If You Want It All...

The Floating Pool
Viele Ave. at Tiffany St., Hunt's Point, The Bronx; 718- 430-4601
Cost: Free
After an inaugural season spent anchored off the shore of Brooklyn Heights, this massive barge will park itself for the second time in Bronx waters this summer. When you're not enjoying the panoramic city views onboard, you can hit the basketball courts or lie out in adjacent Barretto Point Park.

(Photo: Courtesy of Asphalt Green)

Asphalt Green AquaCenter
1750 York Ave., at 91st St.; 212-369-8890
Cost: $35/day
Smart scheduling keeps lap swimmers separate from splashing youngsters. When not in the water, the juice bar and rooftop sun terrace should keep you happy.

Astoria Park Pool
23rd Dr. and 19th St., Astoria; 311
Cost: Free
This Art Deco pool in the shadow of the Triborough Bridge draws Greek old-timers and co-eds stopping on the way to Bohemian Hall Beer Garden. With a capacity of 2,178—it's tied for the largest pool in the city—you may not get the lap swim you want, but at least there's plenty of poolside lounging space.

Tony Dapolito Recreation Center
3 Clarkson St., at Seventh Ave. South; 212-242-5228
Cost: Free
Though the outdoor pool can get pretty crowded, family-swim hours are limited to the afternoons, during which time adults can take a seat on the sundeck. The facilities are modest, however; you'll need to bring your own soap and shampoo if you want a post-dip rinse off.