16 Amazing Swimming Holes To Help You Cool Off
Does the summer heat have you stuck inside clinging to your air conditioning? We recommend the alternative - cool off in one (or all!) of these amazing swimming holes amidst incredible scenery. Whether you want to sweat a little before your swim, or jump straight in from the parking lot, there is something for everyone on this list. So pack up the car with friends and the cooler with drinks and beat the heat this summer with any of these amazing swimming holes.
1. Blue Springs | Florida
Have you ever seen water so blue? This pool is huge so bring a couple car loads and enjoy the water with friends. Learn more.
2. Beaver Falls | Arizona
This multi-tiered swimming hole is well worth the addition 8 mile hike from Havasu Campground. Learn more.
3. Pixie Falls | Washington
This waterfall and swimming hole combo is the perfect way to escape the heat and the crowds. Learn more.
4. Jacob's Well | Texas
This 24 ft deep riverbed swimming hole makes for an awesome spot to escape the summer heat. Learn more.
5. 1000 Steps Tide Pools | California
Chillin in seaside tide pools...it doesn’t get much better than this. Keep an eye out for marine life! Learn more.
6. Havasu Falls | Arizona
Havasupai means the “people of the blue-green water.” Once you get there, you’ll understand why. Learn more.
7. Looking Glass Falls | North Carolina
The pool at the base of this 60 foot waterfall makes for a great spot to cool off. Learn more.
8. Twin Falls | Washington
There is a really nice pool with a riverbed rock beach that is perfect for an afternoon of lounging and swimming the PNW forest. Learn more.
9. Fossil Creek Falls | Arizona
Jump from the cliffs into the deep, cool swimming hole beneath these gorgeous falls. Learn more.
10. Devil’s Punchbowl | California
After hiking under the San Diego sun, you'll be ready for a dip in this pool surrounded by 75 foot cliffs. Learn more.
11. Enders Falls | Connecticut
With just a half mile hike, this swimming hole at the base of Enders Falls is ideal for families. Learn more.
12. Hamilton Pool Preserve | Texas
It’s tough to beat the heat during the summer in Texas, but this is one great option. Learn more.
13. Blue Hole and Shoals Creek Falls | Georgia
The water at Blue Hole Falls is amazingly clear and it's a great place for people to come and swim. Learn more.
14. Paradise Falls | North Carolina
This waterfall oasis offers multiple swimming holes and plenty of falls to explore. Learn more.
15. Big Sur River Gorge | California
Swim your way up past the first swimming hole and find all the others upstream for smaller crowds. Learn more.
16. Bald River Falls | Tennessee
Crystal clear water cascades 90 feet into this tranquil pool - the ideal destination for a summer afternoon. Learn more.
Discover more amazing adventures near you here.
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Do you love the outdoors?
Yep, us too. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox.
