Splash around in the water! This list of my favorite paddling pools in Amsterdam is a must-see for all moms and dads in Amsterdam this summer. Because: happy kids, happy parents. I also think these kiddie pools, toddler pools, or paddling pools are great for meeting up with friends who have kids. With the wagon there, park chairs so that you don't get a wooden bottom after an hour, picnic basket full of goodies, extra set swimwear (I'm a big fan of UV suits), which water toys, an poncho towel en washable swim diaper for the kids and go. To be honest, sometimes we do a quickie when we go to the paddling pool in Oosterpark. Wrapped in a Hammam towel Back on the bike to head home. Because sometimes it's quite a lot of stuff to lug around. That's why all moms and dads have a resolution: JUST GO! Once you're settled in, you'll be in heaven, and we bet your little one will have a blast right away!
It's good to know that the public paddling pools in Amsterdam are filled when temperatures exceed 20 degrees Celsius, are cleaned daily, and are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Due to the coronavirus, more chlorine is being used in the paddling pools this year, so the natural pool in Westerpark will not be open this summer. But don't worry. There's still plenty to choose from! Discover a different paddling pool in Amsterdam every week or day of your summer vacation this summer. These 9 tips will provide plenty of inspiration!
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| TIP: at Sissy Boy They sell really nice Hammam towels, definitely recommended to take with you on your travels. Lighter in your suitcase than a beach towel, but perfect for the beach or as a picnic blanket!
Noorderpark Paddling Pool: Noorderpark is a great park for kids. One of the city's nicest kid-friendly restaurants, complete with a sandbox. Without, is located in the park. There's also a lovely natural playground and a paddling pool. The paddling pool in Noorderpark is on the side of Adelaarsweg.
Beatrixpark Paddling Pool: The paddling pool is located in Beatrixpark, near Boerenweteringpad. It's right behind the RAI Convention Center and in a park that's especially popular with local residents. There's a partially covered area where you can sit in the shade.
Bellamyplein Paddling Pool: With the arrival of De Foodhallen, Bellamyplein has been beautifully renovated. The paddling pool is back in use, and because it's not located in a green park, it has a wonderful urban feel. Fancy some water fun first, then grabbing a treat at De Foodhallen?
Vondelpark Paddling Pool: Perhaps one of Amsterdam's most famous paddling pools is the one in Vondelpark. Honestly, it's still fun. But it can also get very crowded! If you want to meet up with friends, the location is incredibly central in Amsterdam.
Amsterdamse Bos Paddling Pool: I suspect we'll be spending more time in the Amsterdamse Bos this summer now that we have electric bikes. A visit to the Goat Farm is always fun, but a tropical summer day isn't complete without a splash around. Right next to the paddling pool in the Amsterdamse Bos is a playground. Two birds with one stone!
Oosterpark Paddling Pool: Okay, okay, I'm a bit biased when it comes to this being one of my favorite paddling pools in Amsterdam, as I live nearby. Even in the summer, it's a wonderful way to cool off and pick up the little one early and let them play for a bit before dinner. There are also restrooms at this paddling pool, so everything is perfectly organized in the summer. You'll find the paddling pool in Oosterpark behind the Tropenmuseum (where they also have a fun kids' program).

Oosterpark paddling pool
Nemo: Did you know that NEMO also has a water feature on its roof? The roof is freely accessible from the street via the stairs or elevator in the museum entrance. You can enjoy food and drinks on the roof while the kids play with a view of the city.
Haarlemmerplein: It almost feels like New York when the neighborhood kids play in the sprinklers at Haarlemmerplein. Never a dull moment for the little ones!
Artisplein: At the Artis exit, if you walk directly onto the terrace of De Plantage, you can't miss the fountain. While the parents enjoy a glass of wine and a bitterbal on the terrace, the kids can let off some steam with water fun. In warm weather, always remember to do this. Tevas of Salt Water Sandals with your kids, because the chance that you can pass the fountain without playing is slim.
more Out & about with baby + kids tips

© NEMO
| TIP: Check out more great summer lists here, such as: city beaches in Amsterdam, SUP in Amsterdam, open-air swimming in Amsterdam, parks where you are allowed to barbecue, outdoor swimming pools in Amsterdam, the best terraces per district, canoeing in Amsterdam, best parks for a picnic, tastiest ice creams in Amsterdam en nice rooftop bars in Amsterdam.