Colman Pool: Seattle's Seaside Saltwater Oasis

Colman Pool, a cherished landmark in West Seattle's Lincoln Park, offers an unparalleled swimming experience, blending history, recreation, and breathtaking natural beauty. Since 1941, this unique saltwater pool has been a summer haven for generations of Seattleites and visitors alike. Its origins, however, trace back to 1925 when it was a simple, tide-fed swimming hole. In its early days, the swimming hole was a rather rudimentary affair, essentially a lagoon with a sluice gate to control water levels. The Colman family, prominent developers of the Windermere neighborhood, stepped in to transform the site. Kenneth Colman, in memory of his father Laurence Colman, donated over $150,000 to the city for the construction of a proper pool and bathhouse. The resulting Art Deco facility, designed by the architecture firm of Loveless, Fey & Lamont, opened on July 4, 1941, marking a significant upgrade from its humble beginnings. The pool's design incorporated Colonial Revival stylistic features, including a large bathhouse, a pool, and a filter house. The facility also boasted a clubhouse, locker rooms, and a dazzling mural by Ernest Norling, filled with subtle nods to the Colman family. The pool's original caretaker, Norman Sears, previously worked at the Alki Beach Bathhouse's steam laundry, highlighting the importance of maintaining clean woolen bathing costumes in that era. His son and granddaughter continued his legacy, maintaining the pool for decades. Colman Pool stands out as one of only two outdoor pools in Seattle and the only public saltwater pool in King County. The pool draws its water from Puget Sound through three wells on the beach, filtering and heating it to a comfortable 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This process provides a unique swimming experience, with the saltwater offering a natural buoyancy and potential health benefits such as improved skin hydration. The pool features 50-meter swim lanes, catering to both recreational and competitive swimmers. Diving boards and a giant corkscrew waterslide add to the fun, providing thrills for visitors of all ages. The pool's location on the beach line offers stunning views of Puget Sound, nearby islands, the Olympic Mountains, and passing ferries. Lucky visitors might even spot seals or orcas while taking a dip. Over the years, Colman Pool has undergone modernization and renovations to maintain its facilities and accessibility. Recent projects have focused on upgrading locker rooms to meet accessibility standards and constructing family and non-gender-specific restrooms and changing areas. The pool's original cast-iron pipes and sand filter system, essential for drawing water from Puget Sound, have also been addressed to ensure the pool's continued operation. Colman Pool is more than just a swimming venue; it's a community hub that hosts various events and activities throughout the summer. Swim teams regularly use the pool for practice, and swimming lessons are available for all ages and skill levels. The pool also hosts special events and pool parties, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for locals and tourists alike. Visiting Colman Pool requires some planning, as it operates seasonally, typically from late May to early September. The pool is open daily from noon to 7 PM, offering ample time for visitors to enjoy the facilities. However, due to its popularity, the pool can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot and avoid long lines. While there is no parking directly at the pool, visitors can park in the south parking lot off Fauntleroy Way SW (near SW Cloverdale Street) and enjoy a relatively flat, 15-minute waterfront walk to the pool. Alternatively, the north parking lot (Fauntleroy Way SW & SW Rose Street) offers a 20-minute walk through the forest, including a steep set of stairs down to the beach. This route is more strenuous and may not be suitable for everyone. Colman Pool's rich history, unique saltwater experience, stunning views, and community atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in West Seattle. Whether you're a seasoned swimmer, a family looking for a fun day out, or a tourist seeking a unique Seattle experience, Colman Pool offers something for everyone. So pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure, and dive into the refreshing waters of Colman Pool!