At Marin Country Club in Novato, Calif., historically, the pools sat largely unused during the off-season. Since its “Pools to Park” initiative, however, the space has been completely reimagined.
“While it may not always be warm enough for swimming, it is often perfect for spending time outdoors with family and friends,” says Heather Peterson, Marin CC’s Director of Marketing and Communications. “To take advantage of that opportunity, the club made the decision to fence the pools during the off-season and [rethink] the area as a safe, park-like gathering space.”
The goal was simple, Peterson says: Create an inviting and safe environment where families could spend quality time together, children could burn off energy, and adults could relax and socialize.
Secure, temporary fencing is now installed each year in late October, then removed in early April. The fencing fully encloses the three pool areas, while keeping the remainder of this outdoor space open and accessible. This maximizes the use of existing amenities, increases off-season engagement, and provides parents peace of mind.
“We expanded the experience even further by adding bocce courts, a putting green, volleyball, play structures, and additional gathering spaces with TVs and fire pits,” says Peterson.
The change has been “a tremendous success,” Peterson notes. “It has also allowed us to host family-friendly activities such as Easter egg hunts and seasonal events that would previously have required extensive supervision around the pools or in other areas of the club, including blocking off portions of the golf course or driving range.”
While the pool snack window’s not open during the off-season months, members are able to order food from the restaurant inside through the club’s app and have it delivered to them outside.
“This allows families to comfortably spend an entire afternoon enjoying the space,” Peterson says.
