Our secret recipe for keeping the kiddos entertained this summer? It’s simple—just add water! Nothing beats the heat better than an afternoon of dipping and doing it at the pool. Good thing there’s plenty of pool clubs in Bergen County for ‘em to dive into. Whether you’ve got a toddler-sized tadpole or an experienced swimmer, here’s our list of the best spots to make a splash.
Stonybrook Swim Club
Located on the eastern edge of Hillsdale, this 12-acre property is the perfect summer club for the whole family. Kids will have a blast cannonballing (just kidding, safety first!) into one of Stonybrook’s five age-appropriate diving pools or careening down the 14-foot waterslide, while grown-ups will love getting their swim on in the perfectly heated competition pool. Lessons are available or kids can join the swim and dive teams or attend Swim Camp. Feeling hungry? Hit the full-service snack bar or bring your own grub and have a picnic at the on-site pavilion or one of two gorgeous gazebos. Just make sure to wait 30 minutes before jumping back in! (Stonybrook Swim Club, 183 Cedar Lane, Hillsdale, Hillsdale residents $663 for a family of 4, Non-residents $949 for a family of 4)
Edgewood Country Club
This members-only, family-focused club boasts a slew of awesome amenities, including a resort-style, heated pool with designated age-appropriate areas, a brand new clubhouse and summer camp, pristine Har-Tru clay tennis courts, and lush 18-hole golf course. Also scoring major points: easy, beach-style entrance, inviting outdoor terrace, and on-site snack bar. (Edgewood Country Club, inquire for current membership pricing and levels, River Vale)
Oradell Swim Club
No less than four pools, including a kiddie and lap pool, flank this property’s immaculately landscaped grounds. This is the perfect place for budding swimmers to develop their water skills and pool confidence, with all-ages classes ranging from “Intro to Water Skills” through the more advanced “Fitness Swimmer.” Experienced swimmers are encouraged to enroll in Oradell’s winning swim team (go, Pirates!). Past family fun events have included Pizza and (ice cream) Float nights as well as a Fourth of July BBQ. Lawn chairs, well-kept changing facilities, and a picnic area are also included. (Oradell Swim Club, E. Ridgewood Avenue, Oradell, Bonded $823 for family of 3+; $317 for teens (12-17); $171 for caregiver, Non-Bonded $946 for family of 3+; $317 for teens (12-17); $690 for Weekends Only; $171 for caregiver.)
Graydon Pool
Let’s face it, trekking to the Jersey Shore is no day at the beach. For some stress-free swim-time fun closer to home, take a trip to nearby Graydon Pool, which boasts the all-natural, dammed Ho-ho-kus Brook that’s tailor-made for beachy, summertime fun. Spread out and relax on the real-life sandcapes surrounded by lush, landscaped scenery and marvel at the ginormous manmade swimming hole that invites visitors to take a dip and stay awhile. Best of all: Graydon’s team of trained lifeguards is always on duty, keeping things safe and worry-free. (Graydon Pool, 259 N. Maple Avenue, Ridgewood, Residents Adult: $130 (ages 16+); Child (ages 2-15, under 2 free): $120; Day Pass: $15, Non-residents Adult (ages 16+): $220; Child (ages 2-15): $195)
Lifetime Fitness in Montvale
This club is members-only but if you live in the area, it's definitely worth a look for summer. Besides the endless workout options, fitness clsses, spa and cafe, Lifetime becomes a family hotspot in the summer. Their resort-style outdoor pool area boasts fun in the sun plus swimming lessons for the kiddos- and even fun indoor classes for them for those long summer days when they're craving a/c.(201) 746-4723,10 Van Riper Road, Montvale
New Milford Swim Club
Experience the ultimate in summertime serenity at this members-only club showcasing a heated main pool, lap pool, and kiddie pool in a wooded setting spanning more than 14 acres. The lawn-covered pool perimeter is filled with plenty of lounge chairs perfect for relaxing, and there’s an extensive picnic area stocked with tables, grills, and kids-only playground. Already plowed through your latest beach read? Bring along your BFF instead—members can host up to four guests for just five bucks each on Tuesdays ($10 all other days)! Also, be sure to check out their awesome all-inclusive pool party packages for birthday boys and girls starting at a very reasonable $250. (New Milford Swim Club, Trotta Drive, New Milford, Permanent Member $1263 for family of 3+, Part-time weekday and weekend memberships available call (201) 265-5635 for more information.)
Saddle River Valley Swim and Tennis Club
Located on nearly eight glorious acres just outside Upper Saddle River, this family mainstay boasts a large heated main pool with two diving boards as well as a kiddie pool with a shower spray and playground. Those simply looking to soak up some sun will appreciate the slew of readily available lounge chairs and umbrellas, while those looking to refuel with a snack (or something more substantial) can get their grub on the Poolside Café, which offers a slew of reasonably priced eats. A basketball court and tennis courts are sure to keep sporty members happy. (Saddle River Valley Swim and Tennis Club, 750 Saddle River Road, Monsey, Family membership $1,075 ($925 for Capital Certificate holders)
Ramsey Municipal Pool
No matter what your pool personality, this family-fun municipal pool (a Best of Bergen pick by (201) Magazine readers) is sure to check all their boxes. Water-park-style slides? Check. Comfortable in-pool seating? Check. A designated area for tot-sized swimmers with a zero-depth entry port and fun spraying features. Check, check, and check! Grab a bite at the on-site snack stand or fire up a grill in the back pavilion. And be sure to come back for Fab Fridays, which include swimming after dark and live music. Beach volleyball, basketball, and two playgrounds are also part of the fun. (Ramsey Municipal Pool, 75 East Oak Street, Ramsey, Family plans (for up to two members) are $400 for residents; $50 each additional member. Non-resident family plans are $700 for first member, $100 each additional member. Guest and daily passes also available.)
Tallman Beach & Pool Club
This beach and pool club tucked away in Tallman Mountain State Park was completely remodeled just a few years ago and features a full-size pool plus a fun kiddie pool with cool water features for little ones. In addition to pool fun, members enjoy sun bathing on the beach with gorgeous views of the Hudson River, not to mention killer concessions. Parent/child swim classes (9 months to 3 years) are conveniently offered in the evenings. (Tallman Beach & Pool Club, Tallman Mountain State Park, Rockland Road, Palisades, Family passes (two parents and up to three children and/or caregivers) range from $760 (weekdays only) to $1,090 (full week)
