If someone told you there is a place in Lagos with a giant softplay area separated by a fence from two swimming pools with sunbeds, and that it has shade in the afternoon, you would think it was too good to be true. But it exists, and it is called Piscina Via Dona Ana.

This place is genuinely heaven on earth for kids. Our children could spend hours here, bouncing between the softplay, the pools and the trampoline.

🎪 The Softplay Area

The outdoor softplay area is huge. It has slides, climbing structures, and enough variety to keep kids from toddlers to about age 8 entertained for a long time. The whole area is separated from the pools by a fence (which is open at a little part to go in and out and has - as of 2025 - no door. So it‘s quite safe but you still have to keep an eye at the entrance part.

🏊 The Pools

Sun loungers around the family pool with toddler pool and ride-on toys at Piscina Via Dona Ana Lagos

There are two pools: a bigger one for adults and older kids, and a little pool where toddlers can perfectly stand. The water temperature is pleasant, the area is clean, and there are sunbeds around the pools.

You can also buy drinks, ice cream and small very basic snacks on site.

☀️ The Shade Situation

Here is the insider tip that makes all the difference: go late afternoon, around 4 or 5pm. At that time, most of the softplay area is in shade. That makes it perfect for babies and toddlers who cannot handle the full Algarve sun. In the earlier afternoon it can be very exposed, but from around 4pm onwards it is ideal.

📍 How to Find It (Important!)

This is the tricky part. It’s nearby Dona Ana, but a bit away. You have to search for ‚Pools and play / Piscina Via Dona Ana’ in Google Maps. But some people somehow can’t find it on Google Maps, it’s strange. If you can’t find it, search for ‚Lagos Tenis Center & Pickleball‘, it‘s next door. It is a hidden spot that locals know but tourists usually miss.

You can park on the street or in the surrounding streets.

For more information, search "Piscina Via Dona Ana" on Facebook. Opening times change sometimes, so don’t fully trust on Google Maps, better send a message on Facebook to check before you go.

📝 Practical Tips

Best time: Late afternoon from 4pm onwards for the best shade.

Check opening hours before you visit. They can change, especially between seasons.

Bring towels and swimwear. Sunbeds are available but you will want your own towel.

This is not a big fancy resort pool. It is a local, family-run spot with a brilliant concept. Do not expect five-star luxury, but do expect very happy children.

📍 Location: Via Dona Ana, Lagos (between Pilates studio and tennis court)

❓ FAQ

Where is Piscina Via Dona Ana? It is not on Google Maps by name. Put "Pools and Play / Piscina Via Dona Ana Lagos" in Google Maps. It is between a Pilates studio and a tennis court. Check Facebook for more details.

Is Piscina Via Dona Ana good for toddlers? Perfect for toddlers. The small pool is shallow enough for them to stand, and the softplay area is (95%) fenced off from the pools for safety. From 4pm onwards there is good shade.

What are the opening hours? Opening times vary and change between seasons. Check their Facebook page for current hours before visiting.

How much does it cost? Check directly for current pricing. It is a local spot with reasonable family-friendly prices.