11 Refreshing Swimming Spots Near San Francisco

Don’t get us wrong—we love the Pacific for its dramatic, natural beauty, but the rough surf and frigid ocean temps aren’t exactly swimmer-friendly. So we found 11 Northern California spots within driving distance of the city where the weather is hot and the water is perfect for cooling off on long summer days. From popular swimming holes only a short hike from the road to secluded lakes that require more of a trek into the wilderness, we’ve got options for every kind of summer adventure.

Editor’s Note: Always check conditions carefully before taking a plunge. Swift currents and changing water levels can make some of these swimming holes dangerous, especially in the spring. Use extra caution before diving or cliff jumping in case of submerged boulders.

2. Garden Of Eden, Felton (santa Cruz Mountains)

• Distance from SF: 1 hour, 30 minutes
• Getting There: day use parking off Highway 9 in Felton, hike Ox Fire Road next to railroad tracks for about 0.75 miles to swimming hole
• Why We Recommend It: sandy beach and calm pools surrounded by redwoods

Picture a sunny swimming hole along the San Lorenzo River in Henry Cowell State Park surrounded by redwoods and Douglas fir trees. Boulders frame two deep but relatively calm pools, and a small sandy beach presents the perfect picnic spot. It’s no wonder this gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains is called Garden of Eden. While it’s secluded, it’s no secret to locals and visitors. So grab a towel and inner tube, get there early and spend the day floating on the water.

5. Rainbow Pools, Groveland (tuolumne County)

• Distance from SF: 3 hours, 20 minutes
• Getting There: Highway 120 at the South Fork Tuolumne River bridge
• Why We Recommend It: historic spot with a few pools and rocks for sunbathing

Just off the side of the road, before you reach the gate into Yosemite National Park, is a treasure that summer travelers have been frequenting since the 1920s. The area used to be a toll road stop, and there was even a lodge up on the cliff with a diving board into the largest of the three pools. It’s popular with locals, so expect crowds, but there’s still plenty of room for everyone to sun themselves on the surrounding rocks.

6. Standish-hickey State Recreation Area, Leggett (mendocino County)

• Distance from SF: 2 hours, 50 minutes
• Getting There: 1/4-mile walk from the Standish-Hickey day-use area adjacent to Redwood Campground
• Why We Recommend It: Heat, sun and cool emerald waters

A two-mile stretch of the South Fork of the Eel River is just what you need on hot summer days in northern Mendocino County. Here you’ll find deep holes and calm shallow areas of emerald waters surrounded by redwoods perfect for a cool dip. Adrenaline junkies will enjoy cliff jumping, but there’s also a sandy beach for basking in the sun, if R&R is more your speed.

7. China Hole, Henry W. Coe State Park (santa Clara County)

• Distance from SF: 1 hour, 45 minutes
• Getting There: China Hole Loop from the Corral Trail Trailhead
• Why We Recommend It: Peaceful hike + secluded swimmer’s paradise

If you’re the type who likes long hikes on summer days, then this is the trip for you. From the South Bay’s Henry W. Coe State Park, you’ll start your 10-mile round-trip journey, but the challenging climb through chaparral and creek-side woodlands is worth the mid-hike reward: a secluded swimming hole with a small sandy beach and big, flat boulders for lounging.

10. Mad River, Kneeland (humboldt County)

• Distance from SF: 5 hours
• Getting There: Blue Lake exit off Hwy. 299 to Hatchery Rd.
• Why We Recommend It: Feels like Humboldt meets Hawaii

Glistening turquoise waters await at this swimming hole on the Mad River in far Northern California. It’s too far of a trek for a regular weekend getaway but the perfect stop on a longer road trip upstate. After the long trek, you’ll be rewarded with a refreshing pool and rope swing for a playful, carefree afternoon.