Petaluma Swim Center

Long course. Bathrooms need remodeling. Too bad the City of Petaluma dropped the ball on renovating this community center. I could have been the best pool north of San Francisco.

I celebrated the second day of Spring with a drive north through the green Petaluma hills and a swim in this outdoor pool set up for 50 meter laps.
On this Saturday, mid-​morning, I was the only swimmer. The water felt clean and comfortable (for lap swimming, 80 degrees or less is best, so as not to overheat). I did not experience any problems with chlorine.
The bottom of the pool has the black markings you’ll want to indicate where you are, and there are flags overhead at both ends serving a similar purpose. The shallow end is about 3.5 feet, the other end quite deep. The pool is currently set up for 50 meter laps on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday mornings (precise, current schedule on their website).
There is one drawback: the lack of a locker room. There is a room with benches and gang showers. Kids will find that comfortable; adults may not. I wasn’t offered a towel because I don’t think they have them; I’d suggest bringing at least two.
If they added minimal locker facilities (like those at the Marin JCC), this could be the best swim experience in the North Bay. As is, it’s still undervalued at just five dollars per swim. Friendly staff. If somebody wants to open a crowdfunding campaign for a locker room, count me in…

Top Notch. The pool has changed in the past few years. It has been run by professionals now that cater to the public.
It is safe for kids and all ages. It is always cleaned and the staff is professional.
Great way for our public to enjoy a true gem.