What are the types of pools in The Villages and can I swim in all of them?

With over 100 pools in The Villages, ever wonder if you, as a resident, can swim in all of them? First, let's discuss the types of swimming pools in The Villages. They are the neighborhood pools, family pools, sports pools, and country club pools. The most numerous is the neighborhood pool. Often associated with the neighborhood mail station, the neighborhood pool is open from 7:30 until dusk. These pools are intended for residents and their guests over the age of 30. They are designed to be for socializing and casual water recreation. Pool noodles are allowed and many folks soak, float, and chat at these pools. There are lounge chairs, tables, and some shade available. Family pools are intended to welcome residents and their guests of all ages. There are fewer of these pools. They are similar in size and configuration as the neighborhood pools. All guests are required to have guest IDs. Like the neighborhood pools, lap swimming is NOT allowed but noodles and swim vests for children are allowed. There are no lifeguards at these or any of The Village's pools. The 7 country club pools are reserved for Villagers who are members of that country club. Those pools don't open until 9:00 in the morning and close at dusk. The clubs have swimming social memberships; an option for those who don't golf. There are no lifeguards at these pools either. They are open to members guests of any age. Sports pools, associated with the regional rec centers, have large pools designed for water sports and organized water activities. These pools have scheduled lap swimming times daily. In addition, water aerobics and water volleyball take place at these pools. Check out the weekly activities guides available every Thursday online at www.districtgov.org or can be picked up at every rec center. Other common questions about swimming in The Villages: Are the pools salt water? No, they use bromine. Are the pools heated? Yes, in the cooler months the water is heated to 81 to 84 degrees. Are the pools cleaned often? Yes, frequently. The pools are always in immaculate shape. Are there hot tubs? Yes, but only at Orange Blossom CC and Glenview Country Club. Are there aquatic access lifts for people who cannot walk into the pool? Yes, all pools are now equipped with lifts. So, with the exception of the country club pools, any Villager can swim in any pool! Grab a swimsuit, your Village's ID sunglasses, sunscreen, and a noodle, and meet me at the pool!

I love our neighborhood pool! It's at the end of our street. It's an adult pool so its usually pretty quiet except for someone's occasional radio or the chatter of gossip from the ladies walking in the pool. I must use this opportunity to briefly discuss the sun in Florida. It is intense! Sunscreen is a necessity. If you are out in the sun or even partly cloudy skies, you need sunscreen between the hours of 10-4 all year round. Hats and sunglasses are needed, too! There is a reason there is a dermatology office in every single town square or shopping area in The Villages. Skin cancer is prevalent here. Even if you come from a part of the country where you rarely need sunscreen, you need to be aware of the sun here. Florida is different. We are closer to sun in every season compared with almost the entire US. Melanoma is a killer and the other types of skin cancer can make life miserable. Sunglasses, hats, long-sleeve swim shirts, and sunscreen are all good things to get used to using when you are outside in The Villages.