitness Program fee applies
Location: Rainier Beach Pool

Deep Water Exercise is a 45-minute instructor-led class that uses water resistance in a non-impact environment. Participants should be comfortable in deep water where they cannot touch the bottom. Flotation belts are provided.

Deep Water Exercise incorporates aerobic conditioning, muscular strengthening, and abdominal toning. Provided resistance equipment may include dumbbell buoys and water noodles, or even just your open hands.

Deep Water Exercise is often considered more advanced than Shallow Water Exercise; however, most Deep Water participants still find Shallow Water Exercise to be valuable! 

Shallow Water Exercise is a 45-minute instructor-led class that uses water resistance in a low-impact environment. No swimming ability is required. We recommend exercising in chest-deep water.

Exercises include aerobics, strength and toning, and abdominal work.  Provided equipment may include dumbbell buoys or water noodles. 

Thanks to support from the pool floor, Shallow Water Exercise may be well suited for those who want to work on balance, as well as those who may be recovering from joint injuries.* 

*This is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified physician before beginning a new exercise program.

Coached Swim (formerly Masters Workout) is a structured workout led by experienced instructors designed to help you get in shape, stay in shape, or prepare for an important swim meet. Workouts are for adults 18 and older.

Jr. Masters is a drop-in competitive level coached swim for youth age 7-16 years old.  Youth should know the 4 competitive strokes and be able to swim at least 200 yards at a time.

Adult water polo program suitable for beginners and anyone else interested in working on water polo basics in a fun environment.

Topics will include strategies for passing, guarding and shooting, and each session will include a short scrimmage.

To fully participate, we recommend that you feel comfortable:

• Treading water for a minute with hands out of the water
• Swimming 100 yards freestyle with head up 

Additional details:

Age: 16 or older
Fee: $12 a session
Location: Rainier Beach Pool

Enjoy the lighter load on your joints as you dance to the Latin beats of salsa, reggaeton, merengue, and cumbia!

Aqua Zumba is a fun twist on Shallow Water Exercise: a 45-minute, all-cardio, all-dance party led by a licensed Zumba and Aqua Zumba instructor. No swimming ability required.

To account for water resistance, moves are timed more slowly than a traditional land-based Zumba class. 

Additional details:

Age: Adults, age 18+.
Cost: Fitness Admission fees apply.
Location: Rainier Beach Pool

Seattle Parks and Recreation is proud to offer single gender public swim and swimming lessons for women who, because of cultural or personal reasons, cannot swim in a co-ed environment.

During these programs the windows to the pool are covered and only female instructors are employed for privacy.

Additional details:

Age: All ages.
Cost: Recreation Admission fees apply.
Location: Rainier Beach Pool

Lifeguard Training Certification

All City of Seattle lifeguards must have an active American Red Cross certification in Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED.

The 30-hour blended learning course includes both online and in-person components. Completion of the course grants initial certifications in Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED. Certifications are valid for 2 years.

Find Blended Learning - Lifeguard courses.

Prerequisites:

• At least 15 years old on or before the final scheduled session of the course.
• Swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both, maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs, then swim an additional 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both. Swimming on the back or side is not allowed. Swim goggles may be used. Candidates should place their hands under the armpits for the treading water portion.
• Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds.  Starting in the water, swim 20 yards, dive 7-10 feet to retrieve a 10 pound object, swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point and exit the water without using a ladder.  Swim goggles may not be used.

Lifeguard Renewal (recertification)

Lifeguard Renewal is a one-day course for those who have a current certification, or one that has expired in the last 30 days. It will extend the expiration date of your Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED certifications for another 2 years.

Find Lifeguard Renewal courses

To ask about planned Lifeguard Renewal course dates later than those currently listed in our registration system, please email parksaquatics@seattle.gov.

Northwest Lifeguard Test

The Northwest Lifeguard Test (NWLGT) is a test of swimming ability and lifeguarding skills. The test builds on skills learned in the Red Cross lifeguarding course. It is meant to be taken after completing the Red Cross lifeguarding course, and is not a substitute for Red Cross lifeguard certification.

NWLGT is offered about once a month and must be taken prior to working your first shift (for permanent positions, you will have 90 days from date of hire).

The test is sponsored by Seattle Parks and Recreation, King County Parks, and the City of Covington.

Test elements include:

1. 50 yards head high crawl stroke*
2. Rescue tow medley and underwater swim*
3. Spinal injury rescue in shallow water
4. Submerged victim recovery and CPR
5. Rescue of struggling victim

Grading Criteria

*There are two levels of NW Test certification. The full/beach certification, and modified/indoor pool certification. The time of the Head High 50 Yard Swim and number of breaths taken on the Underwater Swim in the Medley will determine your certification level. See Grading Criteria or call your nearest pool for details.

2026 Northwest Lifeguard Test Dates

1. Sat, Feb. 7, 1pm-5pm at Ballard Pool
2. Sun, Mar. 8, 8am-12pm at Southwest Pool
3. Sat, Apr. 4, 1pm-5pm at Helene Madison Pool
4. Sun, May 3, 8am-12pm at Evans Pool
5. Sun, May 17, 8am-12pm at Queen Anne Pool
6. Sun, June 7, 8am-12pm at Medgar Evers Pool
7. Sat, June 13, 1pm-5pm at Rainier Beach Pool
8. Sun, July 12, 8am-12pm at Meadowbrook Pool
9. Sun, Aug. 16, 8am-12pm at Evans Pool
10. Sun, Nov. 15, 8am-12pm at Queen Anne Pool

Register for Northwest Lifeguard Test

The Lifeguard Training Team is a FREE summer program designed to train and certify Seattle's youth in lifesaving skills. The eight week program for youth ages 15-18 will train participants to be lifeguards and build other important job skills. Seattle Parks and Recreation provides training, books, uniforms, and basic materials at no charge. The Lifeguard Training Team includes a full American Red Cross lifeguard training course, and much more! Participants get the opportunity to test for certification at the end of the program.

The Lifeguard Training Team is a tremendous opportunity for you to learn and grow, to build lasting friendships, and to acquire skills you'll use for the rest of your life. You don't have to be an Olympic athlete or world class swimmer to join. We just ask that you try your hardest, participate every day, and be part of the team. The instructors' provide a safe, well supervised and encouraging environment. The safety of the participants is our #1 priority.

2026 LTT Program Information

June 29 - August 20, Monday - Thursday, 1pm - 5pm

South location: Pritchard Beach, 8400 55th Ave S, 98118

North location: West Green Lake Beach 7312 W Green Lake Dr N, 98103

Participant Swimming Skills Pre-Test

Each participant must attend a swimming skills pre-tests before the first class. The pre-test is a prerequisite for the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Course. It is also your chance to meet the instructors and ask questions about the program. Please bring a swimsuit and towel and be prepared to swim. Pre-tests will take place at indoor pools in June, and take about 1 hour. Specific date and location options will be provided when applications are accepted.

Click here to apply for this summer teen program!

Water Safety Instructor (WSI)

Senior Lifeguards are required to hold a Water Safety Instructor certification from the American Red Cross.  The certification may be attained within 90 days of hire.

Lifeguard Instructor (LGI)

This approximately 30 hour course includes practical methods and theory for teaching lifeguarding skills. Candidates must have a current Red Cross certification in Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR/AED. LGI-certified instructors can certify in Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED. Completion of this course also extends your Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR/AED certifications for 2 years.

Lifeguard Instructor is a highly desired, but optional certification for Senior Lifeguards. LGI is required for Assistant Aquatic Center Coordinator and Aquatic Center Coordinator positions.