Pulgas Water Temple is the whimsical summer oasis you’ve been looking for

You won’t believe it’s real.

Imagine lounging under an ornate temple overlooking a calm, blue pool while the scent of fresh lavender wafts through the air. Nearby, precisely manicured trees cast blissful spots of shade on lush green grass. Such an idyllic experience may seem too perfect to exist, but it can be a reality for people who visit Pulgas Water Temple in Redwood City, California.

What is Pulgas Water Temple? As the name suggests, the site features an intricately-carved stone temple near a reflecting pool flanked by tall trees. This outdoor oasis was built in the 1930s and remains free and open to visitors today. Here’s what you should know before spending a day at the water temple.