Inflatable pools are being set up in backyards, public swimming pools are proving popular and other people are going further afield in search of swimming spots.

The temperature reached 38.1 degrees at 3.21pm today before dropping to 36.9 degrees at 4pm.

John Sheen from Golden Square spent today relaxing with family at the Bridgewater swimming hole.

"I haven’t' been to this spot for a couple of years but it's great," Mr Sheen said. 

"The water's cool and the swimming holes been upgraded -- there's a platform down there that's got decking and stuff on it as well. 

"We bring the dogs out and the kayak down as well so the kids have fun." 

 Other Bendigo residents are attempting to beat the heat by watching one of the new releases at Bendigo Cinema. 

Senior staff member Kade Bolitho said the hot weather was good for business. 

"It's been very busy," he said. "Everyone's coming in to escape the heat. 

"Ice creams are going through the roof, too."