Whether you're looking to cool off from the intense Florida heat, get some exercise, or have fun with friends, swimming is a great activity for students at USF apartments. When the sun comes out, people of all ages flock to the pool to swim laps, tan, and hang out by the water. Luckily, there are plenty of options to choose from near the University of South Florida. Put on your bathing suit and grab a towel, because this article will help you find the perfect swimming spot around apartments near USF!
Swimming at apartments near USF
You may not have to go far to get your swim on, because some apartments near USF have their own pools! A swimming pool is a fairly common amenity for apartment complexes in Florida due to the searing summer heat, so if it's a top priority, be sure to ask about pools when you're searching for the perfect Tampa rental. Community swimming pools will be chlorinated, public to all tenets, and will likely have some rules such as no pets in the pool. Some apartments near USF that have swimming pools include IQ, Venue at North Campus, Park Place, and ON50, although there are many more to choose from.
Swimming at the University of South Florida
If your community doesn't have a pool, the next closest swimming spot is USF itself! The Recreation and Wellness center sports a heated 25-yard, 8 lane lap pool, and the Village has a 25-yard heated resort-style pool complete with deck space and lounge chairs for sunbathing. Both pools have ADA accommodations to make them available to everyone! Though these pools are top quality, their ease of access means that they tend to be crowded on hot days. This may mean you'll have to share some space, but it also means that you have a chance to make new friends! In addition, be sure to take advantage of the many free programs there, such as SCUBA classes, pool volleyball, and even log rolling. And be sure to check ahead before you go because this pool sometimes has limited hours.
Exploring Tampa
If you're not interested in swimming close to home and would rather get out and explore the city, don't worry, there are options for you too. Try checking out the lovely Desoto Park, open seasonally, which has a pool great for swimming laps or bringing kids to play on the splash fountains and waterfall. The park also has a picnic area and a playground. Bring some friends or your roommates and make a day of it!
Curve Lake is the perfect spot for those who love to enjoy natural beauty. This 25-acre lake is great for aquatic activities like fishing and boating, and contains natural Florida wildlife like sandhill cranes and turtles. Dip your toes if you dare, though be warned that this lake is known to be home to alligators. Despite that, the clean spring fed water is cool and refreshing on a hot day.
If you're really looking to get out and explore, Lithia Springs Conservation Park in Hillsborough County is about half an hour out of Tampa. It has a two-dollar entrance fee to enjoy the fresh springs, and also boasts camping areas, hiking, and amenities such as public restrooms. The park closes in the early evening and the swimming areas close an hour before that, so plan accordingly. The drive may be worth it to experience the beautiful, gorgeous scenery and wildlife in one of Florida's well-known parks.