Five ways to cool off in the water

CRAIG PARRISH

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here�s nothing quite like the allure of water when the summer sun makes a prolonged appearance. Whatcom County offers a plethora of choices, indoors and outdoors, for those who think any non-rainy day is an opportunity to jump into a lake, crash down a water slide or take a dip in the nearest pool.

BLOEDEL DONOVAN PARK The swimming and recreation area at the top of Alabama Hill and the north end of Lake Whatcom is the first destination of dozens, if not hundreds, of swimmers. It�s perfect for those who live to frolic in the water and sunbathers who prefer to bask on the shores and people-watch. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Information: www.cob.org/services/recreation/parks-trails/bloedel-donovan-park.aspx

SILVER LAKE PARK About 45 minutes from Bellingham on Mount Baker Highway, this county park offers its namesake lake, where visitors can swim, fish or cruise in pedal boats, canoes and rowboats. The park is located at 9006 Silver Lake Road in Maple Falls. Information: (360) 599-2776.

LAKE PADDEN PARK The much-favored destination at the south end of Bellingham has the pristine lake, a great spot for swimming, boating and fishing. But if you tire of the water-based activities, there�s the 2.6-mile loop around the lake that gets year-round use by hikers, walkers and bikers. Looking for more? Try the playground, basketball court, picnic pavilion, softball field, tennis courts or golf course. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Information: www.cob.org/services/recreation/parks-trails/lake-padden-park.aspx

BIRCH BAY WATER SLIDES Feel the need for speed? Then assume the position: lie back, arms crossed, shoulder blades and the heels of your feet down. You now are set for optimum acceleration at the county�s only water slide park, at 4874 Birch Bay-Lynden Road in Birch Bay. Along with several slides of varying length, height and drop angle, visitors can enjoy volleyball and basketball courts, a kiddie pool, hot tub and concession stand. The park is open 10 a .m. to 6 p.m. every day. Admission is $11 for children age 3-5; $16 for ages 6 and older. Group rates are available. Information: www.birchbaywaterslides.net

ARNE HANNA AQUATIC CENTER kids can swim indoors any time of year at Arne Hanna Aquatic Center at 1114 Potter St. Younger ones can practice their strokes in the shallow recreation pool, complete with a sloped beach-like entry. The big attractions are the 135-foot water slide, the large pool for older swimmers, and the separate pool where divers can soar without swimmers in their path. Cost: $3 for 17 and younger and seniors, $4 for adults. Information: 778-7665, www.cob.org/services/recreation/aquatic/index.aspx