A while ago I promised I’d be back with another pool review. Last year I was splashing around in pools that looked like they belonged to billionaires with successful crypto portfolios and small ones that still required a purchase. This year, however, we’re embracing something far more relatable.

Being broke.

Well… Second Life broke. Which is a completely different financial category. You have L$14 in your wallet because you absolutely needed that animated iced coffee, a fatpack of bikini colours you’ll never wear, and somehow four different sun hats. Life happens.

So this year’s mission was simple: find ways to enjoy summer without spending a fortune.

Good news: water in Second Life is still free. Mostly.

Budget Tip #1: Your Neighbour Has a Pool…

Let’s begin with an option that is technically free and morally flexible.

Perhaps your neighbour has a gorgeous swimming pool. Perhaps they also happen to live in Australia while you’re in Europe. Perhaps they’re asleep while you’re scrolling Primfeed for outfit inspiration at 2 AM.

Coincidence? I simply present the facts.

A quick hop over the fence, a graceful dive into their pool, and suddenly you’re enjoying luxury facilities without paying for installation, landscaping or pool maintenance. It’s practically sustainable.

Of course, this does rely on them not having security or ban lines. And if they do catch you floating around on their inflatable unicorn, you may need to explain why you thought their backyard was a public amenity.

Why it’s great:

• Completely free.
• Conveniently nearby.
• Excellent use of existing community resources.

Why it’s not:

• It’s frowned upon.
• Makes you look both poor and entitled.
• Could result in awkward neighbourly relations.

So… perhaps don’t.

Budget Tip #2: Become One with the Linden Ocean

If your budget is somewhere between “very limited” and “I just spent everything on hair,” allow me to introduce the largest swimming pool in Second Life.

The Linden Ocean.

Buy yourself an inexpensive swimming HUD from the Marketplace, find a coastline and simply… keep swimming.

There are no entrance fees. No opening hours. No lifeguards judging your clumsy backstroke.

Just miles and miles of open water.

It’s surprisingly peaceful, especially if you enjoy exploring coastlines or watching boats sail past. You might even spot some sea life along the way.

Just remember one tiny detail: the ocean is really big.

If you keep swimming in a straight line for an hour because “I wonder what’s over there,” you may eventually discover that you’ve become geographically… adventurous.

When the nearest land is a tiny grey dot behind you and your minimap looks suspiciously empty, congratulations, you’re now starring in your own survival documentary.

Budget Tip #3: Visit a Public Pool

Now we’re talking.

One of the easiest ways to enjoy summer without spending a single Linden is simply visiting one of the many public locations with beautiful pools. One of my favourites remains Qaldera (which also featured in my beach review), where you can spend an entire afternoon pretending you’re staying at a ridiculously expensive luxury resort. 

Nobody needs to know you’re not.

The pool is gorgeous, there are plenty of beds to lounge, and it’s a wonderful location whether you’re meeting friends or simply escaping somewhere sunny with a good playlist.

The only downside? You’re sharing it with the public.
Which means that on busy days someone will inevitably choose the lounge chair directly next to yours despite empty ones elsewhere.

Also, because it’s public land, don’t expect to rez your own towel, floaties or elaborate picnic setup. And you’ll have to imagine the complimentary cocktails or bring your own.

Still, for a free day out? Absolutely worth it. 

Pros

• Beautiful surroundings.
• Feels luxurious.
• Great for photos.
• Perfect with friends or solo.

Cons

• Little privacy on busy days.
• Usually no rezzing personal items.
• BYOD: Bring Your Own Drinks.

---

My thoughts

The great thing about Second Life is that enjoying summer doesn’t actually require a giant Linden balance. Sure, owning a mansion with an infinity pool overlooking the Blake Sea sounds lovely. But some of the best summer days happen at public places, exploring mainland coastlines, or simply making the most of whatever water you can find.

Even if that water technically belongs to your neighbour. (Again… maybe don’t.)

So grab your favourite swimsuit, slap on far too much virtual sunscreen, and go make irresponsible financial decisions somewhere other than buying another luxury pool.

Your wallet will thank you. Probably.