William A. Wagner Aquatic Center Competition Pool

The morning started misty along the coast road heading north, with a thick fog bank hanging over the beach. But just a mile inland, the sun was shining, and the weather was absolutely fantastic.

Arrived at the spectacular William A. Wagner Outdoor Aquatic Center, with not one, but two lap pools—a 50m by 25-yard competition pool and a bonus 25x25-yard warm-up/learner pool.

Started off in the main competition pool, currently set up in a 25-yard format, split between lap lanes and a water polo court/pitch/pool (what do you call it?). The pool deck is expansive, with loads of open space, sun loungers, chairs, a huge LED pace clock / scoreboard sign and covered seating stands lining the far side. Jumped in and worked through a satisfying 2,200-yard swim.

Next up, the warm-up pool. I’ve overheard someone chatting with a lifeguard and sounds like it literally is a (very) warm-up pool with much higher water temperatue so might be a short 1km minimum in that one!, regardless, it's another one to add to the list before heading into Oceanside for the night. Staying at the funky-looking The Fin Hotel, part of Hilton’s quirky portfolio.