For anyone who has ever dreamed of living “under the sea,” the Clyde Recreation Center in Springville might just have the answer. Every Saturday, from 7 to 8 p.m., the CRC hosts Mermaid Hour, inviting participants to dive into the deep and glide through the water like the mythical mermaids of legend. Whether you’re a child entranced by the stories of Ariel or an adult looking to experience something new and magical, this hour of enchantment offers a unique escape from the everyday.
Mermaid Hour is more than just exercise—it’s a chance to don a colorful, beautifully crafted mermaid tail and explore the water in a completely new way. Tail rentals are available at the Clyde Recreation Center, providing participants the opportunity to experience the sensation of swimming like a mermaid, complete with the undulating motion that makes this experience both fun and a surprisingly good workout.
“It’s a little unique,” said Meredith Jones, the aquatics manager at the Clyde Recreation Center. “The participants have a lot of fun and people that have been here before continue to come.”
Instructors are on hand during the hour-long sessions to help guide participants through the basics of using a mermaid tail, ensuring safety and comfort. For many, it’s a surreal experience to glide effortlessly through the water, mimicking the movements of the mythical creatures that have long inspired fascination across cultures.
One of the best parts about Mermaid Hour is that it’s open to nearly everyone. Adults and children are both welcome to take part and live out their mermaid fantasies. It’s a family-friendly experience, making it perfect for parents and children to share together.
“It’s called mermaid discovery because they do a lot of different things depending on the group that they have and how many there are,” said Jones.
Participants do need to be comfortable in the water, and for safety, basic swimming ability is required. Participants who are 14 years of age or younger must complete a mermaid safety class and receive a wristband to attend Mermaid Discovery class.
The Mermaid Discovery hour is one of the only events like it around, with some participants traveling from as far as Layton to participate. They each bring their own intricate mermaid tails and take to the water. The event is held in the 13-foot-deep pool, and it can be easy to forget you’re in the middle of Utah rather than a lagoon filled with like-minded merfolk.
Mermaid Hour isn’t just about fun; it’s also about developing a new skill. Swimming with a tail can be surprisingly challenging at first. It requires strength and coordination to maneuver through the water smoothly. Over time, participants often find that their core and leg muscles get a fantastic workout. But the real reward comes in the smiles and laughter as swimmers gain confidence and embrace their inner mermaid (or merman).
Mermaid Hour at the Clyde Recreation Center also taps into something deeper: The universal love for creative play. It provides a space where imaginations can run wild, and for an hour, everyone can become something magical.
Whether you’re looking to fulfill a childhood dream, give your kids an unforgettable experience, or simply want to try something new, Mermaid Hour at the Clyde Recreation Center is a must-visit. It’s an activity that combines fitness, fantasy and fun—perfect for anyone seeking a little magic in their day.
“Anyone can come,” Jones said. “We do have some extra mono-fins — which is just the fin that fits on your feet, not the full tail — but if you’d like to learn, the instructor can work with you and help you participate in the class.”
For more information on Mermaid Discovery Hour or the safety class, including schedules and registration, visit the Clyde Recreation Center’s official website or app.
