Various Locations

Unlike what those sleek and muscled Olympians do, swimming in the summertime is not actually an active verb. It is a passive activity meaning "to lounge on the pool's deck," or, for the more ambitious swimmer, "to wade ankle-deep into a cool lake." And, with the Northwest heating up like a French whore, there is no better time to explore Portland's many swimming holes.

Although the Portland Parks & Rec Department has been gouged by budget cuts, they have their priorities in line, and are maintaining their outdoor pools this summer. Peninsula Pool (700 N. Portland Blvd, 823-3677) is the Riviera of public pools: There is no lap swimming allowed, just splashing and Marco Polo. It is also here that the cutest--and slightly older than jailbait--lifeguards hang out.

More centrally located, the Grant Pool (2300 NE 33rd Ave, 823-3674) is a bit more peaceful. Plenty of deck-side lounge chairs are available and, just as importantly, Grant Pool is stocked with plenty of "float worms"--the greatest invention since the elementary backstroke: a buoyant floatation device that either wraps around a swimmer like a shawl or a oversized belt. (It is for people who find the dead man's float too strenuous.)

Of course, over-chlorinated water is not for everyone, and there are plenty of other options. Closest to town is Blue Lake, the best (and perhaps only) attribute of Gresham. Abutted by a sandy beach, Blue Lake is as warm and soothing as bath water. Even better, the park has dozens of picnic benches and is frequented by ice cream vendors. (Between Marine Drive and Sandy Blvd just off NE 223rd, $3 admission per vehicle.)

But perhaps the best option within a 30-minute drive is Promontory Lake. Abby's Marina has several pontoon boats for rent. Coupling the charm of a backyard deck (barbecue grills and beer coolers are allowed on board) and the cheap thrill of a slip-and-slide, pontoon boats are the working man's yacht. You will not get anywhere fast, but speed is not the game for pontoon boats (unless, of course, you are hoping to outrun the harbor patrol). (Seven miles east of Estacada on Hwy 224, 6 am-dark, 630-5152, $45-120) PHIL BUSSE