Hawthorne Municipal Pool

The pool has many lanes, but no speed-designation. I had to line up – first come, first served - then shared a lane, which was no problem. The water was warm, but I endured. There is only one pace clock on a wall at one end that is visible only from lanes 1-5.

A friendly but serious group. Don't expect or do too much chatting. Keep swimming!

I've been here on weekends and it's not crowded, usually no more than two swimmers per lane. Sometimes there are lanes reserved for scuba classes but there are plenty of lanes to go around. The crowd is somewhat friendly but focused; serious swimmers with a laid back, beach/surfer vibe. The pool draws patrons from the nearby aerospace industries and Air Force Base.

In 2009 this facility underwent a total renovation: The “kiddie pool” and diving tank were removed. The main pool, which was an odd 41 yards, long course, became a 25m short course “infinity” pool, i.e., water is at deck level, with a large shallow area for water aerobics/aqua jogging. It's a great facility with a friendly staff. Locker rooms are open, airy, well lit, clean, and "green". Low chlorination feels like salt water, but is actually diluted with sodium bicarbonate.