The best subtropical swimming pools in the Netherlands

Publish date 12 March 2025
Read time 3 minutes
Written by Betaalde samenwerking
subtropisch zwembad

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Within one hour in the tropics

Want to experience tropical atmospheres without having to take the plane? Then book a day at a vacation park with a subtropical swimming pool. Within an hour you will imagine yourself in paradise with palm trees, slides and hot pools. Especially for families with children, it is a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. No long journey or hassle with suitcases. Just hop in the car and enjoy. The weather plays no role. The tropics come to you. This is also an ideal option for a weekend getaway. Many of these parks offer other activities such as indoor playgrounds and family restaurants in addition to water fun.

Why a tropical pool is so much fun

As soon as you step inside a subtropical pool, everything changes. You immediately feel the warmth. It smells like vacation. The tropical plants, the warm water and the sound of waterfalls immediately give you a relaxed feeling. For children, there are slides, whitewater rapids and toddler pools. You can relax in a whirlpool or float in the wave pool. Everything is geared toward fun and convenience. Even if it’s storming outside, you’ll be comfortable here. No sand in your shoes or burnt shoulders. Just swimming fun under one roof. With a day pass, you’ll soon have a vacation feeling.

subtropisch zwembad

The best vacation parks with tropical pools

Visitors often agree: Center Parcs De Eemhof is the number one choice. The Aqua Mundo there is extensive and spectacular. Think slides, a whitewater course and even snorkeling opportunities. Hof van Saksen also scores high. Not only because of the longest indoor water slide in the Netherlands, but also because of its luxurious feel. Landal Het Vennenbos is ideal for families. The pool is clear and safe for small children. Preston Palace in Almelo is another recommendation. There you can even enjoy all-inclusive water fun. Looking for more peace and quiet? Then look at smaller parks with subtropical swimming pools such as De Lommerbergen or Beerze Bulten. On Vakantiepark-gids.nl you can easily compare them. You can quickly see which park best suits your needs.

So you are well prepared for your trip

A day of subtropical swimming requires good preparation. Bring slippers, which are more comfortable. Don’t forget a large towel or bathrobe for between swims. A life jacket is handy for children, even if they can swim a little. Many parks rent lockers. Bring some coins or check in advance if you can use an ATM card. Want to avoid crowds? Then go early in the day or just in the late afternoon. Also look for combo tickets if you want to do more than swim. Some parks offer packages with lunch or dinner included. And always check swim times, some sections are temporarily closed. If necessary, bring your own food for lunch. Many pools have picnic areas where this is allowed.

subtropisch zwembad

Great tips for a day out with kids

Above all, children want to run, slide and splash. Therefore, choose a park with child-friendly amenities. Think shallow pools, gentle slides and water playgrounds. A swim diaper is mandatory for little ones. Bring toys for in the water, such as buckets or a ball. Some pools organize children’s discos or scavenger hunts in the water. Also, don’t forget something dry to put on afterwards. For the road, a backpack with snacks and drink packets is always handy. Schedule breaks to avoid overstimulation. Want to do it all right? Book a cottage right by the pool. Then you will always be around when your child is tired.

subtropisch zwembad