In a Warming World, Water-Based Recreation Isn’t a Luxury — It’s a Necessity

Water-based recreation is far more than a leisure activity—it is a matter of public health, environmental justice, and climate resilience. Across the U.S., many families lack safe, affordable, and nearby places to cool off during extreme heat, especially in historically underserved neighborhoods. Access to pools, splash pads, and other aquatic spaces promotes physical health, mental well-being, and social connection, yet remains deeply inequitable. As climate change brings longer and hotter summers, ensuring that all residents have equitable access to cooling and recreation has become a pressing community priority.

Los Angeles County provides a vivid example of this disparity. Analyses from the County’s Climate Vulnerability Assessment (CVA) and Parks Needs Assessment Plus (PNA+) show that communities most at risk from climate impacts — such as those in East L.A. and Antelope Valley — often lack park space and water amenities. Inland water bodies like Castaic Lake, Santa Fe Dam, and Bonelli Park offer critical relief, but barriers such as distance, transportation, and costs limit access. Neighborhood-level amenities like splash pads and pools are more feasible and adaptable, yet remain scarce. 

Expanding water access demands sustained investment, equity-centered planning, and inclusive programming. It is important that local governments integrate aquatics into climate and infrastructure initiatives, expand public transit access to water-based recreation facilities, and fund water-safety education programs. Ultimately, water-based recreation should be recognized as essential community infrastructure — a foundation for health, equity, and resilience. As heat waves intensify and disparities deepen, investing in safe, accessible water spaces will help build stronger, healthier, and more connected communities across generations.