Jessica Chenoweth 
1. Waterfront Park (Downtown San Diego)
- Why go? A downtown classic with interactive fountains, grassy lounging areas, and harbor views.
- Perks: Open year-round; water flows daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Tip: North-side fountains are quieter; grab coffee across the street at Portside Coffee & Gelato
2. Civita Park (Mission Valley)
- What’s cool: Over 48 zig-zag jets and a multi-tiered playground where water meets play .
- Bonus: Free parking and a charming bunny-sculpture hunt for kids .
3. Sunset Park (San Marcos)
- Unique features: Interactive buttons that launch jets; adjacent snake-themed play structures and picnic areas
- Heads-up: Water shuts off sharply at closing time—usually 5 p.m. fall and 6 p.m. summer
4. Mountain Hawk Park (Chula Vista)
- Highlights: Simple circular sprayground with Otay Lake views, hiking paths, and playground nearby
- Availability: Seasonal from April 1 through Nov 1; parking onsite
5. Hilton Head County Park (El Cajon)
- What to love: Pirate-themed spray pad with shaded picnic and exercise areas
- Details: Free entry; splash pad open May–Sept, daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (closed monthly for maintenance)
6. Santee Lakes Sprayground
- Features: Fenced spray area with bucket dumps and lake views—bonus: feeding the ducks afterwards is a hit
- Details: Open Apr–Sept (weekends only Mar & Oct); requires a wristband for entry
- sandiegofamily.com
Paid Splash Pad Adventures
7. Civita Park / Del Mar Highlands
- Del Mar Highlands isn’t far from the splash pad at Civita—features comfy seating, mini trampolines, and lots of food options
8. Poway Community Pool
Fee: ~$6–8 per person; includes splash zone, wading area, lap pool, and high dive
Why go: Great for families who want pool and splash pad together; perfect for post-water BBQ at Kaminski’s .
9. San Diego Zoo Safari Park Spray Zones
- Included with zoo admission: Two splash zones—near the hot air balloon and duck pond.
- Experience: Palm-tree mist and bucket dumps make it feel more like a mini water park
- Pro tip: Bring swim gear—towels/snacks are pricey inside.
10. LEGOLAND Water Park / Sesame Place / SeaWorld
- LEGOLAND: Slides, lazy river, wave pools—ideal for ages 2–12. Requires water park ticket in addition to admission .
- SeaWorld & Sesame Place: Smaller splash zones included with park admission—family-friendly and fun .
Pro Tips for Splash Pad Success
- Time it right: Spraygrounds often open seasonally (e.g., Mar–Nov), and some shut water at specific times
- Dress smart: Bring water shoes—pads get slick. And have swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and a pop‑up shade ready.
- Plan breaks: Many parks offer lawn space, playgrounds, snacks nearby, and spots perfect for picnic recovery.
- Check first: Always confirm operating hours and closures on official park sites before heading out.
